#BlogTour #Review – A Duke of One’s Own by Emma Orchard @EmmaOrchardB @rararesources

Thanks for stopping by! Im delighted to be joining the blog tour for A Duke of One’s Own by Emma Orchard and sharing my review today. With thanks to Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for the invite to join the tour. Also thank you to the author and publisher for my copy via Netgalley. First things first let’s take a look at the description for the book…

Summer, 1816. A notorious rebel is about to meet her match…

Lady Georgiana Pendlebury is no stranger to breaking the rules of polite society. But when a so-called ‘friend’ invites her to a clandestine party, Georgiana is shocked to discover the event is more scandalous than even she could have imagined. So when a mysterious stranger offers help, she accepts, not realising their encounter will turn her life upside down.

Later that summer, Georgiana is invited to attend a house party at an infamous castle in Yorkshire. The gathering is a loosely veiled effort to arrange a marriage for the Duke of Northriding, who desperately needs an heir. Duke Gabriel Mauleverer has a terrible reputation as a rake, and Georgiana is happy to be a guest purely for the entertainment, but upon arrival, she is shocked to discover that the Duke is none other than the stranger who rescued her weeks earlier.

As the other ladies vie for the Duke’s attention, Georgiana is desperate to avoid their shocking secret getting out. But she finds herself caught, unable to avoid Gabriel’s gaze. Are they a threat to each other? Or could they be the answer to each other’s greatest desires?

Purchase Link

https://mybook.to/ADukeofOnesOwnsocial

MY REVIEW

I really enjoyed my time with this book and the characters. There was romance, intrigue and a heartwarming edge. Oh and definitely some steamy moments. The plot itself moved pretty quickly and I was half way through the story before I even realised. Both Gabriel and Georgiana were engaging characters. I loved their interactions especially as they had so much fiery chemistry between them. However there was also a deep connection that the two were fighting against. This made their story even more entertaining and enjoyable.

A Duke of One’s Own was above all a fun read, with characters that made me smile. I couldn’t help but root for them. For me the romance was important but there was quite a bit more going on in the story along with a hint of danger that brought a deeper edge to proceedings. The minor characters also brought something to the story. Let’s just say that everything combined so well and kept me invested until the very end.

A Duke of One’s Own is a gorgeous historical romance, the perfect escape!

Author Bio

Emma Orchard is the author of several well-reviewed regency romance novels published by Allison & Busby. In her other life she is a literary agent. Her first book with Boldwood is a raunchy romp set in Regency London.

Social Media Links

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555554601035

Twitter: https://twitter.com/EmmaOrchardB

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emmaorchardbooks/

#BlogTour #Review – The Lady’s Proposal for the Laird by Jeanine Englert @JeanineWrites @rararesources

Thanks for stopping by! I’m delighted to be on the blog tour for The Lady’s Proposal for the Laird by Jeanine Englert and sharing my review today. With thanks to Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for the invite to join the tour and to the author for my copy. First things first let’s take a look at the description for the book…

A betrothal bargain

With the Highlander from her past

When Susanna Cameron needs to thwart her brothers’ plan to marry her off, she turns to her childhood sweetheart, Laird Rowan Campbell, with a daring proposal—to be her pretend betrothed! In exchange, she’ll help the now-hardened Rowan get revenge on the man who killed his family. The only flaw in Susanna’s plan—their returning attraction!   

Purchase Link

https://books2read.com/u/mZqWQ5

MY REVIEW

I thoroughly enjoyed my time reading The Lady’s Proposal for the Laird and while it is part of a series I do think you can enjoy it without starting with book one. However I just recommended the whole series in general. They are brilliant escapist reads and provide both wonderful stories and gorgeous romances.

So in The Lady’s Proposal for the Laird we meet Susanna and Rowan. It’s safe to say that things are not straightforward for them especially as they have history. I do love a second chance romance though! I thought the author did a lovely job of building up their connection in the present but also incorporating their past chemistry. I couldn’t help but root for this pair.

The plot itself was strong and moved pretty quickly. I found myself just saying one more chapter as I enjoyed the characters interactions and the way the story developed. There is also a hint of mystery that held my attention along with dangerous characters lurking in the background. The characters had quite a few obstacles in their path. Their pasts, their families and especially the present where the pact to enter a pretend betrothal creates problems.

