Books Best Gifts For Book Lovers That Aren't Books: Part 2 9:00 PM A bookworm's love for reading isn’t just about having many books; they also like to show off their passion with fun accessories. Being surrounded by things that remind you of what makes you happy doubles the joy. So, if you want to make book lovers smile with gifts that aren’t just books, here are some of the best ideas.Magnetic BookmarksLose yourself in the story, not your page! These bookmarks cling on, ensuring you're always right where you left off. They are charming and do not damage the page. Personal Library KitBring out the librarian in you. This kit is the dream for every book lover who lends out their treasures or wants to create that vintage library feel right in their book nooks. Literary Tote BagsWear your love for books on your sleeve—or rather, on your shoulder. Stylish and functional, these tote bags hold your essentials and broadcast your literary passions. If you want funny gifts for book lovers, you can get a bag with witty book quotes or relatable sayings. Personalized Book EmbosserThere is something so official but charming in an embossed book page. This embosser allows readers to mark their books with a custom touch, adding a layer of personalization and sophistication to every volume. Literary Map of a Favorite Fictional WorldFictional world fans will be ecstatic to receive a map of their favorite fantasy world. Their journey to Middle Earth, Narnia, or Westeros would be more real with the literary map on their walls or desks. Book Cloth CoverGive your books the protective embrace they deserve. These covers shield books from wear and tear, ensuring they stay pristine for longer. Personalized gifts for readers, like a customized book cloth, will help show off their personality. Book EndsNeatness meets style. Organize and adorn your shelves with these chic pieces, ensuring your book collection looks as good as it reads. Book Sticker Highlighter and Annotation TabsIt is a gift for book lovers who want to make notes without guilt. These stickers and tabs ensure you can mark essential sections without damaging the pages, a boon for every thoughtful reader. This post contains affiliate links, so we'd get a commission if you purchase through the links at no additional cost. Thank you!Gift Accessories for Book LoversYou might think giving a bookworm these fun accessories might be trivial, but you couldn't be more wrong. These will bring joy to a reading enthusiast. Have you decided yet what to give your bookish pal this holiday?Got More Gift Ideas and Recommendations for YouBest Gifts For Book Lovers That Aren't Books [Part 1]Best Gifts For Book Lovers That Aren't Books [Part 3]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. (No following to unfollow, please! 😒)Check out my top romance novel recommendations categorized by tropes.
Books Best Gifts For Book Lovers That Aren't Books: Part 1 1:50 AM You know that friend whose nose is perpetually buried in a book? I am that friend! So when it comes to finding the best gifts for book lovers - that aren't books - consider me an expert. 😊Of course, another paperback or hardcover sounds like a safe bet, but there is more to a book lover's life than simply flipping through pages.Here's a list of thoughtful gifts that can make the heart of a binge-reader, bookworm, bibliophile - or whatever you like to call us - go aflutter. 1. Tech Gadgets for Audiobook Lovers Audiobooks are a great way to enjoy stories while on the go. And the right gadget can make all the difference. Here are four gift ideas for book lovers who love their audibles. Apple AirPods Meet the best friend of every audiobook enthusiast: the Apple AirPods. These sleek earbuds provide crystal-clear sound quality, ensuring every word, dramatic pause, and nuance of a story comes alive. Plus, their noise-cancellation feature is a boon, allowing for an uninterrupted listening experience no matter where you are.Beats Headphones For those who like their sounds a bit bolder and bass-filled, Beats Headphones are a dream come true. With unbeatable audio quality and a snug fit, they're perfect for marathon listening sessions of a gripping novel. Their extended battery life means the story doesn't have to end prematurely.Audible Subscription Is there a gift better than endless stories? An Audible subscription offers access to thousands of books, from thrillers to romances, autobiographies to fantasy epics. It's like gifting an ever-growing, ever-evolving library ready to whisk listeners away on new