Book Review: Dream Girl Drama by Tessa Bailey

Title: Dream Girl Drama

Author: Tessa Bailey

Series/Standalone: Big Shots Series (Book #3)

Genre: Sports Romance, Adult Fiction, Contemporary

Pages: 320

Publisher: Avon

Year Published: 2025

Format: Audiobook

"When professional hockey player Sig Gauthier's car breaks down and his phone dies, he treks into a posh private country club to call a tow truck, where he encounters the alluring Chloe Clifford, the manic pixie dream girl who captivates him immediately with her sense of adventure and penchant for stealing champagne.

Sparks fly during a moonlight kiss and the enamored pair can't wait to see each other again, but when Sig finally arrives to meet his dad's new girlfriend over dinner, Chloe is confusingly also there. Turns out the girlfriend is Chloe's mother. Oh, and they're engaged.

Sig's dream girl is his future stepsister.

Though the pair is now wary of being involved romantically, Chloe, a sheltered harp prodigy, yearns to escape her controlling mother. Sig promises to teach her the ins and outs of independence in Boston- but not inside his bedroom. They both know there can never be more than friendship between a famous hockey player and his high-society, soon-to-be stepsister. But keeping their relationship platonic grows harder amid the developing family drama, especially knowing they were meant for so much more..."

My Rating: 4.5/5

I really enjoyed this book! This story follows Sig and Chloe, who meet, have a magical experience together and very quickly realise that they have more in common than their interest in each other. I loved the taboo aspect of this book, but also the yearning. The spice, as always, was really good, other than one aspect that Tessa Bailey has started to add to most of her spice scenes, which isn't for me. I look forward to reading the next book in this series. 

Sidny

Book Review: The Au Pair Affair by Tessa Bailey

Title: The Au Pair Affair

Author: Tessa Bailey

Series/Standalone: Big Shots Series (Book #2)

Genre: Romance, Sports, Contemporary, Adult Fiction 

Pages: 384

Publisher: Avon

Year Published: 2024

Format: Audiobook

"A sports rom-com about a burly, surly, single dad who falls head-over-hockey-stick for his quirky live-in nanny...

Tallulah is smart, vivacious and studying to be a marine biologist. She's also twenty-six and broke. So when Burgess, a battle-scarred hockey veteran and newly single dad, offers her a job as his live-in nanny, she jumps at the opportunity to get paid while living in a super fancy neighborhood and being around Lissa, his cool but introverted tween.

Her tween charge isn't the only one who could use some help fitting in, though. According to... well, everyone except Burgess, he needs to get back on the dating scene, and adventurous Tallulah is just the girl to show him how. But as boundaries are slowly crossed and Burgess finds himself pulled between his daughter, who wants her parents back together, and his insane chemistry with Tallulah, a huge rift is formed, and Tallulah does the "right" thing- breaks her own heart and walks away.

Though Burgess knows it's for the best- he's too jaded, with too much baggage- a chance meeting, and a new push from his daughter, forces him to put everything on the line and fight to prove he learned his lessons well and is worthy of a happily ever after with Tallulah."

My Rating: 5/5

I found this second book in the series far more to my liking than the first one. Could that be because it was hockey rather than golf? Maybe. Could it be because it was a single dad? Definitely. While there was one instance I wasn't a huge fan of, overall I loved the book. The smut was well written, the characters were dynamic and interesting and the plot had stakes.

Sidny

Book Review: Fangirl Down by Tessa Bailey

Title: Fangirl Down

Author: Tessa Bailey

Series/Standalone: Big Shots Series (Book #1)

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Sports Romance, Adult Fiction

Pages: 380    

Publisher: Avon

Year Published: 2024

Format: Audiobook (Library Copy)

"Wells Whitaker was once golf's hottest rising star, but lately, all he has to show for his 'promising' career is a killer hangover, a collection of broken clubs, and one remaining supporter. No matter how bad he plays, the beautiful, sunny redhead is always on the sidelines. He curses, she cheers. He scowls, she smiles. But when Wells quits in a blaze of glory and his fangirl finally goes home, he knows he made the greatest mistake of his life. 

Josephine Doyle believed in the gorgeous, grumpy golfer, even when he didn't believe in himself. Yet after her throws in the towel, she begins to wonder if her faith was misplaced. Then a determined Wells shows up at her door with a wild proposal: be his new caddy, help him turn his game around, and split the prize money. And considering Josephine's professional and personal life is in shambles, she could really use the cash. 