The Lady’s Proposal for the Laird was a true escape for me. I loved seeing Susanna and Rowan’s fake betrothal play out. This really helped to showcase their personalities and show that there was much more to them than what first appearances show. The Lady’s Proposal for the Laird is romantic, engaging and full of heart, I loved it!

Author Bio

Jeanine Englert’s love affair with mysteries and romance began with Nancy Drew, Murder She Wrote, and her Grandmother’sbookshelves full of romance novels. She is a VIVIAN® and Golden Heart® Finalist as well as a Silver Falchion, Maggie, and Daphne du Maurier Award Winner in historical romance and mystery. Her Scottish Highland historical and historical romantic suspense novels revolve around characters seeking self-acceptance and redemption. When she isn’t wrangling with her characters on the page, she can be found trying to convince her husband to watch her latest Masterpiece or BBC show obsession. She loves to talk about books, writing, her beloved rescue pups, as well as mysteries and romance with other readers. Visit her website at www.jeaninewrites.com. 

Social Media Links

FB: https://www.facebook.com/JeanineWrites

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JeanineWrites

Website: https://www.jeaninewrites.com

Goodreads: The Lady’s Proposal for the Laird by Jeanine Englert | Goodreads

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/jeanine-englert?list=about

Instagram: https://www.instragram.com/JeanineWrites

Giveaway

Escape to the Scottish Highlands with a Cuppa and a Cow (Open To UK/US/Canada)

 

Enjoy reading a signed print copy of The Lady’s Proposal for the Laird with a beautiful Scottish tea cup and the companionship of an adorable matching Highland Cow made by Tom of Loch Ness designs in Scotland! 

*Terms and Conditions –UK. US & Canada entries welcome.  Please enter using the Rafflecopter box below.  The winner will be selected at random via Rafflecopter from all valid entries and will be notified by Twitter and/or email. If no response is received within 7 days then Rachel’s Random Resources reserves the right to select an alternative winner. Open to all entrants aged 18 or over.  Any personal data given as part of the competition entry is used for this purpose only and will not be shared with third parties, with the exception of the winners’ information. This will passed to the giveaway organiser and used only for fulfilment of the prize, after which time Rachel’s Random Resources will delete the data.  I am not responsible for despatch or delivery of the prize.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/33c69494582/? 

#BlogTour #Review – At the Stroke of Midnight by Jenni Keer @JenniKeer @rararesources

Thanks for stopping by! I’m thrilled to be joining the tour for At the Stroke of Midnight by Jenni Keer and sharing my review today. With thanks to Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for the invite to join the tour. Also thank you to the author and publisher for my copy via Netgalley. First things first let’s take a look at the description for the book…

It’s 1923 and in a decade that promises excitement and liberation, Pearl Glenham and her father are invited to a mysterious country house party on the Dorset coast, by a total stranger.

Her father claims not to have any prior association with Highcliffe House, but upon arrival, it is apparent that he has a shared history with several of the guests, although he won’t admit it. Belatedly discovering that her father was blackmailed into attending, Pearl’s worries are compounded when their host fails to arrive… 

Intimidated by everyone at the party, she escapes to the nearby cove and stumbles upon a mysterious mercury clock hidden in a cave. This strange encounter sets in motion a series of events that will culminate in an horrific house fire, claiming the lives of all the guests, including Pearl herself.

But then Pearl wakes up back in the cave, seemingly destined never to live past midnight. She can repeat the day. But can she change its outcome?

Purchase Link

https://mybook.to/strokemidnightsocial

MY REVIEW

I’m not sure where to start with my review other than to say I really enjoyed this book! I loved the character development of Pearl as she goes from a quiet, unassuming woman to something else entirely. The events of this story go a long way to showing Pearl new sides to herself. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with not only Pearl but with this very intriguing story. This book has serious Groundhog Day vibes but somehow makes it feel fresh and new. The reader is given new bits of information and snippets of the past each time. I loved the differences and similarities of these days along with subtle clues interspersed for Pearl and the reader to discover.

The plot itself moves at a great pace especially as more of the mystery begins to unfold. I kept changing my mind and my opinions over what could have happened. Along with the reasons for why this group of people were brought together. The best parts of this story for me was seeing Pearl’s personality really shine through. It was lovely to see this take place and of course the time travel aspect was always going to be an intriguing side of the plot.