adventures.2. Gifts for Digital Book Readers Digital readers or e-readers are incredibly convenient for those who travel or read through the night without turning on the light. Instead of carrying multiple books when you must be away for days, you can bring as many stories as you want in one lightweight and compact place. Kindle Paperwhite My husband gave me this gift, and it's the best gift a book lover like me could've ever asked for. With its high-resolution display that mimics the look of actual paper and an adaptive front light ensuring comfortable reading in all environments, it screams luxury and convenience. I still love the feel and smell of physical books, but I'm really enjoying my Kindle right now. Remote Page Turner Dear husband, if you're reading this, I've got a brilliant gift idea for you on my birthday. Lol! Hands-free reading just got a makeover. This holder ensures that readers can indulge in their favorite stories without the strain of holding the device. And the remote? A nifty feature allows seamless page-turning, making binge-reading sessions even more engrossing. Kindle Case Safety meets style with this one. With countless designs and colors available, it's a sure way to make a Kindle feel brand new and uniquely yours. Mine is pink, of course. 3. Self-Care Gifts for the Tired Binge-Reader Because reading is fun and relaxing, but too much of a good thing could also take a toll on you. So here are perfectly practical and thoughtful gifts for the book enthusiast who reads until their eyes hurt. Air Purifier Nothing beats curling up with a good book in a fresh and pure environment. The LEVOIT Core 300 Air Purifier is a compact yet powerful device that filters out tiny particles and unpleasant odors, creating a clean haven for those cherished reading moments. Massage Gun Reading marathons are fantastic, but they can leave one with stiff muscles and aching limbs. Enter the TheraGun Theragun Prime. This high-performance massage gun offers targeted relief, ensuring that bibliophiles can enjoy their reading sessions without any physical discomfort lurking in the background. Travel Neck Pillow For readers who find solace in their books during long journeys, the Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Neck Pillow is a game-changer. Providing optimal neck support, this pillow offers comfort even in the tightest airplane seats or during road trips. It's like giving the gift of cloud-like comfort to the traveling bookworm. Eye Massager with Heater An eye massager's soothing warmth and gentle massage can be the perfect antidote to a long reading session. Gift your book-loving friend this relaxing treat to rejuvenate those eyes after hours of page-turning.Bonus Gift Idea for Book Lovers If it's within your means, consider gifting a trip to a location made famous by their favorite books. Be it the English moors from a Brontë novel or the magical entrance of Platform 9 3/4, walking in the footsteps of beloved characters can be a transformative experience for any voracious reader. It's like watching the story come to life. This post contains affiliate links, so we'd get a commission if you purchase through the links at no additional cost. Thank you! Takeaway Your present will remind your favorite reader of your thoughtfulness and attentiveness to their passion.I hope you find valuable ideas in this list of the best gifts for book lovers that aren't books. Your bookworm pal will thank you for them. Got More Gift Ideas and Recommendations for YouBest Gifts For Book Lovers That Aren't Books [Part 2]Best Gifts For Book Lovers That Aren't Books [Part 3]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. (No following to unfollow, please! 😒)Check out my top romance novel recommendations categorized by tropes.
Life Lessons Turning Over a New Leaf: Setting Fun & Practical Fall Goals 11:11 PM Turning Over a New Leaf: Setting Fun & Practical Fall Goals In every falling leaf, there's a hint of a new beginning.Ah, September! Breathing in that crisp air stirs up something magical in the soul, doesn't it? The world seems to collectively grab a chunky scarf, order a pumpkin spice latte, and decide, "Alright, world, let's give this another go." Beyond the allure of crunchy leaves and a new TV series lineup, fall brings a sense of rejuvenation and embracing change. And while many eagerly await the New Year to scribble down resolutions, we savvy folks are already ahead, setting our fall goals. Let's face it. Waiting until January to refresh? Honey, that's so last season. Benefits of Goal Setting for Fall 1. Natural Momentum Isn't it fascinating how the Earth knows precisely when to switch gears? As the world dons its autumnal hues, we're naturally inclined to adapt, too. The seasonal shift isn't just about nature's wardrobe change. It nudges us to prep for the winter and anticipate the year's curtain close.2. Reenergizing and Refocusing Waving goodbye to those sunny beach days and late-night summer BBQs can be bittersweet. But think of fall as the universe's gentle reminder to recalibrate. With tanned memories of summer still fresh, autumn offers the perfect backdrop to recharge our batteries and sharpen our arrows for the targets ahead. 