As they travel together, spending days on the green and nights in the neighboring hotel rooms, sparks fly. Before long, they're inseparable, Wells starts winning again, and Josephine is surprised to find a sweet, thoughtful guy underneath his gruff, growly exterior. This hot man wants to brush her hair, feed her snacks, and take bubble baths together? Is this real life? But Wells is technically her boss, and an athlete falling for his fangirl would be ridiculous.. right?"

My Rating: 4/5

This book follows Josephine Doyle, who is a diabetic golf expert, which no one would expect. A self-proclaimed fangirl, and sunshine trope personified. Wells Whittaker is a grumpy trope character who fell from an all-time high in their career to rock bottom in the blink of an eye. He's also a jerk. For more than half of the book, I couldn't stand his tone, his narration, etc. The spice was good; it was surprising, but I don't think I like the narrator on these. We'll try the next one in the series and see how it's going.

Sidny

Book Review: The Girl with the Make-Believe Husband by Julia Quinn

Title: The Girl with the Make-Believe Husband

Author: Julia Quinn

Series/Standalone: Rokesby Series (Book #2)

Genre: Historical Romance, Fiction, Adult

Pages: 393

Publisher: Avon

Year Published: 2017

Format: Audiobook

"While you were sleeping...

With her brother Thomas injured on the battlefront in the Colonies, orphaned Cecilia Harcourt has two unbearable choices: move in with a maiden aunt or marry a scheming cousin. Instead, she chooses option three and travels across the Atlantic, determined to nurse her brother back to health. But after a week of searching, she finds not her brother, but his best friend, the handsome officer Edward Rokesby. He's unconscious and in desperate need of her care, and Cecilia vows that she will save this soldier's life, even if staying by his side means telling one little lie...

I told everyone I was your wife

When Edward comes to, he's more than a little confused. The blow to his head knocked out six months of his memory, but surely he would recall getting married. He knows who Cecilia Harcourt is- even if he does not recall her face- and with everyone calling her his wife, he decides it must be true, even though he'd always assumed he'd marry his neighbor back in England.

If only it were true...

Cecilia risks her entire future by giving herself- completely- to the man she loves. But when the truth comes out, Edward may have a few surprises of his own for the new Mrs. Rokesby."

My Rating: 4/5

I really enjoy these prequels. I think the fact that the setting felt so different in this one added to my enjoyment. The idea that we were seeing the war in America from the perspective of the British wasn't something I can say I've read a lot of. As a Canadian (NOT AMERICAN), we do see a lot of American media about this time period. I also loved the concept. There was miscommunication, but in a way that I understood. It wasn't the best, but it wasn't the worst use of that trope. The reason this book lost a star for me is the use of the phrase "coming home". I think we can all guess when and why this gave me the ick. Interesting choice. 

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: Because of Miss Bridgerton by Julia Quinn

Title: Because of Miss Bridgerton

Author: Julia Quinn

Series/Standalone: Rokebys Series (Book #1)

Genre: Romance, Historical Romance, Adult Fiction

Pages: 375

Publisher: Avon

Year Published: 2016

Format: Audiobook

"Sometimes you find love in the most unexpected places....

This is not one of those times.

Everyone expects Billie Bridgerton to marry one of the Rokesby brothers. The two families have been neighbours for centuries, and as a child, the tomboyish Billie ran wild with Edward and Andrew. Either one would make a perfect husband... someday.

Sometimes you fall in love with exactly the person you think you should...

Or not.

There is only one Rokesby Billie absolutely cannot tolerate, and that is George. He may be the eldest and her to the earldom, but he's arrogant, annoying and she's absolutely certain he detests her. Which is perfectly convenient, as she can't stand the sight of him, either.

But sometimes fate has a wicked sense of humor...

Because when Billie and George are quite literally thrown together, a whole new sort of sparks begins to fly. And when these lifelong adversaries finally kiss, they just might discover that the one person they can't abide is the one person they can't live without..."

My Rating: 4.5/5

This is not what I expected from this series, but I couldn't be happier. Watching a main character in a historical romance have any degree of power gives me so much joy. The characters in this story are excellent, and I absolutely adored Billie Bridgerton. I also loved the side characters we were introduced to (or at least the ones we were supposed to at the very least. The only reason this book got knocked down .5 stars from five stars was one line that was said during a steamy scene that ruined the spice for me. I look forward to continuing the series on audiobooks soon. 

