[Book Review] Love Interest #9

 

Love Interest #9

by Mia Summers

Contemporary Fiction; Romance; Chick-Lit

Goodreads / Amazon

Disclaimer: I got a free ARC of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 

I usually love slow-burns, but this one, not so much. Don't get me wrong, the main character and the love interest are likable, but the storyline had much to be desired. 

I actually found the relationship build-up between Rachel and Lucas enjoyable, because I love patiently waiting for when things start to heat up, but ultimately, the storyline went downhill at the end. 

[Book Review] Bridges: A Daphne White Novel

Bridges: A Daphne White Novel

Maria Murnane

Chick-Lit, Contemporary Fiction

Rating:

★★★★★

The tipping point in why I’ve decided to review this book is because the main protagonist is a writer. I’ve always found it fascinating when the main character is a writer because it’s interesting to see the character’s writing dilemmas being fleshed out as the story progresses. This is exactly what I got with Daphne in Bridges.

The story is reminiscent of the TV series Sex and the City, complete with fun girlfriends, hijinks along the way, misunderstandings, and love between friends.

I like Daphne, but the way the story began made it feel like she was just going along with everything, even her relationship with Derek, and she had no real endgame in mind. Of course, this is except for her writing, which she embraced like a fish in the water.

Truth be told, as I got to read the montage of her rejection letters one after the other, it was disheartening. The only glimmer of light that kept me going was the thought of vindication in the end. I was rooting for a happy ending that’s why I stuck to the story.

While reading, I briefly wondered if my friends and I could experience the same things that Daphne and her posse went through. I hope we do.

[Book Review] Crushingly Close

Crushingly Close
Stella Torres
July 19, 2016
Contemporary Romance, Chick-Lit

What's a woman to do when she's fiercely independent, and love comes knocking without warning? I think this pretty much sums up our main character, Agnes Escueta's, predicament in this brand new offering from Filipino #romanceclass author Stella Torres.

I think every woman goes through that moment where she has to choose between her hard-won independence, and the stirrings of her heart, thinking that choosing one is equal to losing the other.

What I like about this story is that it is character-driven. There are no super villains plotting the demise of our main character. There are no uber rich, snotty and all-powerful antagonists, who can ruin someone's life by waving their money and influence. I think this is where the the beauty of this story lies. It is relateable, and it is a slice of life. It can be anyone's story.

Agnes, the protagonist, is smart, successful and driven. She's also hard-working and family-oriented, and most of the time, logic dictates her actions rather than her heart. I love that Agnes has her priorities straight. Filipino family values were clearly showcased in the story through Agnes' constant worry for her sick father. I also love her voice, because she sounds stable and thoughtful. She sounds like someone who has had her character tested, but still remains standing.

As for the love interest, I was picturing Atom Araullo as Daniel Ferrer the whole time I was reading the story. He was my LI peg right from the very start. (hihi) I think it really takes some serious balls to go after the affections of a fiercely independent woman. Major thumbs up for Daniel for stepping up!

The way Daniel sees through Agnes' walls, and the way Agnes calls out Daniel's BS speaks volumes about how they see each other. I loved the gradual development of their connection to each other. It was like a push-and-pull between two people who are clearly into each other, but things kept getting in the way, and priorities had to be sorted. It would have been easier to let things die down, but I really liked that they made things work.

All in all, I really enjoyed this story. It has no grand and unrealistic gestures, but its beauty lies in its simplicity. And hey, giving in to the stirrings of your heart does not necessarily mean relinquishing independence. The two are not mutually exclusive, and author Stella Torres shows just that in this story. 

LINKS : Amazon // Goodreads

At twenty-four years old, Agnes Escueta has risen from the ranks to become a producer for Sports Tonight. No one can touch her, it seems—not even crush-worthy anchorman Daniel Ferrer, who she gets to work with every single day. When a road trip to Indonesia throws Agnes and Daniel together, they find themselves working in close quarters. It doesn’t take long before Agnes finds herself being charmed by Daniel, and her defenses start to melt with his touch. With deadlines looming and a big game coming, Agnes must figure out how to let Daniel into her life without risking her professional reputation—and without breaking her own heart.

Stella Torres is the author of Save the Cake and the short story “Be Creative” from Kids These Days: Stories from Luna East Arts Academy (Vol. 1)). She has a bachelor’s degree in English literature and worked briefly in public relations, but has chosen to pursue her post-graduate studies in the field of education. She loves dark chocolate, hates flyaways, and is constantly in search of comfortable shoes.