3. Harnessing Coziness There's something undeniably inviting about the coziness autumn brings. As temperatures drop and daylight dwindles, it's almost as if our couches beckon a little louder. But instead of cozying up with hot cocoa and binge-watching shows, why not sprinkle in some indoor projects and self-betterment tasks? Embracing change doesn't always mean making a drastic and painful shift. The warmth of your home sets a serene scene for growth. 4. Holiday Headstart Wait until December to start planning; you might be caught in holiday chaos. Fall goal setting? It's like getting an exclusive VIP pass, bypassing last-minute scrambles. Get those plans on paper now, and when the festive frenzy kicks in, you'll be sipping your eggnog, smugly smiling at your proactive prowess. 5. Colorful Inspiration Who needs a motivational speaker when you've got nature putting on its most spectacular show? Embrace autumn's vibrant tapestry as a visual pep talk, pushing you to welcome transformations in your life with similar grace and splendor. Now, let's list some fun and valuable autumn goals at this most stunning time of the year! 11 Fun and Practical Goals for Fall1. Fall into Your Reading List Grab your favorite blanket, snuggle up, and get lost in the world of books. Autumn practically screams for stories that mirror its mood - enchanting mysteries or tales that tug at the heartstrings. The world outside is changing. Why not let your reading habits evolve, too? Need help to get out of the reading slump? This season provides the coziest vibe for reading. But if you need some tips, read these tips from my personal experience: How To Read More Books: 21 Ways to Escape the Reading Slump. 2. Fall Financial Check-in One of the most practical fall goals is to ensure you're all good financial-wise. Before the bells jingle and expenses skyrocket, let's get a bird's eye view of our finances. Whether reassessing savings or setting an end-of-year financial milestone, it's time for some fiscal finesse. 3. DIY Fall Décor Ah, the joy of giving your space a little autumnal facelift! Whether crafting rustic centerpieces or creating door wreaths with fallen leaves, make it part of your fall intentions to infuse a touch of DIY to your home with warmth faster than you can say "pumpkin spice." 4. Autumnal Cooking Challenges Flavors of fall are downright irresistible. So, why not set a challenge? It could be crafting the ultimate apple pie or concocting a homemade pumpkin spice latte that rivals the coffee shop's. Apron up and let the kitchen experiments begin. Here's an easy pumpkin spice latte recipe you can try for this challenge from Tiffany's Kitchen.5. Fall Fitness Fun Trade those sandy beach runs for leaf-laden trail hikes. Or if the cooling weather sends you indoors, why not join an online fitness class? The goal? Keep that heart pumping, but with an autumn twist. 6. Journaling with a Twist Autumn, with its reflective ambiance, beckons introspection. Carve out moments to pen down thoughts using fall-themed prompts or whimsical doodles. The rustling leaves outside might rust up some inner epiphanies. DOWNLOAD the Printable FREE Gratitude Affirmation Cards with Journal. 7. Autumn Clean-up Move over, spring! Autumn's in town with its version of space-refreshing magic. Imagine clearing out clutter to make room for cozy blankets and winter snugness. Think of it as prepping your winter wonderland. 8. Relationships Revamp As trees shed leaves, it may be time to clear past misunderstandings. Whether reconnecting with old pals over a latte or spending quality me-time, let's renew bonds - with others and ourselves. 9. Nature Connection Set your sights on the vibrant foliage of local orchards, or plan a delightful afternoon at pumpkin patches. If that's too ambitious, even leisurely nature walks, crunching on fallen leaves, can rekindle your bond with Mother Nature. 