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: Unfortunately Yours by Tessa Bailey

Title: Unfortunately Yours

Author: Tessa Bailey

Series/Standalone: A Vine Mess Duology (Book #2)

Genre: Adult Fiction, Contemporary Romance

Pages: 384

Publisher: Avon

Year Published: 2023

Format: Audiobook

"A down-on-her-luck Napa heiress suggests a mutually beneficial marriage of convenience to a man she can't stand... only to discover there's a fine line between love and hate.

After losing her job and her fiancé in one fell swoop, Natalie Vos returned home to lick her wounds. A few months later, she's sufficiently drowned her sorrows in cabernet and she's ready to get back on her feet. She just needs her trust fund to finance her new business venture. Unfortunately, the terms require she marry before she can have the money. And well, dumped, remember? But Natalie is desperate enough to propose to a man who makes her want to kill him--and kiss him, in equal measure.

August Cates may own a vineyard, but he doesn't know jack about making wine. He's determined to do his late best friend proud, no matter what it takes. Except his tasting room is empty, his wine is disgusting (seriously, he once saw someone gag), and his buddy's legacy is circling the drain. No bank will give him the loan he needs to turn the business around... and then the gorgeous, feisty heiress knocks on his door. Natalie has haunted his dreams since the moment they met, but their sizzling chemistry immediately morphed into simmering insults.

Now, a quickie marriage could help them both. A sham wedding, a few weeks living under the same roof, and then they can go their separate ways--assuming they make it out alive. How hard could it be? There's just one thing they didn't account for: their unfortunate, unbearable, undeniable attraction."

My Rating: 4/5

I really enjoyed this second book in the series. While something I didn't enjoy the idea of a marriage of convenience trope in current times is so entertaining to me. The plot was fantastic. The characters were fun and the setting itself brings me so much joy. But during the spicy scenes, there were certain phrases that I didn't love. And the audiobook wasn't as fun as the ones I'd read in the past. I do plan on continuing to read Tessa Bailey's books as they come out, but I will keep in mind that the vocabulary she uses to describe certain body parts might not be my favourite. 

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: Secretly Yours by Tessa Bailey

Title: Secretly Yours

Author: Tessa Bailey

Series/Standalone: A Vine Mess Duology (Book #1)

Genre: Romance, Contemporary, Adult Fiction

Pages: 384

Publisher: Avon

Year Published: 2023

Format: Audiobook

"A steamy new rom-com about a starchy professor and the bubbly neighbor he clashes with at every turn...

Hallie Wlech fell hard for Julian Vos at fourteen, after they almost kissed in the dark vineyards of his family's winery. Now the prodigal hottie has returned to their small town. When Hallie is hired to revamp the gardens on the Vos estate, she wonders if she'll finally get that smooch. But the grumpy professor isn't the teenager she remembers and their polar opposite personalities clash spectacularly. One wine-fueled girls' night later, Hallie can't shake the sense that she did something reckless- and then she remembers the drunken secret admirer letter she left for Julian. Oh shit. 

On sabbatical from his ivy league job, Julian plans to write a novel. But having Hallie gardening right outside his window is the ultimate distraction. She's eccentric, chronically late, often literally covered in dirt- and so unbelievably beautiful, he can't focus on anything else. Until he finds an anonymous letter sent by a woman from his past. Even as Julian wonders about this admirer, he's sucked further into Hallie's orbit. Like the flowers she plants all over town, Hallie is a burst of color in Julian's gray-scale life. For a man who irons his socks and runs on tight schedules, her sunny chaotic energy makes zero sense. But there's something so familiar about her... and her very presence is turning his world upside down.

My Rating: 3.5/5

I think this is a really fun contemporary read with fantastic steamy scenes. Tessa Bailey does an excellent job of making unique characters that you can visualize with their own unique voice. I also appreciate that they have struggles that are relatable. The steamy scenes in this one were perfect, and I look forward to reading the next one! How can a marriage of convenience go wrong?

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: The Wall of Winnipeg and Me by Mariana Zapata

Title: The Wall of Winnipeg and Me

Author: Mariana Zapata

Series/Standalone: Standalone

Genre: Romance, Contemporary, Adult Fiction

Pages: 475

Publisher: Avon

Year Published: 2016

Format: Audiobook

"Vanessa Mazur knows she's doing the right thing. She shouldn't feel bad for quitting. being an assistant/housekeeper/fairy godmother to the top defensive end in the National Football Organization was always supposed to be temporary. She has plans and none of them include washing extra-large underwear longer than necessary.