Connect with the author:

Blog: http://thegreatbigjump.blogspot.com

Facebook: http://facebook.com/StellaTorresAuthor

Twitter: http://twitter.com/TheStellaTorres

Instagram: http://instagram.com/stella_meimei

[Book Review] When In Rome

When In Rome

By Amabile Giusti

Translated by Sarah Christine Varney

January 26, 2016

Chick-Lit, Contemporary Romance

I had no idea I would like this story very much! The only thing in the description that really had me sold was Luca, who is actually a writer. It's always a delight for me to read about characters who are writers and/or librarians in books, but this one was more than that. This book is like an extremely delicious banana split sundae in very generous servings after weeks of drought and starvation! It's been weeks since I've read something that thoroughly entertained me, so this book was heaven-sent. What's even more to love is that the humor included within the pages actually make sense, and there are actually lines in the story which I thought was very well-thought of.

I also really appreciate it that the plot kept me on my toes. Most of the time, I couldn't guess what was going to happen next, or what ridiculous situation Carlotta was going to be involved in. This is a rare feat considering I read almost everyday and could say for certain that I have read my fair share of predictable books and stories. Kudos to the author for this!

The heroine -- Carlotta, I think it's safe to say that she's unconventional and interesting. In a family where there is already a predetermined standard (set by her mother) in order to be treated as someone precious, it was a huge act of courage to stay being who she is. I love that she's unapologetic for her being her own person, and that she pursued her passions despite how difficult it is to do so.

The minor characters and side-stories were very interesting, too! I love that Carlotta found a group of people who are just as weird and neurotic as she was. They played a huge hand in making the story very interesting.

Now, on to Luca -- to be honest, I wasn't really sold. I enjoyed Carlotta as a character more than I enjoyed Luca. He was initially the reason why I was drawn to this book in the first place, but it was Carlotta who captured my heart. I guess Luca just didn't really measure up for me. While their romance was believable and had a stable pacing from the beginning, I would have appreciated it more if Luca did more groveling on Carlotta's feet. I think he needs to work a little harder for the girl. I mean, come on! Carlotta deserves to be treated like a goddess more than anything, you lucky piece of bagpipes! Hohum.

Also, how cool is it that the author is Greek, the book was translated into English by an American, and, read and reviewed by a Filipino? When I thought of Amazon Crossing this way, it blew my mind. This only goes to show that enjoying a story or a book is universal! Someone from the Philippines can thoroughly enjoy something that was written and set in Greece.

I would've written a 5-star rating for this book had Luca measured up, but all in all, I thoroughly enjoyed the twists and turns in this unexpected delight of a book. I definitely recommend it!

Also, this quote from the book was really neat:

[Blog Tour - Book Review & Excerpt] (un)breakable

(un)breakable 

(Gezellig #2)

Author: Kesh Tanglao

Date of Publication: July 16, 2014

Genre: contemporary romance/chick-lit

About the Book:

Lorin Perez’s life is finally back on track after almost losing it six years ago. She knows meeting and dating sizzling hot professional rugby player Spence Clarke is a huge part of her healing process. But with her father starting a new family, she decides to follow her best friend Caitlin to UK–Spence’s home country–and start a new life.

However, moving to UK brings certain complications in the form of Gezellig band member Nigel Whitmore, a.k.a. the one who didn’t follow through three years ago. And even though Lorin is very clear about her no commitment rule, Nigel ignores this and pursues Lorin like never before.

Caught between the man who made her feel safe and the one who makes her feel alive, will she finally be able to set her heart free and make the right choice?

Goodreads link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22694739-un-breakable
Purchase links: Amazon | Smashwords

I had the opportunity to read author Kesh Tanglao's first book in the Gezellig series, and I happened to really appreciate her brand of story-telling, so when I got an email about a blog tour for the second book, I knew I just had to join!

(un)breakable tells the story of Caitlyn's best friend Lorin and her super complicated love life. I think that most readers would agree on just how lucky Lorin is when it comes to the men who come into her life, but personally, I wouldn't want to be stuck in her position. It's too difficult to choose! haha!

Plot-wise, I love how there's a development in Lorin's character from the beginning until the end. And I really like how practical she is when it comes to decisions, even when it comes to her love life. Though sometimes I wished she would've given things a little more thought.

As for the male leads, to be honest, I'm all for #TeamSpence. Not that I have anything against Nigel. It's just that Spence has been there right from the very beginning when Lorin was all broken up and fragile. He helped her heal little by little, granted not whole, but anchored and stable. And they were together for two years - I think that this fact should count for something. 