10. Digital Detox Weekend The digital world is vast, but fall offers sensory delights. Pledge to unplug for a weekend, letting the golden landscapes and spicy aromas replace screen time. Trust me, your notifications won't be as vibrant as the world outside. 11. Autumn Makeover It's out with the breezy and in with the snuggly! Task yourself to swap summer attire for autumn-winter vibes. Fancy a challenge? Try crafting a week's worth of dazzling outfits using 10 items. Game on. Need a new season hairstyle? The internet is a fascinating source for all things trendy.Embrace Change! And while the earth celebrates its cyclical ballet, why shouldn't we join in with our own tales of transformation and triumph? Here's to falling in love with fall, one goal at a time! 🍂 What are your autumn aspirations? Have a quirky autumn ritual or a goal that's as comforting as your favorite scarf? Share your stories and dreams in the comments below. If you have Fall Reading Goals or #SeptemberHopefuls on Instagram, don't forget to tag me @booksandblogs_lux! I'd love to see them and find reading inspirations myself.
Books 9 Romance Novel Tropes I Swoon Over In Fiction [But Side-Eye IRL!] 5:06 AM 9 Romance Novel Tropes I Swoon Over In Fiction Romance novels are my guilty pleasure. But sometimes I wonder what I'd do if what I'm reading actually happened to me in real life. Some of them would give me serious butterflies, but others? It would either creep me out or annoy me to no end. They can be a bit cringey, overwhelming, and borderline alarming. Here are nine of my favorite romance novel tropes that make me swoon in fiction but roll my eyes in real life.1. The "Alpha Male" TropeThe domineering, possessive alpha male can be alluring and hot in the books. But in real life? Just no. A man who can't respect my independence and tries to control everything isn't sexy; it's toxic. Fave Books with Alpha-hole CharactersReverie - Shain RoseHighball Rush - Lucy Score & Claire KingsleyThe Price of Scandal - Lucy ScoreThe Unwanted Marriage - Catharina MauraBy a Thread - Lucy ScoreCrossing the Lines - Lucy ScoreThings We Never Got Over - Lucy ScoreThe Mistletoe Kisser - Lucy ScoreMr. Fixer Upper - Lucy ScoreUnraveling Him - Claire KingsleyA Photo Finish - Elsie SilverThe Front Runner - Elsie Silver2. Insta-loveWhile the idea of two people instantly recognizing their soulmates is swoon-worthy in novels, solid relationships take time and effort to develop in reality. Give me that slow-burn connection any day. I'd be really scared to be with someone I barely know. I mean, he could be a serial killer, you know?(Before Sunrise is one of my all time favorite romantic movies, and it's the ultimate and cutest Insta-love trope).3. Misunderstandings that Last ForeverDude, just talk to her. Communication is key. I'd be frustrated if a tiny misunderstanding led to a prolonged breakup in real life, like it does in many romance plots.4. Bad Boy TransformationI believe a person will change if he wants to, not because someone made him/her. It's lovely when it happens in the book. The unraveling and the reformation of the rake are charming. But I'll have trust issues if someone I know to have a reputation will swear to me I'm different, and I made him change.Fave Book with Bad Boy TransformationDare To Be Scandalous - Tamara Gill5. The Persistent SuitorIn novels, it's portrayed as romantic that someone never gives up on their love interest, even if initially rejected. In reality, persistence can easily cross into the territory of not respecting boundaries. It borders on stalking and obsession.6. Jealousy as a Sign of LoveA little bit of jealousy might be endearing in a story, but in real life, excessive jealousy can be suffocating and problematic. And personally, that is insulting because you don't trust me enough. I would feel like you're limiting me from being friends with or at least talking to people. Fave Authors Who Write with Neanderthal, Territorial, Jealous Characters:Layla HagenCatharina MauraShain RoseClaire KingsleyElsie SilverLucy Score7. Marrying After a WeekWhirlwind romances in books? Adorable. In real life? It might work for some, but I believe in getting to know someone deeply before making that kind of commitment. It's like Insta-love but on a different level. It's still good to marry your best friend.8. Fake DatingI'm a massive fan of this trope in books. That moment when the characters realize and reveal that it's not pretend anymore? Sign me up! Pretending to be a couple for some reason might lead to real