But when Aiden Graves shows up at her door wanting her to come back, she's beyond shocked.

For two years, the man known as The Wall of Winnipeg couldn't find it in him to tell her good morning or congratulate her on her birthday. Now? He's asking for the unthinkable.

What do you say to the man who is used to getting everything he wants?"

My Rating: 3/5

This is not what I anticipated when I picked up this novel. I notice this book has been marketed to be a lot spicier than it is. While there is one sex scene, it isn't a lot throughout the book. Although it did hit on some of my favourite tropes, the writing style felt a bit off-pace to me. I did enjoy the character overall and I would read more from the author.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: Tools of Engagement by Tessa Bailey

Title: Tools of Engagement

Author: Tessa Bailey

Series/Standalone: Hot & Hammered Series (Book #3)

Genre: Adult, Romance, Contemporary

Pages: 368

Published: Avon

Year Published: 2020

Format:  Audiobook

"Hair, makeup, clothing, decor... everything in Bethany Castle's world is organized, planned and styled to perfection. Which is why the homes she designs for her family's real estate business are the most coveted in town. The only thing not perfect? Her track record with men. She's on a dating hiatus and after helping her friends achieve their dreams, Bethany finally has time to focus on her own: flip a house, from framework to furnishings, all by herself. Except her older brother runs the company and refuses to take her seriously.

When a television producer gets wind of the Castle sibling rivalry, they're invited on Flip Off, a competition to see who can do the best renovations. Bethany wants bragging rights, but she needs a crew and the only member of her brother's construction team willing to jump ship is Wes Daniels, the new guy in town. His Texas drawl and handsome face got under Bethany's skin on day one, but the last thing she needs is some cocky young cowboy in her way. 

As the race to renovate heats up, Wes and Bethany are forced into close quarters, trading barbs and biting banter as they remodel the ugliest house on the block. It's a labor of love, hate, and everything in between, and soon sparks are flying. But Bethany's perfectly structured life is one kiss away from going up in smoke and she knows falling for a guy like Wes would be a flipping disaster."

My Rating: 3.75/5

I liked this one, but it wasn't my favourite out of the whole series. The characters were relatable, their issues were real and sincere and the setting was fun. The overall arc of the story was good, but a lot was crammed into the book. The separate plots, the epilogue and the other characters' story arcs fall into this making it hard to believe that everyone got their happily ever after. It was fun and would recommend it if you're looking to round out the series.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: Love Her or Lose Her by Tessa Bailey

Title: Love Her or Lose Her

Author: Tessa Bailey

Series/Standalone: Hot & Hammered Series (Book #2)

Genre: Adult Fiction, Romance, Contemporary

Pages: 336

Publisher: Avon

Year Published: 2020

Format: Audiobook

"Rosie and Dominic Vega are the perfect couple: high school sweethearts, best friends, madly in love. Well, they used to be anyway. Now, Rosie's lucky to get a caveman grunt from the ex-soldier every time she walks in the door. Dom is faithful and a great provider, but the man she fell in love with 10 years ago is nowhere to be found. When her girlfriends encourage Rosie to demand more out of life and pursue her dream of opening a restaurant, she decides to demand more out of love, too. Three words: marriage boot camp.

Never in a million years did Rosie believe her stoic, too-manly-to-emot husband would actually agree to relationship rehab with a weed-smoking hippie. Dom talking about feelings? Sitting on pillows? Communing with nature? Learning love languages? Nope. But to her surprise, he's all in, and it forces her to admit her own role in their cracked foundation. As they complete one ridiculous- year surprisingly helpful- assignment after another, their remodeled relationship gets stronger than ever. Except just as they're getting back on track, Rosie discovers Dom has a secret... and it could demolish everything."

My Rating: 5/5

I absolutely flew right through this book. The characters are great to follow and distinct in who they are (sometimes in contemporary romance I feel like the main characters can become very bland). The chemistry between these characters was off the charts! I love the trope of a married couple reconnecting and finding each other. I will say I thought this would have more to do with Dom's time in the military and while it touched on it, it did very lightly. I would strongly recommend if you are looking for a super smutty but not dark romance. 