Truthfully. there was a point in the book where I was literally torn between Nigel and Spence. That was how effective the love triangle was, but in the end, I was rooting for Spence. The guy is seriously sweet and he's not some noble idiot who just gives up the girl without a fight. 

Another thing I really loved about this story is that the songs which the author mentioned for the playlist were some of my favorites! The lyrics were very apt for the scenes and made reading all the more enjoyable.

If you want a taste of (un)breakable, scroll on for an excerpt!

“I know. I’m just feeling a bit of pressure.” I flopped onto my bed and held the phone over my head. “Cait just set such a high standard, you know?”

“Well, she was always a hard worker. Did you just get in?” Spence asked. “I was trying to call earlier, and you weren’t picking up. Or were you on overtime already on your first day?”

Uh-oh. “Yeah, sorry about that,” I said slowly. “I was at dinner with a friend.”

“Ah. Good for you that you made friends already! Who was it?”

I paused, making Spence frown. “Nigel.”

“Ah,” Spence said, as if trying to recall where he heard the name. Then, “Nigel. Like the one from Gezellig?”

“Jesus, what did I do to you? Why do you know the names of the members of Gezellig?” I said, cringing.

Spence ignored my statement and rolled his eyes. “Were you guys with Caitlin and Marcus?”

“Nope. It was just the two of us.”

“Caitlin set you guys up?”

“Um,” I said, turning to my side and propping the phone on my pillow, “that’s a yes and a no.” Spence flashed me a blank look, so I continued, “Yes, because Nigel asked her, and no because Nigel and I met before. We sort of went out three years ago.”

“Oh,” Spence said flatly. He leaned back, crossing his arms over his chest.

I rushed to explain. “He just wants to be friends, Spence. That’s all.”

“No sane guy wants to be just friends with you, Lore.”

I scoffed. “You’re exaggerating. Come on.”

“How come I never knew you went out with this Nigel guy?”

“It was a fling, Spence. A week in Sydney. That was it. I never mentioned it because nothing came out of it.”

Spence smirked. “Nothing, huh,” he said, the sarcasm in his voice evident. “I’m kind of sure he wants something to happen now.”

“And if he does, will it be an issue?” I asked, unable to stop the rise in my tone. “I brought this up before I went here, and you said it was okay to have an open relationship. You said non-exclusive, remember?”

“Bloody hell, Lorin. You’ve been there for what, three days?” Spence said in disbelief. “I only said it because it seemed like it was what you wanted. You were the first one who said non-exclusive. You were always the one wanting out of the commitment. I’ve always seen you as my girlfriend.”

“You never said anything!” I said angrily.

Spence shot up off the bed, eyes flaring. “Because I know I’d lose you if I asked you to be my girlfriend, Lore!” he shouted.

I gritted my teeth. I tried to calm myself down, breathing in and out, and waited for my heart to return to its normal pace. I saw Spence shake his head at someone off-screen. Damn it. His roommates must be present, and they were getting a front row seat to our first big fight.

“You wouldn’t lose me,” I said, more calmly now. “I would be scared big time, and then I probably wouldn’t know what to do yet because I’m not ready for that, but you won’t lose me, Spence.”

“Not ready for a relationship?! Jesus, Lore, what do you think we’ve been doing the past two years? Fooling around?”

“No!” I said, panicking. “It’s not. I thought you were okay with whatever we have—”

“A relationship. That’s what we have, Lorin. Say it. Just admit it to yourself.”

I paused, closing my eyes. I pinched the bridge of my nose, trying to think of a way out of this. Argh. This wouldn’t be complicated if it wasn’t for Nigel.

I opened my eyes, and gazed at the man I’d been with for the past two years. “Spence, I can’t, I’m sorry,” I said. “I can’t do this. You knew that this is what I have to offer. This is all I could offer. And if you can’t take that, then—”

“Right on the heels of saying I won’t lose you, huh,” he cut in, bitterness seeped his tone. “Good job on that one, Lorin.”

I opened my mouth to speak, but the he cut the video call without another word. I buried my head into my pillow, my shout muffled by the cotton as I screamed my frustration.

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About Kesh Tanglao

Kesh Tanglao is a full-time market researcher. When she’s not crunching numbers, she spends most of her free time watching TV shows, listening to music, and reading. Also a self-proclaimed fangirl, she likes cheering for her favorite sports teams and supporting her favorite artists.

Blog: http://sparksfire.wordpress.com/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/sparksfire_
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KeshTanglao
Wattpad: http://www.wattpad.com/user/sparksfire

[Book Review] Save the Date

Save the Date

(Better Date than Never #4)

by Susan Hatler

June 30, 2013

 Hatco, Inc.