feelings in books, but it's a tricky foundation for a genuine relationship in reality. Fave Fake Dating BooksFaking Ms. Right - Claire KingsleyThe Fine Art of Faking It - Lucy ScoreThe Front Runner - Elsie SilverGlimmers of You - Catherine CowlesThe Girl With The Make-Believe Husband - Julia Quinn (fake marriage)9. Grumpy BossIt centers around a boss who is usually stern, cold, or distant, but through the course of the romance, reveals a more vulnerable and passionate side. There is nothing cute or charming in a boss who seems to enjoy making your work doubly hard. Especially those who get off in humiliating or contradicting you. But yes, I'll read and swoon over it in books. Every. Single. Time.Fave Grumpy Boss BooksOne Bossy Dare - Nicole Snow One Bossy Proposal - Nicole SnowOne Bossy Date - Nicole SnowThe Temporary Wife - Catharina Maura9. Enemies to LoversThis is usually what happens in Alpha-hole characters. Because they would start on the wrong foot and then realize they're not as bad as they seem. So they eventually fall in love. In reality, once I find you annoying, it's next to impossible to change my mind. But in romance novels, I don't hesitate to add this to my Kindle. I just love the tension, and the banters are too funny!Fave Enemies to Lovers BooksStolen Moments Trilogy - Catharina MauraUnraveling Him - Claire KingsleyChasing Her Fire - Claire KingsleyFalling for My Enemy - Claire KingsleyWild Open Hearts - Kathryn NolanThings We Never Got Over - Lucy ScoreThe Mistletoe Kisser - Lucy Score The Christmas Fix - Lucy ScoreOff to the Races - Elsie SilverAll GIFs from GiphyThis post contains affiliate links, so we'd get a commission if you purchase through the links at no additional cost. Thank you!These romance novels remain my cherished escapism. They take me into worlds where everything magically falls into place by the last page. Just need to remember to leave those dramatic tropes in the pages and live our best lives on our own terms. What things do you find endearing and swoon-worthy in fiction but can't stand in real life?I'll keep adding books here as I continue my romance novels era, so you can bookmark this page or follow me on Instagram (or bookstagram as they call it 😏) for more book recs, reviews, and ravings.
Books How To Read More Books: 21 Ways to Escape the Reading Slump 12:03 AM How To Read More Books 21 Ways to Escape the Reading Slump Not a book person? Or maybe you find yourself staring at that bookshelf gathering dust, wondering when you could start reading the books you bought ages ago. Books hold a universe of wisdom, adventure, and emotions, ready to whisk you away to places only bound by imagination. But sometimes, getting started is the hardest part. It's an everyday struggle for many. But don't worry. I'll share with you some tricks I do to read more books. I went from reading zero books in 2020 to reading 116 books and counting this 2023. The Joys That Books Could Bring These gifts of reading make the quest to read more books an even more rewarding endeavor. An escape to faraway lands: Whether it's a mystical kingdom or a thrilling adventure on another planet, books offer a way to explore new worlds without leaving your favorite reading nook. Emotional connections: From a soul-shattering experience to heartfelt laughter, reading can elicit strong emotions, and every story you read becomes a part of you. Expanding your mind: Books can challenge your thoughts, offer fresh perspectives, and inspire creative thinking. Achieving goals: Whether your goal is to read more books in a day or to read more books effectively, reading is a personal achievement. There's a certain pride in ticking off another book on your reading list. Relaxation and therapy: Nothing beats the calming effect of reading a good book. It's therapeutic and provides an excellent way to unwind after a long day. Now, on to practical ways to turn those bookish dreams into reality. 