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: Hook, Line and Sinker by Tessa Bailey

Title: Hook, Line and Sinker

Author: Tessa Bailey

Series/Standalone: Bellinger Sisters Duology (Book #2)

Genre: Romance, Contemporary, Adult Fiction

Pages: 353

Publisher: Avon

Year Published: 2022

Format: Audiobook

"King crab fisherman Fox Thornton has a reputation as a sexy, carefree flirt. Everyone knows he's a guaranteed good time- in bed and out- that's exactly how he prefers it. Until he meets Hannah Bellinger. She's immune to his charm and looks, but she seems to enjoy his... personality? And want to be friends? But he likes her too much to risk a fling, so platonic pals it is.

Now, Hannah's in town for work, crashing in Fox's spare bedroom. She knows he's a notorious ladies' man, but they're definitely just friends. In fact, she's nursing a hopeless crush on a colleague and Fox is just the person to help with her lackluster love life. Armed with a  few tips from Westport's resident Casanova, Hannah sets out to catch her coworker's eye... yet the more time she spends with Fox, the more she wants him instead. As the line between friendship and flirtation begins to blur, Hannah can't deny she loves everything about Fox, but she refuses to be another notch on his bedpost. 

Living with his best friend should have been easy. Except now she's walking around in a towel, sleeping right across the hall, and Fox is fantasizing about waking up next to her for the rest of his life and.... and.... man overboard! He's fallen for her, hook, line and sinker. Helping her flirt with another guy is pure torture, but maybe if Fox can tackle his inner demons and show Hannah he's all in, she'll choose him instead?"

My Rating: 3.75/5

This book was exactly what I needed from a summer romance. It had a great atmosphere, follows characters we've already met and a great trope for the reason the characters can't be together. I do love a fake dating trope. The smut was phenomenal as always, but I did find the flashbacks to what the characters had said in previous scenes frustrating. It's one thing to be thinking about what the hero or heroine had said and another to have it seem to loop so frequently that I was taken out of the current storyline. Not my favourite, but the epilogue made up for it!

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: On the Way to the Wedding by Julia Quinn

Title: On the Way to the Wedding

Author: Julia Quinn

Series/Standalone: Bridgerton Series (Book #8)

Genre: Adult Fiction, Historical Fiction

Pages: 371

Publisher: Avon 

Year Published: 2006

Format:  Audiobook

"A funny thing happened...

Unlike most men of his acquaintance, Gregory Bridgerton believes in true love. And he is convinced that when he finds the woman of his dreams, he will know in an instant that she is the one. And that is exactly what happened. Except...

She wasn't the one. In fact, the ravishing Miss Hermoine Watson is in love with another. But her best friend, the ever-practical Lady Lucinda Abernathy, wants to save Hermoine from a disastrous alliance, so she offers to help Gregory win her over. But in the process, Lucy falls in love. With Gregory. Except....

Lucy is engaged. And her uncle is not inclined to let her back out of the betrothal, even once Gregory comes to his senses and realizes that it Is Lucy, with her sharp wit and sunny smile, who makes his heart sing. And now, on the way to the wedding, Gregory must risk everything to ensure that when it comes time to kiss the bride, he is the only man standing at the altar..."

My Rating: 4/5

I enjoyed this one. It had more drama than some of the past ones in the series and every time  I think that I might not like one in this series, I'm pleasantly surprised. Julia Quinn does a great job of writing unique character traits for each of the siblings and their love interests. I liked the idea of friends to lovers mixed with she's engaged to someone else. I look forward to reading more by Julia Quinn in the future and would recommend if you like the show.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: Fix Her Up by Tessa Bailey

Title: Fix Her Up

Author: Tessa Bailey

Series/Standalone: Hot & Hammered Series (Book #1)

Genre: Adult Fiction, Contemporary, Smut

Pages: 400

Publisher: Avon

Year Published: 2019

Format: Audiobook

"A brand new romantic comedy from New York Times bestseller Tessa Bailey!

Georgette Castle's family runs the best home renovations business in town, but she picked balloons instead of blueprints and they haven't taken her seriously since. Frankly, she's over it. Georgie loves planning children's birthday parties and making people laugh, just not at her own expense. She's determined to fix herself up into a Woman of the World... whatever that means.

Phase one: new framework for her business (a website from this decade, perhaps?)

Phase two: a gut-reno on her wardrobe (FYI, leggings are pants.)

Phase three: updates to her exterior (do people still wax?)

Phase four: put herself on the market (and stop crushing on Travis Ford!)