Contemporary Romance, Chick-Lit

Links: Goodreads // Amazon

Book Info:

Kristen knows men hide things. Case in point, her last boyfriend turned out to be married. Just like anyone else, Kristen is devastated. However, since Kristen evaluates people for a living, her ex’s duplicity has her searching for a new career as well as swearing off men.

Touring history museums with her sexy friend Ethan doesn’t count, because he has a girlfriend, and has only shown friendly interest in Kristen. He even helps with her career counseling tasks. Although Kristen has a secret crush on Ethan, spending time with him is safe. Until she discovers he’s actually single. Gasp. And now he’s flirting with her, too.

Suddenly, Ethan is way too dangerous. Not to mention tempting. Sure, he seems like sixty shades of perfect, but how’s a girl with bad judgment supposed to detect what skeletons he has in his closet?

Rating:

★★★★★

[Book Review] Lingerie Wars

Lingerie Wars (Invertary 1)
Author: Janet Elizabeth Henderson
Date Published: June 14, 2013
Publisher: Janet Elizabeth Henderson
Source: ARC
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Chick Lit

Links:
Goodreads
Amazon
Barnes & Noble

Book Information:

Englishman Lake Benson loaned his life savings to his dippy sister so that she could buy a shop. It was a big mistake. His sister has been steadily flushing his money down the drain – and now he wants it back. Years in the special forces taught Lake that if you want a job done, do it yourself. So he steps in to make the shop profitable, sell it and get his money back. The only problem is, the business is an underwear shop. And all Lake knows about underwear can be summed up in how fast he can unsnap a bra. To make matters worse, the tiny highland town already has a lingerie shop. A successful one, run by an ex-lingerie model. A very gorgeous ex-lingerie model, who’s distracting him from his mission more than he’d like to admit. If Lake wants to get his savings back, and get out of Scotland, he only has one option – wipe out the competition.

Kirsty Campbell has spent years rebuilding her life after she woke up in hospital in Spain to find her body scarred, and her ex-fiance had run off with all her money. The last thing she needs is a cocky, English soldier-boy trying to ruin all she has left. Her home town is only too happy to help her fight the latest English invasion, although Lake is beginning to sway them with his sex appeal and cut price knickers. With the help of her mother, and the retired ladies of Knit or Die, Kirsty sets about making sure that her shop is the last one standing in Invertary. 

It’s Scotland versus England as you’ve never seen it before. It’s lingerie war.

Rating:

★★★★★

[Blog Tour - Book Review] Vintage Love

Vintage Love

Author: Agay Llanera

Publication Date: July 15, 2013

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Chick-Lit

Links: 

Amazon

Smashwords

About the Book:

26-year-old Crissy Lopez’s life is in dire need of a makeover. Her wardrobe revolves around ratty shirts and beat-up sneaks; her grueling schedule as a TV Executive leaves no room for a social life; and worst of all, she’s still hung up on the Evil Ex who left her five years ago. 

When her fashionable grand-aunt passes away and leaves behind a roomful of vintage stuff, the Shy Stylista inside Crissy gradually resurfaces. Soon, she feels like she's making progress -- with a budding lovelife to boot! But the grim ghost of her past catches up with her, threatening to push her back into depression. To finally move on, Crissy learns that walking away is not enough. This time, she needs to take a leap of faith.

Book Review:
Fashionably and impeccably engrossing! Author Agay Llanera mixes the potent combination of love and fashion in her romance novella Vintage Love.

In Vintage Love, we meet Crissy, an overworked twenty-something woman who rediscovers her passion for fashion and even finds love all because of her aunt's vintage collection. From the on-set, I really liked Crissy. She's hard-working and dedicated to her work, which is something we can glean from the way it took over her life.

As for Vince -- the love interest. I really liked that he's quirky. He came off a snob, but I like how it was justified. And when he and Crissy started getting to know each other, it was sweet. I like how he found reasons and excuses just to see and talk to her.

I appreciate that the romance aspect in this novel wasn't forced or didn't happen too soon. I love how everything was allowed to grow and branch out naturally.

Story-wise, Crissy's story is easy to follow. I find her voice really relatable. She's an example of a person who set aside her artistic passions for a more realistic life plan, which is something most people do. Fact: artistic pursuits are often inadequate as a means of livelihood, hence most people settle for a regular non-artistic job. This is why Crissy is very relatable. She settled for what's practical, rather than pursue her passion. However, I appreciate that when she finally decided to take her own leap, she did it for herself and not because of some other reason like heartbreak.

What else?