21 Ways to Read More Books Novel for Breakfast. Start your day by swapping the morning news with a book. A chapter or two with your coffee sets the tone! Set Achievable Goals. Create a reasonable goal to read more books. One book in a week or a few chapters a day will do as long as you enjoy the journey. Audiobook Adventures. Turn tedious chores into storytime. Listen while cooking, cleaning, or even showering.Tiny Book Challenges. Commit to just one page before bed. More often than not, you'll end up reading a whole chapter. Reading Al Fresco. Ever tried reading in nature? The outdoor ambiance can enhance the experience. E-books Everywhere. Remember, you can read Kindle books on more than one device. Keep a digital book on your phone for surprise waiting times. Genre Hopping. Stuck in a rut? Switch genres! Exploring unfamiliar territories often reignites the reading.Speed Reading? Not Always. While there are efficient ways to read more books every day, sometimes it's better to savor than speed-read.Join a Book Club. Discussions can be a great motivator. Plus, who can resist the subtle peer pressure?TBR Jar Fun. Write down the titles of books you want to read, place them in a jar, and pick one randomly. A fun surprise every time.Breaks with Books. Swap social media scrolling with a few book pages during short breaks.Double Book Dare. Who said you can't read more than one book at a time? Read a couple if you're feeling daring. Reward Reading. Set up a reward system for every book or chapter finished. A treat for every tale. Gadget-Free Zones. Create a tech-free zone in your home. Just you, your books, and tranquility. Rotation Revelation. Rotate between fiction and non-fiction. Different flavors for different moods. This will help you discover your preferred genre and trope. Reading Rituals. Make reading a ceremonial act. A specific tea, candle, or background music can make it feel special. Seasonal Selections. Align books with seasons. Cozy winter tales or breezy summer romances? Time to align your reading with the calendar. Adopt a Book Buddy. Find a fellow reader with whom you can share your reading journey. Sharing thoughts and opinions can enrich and excite the reading experience. Try Bite-Sized Reads. Short stories and novellas can be equally satisfying and easier to fit into a busy schedule. Read Reviews and Recommendations. Sometimes, reading about reading can inspire you. Browse reviews or ask for recommendations to find your next captivating book. Invest in Comfortable Reading Gear. A comfy chair, good lighting, and back support can enhance the reading experience. Here are three more tricks to read a book a week from Improvement Pill: Possible Reasons for a Reading Slump (Or Are They Just Excuses?) A reading slump can sneak up on anyone. It's like a mischievous gremlin tapping you on the shoulder and whispering, "Not today." But what's really behind these slumps? Let's take a gentle look at some common reasons. Or what I like to call "The Lies I Tell Myself": Time Constraints: Life is busy, and sometimes reading takes a back seat. But remember, even a few minutes with a book can be a nourishing escape. Wrong Book Choices: Not every book will resonate, and that's okay. It's all about finding the right fit, like a cozy pair of reading socks. I really believe anyone can be a reader. You just haven't met the right book for you yet. Fatigue or Stress. It's hard to focus on reading when you're tired or stressed. Self-care is paramount; books will patiently wait for you. And sometimes, books can provide the comfort your mind needs. Setting Unrealistic Goals: If the goal to read more books feels like climbing Everest without gear, maybe it's time to reassess and choose a more approachable path. For example, instead of reading one book a week, try reading one chapter or page a day. Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): Social media and TV can be distracting. But hey, the adventures in books are the original FOMO, and they've been around a lot longer! The good news is that these so-called "reasons" don't have to hold you back. That reading groove is just a page turn away. It's not about defeating the slump but dancing with it until you find your rhythm again. You Can Read More Books Too!I didn't read a single book in 2020. It was a challenging year for all of us. And then, I started easing my way back to reading with my self-imposed One Book in One Month Challenge.Before the year ended, I found myself saying, "I want to read more books!"So last year, I didn't give myself a limit. I voraciously devoured as many books as I could. Book count:2020 = 02021= 122022 = 452023 = 116 and counting (and it's only August as of this writing)And now the only thing I like more than reading books is finding more books to read. I know you can read more books, too!Embarking on new ways to read more books isn't about setting records or impressing anyone. It's about finding joy in the little moments with a good book, exploring different worlds at your pace, and becoming friends with characters that stay with you long after the story ends. Here's to more cozy afternoons and exciting adventures in reading.Check out my top romance novel recommendations categorized by tropes.Hey, you wanna be book buddies? I share reading tips, short book reviews, recommendations, and ravings on my Instagram account @booksandblogs_lux. Follow me there!