At the Stroke of Midnight was a stand out read from start to finish. Giving me engaging characters, a mysterious tale and a hint of romance that was woven beautifully into the story. At the Stroke of Midnight had a magical feel, it really was a joy to read!

Author Bio

Jenni Keer is a history graduate who lives in the Suffolk countryside. Her lifelong passion for reading became a passion for writing and she had two contemporary romance novels published in 2019. She has now embraced her love of the past to write twisty, turny historicals, and The Legacy of Halesham Hall was shortlisted for the Romantic Historical Novel of the Year in 2023. 

 

Social Media Links 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennikeerwriter

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JenniKeer

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennikeer/

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/JenniKeerNews

Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jenni-keer

#Booksontour #Review – Heir to Dreams & Darkness by Ben Alderson @BenAldersonBook @SecondSkyBooks

Thanks for stopping by! I’m delighted to be joining the books on tour today for Second Sky Books and sharing my review of Heir to Dreams & Darkness by Ben Alderson. With thanks to Noelle for the invite to join the tour and for my copy via Netgalley. First things first let’s take a look at the description for the book…

Book: Heir to Dreams & Darkness

Author: Ben Alderson

Pub Day:  March 15th 2024

Buy Link(s): 

About the Book: 

Lightning raced over my skin as we touched. It cascaded through the room, sparking every candle to life. I would not let death and ruin take him from me. I was not ready for this to end.

The demon Lilyth has returned. With an army of shadows at her back, she claims all magic as her own, threatening to drain all light and life from the world.

To stand against her, Max must unite rival gods and kingdoms that have warred for centuries. It seems impossible, but Max is not alone. Danger has forged his friends into a new family and bound him to an ice-breathing dragon.

Most powerful of all is his passion for Simion. Possessed by the burning magic of the phoenixes, Simion is more heated, more unpredictable. And his desire blazes brighter than ever.

But Max’s bonds of love make him vulnerable. Lilyth will take anything—or anyone—from him, to get what she craves. If he hopes to defeat her, Max must be ready for any sacrifice.

Can Max and Simion’s passion survive the war ahead? Or will the destruction of the world they know tear them apart?

Full of spicy romance, heartbreak and epic action, this series is perfect for fans of Fourth Wing, A Court of Thorns and Roses and The Serpent and the Wings of Night.

Cover designed by: Maria Arteta.

Twitter: @marosar_art 

Instagram: @marosar_art 

MY REVIEW

I’m not sure where to start with my review of Heir to Dreams & Darkness. This entire series has been such an engaging and enjoyable set of books so I was eager to see how it would all turn out in book three, the final book in the trilogy.

I loved catching up with the characters especially as the danger had really ramped up for them all. I was whisked away once more to a world with dragons, magic and dark power that threatens everyone and everything. There is also romance and love at this books heart that brought everything together and gave the story even more depth. With heat, spice and intense chemistry this couple were made for each other!

The story moved at a great pace with action, danger and twists. I enjoyed every moment, even when I had tears in my eyes. It all balanced out so well and for me Max in particular is one of those characters who I will think about after finishing this book. Although to be fair this story was made extra special because of all the characters and their personalities.

All that’s left to say is that I’m so glad I picked up this book series it has been such a fun and thrilling fantasy adventure from start to finish. Heir to Dreams & Darkness was a fitting end, keeping my attention at all times not only on the brilliant characters but a story that kept me on my toes throughout.

Author Bio

Ben Alderson is a #1 Amazon bestselling author. His stories are set in fantasy worlds filled with magic, adventure and MM romance. Ben lives in Oxfordshire and, when not writing, can be found reading, taking Winston – his Labrador – out for long walks, or obsessing over Marvel’s The Scarlet Witch.

Social Media

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BenAldersonAuthor

Twitter: https://twitter.com/BenAldersonBook

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benaldersonauthor/

Website: https://www.benalderson.com/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@benaldersonauthor

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/16345889.Ben_Alderson

Second Sky email signup: www.secondskybooks.com/ben-alderson

#BlogTour #Review – My Fair Lord by Elisabeth Hobbes @ElisabethHobbes @rararesources

Thanks for stopping by! I’m delighted to be one of the stops on the blog tour for My Fair Lord by Elisabeth Hobbes and sharing my review today. With thanks to Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for the invite to join the tour. Also thank you to the author and publisher for my copy of the book via Netgalley. First things first let’s take a look at the description for the book…

A Gilded Age Retelling of My Fair Lady

Arriving into English society from the drawing rooms of New York, Miss Florence Wakechild desires nothing less than the marriage her father is so desperately seeking for her. Clayton Wakechild desires nothing more than finding a suitable husband for his daughter – a husband of noble birth and title no less. No ‘new money’ here.