Ah! The ukay-ukay (pronounced as 'ookai-ookai')! In the Philippines, it's okay to shop for used clothes, bags and shoes in little tents. I used to go with my Mom in ukay-ukay shops, but I never really got the hang of scouring for clothes. I guess finding a treasure in an ukay-ukay shop is an art, it takes practice, and I never really had the time and patience for it. Hee.

And of course FLAMES! Way back in elementary, I and my friends used to do this. It was silly, but it was fun. Actually, even until now, some of my classmates in law school still do this just for the fun of it. It was fun to read about this in a romance novella. Maybe someone from abroad can try it out, too, and see the fun in it.

Oh, and I also love the message of positivity that is imbibed within this little treat of a romance novella. The message of this novella is this: everything is a choice. Being happy is a choice. If you experience a setback, you still have the option on whether to wallow on pity or pick yourself up and live on. I love how Crissy chose to be happy and live her life rather than allow her pains to consume her. She's on touch cookie, that she is.

- x o O o x -

Author Profile:

Agay Llanera is a freelance writer for television and video, and a published writer of children’s books. She is a member of KUTING, a private, non-stock, non-profit organization, which aims to be the Philippines’ foremost writers’ organization for children. Email her at agay.llanera@gmail.com.

Links: Twitter // Blog

[Blog Tour - Book Spotlight] Hello

Hello
Author: Addie Lynn C. Co
Date Published: June 23, 2013
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Chick-Lit

Links:
Facebook
Smashwords
Amazon
Paperback Order
Barnes & Noble
Kobo

About the Book:

What if The One actually walks up to you and even says hello, would you greet back or turn your back unknowingly that you have actually met? Would you know when you’ve actually met? 

Serendipity is a funny thing that brings a tinge of bittersweet bliss to anyone who is fortunate to experience it. Hello is a trilogy that explores how serendipitous life can sometimes be. 

Definitely, Maybe is a story of how fate plays with two people as they meet each decade hoping that maybe this time around, they can finally be together.
Almost Mismatch tells how two people so right for each other be so wrong and no matter how much they try to suppress their feelings, true love will not stop at anything. What is meant to be will be. 

Finally, Dinner Date portrays how two people’s search for love could take them to different places and people only to lead them back to where they started.
The world is just like a huge maze that no matter what direction one walks to, there will always be one final destination. There seems to be an invisible string that is handcuffed to two people on each end and unsuspectingly pulls these two people destined for each other back together no matter how long it takes.

Don't forget to join the giveaway!

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[Blog Tour - Book Spotlight] Vintage Love

Vintage Love

Author: Agay Llanera

Publication Date: July 15, 2013

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Chick-Lit

Links: 

Amazon

Smashwords

About the Book:

26-year-old Crissy Lopez’s life is in dire need of a makeover. Her wardrobe revolves around ratty shirts and beat-up sneaks; her grueling schedule as a TV Executive leaves no room for a social life; and worst of all, she’s still hung up on the Evil Ex who left her five years ago. 

When her fashionable grand-aunt passes away and leaves behind a roomful of vintage stuff, the Shy Stylista inside Crissy gradually resurfaces. Soon, she feels like she's making progress -- with a budding lovelife to boot! But the grim ghost of her past catches up with her, threatening to push her back into depression. To finally move on, Crissy learns that walking away is not enough. This time, she needs to take a leap of faith.

Don't forget to join the giveaway~!!!

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[Book Review] Love Rehab

Love Rehab
Author: Jo Piazza
Date Published: June 4, 2013
Publisher: Open Road Media
Source: ARC
Genre: Chick-Lit, Contemporary Romance

Rating: ★★★★★

Links:
Goodreads
Amazon
Barnes & Noble


Book Information:

Cyber-stalking, drive-bys, drunken text messaging, creating fake email accounts—you’re gonna have to face it, you’re addicted to love. 

Sophie isn’t dealing with her breakup well. Dumped by her boyfriend, Eric, for his sexting, D-cupped, young Floozy McSecretary, Sophie leaves Manhattan and lands back in her hometown, crushed and pajama-clad, blaming herself and begging her ex for a second chance.

But when her best friend, Annie, gets in trouble for driving drunk and is forced to go to an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting, something clicks in Sophie’s strung-out mind. Women need love rehab, she realizes, to help fix the craziness that comes along with falling for someone. 

If you start it, they will come. When she opens up her home to the obsessed and lovelorn, Sophie finds a way to help women out there who have overdosed on the wrong men—and she saves herself in the process. 

Love is a drug and the only things that can save us are the steps, rules, and one another. Step one: Admit you have a problem, and keep the hell away from Facebook.