Books Small-Town Romance Novels To Binge Read: Miles Family Series 3:21 AM Small-Town Romance Novels To Binge Read: Miles Family Series It's Romance Awareness Month (yes, it's a thing!). So allow this humble romance novel addict reader (me!) to recommend her favorite small-town romance novels to binge-read. First on the list: The Miles Family by Claire Kingsley.1. Broken Miles (Miles Family Book 1)Tropes: Second Chance RomanceForced ProximityHighschool SweetheartsSummary: Broken Miles centers on Roland, the eldest Miles brother, a city dweller with a successful career and a luxurious condo. His life shifts when he receives a call about his family's troubled winery, prompting him to return and save it. This isn't just about the business. It's a chance to mend broken family ties and confront his haunted past. Upon arriving, he finds the mess left by his father is complicated by Zoe Sutton, his ex, and the vineyard's events coordinator. Once close, Zoe and Roland must navigate their shared history and reignite old passions to find love again. Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐🌶🌶🌶🌶I love this heartfelt journey of rediscovery, forgiveness, and love that could blossom once more.With her unstoppable spirit and fierce tenacity, Zoe became my instant favorite. And Roland? His relentless work ethic and deep loyalty to his family are admirable - though he was initially reluctant. Yeah, I like it when a grumpy and emotionless exterior slowly unravels. It's like watching chocolate melt in the fire.But what truly stole my heart was the undying ember of passion between Zoe and Roland. Despite a divorce that could have been the end, their connection sizzled and sparkled, refusing to be extinguished.They fell in love at 17, but their story never turned into mere youthful infatuation (it was just mentioned in the book, but the focus is on the present Zoe and Roland). They were careless and had an epic time, but they also faced hurdles more serious than you'd expect from teenagers. And even more so when they finally married and moved to the city.And you know what their story reminds me of? Communication. Is. Crucial! Simple talk and heartfelt conversations could rebuild bridges. 2. Forbidden Miles (Miles Family Book 2)Tropes:Childhood CrushOff-LimitsBrother's Best FriendSummary:Get ready for the second book in Claire Kingsley's series, "Forbidden Miles!" This time, it’s about Brynn, the youngest Miles, and Chase, Cooper's childhood friend. Chase has always known Brynn is off-limits, but feelings grow when he sees her as more than just his friend's sister. Brynn's feelings for Chase also deepen, especially after a flirtatious kiss. Despite family disapproval and the winery's future at stake, they can’t resist their attraction. Will love overcome loyalty and rules?Rating:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐🌶🌶🌶🌶Review:I adore the unfolding saga of the Miles family, and this book is no exception.Brynn, the baby sister with four overprotective brothers, isn't the little girl they remember. She's grown into a formidable, independent force who knows her heart and won't let anything stand in her way, not even the bond between her brothers and Chase.Speaking of Chase, what an in-between plays he's stuck in. Torn between his loyalty to Cooper and his growing, undeniable love for Brynn. But with Brynn's determination (or stubbornness), he fights for love, all while maintaining his loyalty to the Miles.And Cooper! Though he tries to play the tough guy, his protectiveness for his sister is downright endearing. My favorite part was when Cooper finally saw the truth in Chase's intentions with Brynn. It was both hilarious and emotional, like only Cooper can deliver.This story is about the realization that sometimes, love means letting go and trusting those we hold dear. Whether it's Brynn's courageous pursuit of her heart or Chase's delicate balance between friendship and love, this book has layers that will make you believe that love conquers all. 3. Reckless Miles (Miles Family Book 3)Tropes: One-Night Stand RomanceSummary:Reckless Miles by Claire Kingsley is a story that will steal your heart with a big smile! Cooper Miles loves working in the vineyard and talking to the plants. Everything changed when he met Amelia Hale, a woman in a wedding