Frustrated with her father’s obsession with the British aristocracy, Florence comes up with a plan. If she can train an ordinary working man to behave like a viscount and fool her father, she can prove to him a title is meaningless.

It’s a straightforward plan, but the man Florence chooses is Ned Blake, a man who will open her eyes in a way she couldn’t have imagined. As Ned’s hands gently guide her across the ballroom floor, the last thing Florence expects to feel is something… real.

With his past catching up with him, Ned seizes the opportunity to lie low, if only briefly, but will the secrets he’s keeping destroy the chance of happiness he’d never imagined?

Purchase Link

https://mybook.to/MyFairLord

MY REVIEW

I do love a good retelling or reimagining of a story and I found My Fair Lord to be an engaging, heartwarming and interesting one. In this case it was a retelling of My Fair Lady. For me the characters stood out and were likeable, especially Florence I really felt for her character and her situation. There were also some really sweet moments between both Florence and Ned. Their chemistry was built up naturally and in such a lovely way that I couldn’t help but root for them.

The plot itself moved at a good pace and I really liked how the author brought the characters personalities to life. One of my favourite things about this book was the playful way that Ned interacted with Florence. They are such a good match with both of them forward thinking for that time period. The slow burn romance was a delight to watch unfold and I was just hoping for a happy ever after.

My Fair Lord is a fun and enjoyable twist on a classic tale. With strong and loveable characters, this book held my attention throughout especially the way everything unfolded.

Author Bio

Elisabeth writes romantic Historical fiction as Elisabeth Hobbes and Historical folklore/fantasy romance as Elisabeth J. Hobbes.

She teaches Primary school but would love to write full time because unlike five-year-olds her characters generally do what she tells them. She spends most of her spare time reading and is a pro at cooking one-handed while holding a book.

Elisabeth hails from York but lives in Cheshire because the car broke down there in 1999 and she never left. Elisabeth has two almost grown kids, two cats, two dogs and a husband. The whole family are on the autistic spectrum and that probably includes the pets! She dreams of having a tidy house one day.

Social Media Links – Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/ElisabethHobbes/

Twitter https://twitter.com/ElisabethHobbes

Bookbub https://www.bookbub.com/profile/elisabeth-hobbes?follow=true

Amazon viewauthor.at/ElisabethHobbes

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/elisabethhobbes_author/

Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/elisabethhobbes.bsky.social

#BlogTour #Review – A Villa with a View by Julie Caplin @JulieCaplin @rararesources

Thanks for stopping by! I’m thrilled to be one of the stops on the blog tour for A Villa with a View by Julie Caplin and sharing my review today. With thanks to Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for the invite to join the tour. Also thank you to the author and publisher for my copy via Netgalley. First things first let’s take a look at the description for the book…

Escape to the Amalfi Coast and feel the warmth of the Italian sun on your face, hear the sound of the turquoise waves crashing on the beach and fall in love with a new enemies to lovers romance!

Lia Bathurst had always dreamed of escaping to the white sandy beaches and turquoise blue seas of the Amalfi coast – but that dream hadn’t included meeting her real father. A father she had never even known about until a few weeks ago! Yet here she was, standing outside the gates of a gorgeous pink villa being refused entry by the insufferable – and insufferably handsome – Raphael Knight, her father’s business manager.

When an old black and white photo proves Lia’s claim to be true, Raph is determined to make sure this stranger, with her long caramel waves and infectious smile, doesn’t have an ulterior motive. Even if that means not letting her out of his sight.

As temperatures rise, and not just from the heat of the Mediterranean sun, could Lia and Raph’s forced proximity lead to something more like… amore?

Purchase Link

https://bit.ly/47kOw0a

MY REVIEW

A Villa with a View was so much more than what I was first expecting and I pretty much realised this within a few pages. What I found was a really beautiful story and that it was a joy to read. There was romance, a wonderful setting and an emotional edge too. The story itself moved at a good pace, keeping me invested throughout. I loved getting to know the characters and enjoying the gorgeous scenery and food. It was just like taking a trip to Italy albeit within the pages of this book. It provided a gorgeous escape and I loved it!