Living her best life means facing the truth: Georgie hasn't been on a date since, well ever. Nobody's asking the town clown out for a night of hot sex, that's for sure. Maybe if people think she's having a steamy love affair, they'll acknowledge she's not just the 'little sister' who paints faces for a living. And who better to help demolish that image than the resident sports star and tabloid favorite?

Travis Ford was major league baseball's hottest rookie when an injury ended his career. Now he's flipping houses to keep busy and trying to forget his glory days. But he can't even cross the street without someone recapping his greatest hits. Or making a joke about his.... bat. And then there's Georgie, his best friend's sister, who is not a kid anymore. When she proposes a wild scheme- that they pretend to date, to shock her family and help him land a new job- he agrees. What's the harm? It's not like it's real. But the girl Travis used to tease is now a funny, full-of-life woman and there's nothing fake about how much he wants her...."

My Rating: 4/5

I really enjoyed this story. I think the whole small town and best friend's younger sister trope was perfect. I have loved the two things that I have read from Tessa Bailey so far and I'm on a roll. I love how unique her characters are and the tropes that she is writing with. So far so good. The smut in this was pretty good as well. If you're looking for a hot summer read, and haven't read this (I don't know if you exist because I'm late to the party) pick it up.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey

Title: It Happened One Summer

Author: Tessa Bailey

Series/Standalone: Bellinger Sisters Series (Book #1)

Genre: Contemporary, Adult, Romance

Pages: 385

Publisher: Avon

Year Published: 2021

Format: Audiobook

"Piper Bellinger is fashionable, influential, and her reputation as a wild child means the paparazzi are constantly on her heels. When too much champagne and an out-of-control rooftop party lands Piper in the slammer, her stepfather decides enough is enough. So he cuts her off, and sends Piper and her sister to learn some responsibility running their late father's dive bar... in Washington.

Piper hasn't even been to Westport for five minutes when she meets big, bearded sea captain Brendan, who thinks she won't last a week outside of Beverly Hills. So what if Piper can't do math, and the idea of sleeping in a shabby apartment with bunk beds gives her hives. How bad could it really be? She's determined to show her stepfather- and the hot, grumpy local- that she's more than a pretty face.

Except it's a small town and everywhere she turns, she bumps into Brendan. The fun-loving socialite and the gruff fisherman are polar opposites, but there's an undeniable attraction simmering between them. Piper doesn't want any distractions, especially feelings for a man who sails off into the sunset for weeks at a time. Yet as she reconnects with her past and begins to feel at home in Westport, Piper starts to wonder if the cold, glamorous life she knew is what she truly wants. LA is calling her name, but Brendan- and this town full of memories- may have already daughter her heart."

My Rating: 5/5

I had heard a lot of hype about this book and I thought that there was no possible way it would live up to the hype. And yet, here I am giving this book 5 stars. The character were excellent, the environment was fantastic, and the plot was perfect. I loved the way the author set up the romance and the tropes were exactly what I needed. The smut was also exactly what I needed. I can't wait to read more of her books, and if I keep seeing her pop up on my TikTok she'll be unstoppable. 

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: It's in His Kiss by Julia Quinn

Title: It's in His Kiss

Author: Julia Quinn

Series/Standalone: Bridgerton Series (Book #7)

Genre: Romance, Historical, Adult Fiction

Pages: 384

Publisher: Avon

Year Published: 2005

Format: Audiobook

"IF IT'S IN HIS HEART... IT'S IN HIS KISS

MEET OUR HERO...

Gareth St. Clair is in a bind. His father, who detests him, is determined to beggar the St. Clair estates and ruin his inheritance. Gareth's sole bequest is an old family diary, which may or may not contain the secrets of his past... and the key to his future. The problem is- it's written in Italian, of which Gareth speaks not a word.

MEET OUR HERIONEl...

All the ton agreed: there was no one quite like Hyacinth Bridgerton. She's fiendishly smart, devilishly outspoken, and according to Gareth, probably best in small doses. But there's something about her- something charming and vexing- that grabs him and won't quite let go....

MEET POOR MR. MOZART...

Or don't. But rest assured, he's spinning in his grave when Gareth and Hyacinth cross paths at the annual- and annually discordant- Smythe-Smith musical. To Hyacinth, Gareth's every word seems a dare, and she offers to translate his diary, even though her Italian is slightly less than perfect. But as they delve into the mysterious text, they discover that the answers they seek lie not in the diary, but in each other.... and that there is nothing as simple- or as complicated- as a single, perfect kiss."