Review:
A bad break-up that's so realistic, it's so funny!

Everything began when female protagonist, Sophie, got dumped by her boyfriend because of his floozy secretary with D-cups. Of course Sophie didn't take it lightly. I mean, who would? So then, Sophie did what every heartbroken woman do: she flooded her ex's phone, stalked him on Facebook, begged him to take her back, cried her heart out and wallowed in a sea of pity. She also did all of the crazily cliche stuff that jilted women were known to do. (Even to the point of posting her ex's wiener online. LOL.)

In a bid to recover from heartbreak, a brilliant idea popped into Sophie's head when she was forced to attend an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting with her friend Annie. She decided to start her own group for love addicts, hence, the Love Addicts Anonymous was born.

What I liked about this book is that it realistically depicted the crazy stuff that heartbroken women do. Logic was literally thrown out of the window and insane things abound!

Personally, I know that being heartbroken is a very hard struggle, but in this book, heartbreak is being treated like a problem with a solution, contrary to the usual approach of letting time heal the wounds.

Character-wise, I love Sophie. She had her crazy moments, but she decided to take matters into her hands and be pro-active. This was really courageous of her, considering that she was such a wreck after her boyfriend broke up with her.

I also love Annie and the rest of the supporting characters, the string of women who became members of the Love Addicts Anonymous and even Dr. Twelve Steps. I'll just say that a problem really does lighten up when you have people who support you, and the women of Love Addicts Anonymous found a kindred soul in each other because of Sophie. And when each of the character grew out of their heartbreaks, it was such a happy moment.

What I didn't like about this book though, is that despite depicting the craziness of a heartbroken woman, it failed to realistically portray the drama that ensues when several women come together. I mean, if a handful of women with problems come together under one roof, there's bound to be conflicts. In this book, I found none of those.

All in all, this was a really entertaining read. I have no doubt that everybody would be able to relate to the things that were depicted in this book.

[Book Review] A Perfect Proposal

Title: A Perfect Proposal
Author: Katie Fforde
Date Published: April 9, 2013
Publisher: Century
Source: ARC
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Chick-Lit
Rating: ★★★★★



Links:
Goodreads
Amazon

Book Information:

Sophie Apperly's family has never taken her seriously. Fiercely academic, they see her more practical skills as frivolous whilst constantly taking advantage of her. So when her best friend Milly invites her over to New York, she jumps at the chance. It'll do her ungrateful family good to do without her for a while. What s more, she's on a quest America holds the key to solving her family's financial woes, even if they don't deserve her help. 

From the moment Sophie hits the bright lights of Manhattan she's determined to enjoy every minute of her big adventure. So when an evening at an art gallery throws her into the path of Matilda, a spirited old lady who invites her to Connecticut for Thanksgiving, Sophie willingly accepts, much to the dismay of Matilda's grandson Luke. Undeniably attractive but infuriatingly arrogant, he is very protective of his grandmother and seems to doubt Sophie's motives for befriending her. No match for the formidable Matilda, he eventually admits defeat, but first he has a proposal to make. He'll help Sophie in her quest to save her family from financial ruin if she repays the favour. But just what does she have to do in return...?

Review:
The perfect book to keep in your bag to combat dull moments and kill lots of waiting time.

This story showcases the adage  which says, 'You can't choose your family'. Sophie Apperly, the protagonist of the story, seemed so out of place in her family of academics, as she was the only one who was practical enough to learn basic household chores rather than drone and research about theoretical knowledge. Though most of her family undermines her skills because she was considered as the 'dim' one, she practically runs the whole household because she's the only one who actually knows how to work menial jobs.

I like Sophie. She's not book smart, but she has a good head on her shoulders and has a big heart to stand and love the family that always undermines her. I would admit though, that I would have smacked some sense into her head with a broomstick had she stayed with her family instead of finding the adventure of her life. Thank God the story gave her the chance to grow and find the love she deserved.

Character-wise, I really loved the fact that aside from Sophie, there were other very colorful characters included in the book! I love Matilda! She's probably my favorite character in this story. I'm a huge fan of quirky Grandmothers, and Matilda definitely fit the bill! She's very generous bordering on being gullible, but she's also cunning because she knew just what to do to bring Luke and Sophie together!

Then of course, how could I forget the banter between Sophie and Luke. They always end up arguing because of being too different from one another. While I understood that Luke was merely protecting his Grandmother, he should also learn to distinguish which people should be trusted and not.

Story-wise, it was a little predictable, but the character growth and the quirky grandmother were a fun mix. All in all, I really enjoyed reading this one!

[Book Review] Rules of Entanglement

Title: Rules of Entanglement
Author: Gina L. Maxwell
Date Published: March 31, 2013
Publisher: Entangled Publishing - Brazen
Source: ARC
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Chick-Lit
Rating: ★★★★★

Links:
Goodreads
Amazon


Book Information:

Seven days. And seven rules to break... 

District Attorney Vanessa McGregor firmly believes that structure and order are the stuff that dreams are made of. Happiness can be planned - and it starts with seven rules she's laid out for her future. But as she's organizing her best friend's wedding in Hawaii, all of Vanessa's best-laid plans are about to meet their match in a wickedly hot MMA fighter... 

Jackson "Jax" Maris is focused on surfing, training and fighting. That is, until he opens up his big mouth, and finds himself having to pretend he's engaged to his little sister's best friend, Vanessa. When they're force to share a romantic bungalow, however, their little charade suddenly takes a turn for the seriously sexy. And while Jax is definitely not part of Vanessa's long-term plan, he has seven days - and seven naughty nights - to turn her seven-rule plan upside down.

Review:
The perfect blend of a love-hate relationship, a pseudo-engagement, and a tropical beach setting. Perfect as a summer read!

Vanessa, a prim and proper District Attorney lives her life in keeping with seven strict rules. She made these seven rules to make sure that she stays grounded and that she doesn't get herself hurt. Everything was actually good and under control in her life until she meets Jax, an MMA fighter.

7.Never take your responsibilities lightly

6.Never indulge in the poison of lies

5.Never let a fling last more than three days.

4.Never date a man who chooses fists over words.

3.Never date a man who lacks a stable future.

2.Never relinquish control.

1.Never fall in love.

Story-wise, the plot-device of pretending as a couple has been used multiple times in a number of books and stories, but in this one, it had justification. Also, I like how it was Jax who initiated the whole thing because it was believable.

Character-wise, I actually like Vanessa. She's too guarded because she has gone through so much. I love how her back story gave her a bit of realism. She didn't turn out the way she was without experiencing a multitude of events. That really says a lot about why she holds on to her rules as if they were her lifeline.

Oh, and Vanessa is also the kind of girl who knows what she needs and knows exactly how to get it. This is probably because she's on the logical side and weighs things down through pros and cons. That's why I wasn't surprised at all when she decided to have a fling with Jax, minus the emotional attachments.

As for Jax, he's a little contradiction himself because he lives as though he's this really unreliable guy, when in fact, he's not. Being an MMA fighter and a surfer gave the impression that Jax likes living dangerously. His bare apartment also screams that he has an unstable future, something that is against Vanessa's rules.

In short, Vanessa and Jax were too different that's why they were always at each other's throats. And their first meeting was a clear case of hate-at-first-sight.

Another thing I really liked about this book is the witty banter between Vanessa and Jax. I love witty banters and sarcastic wisecracks. They make my life colorful, that's why I really liked this book. Vanessa and Jax always try to one-up the other through their banter and I really appreciated that.

All in all, this book is perfect as a summer read! It has gorgeous and funny characters, witty wisecracks, and a tropical beach setting. What more could a reader ask for?

[Blog Tour - Book Review] Between Friends

Title: Between Friends
Author: Amanda Cowen
Date Published: March 22, 2013
Publisher: Amanda Cowen
Source: ARC
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Chick-Lit
Rating: ★★★★★

Links:
Goodreads
Amazon


Book Info:

Between Friends by Amanda Cowen. 

Amanda Cowen Books. 178 pages. E-book.

$0.99 on Amazon for Kindle.

The only way to have a friend is to be one…especially between the sheets… 

When neurotically challenged and unlucky in love Megan Daniels, is propositioned by her life-long friend Ben Romano with a coin toss (heads, they sleep together, tails they don’t) the night before they are about to attend a destination wedding, she drunkenly accepts his challenge. But when Megan wakes up the next morning with a bad hang-over and Ben in her bed, she is more than mortified. It isn’t until the tropical heat begins to ignite emotions Megan never ever believed she could possibly have, that she starts to question if risking their friendship is the answer to finding true love.

Review:
A delightful, no-fuss, quick read! Perfect for those who love light-hearted romances.

While the plot (best friends falling in love) is cliche, overused and predictable, the author was able to weave a story that draws the reader in. Personally, the overused plot didn't really bother me because the story-telling and the characters more than made up for it. Also, I've always had a soft spot for best-friends-turned-to-lovers kind of story. Hee.

This one is an uncomplicated read, and that's something that worked in its favor. Sure, sometimes reading a mystery-thriller or a book with conspiracy theories is definitely excitingly pulse-racing, but there are moments when all the reader needs is an uncomplicated book - something that will delightfully distract the reader for a few hours, and leave them feeling positive. This book is exactly like that.

As for the characters, well, I appreciate Megan. I don't like how she seems like a doormat to her friends, but I have to admit that there are people like that. People who are sensible, nurturing and people who like taking care of their friends by keeping them out of trouble. She has her quirks, too, which for me, are adorable.

Then there's Ben Romano. Seriously, Dude, why did you have to wait so long before making a move on Megan? Sure, she's a little dense, but surely Ben could have made a more aggressive move to actually send a clear message to Megan.

All in all, this book is one fun ride because of the roller-coaster of emotions contained in 178 pages. Like I said, fans of light-hearted romances will definitely love this one.

Author Bio:

Goodreads
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Website

Amanda Cowen is the author of the New Adult Contemporary Romance BETWEEN FRIENDS.

She is also an “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” fanatic, a country music junkie, and a hater of roller coasters (they terrify her!). When she isn't trapped at her computer writing her next story, she can be found eating cupcakes, hanging with her family, or stuck in a good book!

Amanda would love to hear from her readers. Contact her via her blog, amandacowen.blogspot.com, become a fan on Facebook or follow her on Goodreads.

Don't forget to check out the other stops for 

Amanda Cowen's Between Friends Blog Tour!

[Book Review] The Cinderella Makeover

Title: The Cinderella Makeover
Author: Hope Tarr
Date Published: March 11, 2013
Publisher: Entangled Indulgence
Source: ARC
Genre: Chick-Lit, Contemporary Romance
Rating: ★★★★★ 

Links:
Goodreads
Amazon
Barnes & Noble


About the Book:

Fashionista Francesca St. James has agreed to work as a "fairy godmother" on the reality TV show Project Cinderella, taking contestants from geeky to dreamy. When Francesca’s archrival bets she can't transform the awkwardly sweet CEO to hot in under eight weeks, Francesca accepts the challenge. 

As CEO of a tech company, Greg may have billions, but what’s it worth without a woman to share it with? From day one on the show though, he clashes with his gorgeous fairy godmother—yet off-set, he can’t stop thinking about her. But this sexy woman is so far out of his league…and wants to change every single thing about him. It's up to him to show her it's more than clothes that make the man.May the best man or geek win…

Review:
Cute, quirky and a refreshingly quick read!

I have always had a weakness for geeks and nerds so it was a no-brainer for me to pick this book for reading and reviewing. And I wasn't in the least bit disappointed!

Story-wise, while the Cinderella plot-device has been used so many times in so many novels, this particular book managed to combine just enough quirk, sass, chemistry and transformation to make everything perfectly believable.

The characters are endearing and relatable. While reading this book, I feel like I gained new friends. I especially like Francesca St. James for facing things head-on. She's strong and independent but she could also be stubborn and bull-headed when it comes to her career. The part I liked best about her is that she's able to recognize her short-comings and instead of just giving up, she strives to make everything right. This is especially true for her daughter.

Then there's also our Cinderella - Gregory Knickerbocker. Imagine Mark Zuckerberg without whatsoever fashion sense, plus an extreme camera-shyness and you get Greg. He's totally owning in the tech-department, being the CEO of an expanding tech company, but completely clueless in terms of fashion, dating and love.

What I like about Greg is that even though he's a geek, he's not the super-shy kind. Sure, he doesn't like his pictures taken, but on any normal day, he could fit very well into being the guy-next-door type. Plus, it didn't hurt that he's such a smartass. Oh, and um, a fair warning: Abba is his favorite band. LOL.

Personally, their first meeting was one of the most memorable scenes in the story for me. It was enjoyable to watch two people try to outwit each other. I don't want to reveal too much so I'll just say that Greg gets brownie points for being a smartass.

Also, I love how multidimensional both Francesca and Greg as characters are. Both of them have strengths, but they also have a lot of baggage, insecurities and vulnerabilities. Plus, hashing out these baggage as they got to know each other made their story believable. They didn't fall in love in a snap. Their feelings were allowed to take root and grow, that's why their story is believable.

What else? Ah! The jealousy tactic! A little jealousy couldn't hurt anyone, and more often than not, a little jealousy could easily make people recognize feelings that they haven't even thought they had. This was splendidly incorporated into the storyline so brownie points for that, too.

All in all, this book is quite enjoyable. It's the perfect book for a quick escape into the realm of fiction without being dragged into too much drama.