There was depth to the characters and I thought the author did a lovely job of revealing that there was more to their personalities especially in the case of Raph. There was definitely mistrust lingering between certain characters which brought an entertaining edge. Although at times I probably could have shaken some sense into certain characters! However I could definitely understand how it all played out and it was all because of issues in their past. I have to also mention that it wasn’t just the main characters that brought this story to life the minor characters really added something too.

If you are looking for a heartwarming tale that will whisk you away to Italy with wonderfully engaging characters then look no further. A Villa with a View had a brilliant mix of both light and more deeper moments. This made it so very easy to connect with the characters. I couldn’t help but root for them. I can’t believe I haven’t read any of the other books in this series. If they are anything like A Villa with a View then I really have been missing out!

About the author

Julie Caplin, formerly a PR director, swanned around Europe for many years taking top food and drink writers on press trips (junkets) sampling the gastronomic delights of various cities in Italy, France, Belgium, Spain, Copenhagen and Switzerland. It was a tough job but someone had to do it.

These trips have provided the inspiration and settings for the highly successful Romantic Escapes series which have hit the best seller charts in Italy, Germany and the Czech Republic and have sold over two million copies worldwide.

The first book in the nine strong series,The Little Café in Copenhagen, was shortlisted for a Romantic Novel of the Year Award.

Connect with Julie:

Website: http://www.juleswake.co.uk/

Facebook: Julie Caplin Author

Twitter: @JulieCaplin

Instagram: @juliecaplinauthor

#BlogTour #Review – The Graveyard Killings by Wes Markin @rararesources

Thanks for stopping by! I’m thrilled to be one of the stops on the blog tour for The Graveyard Killings by Wes Markin and sharing my review today. With thanks to Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for the invite to join the tour. Also thank you to the author and publisher for my copy via Netgalley. First things first let’s take a look at the description for the book…

A decades old case….

When the body of a young girl is found exhumed from her grave, DCI Emma Gardner knows there’s more to this grisly find than just misadventure. Penny Maiden was killed in a hit and run accident forty years ago, and her killer was never found…Could someone be trying to right an old wrong?

A DI on the rails…

Determined to bring a dangerous gang of drug dealers to justice, DI Paul Riddick is trying hard to play by the rules. After his previous reckless actions, he knows this is his last chance to stay in the job he loves. But when his private life takes an unexpected turn, Riddick begins to lose control again.

Emma needs Paul to help her with her case, especially when more bodies are found in the same graveyard. But hurt badly by Riddick once before, Emma’s not sure she can trust him again.

But as Paul’s behaviour begins to spiral even more, Emma worries she may have left it far too late to save her old friend Riddick from his own destruction…

Purchase Link

https://mybook.to/graveyardsocial

MY REVIEW

I think I say this every time I review a book in The Yorkshire Murders series but I do love this series! We are now onto book four and for me it still feels fresh and intriguing. In The Graveyard Killings we once again catch up with Emma and Paul. Things are a little different after the events of the previous book. Now, I would suggest reading the other books in this series just so you can get the full picture and everyone’s back stories. Plus they really are a brilliant set of stories so well worth a read!

I’m going to start off by saying I really enjoyed The Graveyard Killings, from the different timelines to the characters that easily pulled me in. Along with an intriguing and mysterious plot. I was definitely kept on my toes throughout. There were quite a few twists to keep everything both interesting and entertaining too. One of the best things about not only this book but the entire series is the characters. They are flawed and troubled but also likeable in their determination to get to the truth. This ultimately makes them engaging and I can’t help but root for them.

The plot itself moved at a really good pace. I also liked that the story took place across different timelines. It gave the story an interesting edge, made me question things and helped to keep the momentum going. It’s safe to say that the past is still causing trouble in the present and in turn creates a perplexing case for Emma. Everything worked so well in this book for me and The Graveyard Killings is another hit from Wes Markin. I know I’ve already said it but I do love this series and its characters. I guess all that’s left to say is that I can’t wait for the next book. I really hope I don’t have too long to wait!

Author Bio

Wes Markin lives in Harrogate and is the bestselling author of the DCI Yorke crime novels set in Salisbury. He is also the author of the Jake Pettman series set in New England. You can find out more at https://www.facebook.com/WesMarkinAuthor

Social Media Links

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WesMarkinAuthor

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wesmarkinauthor/

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/WesMarkinNews

Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/wes-markin

#BlogTour #Review – Dance of Stars and Ashes by Nisha J. Tuli @NishaJT @secondskybooks

Thanks for stopping by! I’m delighted to be sharing my review for Dance of Stars and Ashes by Nisha J. Tuli as part of the blog tour today. With thanks to the author and publisher for my copy via Netgalley. First things first let’s take a look at the description for the book…

Buy Link(s):  

Amazon: https://geni.us/B0CJVQX55Tsocial 

IG: Cover artist: @andrewdavis_designs

About the Book: 

A love that burns brighter than starlight. A gift that could leave her world in ashes. It’s time for Zarya to release the fire within.

In the jeweled city of Dharati, Zarya found passion and adventure for the first time. A mysterious stranger named Rabin helped to free the power within her—a dark, ancient magic that should not exist.

Now, Zarya learns Rabin’s true identity. A warrior prince, born to rule, he is as deadly as he is beautiful. He’s also insufferable. Arrogant and superior, with dangerous secrets of his own.

Zarya wants nothing to do with him. Terrifying demons are gathering beyond the walls and Zarya’s friends are rushing to complete a ceremony that will protect the city. Her mind is fixed on saving her home and finding the origin of her magic.

But every discovery and every dream pulls her back to Rabin. Does an enchantment bind them, or is it pure desire? Will opening her heart give Zarya the power to turn back the demons, or will it let the darkness devour her?

Dance of Stars and Ashes is the second book in an addictive series that builds from a slow burn to irresistible steamy romance. Packed with tension, action, and heart-stopping twists, it will keep fans of Sarah J. Maas, Jennifer L. Armentrout, and Rebecca Yarros reading late into the night.

MY REVIEW

What a great continuation of a gorgeous and intriguing story. I was so happy to be back with Zarya again as she continues to navigate her new life. In fact it was great to see all the characters again, I especially enjoyed catching up with Yasen. I loved him in the first book and even more so now. The friendship between him and Zarya always manages to make me smile. It’s fun and adds a lighter tone that combines well with the danger that is lurking.

Let’s talk romance because there is a strong one within the pages of this book and let’s just say that it definitely heats up. From the first book to this second book I thought the romantic connection, enemies to lovers and slow burn between the characters worked so well. In Dance of Stars and Ashes there’s steam and spice that sizzles from heated glances to much, much more!

The story moves at a great pace and I really enjoyed all the intrigue, secrets and surprises along the way. So there is not only romantic tension but tension from certain dangerous situations and people. All that’s left to say it’s that after turning the last page I can’t wait to see what will happen next. I’m eager to continue the magical and engaging journey this book has easily whisked me away on.

Author Bio

Nisha J. Tuli is the bestselling author of Trial of the Sun Queen—the first in the Artefacts of Ouranos series—which became a BookTok hit thanks to her amazing fans. The originally self-published series was acquired by Forever Publishing and Orbit UK in 2023, and will soon be published in 15 other languages around the world. 

She’s also the author of Heart of Night and Fire, a South Asian-inspired fantasy romance and the first in a four-book series. Look for her rom-com debut in 2025 with NSFW (Not Suitable for Work), a workplace rivals to lovers rom-com publishing with Forever. 

Nisha lives in Canada, where she spends most of her time reading and writing while enjoying travel, food, and camping with her partner, two kids, and their fluffy Samoyed, Mora. 

Social Media

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NishaJT

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/NishaJT

Website: https://nishajtuli.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nishajtwrites/

Second Sky email signup: www.secondskybooks.com/nisha-j-tuli

#Review – At First Spite by Olivia Dade #12netgalleybooksin12monthschallenge (1/12)

Thanks for stopping by! I’m delighted to be sharing my review for At First Spite by Olivia Dade today. With thanks to the publisher and netgalley for my digital copy. First things first let’s take a look at the description for the book…

There’s a fine line between love and hate . . .  