My Rating: 4.25/5

I know that with these point stars, I start to get down to the nitty-gritty. But this one was really fun. I loved the hero, and I think that Hyacinth is fun to read from, but some of the plot points weren't the most enjoyable for me. I did enjoy seeing Lady Danbury in a new light and watching someone not be shamed for being an individual in a historical romance. 

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: When He Was Wicked by Julia Quinn

Title: When He Was Wicked

Author: Julia Quinn

Series/Standalone: Bridgerton Series (Book #6)

Genre: Adult, Romance, Historical 

Pages: 368

Publisher: Avon

Year Published: 2004

Format: Audiobook

"Everything was so much simpler... when he was wicked.

In every life there is a turning point. A moment so tremendous, so sharp and breathtaking, that one knows one's life will never be the same. For Michael Stirling, London's most infamous rake, that moment came the first time he laid eyes on Francesca Bridgerton.

After a lifetime of chasing women, of smiling slyly as they chased him, of allowing himself to be caught but never permitting his heart to become engaged, he took one look at Francesca Bridgerton and fell so fast and hard into love it was a wonder he managed to remain standing. Unfortunately for Michael, however, Francesca's surname was to remain Bridgerton for only a mere thirty-six hours longer- the occasion of their meeting was, lamentably, a supper celebrating her imminent wedding to his cousin.

But that was then... Now Michael is the earl and Francesca is free, but still she thinks of him as nothing other than her dear friend and confidant. Michael dares not speak to her of his love... until one dangerous night, when she steps innocently into his arms, and passion proves stronger than even the most wicked of secrets..."

My Rating: 5/5

This is my favourite in the series so far. This one does contain a lot more intimacy, and it was so well done. I think the idea of having a character who was a widow helped with the plot and kept the series interesting. It has similar tropes that I enjoy (ex. Friends to Lovers) and the pining was so well done. The characters in this book were distinct and felt so real to me! I can't wait to continue with the series, and a friend of mine has already suggested the prequel. I can't wait!

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: To Sir Phillip, With Love by Julia Quinn

Title: To Sir Phillip, With Love

Author: Julia Quinn

Series/Standalone: Bridgerton Series (Book #5)

Genre: Romance, Historical, Adult

Pages: 372

Publisher: Avon

Year Published: 2003

Format: Audiobook

"Sir Phillip knew from his correspondence with his dead wife's distant cousin that Eloise Bridgerton was a spinster and so he'd proposed, figuring that she'd be homely and unassuming, and more than a little desperate for an offer of marriage. Except.... she wasn't. The beautiful woman on his doorstep was anything but quiet, and when she stopped talking long enough to close her mouth, all he wanted to do was kiss her....

Eloise Bridgerton couldn't marry a man she had never met! But then she started thinking- and wondering- and before she knew it, she was in a hired carriage in the middle of the night, on her way to meet the man she hoped might be her perfect match. Except... he wasn't. Her perfect husband wouldn't be so moody and ill-mannered. And he certainly should have mentioned that he had two young- and decidedly unruly- children, as much in need of a mother as Phillip is in need of a wife."

My Rating: 4.5/5

This is yet another book in the Bridgerton series and they just keep getting better for me. This has got to be one of my favourites. My only complaint is how mental health was dealt with in this book. I think it was likely accurate to the time period but as someone who has struggled with depression the way the author deals with it is not enjoyable. I would recommend if you can get past that fact, but if you or someone you love has had suicidal thoughts or has committed suicide I would NOT recommend. 

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: Romancing Mister Bridgerton by Julia Quinn

Title: Romancing Mister

Author: Julia Quinn

Series/Standalone: Bridgertons Series (Book #4)

Genre: Adult, Historical Romance

Pages: 370

Publisher: Avon

Year Published: 2002

Format: Audiobook

"Everyone knows that Colin Bridgerton is the most charming man in London. Penelope Featherington has secretly adored her best friend's brother for... well, it feels like forever. After half a lifetime of watching Colin Bridgerton from afar, she thinks she knows everything about him until she stumbles across his deepest secret.... and fears she doesn't know him at all. 

Colin Bridgerton is tired of being thought nothing but an empty-headed charmer, tired of everyone's preoccupation with the notorious gossip columnist Lady Whistledown, who can't seem to publish an edition without mentioning him in the first paragraph. But when Colin returns to London from a trip abroad he discovers nothing in his life is quite the same- especially Penelope Featherington! The girl haunting his dreams. But when he discovers that Penelope has secrets of her own, this elusive bachelor must decide... is she his biggest threat- or his promise of a happy ending?"