gown at a bar, whose life took a surprising turn. A casual kiss and an invitation to her hotel led to unexpected feelings. It's not her wedding dress or innocence that unnerves him, but the overwhelming emotions she sparks, confusing yet delightful to him.Rating:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐🌶🌶🌶🌶Review:At first glance, you might peg Cooper Miles as the perpetual bachelor, reveling in the joys and freedom that lifestyle provides. But trust me, there's so much more to uncover!Cooper's wit and childlike charm will catch you off guard and leave you smiling. He might seem like the least serious of the brothers, but don't let that fool you. The lengths he's willing to go to protect his family are touching and awe-inspiring.I love how Cooper has a nickname for everyone and speaks his own language. And when he meets Amelia, sparks fly, and it's like meeting his match made in heaven. Despite their differences in the dating game, they're two peas in a pod, each reflecting the other's personality in the most enchanting way.Their romance is a whirlwind adventure of emotions, especially for Cooper, who's unaccustomed to the twists and turns of true love. Being a part of their journey is like catching a refreshing breeze on a warm day, filled with surprises and joys that make you feel alive.So grab a cozy blanket, settle down with your favorite tea, and dive into this irresistible tale. Whether you're a hopeless romantic or just looking for a story with depth, warmth, and pure fun, this one's a winner. Cooper and Amelia's love story celebrates what it means to find your other half. You'll close the book with a contented sigh, feeling like you've gained new friends. 4. Hidden Miles (Miles Family Book 4)Tropes: War heroFriends to LoversHidden IdentitySummary:Leo Miles returns home from war scarred inside and out, hiding on his family's property for five years. His life is lonely, save for his virtual friend Hannah, a fearless gamer girl he's never met in person. Their bond deepens, but his fears and his family's safety hold him back. As their connection grows into something more, Leo faces his wounds and the possibility of love. Hidden Miles is a heartfelt story of healing, courage, and second chances that proves heroes can come from unexpected places.Rating:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶Review:This is by far my favorite (and that's saying something because they're all good!). I think it's because I love Leo and his quiet but don't-eff-with-me-or-my-family demeanor. I love how he overcame his PTSD to save the woman he loves.The Miles Family is like a warm hug on a cold day. They understand his struggle, back him up no matter what, and love him unconditionally. Even when Leo sees himself as "damaged," they remind him of his worth.Then there's Hannah, the girl who sees right through Leo's scars to the remarkable person he truly is. She's a catalyst for change in Leo's life, helping him rediscover himself and who he can be. It was also noteworthy how she finally found the courage to free herself from a toxic relationship.I love how Leo and Hannah find comfort and solace in each other. They're teammates who help each other grow and heal.This is a reminder that love is a transformative force. It's about resilience and putting the other person's needs over yours and finding satisfaction in doing it.The right kind of family is like a safety net, ready to catch you whenever you fall.So, if you're in the mood for a story that feels real, warm, but magical in the most down-to-earth way, give this one a go. You might love it as much as I do. Note: There is a fifth Miles novella called Gaining Miles. It's the story of their mom and their loyal family friend and employee, who's more like a father to them than their own biological dad. I didn't read it for a reason, but you can check it out.This post contains affiliate links, so we'd get a commission if you purchase through the links at no additional cost. Thank you!Ready to Binge Read Miles Family Series?I love Miles' fun family dynamics. You'll want to drive to the small town of Echo Creek, dance through the vineyards, and live in one of the cute cottages in Salishan Cellars. Their love stories whisper wisdom while tickling the heartstrings. I'll treasure the Miles Family Series for years to come. It's a heartwarming and steamy read. What more can a girl ask for?I'll share more small-town romance novels to binge-read. And if you want to join me on my bookstagrammer journey, follow me on IG @booksandblogs_lux