When Athena’s fiancé ends their engagement, she has no choice but to move into the Spite House she recklessly bought him as a wedding gift. Which is a real problem, for many reasons: the house is only ten feet wide. Her ex’s home is literally attached to hers. And Dr. Matthew Vine the Freaking Third – the uptight, judgy jerk who convinced his younger brother to leave her – is living on her other side, only a four-foot alley away.

If she has to see Matthew every time she looks out her windows, she might as well have a little fun with the situation. By, say, playing erotic audiobooks at top volume with those windows open. Unfortunately, loathing Matthew proves more difficult than anticipated. He helps her move. He listens. And he’s kind of hot . . . ?

Matthew may not regret breaking up his brother’s engagement, but he does regret what it’s done to Athena. And now he’ll help her however he can. If that means enduring nightly steamy story hours, so be it. And if that means watching Athena through their windows a bit too often and caring about her a bit too much. . . . well, nothing can come of it. She’ll never forgive him. Even if she did, how could he ever tell his younger brother that he wants the very same woman he pushed him to leave?

MY REVIEW

Well, this book was a lot of fun and at first that’s all I thought this story would be about. Which to be fair is not a bad thing. However it also had quite a bit of depth with some unexpected deeper themes at its heart. I really did like this combination though and it made me root for the characters even more. Seeing their troubles, worries and fears play out along the way. I loved the connection between Athena and Matthew it was engaging, simmering and lots of fun! It was great getting to know these characters especially as there was much more to them than first appears.

The plot itself moves at a lovely pace and I was invested in how it would all turn out in the end. Enemies to lovers will always be one of my favourite tropes and At First Spite is a great example of why I love this kind of story. Athena was perfect at riling Matthew and their interactions were very entertaining. Matthew was an intriguing hero and at first I was a little unsure about him. That is until you see all of the layers of his personality peeled back.

All that’s left to say is that At First Spite had a great combination of romance, lively interactions and hidden depths. Things weren’t easy for the characters but it certainly was entertaining!

#BlogTour #Review – Just Do It by Maxine Morrey @rararesources

Thanks for stopping by! I’m thrilled to be one of the stops on the blog tour for Just Do It by Maxine Morrey and sharing my review today. With thanks to Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for the invite to join the tour. Also thank you to the author and the publisher for my copy via Netgalley. First things first let’s take a look at the description for the book…

Lizzie Rose knows what she likes and likes what she knows.

Her role at the London Museum is more than a job, it’s her safe place and her passion. So when Lizzie is passed over for a chance in a lifetime opportunity in favour of her ex-boyfriend and fellow Egypt nerd Friedrich Klein, her heartbreak over their relationship pales into insignificance compared to her sadness at losing the project.

Best friend Colette thinks an evening of cocktails is just the medicine for a broken heart, and meeting dashing, charming, but very much ‘not her type’ Finn Bryson at the bar puts a smile on Lizzie’s face too. But Lizzie isn’t used to spending time outside of her comfortable world of academia and doesn’t believe in mixing business with pleasure. So when Finn’s job brings him to the museum, she’s determined to put an end to any notion of romance between them.

But what if Lizzie’s comfort zone isn’t that comfortable any more? Is it time for Lizzie to take the chance on love that fate keeps bringing her way – even if it means changing the habits of a lifetime?

Purchase Link

https://mybook.to/justdoitsocial

MY REVIEW

Just Do It was such an entertaining read and one that got going straight away. I loved the way the reader was introduced to the characters. I think it made the story all the more engaging. As I got to know the characters, it was very easy to hope they would get their happy ever after. The setting of the museum and Lizzie’s job was a wonderful addition. I do love history and museums so I really liked the way it was included in the story.

The plot itself moved at a lovely pace. The romance was sweet with a lovely connection that built between the characters. Lizzie’s personality slowly but surely emerged and her confidence grew. This was so lovely to see and meeting Finn in a way was a kind of catalyst for this. Speaking of Finn, he really did make a great hero. Supportive, charming and kind. I couldn’t help but root for them, even if there were more than a few bumps in the road for this pair.

Just Do It was a delight to read, it had a lovely charm that easily pulled me in. Once again another fun and loveable book from Maxine Morrey!

Author Bio

Maxine Morrey is a bestselling romantic comedy author with twelve books to her name including #NoFilter and Things Are Looking Up. She lives in Dorset.

Social Media Link

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Bookbub profile: Maxine Morrey Books – BookBub