My Rating: 5/5

I love a friends to romance! This is a trope that I just adore. I also think that long-time crushes that pay off in a cute way just make me so happy. It reminds me of my relationship at the beginning with my husband. I think that the author did a great job leading up to this romance. It's one you could see building in the background throughout the past books and their love grew so well over time. I loved, loved, loved this! I can't wait to continue the series.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: Spoiler Alert by Oliva Dade

Title: Spoiler Alert

Author: Olivia Dade

Series/Standalone: Spoiler Alert Series (Book #1)

Genre: Romance, Adult Fiction

Pages: 416

Publisher: Avon

Year Published: 2020

Format: Audiobook

"Olivia Dade bursts onto the scene in this delightfully fun romantic comedy set in the world of fanfiction, in which a devoted fan goes on an unexpected date with her celebrity crush, who's secretly posting fanfiction of his own.

Marcus Caster-Rupp has a secret. While the world knows him as Aeneas, the star of the biggest show on TV, Gods of the Gates, he's known to fanfiction readers as Book!AneasWouldNever, an anonymous and popular poster. Marcus is able to get out his own frustrations with his character through his stories, especially the ones that feature the internet's favorite couple to ship, Aeneas and Lavinia. But if anyone ever found out about his online persona, he'd be fired. Immediately.

April Whittier has secrets of her own. A hardcore Lavinia fan, she's hidden her fanfiction and cosplay hobby from her 'real life' for years- but not anymore. When she decides to post her latest Lavinia creation on Twitter, her photo goes viral. Trolls and supporters alike are commenting on her plus-size take, but when Marcus, one half of her OTP, sees her pic and asks her out on a date to spite her critics, she realizes life is really stranger than fanfiction.

Even though their first date is a disaster, Marcus quickly realizes that he wants much more from April than a one-time publicity stunt. And when he discovers she's actually Unapologetic Lavinia Stan, his closest fandom friend, he has one more huge secret to hide form her.

With love and Marcus's career on the line, can the two of them stop hiding once and for all, or will a match made in fandom end up prematurely cancelled?"

My Rating: 5/5

This was exactly what I didn't know I need a body-positive, unapologetically nerdy, sex-positive romance that includes fanfic and a made-up set of source material that is so good I would die to read the original source material and watch the less-than-stellar (apparently) show. I loved the way the author focused on each character as individuals as well as a couple. I cannot speak to all of the representation but the character growth, the plot, etc are astounding and I can't wait to read the next installment! Would highly recommend it to nerdy folks looking for a modern romance!

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: An Offer From a Gentleman by Julia Quinn

Title: An Offer From a Gentleman

Author: Julia Quinn

Series/Standalone: Bridgerton Series (Book #3)

Genre: Historical Romance, Adult

Pages: 390

Publisher: Avon

Year Published: 2001

Format: Audiobook

"Will she accept his offer before the clock strikes midnight?

Sophie Beckett never dreamed she'd be able to sneak into lady Bridgerton's famed masquerade ball- or that "Prince Charming" would be waiting there for her! Though the daughter of an earl, Sophie has been relegated to the role of servant by her disdainful stepmother. But now, spinning in the strong arms of the debonair and devastatingly handsome Benedict Bridgerton, she feels like royalty. Alas, she knows all enchantments must end when the clock strikes midnight.

Who was that extraordinary woman? Ever since that magical night, a radiant vision in silver has blinded Benedict to the attractions of any other- except, perhaps the alluring and oddly familiar beauty dressed in housemaid's garb whom he feels compelled to rescue from a most disagreeable situation. He has sworn to find and wed his mystery miss, but this breathtaking maid makes him weak with wanting her. Yet, if he offers his heart, will Benedict sacrifice his only chance for a fairy tale love?"

My Rating: 5/5

This was what I've been hoping to see from this series. Yes I loved the first few seasons of the show, and all the books have been fun, but this felt like it was taking the historical romance tropes into account. I appreciated that Benedict was so different from his brothers and it was easy to read this book without feeling like it was a repeat. I enjoyed seeing a story where both parties weren't part of the upper class. Julia Quinn's characters each have a unique voice which has made this series is a fun listen-on audio.

I look forward to continuing with the series.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny