Welcome, book friends!
If you’d prefer to listen to these reviews, you can check out the full episode on The Bookmarks ‘n Blankets Podcast on your favorite podcast platform or listen below.
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It’s been a while since I’ve shared my latest reads! I’m working on being more consistent with my Recent Reads episodes, but with the number of books I devour each month, keeping up can be a bit overwhelming. That said, I’m here today and excited to dive into the ten romance books (and one short story) I read in January and February. I’ve realized that spacing these episodes out every couple of months works better for my schedule—plus, it allows me to group books by genre rather than covering multiple genres in one wrap-up. Let’s get into it!
11 Romance Books I Read in January & February
The Fall Risk by Abby Jimenez
Format: Short Story – Prime Digital eBook
(Sign up for Amazon First Reads HERE.)
Genre: Contemporary Romance/RomCom
Spice Level: Rated PG – Closed-Door
GR Rating: 4.14
My GR Rating: 4
Read more on GoodReads.
GR Description: It’s Valentine’s Day weekend, and Charlotte and Seth are not looking for romance. Armed with emotional-support bear spray, Charlotte is in self-imposed isolation and on guard from men. Having a stalker can do that to a person’s nerves. Just across the hall and giving off woodsy vibes, is Seth, a recently divorced arborist. As in today recently. Heights, he’s fine with. Trust? Not so much. But when disaster traps them one flight up and no way down, an outrageously precarious predicament forces a tree-loving guy and a rattled girl next door to embrace their captivity. Soon, their defenses are breaking away. Considering how close they both are to the edge, Charlotte and Seth could be in danger of falling—in love.
My Review:
Even though I don’t love all the cursing and spicy scenes in this author’s books, I keep coming back for her impactful, relatable romance stories and heartfelt, charming characters. She has a way of crafting love stories that truly resonate, and this short story was no exception.
This was an absolutely adorable and hilarious read—fast-paced, engaging, and perfect for finishing in under an hour. It’s incredible how much depth the author packed into such a short space. Not only did it have me laughing out loud multiple times, but it also made me swoon over the main couple while tackling a serious and intense subplot involving a life-threatening stalker.
I’ll admit, the romance leaned toward insta-love, which is usually not my favorite trope. But the execution was so well done that I didn’t mind at all. In fact, I found myself wishing Seth and Charlotte had an entire full-length novel so I could spend more time with them! That said, their story still felt complete and satisfying despite the shorter format—a testament to the author’s skill in delivering a well-rounded romance in just a few pages.
If you’re looking for a quick, fun, and heartwarming read (or a perfect palette cleanser between longer books), I highly recommend this one. It does contain some language, but thankfully, no spice in this story.
It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover
Format: Tandem: Kindle Unlimited and Audiobook – Narrator: Olivia Song
Genre: Contemporary Fiction with some romance
Series: Book 1 in the 2-Book It Ends With Us Series
Spice Level: Rated R – Very Open-Door
GR Rating: 4.12 (Winner for Readers’ Favorite Romance 2016)
My GR Rating: 2
Read more on GoodReads.
GR Description: Lily hasn’t always had it easy, but that’s never stopped her from working hard for the life she wants. She’s come a long way from the small town in Maine where she grew up—she graduated from college, moved to Boston, and started her own business. So when she feels a spark with a gorgeous neurosurgeon named Ryle Kincaid, everything in Lily’s life suddenly seems almost too good to be true.
Ryle is assertive, stubborn, maybe even a little arrogant. He’s also sensitive, brilliant, and has a total soft spot for Lily. And the way he looks in scrubs certainly doesn’t hurt. Lily can’t get him out of her head. But Ryle’s complete aversion to relationships is disturbing. Even as Lily finds herself becoming the exception to his “no dating” rule, she can’t help but wonder what made him that way in the first place.
As questions about her new relationship overwhelm her, so do thoughts of Atlas Corrigan—her first love and a link to the past she left behind. He was her kindred spirit, her protector. When Atlas suddenly reappears, everything Lily has built with Ryle is threatened.
My Review:
(I have a real-time reaction episode where I react to the book and then watch the movie. Check out episode #95 if you want to hear my in-depth thoughts.)
This was my first time reading a Colleen Hoover book, and to be honest, I never planned to. But with all the hype surrounding the movie adaptation, I decided to give it a shot and read the book first before watching the film. Surprisingly, I ended up preferring the movie, which was PG-13, while I would personally rate the book as R.
Before picking up this book, I did a lot of research and knew what I was getting into. This is not my usual type of read, nor something I would have chosen on my own. While I can see how this story might resonate with women who have experienced abuse, I also understand the criticism—especially concerns about younger readers and how the book could be seen as romanticizing toxic relationships. I find myself agreeing more with the critics than the fans.
I went into It Ends With Us knowing it was a hugely popular book, but after reading it, I still don’t understand the hype. While the second half was better than the first, I was still bored at times, as the entire story revolves around Lily’s abusive relationship. It’s an important topic, and I appreciated the discussion on the cycle of abuse, but overall, I found this book emotionally draining, frustrating, and, at times, very problematic.
Let’s start with the positives. I really liked Lily’s relationship with her sister-in-law, Allysa—she was one of the few characters I actually enjoyed. I also appreciated the conversation Lily had with her mother toward the end, where she finally understood why her mom made certain choices in the past. And I have to give credit where it’s due—the big explosive scene of abuse was brutal, heartbreaking, and felt painfully real. It made me angry, and I can see how this book would be deeply affecting for survivors of abuse.
That said, I had a lot of problems with this book. The writing was simple and immersive, but the story itself felt repetitive and drawn out. The themes of abuse and trauma were important, but at times, it felt like the book was romanticizing red flags rather than offering a meaningful critique of them. Ryle is a violent, manipulative man from the start, and yet the narrative tries to justify his actions with his past trauma—something he weaponizes to control and guilt-trip Lily. I found this deeply concerning. Trauma does not excuse abuse, and while the book does address the difficulty of leaving an abusive relationship, it also presents Lily’s only escape as another man (Atlas), which is not the reality for many survivors.
Atlas was my favorite character, but his backstory felt underdeveloped. I wanted more depth to his character rather than him simply being the “better man” alternative to Ryle. And his past relationship with Lily—where he was an adult sleeping with a minor—was another major red flag that was brushed aside. On top of that, some scenes just didn’t make sense. It felt like forced drama rather than natural storytelling.
And then there’s the ending. One aspect felt particularly unsettling, and the book seems to leave the door open for Ryle’s redemption, which, in my opinion, shouldn’t have been an option. Hoover’s note at the end explains that she based the story on her parents’ relationship, which I respect, but I still feel that It Ends With Us fails to fully challenge the dangerous patterns it presents. Given Hoover’s massive platform and the young audience that idolizes her books, this one deserves more critical scrutiny than it gets.
To be honest, I didn’t enjoy this book. I almost DNF’d multiple times because it was difficult to get through, and I had to be in the right mindset to read it. This is not a lighthearted romcom—in fact, I wouldn’t even categorize it as a romance. To me, it’s contemporary fiction or women’s lit with romantic elements. The excessive cursing, explicit spicy scenes, and graphic abusive scenes also weren’t for me, and I appreciated that the movie toned down those aspects.
It’s emotionally heavy, exhausting, and at times, outright infuriating. If you do decide to read it, be aware that it contains graphic domestic violence, attempted rape, suicide, depression, and alcohol abuse. While I appreciated the discussion on the cycle of abuse, the book ultimately left me frustrated rather than enlightened. That said, I will be reading the sequel, It Starts With Us, because I’m curious to see what happens next—though I’m keeping my expectations low.
Overall, I had a lot of issues with this book and wouldn’t recommend it.
Evvie Drake Starts Over by Linda Holmes
Format: Audiobook – Narrator: Julia Whelan
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Spice Level: Rated PG – Closed-Door
GR Rating: 3.82 (Nominee for Readers’ Favorite Debut Novel 2019)
My GR Rating: 3
Read more on GoodReads.
GR Description: In a sleepy seaside town in Maine, recently widowed Eveleth “Evvie” Drake rarely leaves her large, painfully empty house nearly a year after her husband’s death in a car crash. Everyone in town, even her best friend, Andy, thinks grief keeps her locked inside, and Evvie doesn’t correct them.
Meanwhile, in New York City, Dean Tenney, former Major League pitcher and Andy’s childhood best friend, is wrestling with what miserable athletes living out their worst nightmares call the “yips”: he can’t throw straight anymore, and, even worse, he can’t figure out why. As the media storm heats up, an invitation from Andy to stay in Maine seems like the perfect chance to hit the reset button on Dean’s future.
When he moves into an apartment at the back of Evvie’s house, the two make a deal: Dean won’t ask about Evvie’s late husband, and Evvie won’t ask about Dean’s baseball career. Rules, though, have a funny way of being broken—and what starts as an unexpected friendship soon turns into something more. To move forward, Evvie and Dean will have to reckon with their pasts—the friendships they’ve damaged, the secrets they’ve kept—but in life, as in baseball, there’s always a chance—up until the last out.
My Review:
This was my first time reading from this author. I listened to the audiobook version, and the highlight for me was Julia Whelan’s narration. She is truly the queen of audiobook performances, effortlessly bringing the characters to life and making the listening experience enjoyable. I loved her New England accents! If you’re considering reading this book, I highly recommend the audiobook format solely for her delivery.
The book started strong, immediately drawing me into Evvie’s situation—her husband Tim has died, but instead of mourning, she’s grappling with guilt because she was about to leave him before his accident. However, after the promising beginning, the middle of the book slowed down significantly. The pacing dragged, and I found myself waiting for something compelling to happen. Unfortunately, it never really did. The story meandered through Evvie and Dean’s journey of healing, but it felt more like a series of subdued conversations rather than a plot-driven novel.
Evvie, a professional transcriber, is struggling to rebuild her life in small-town Maine. Dean, a retired MLB pitcher, has lost his ability to pitch and is seeking refuge from the pressures of his past. Their connection is built on a forced-proximity, friends-to-lovers trope, which had potential but ultimately fell flat.
The banter between Evvie and Dean was a highlight—I genuinely laughed out loud at times. However, despite their witty exchanges, I never fully bought into their romance. Their chemistry felt more suited for friendship, and I often found myself thinking they would have been better off staying platonic. The book does an interesting job of showcasing a friendship that others assume will turn romantic, demonstrating that sometimes companionship is more valuable than a love story.
Beyond Evvie and Dean, the supporting cast didn’t leave much of an impression. Andy, Evvie’s best friend and a math teacher with two young daughters, was likable enough, but none of the characters felt particularly deep or memorable. Evvie herself became frustrating as the book progressed—she was constantly defined by the men in her life (her late husband, Dean, her best friend, and her father), making her character arc feel limited and repetitive.
This is a slow-burn romance, which I usually enjoy, but in this case, it felt tedious rather than rewarding. The novel seemed more focused on proving how broken the characters were rather than developing a compelling or engaging romance. The emotional baggage each character carried was emphasized so heavily that it overshadowed any real plot progression.
There’s no spice in this book—some discussions of sex occur, but any intimate moments are fade-to-black. In terms of language, there were quite a few f-bombs, which felt excessive at times. Additionally, there were some liberal-leaning comments sprinkled throughout, but nothing that overtook the story.
The Maine setting is one of the book’s strengths. The small-town atmosphere, changing seasons, and cozy New England backdrop provided a nice ambiance that complemented the story’s themes of fresh starts and healing. Unfortunately, even a picturesque setting couldn’t save the book from its lack of momentum.
This book is a decent romance but not a particularly memorable one. It had its moments—especially the humor in Evvie and Dean’s interactions—but the slow pacing, unremarkable characters, and lack of real plot made it a forgettable read for me. It was cute but predictable, and while some readers may appreciate the exploration of grief and personal growth, I found it lacking the spark I look for in contemporary romance. If you read the summary and are interested, definitely check it out. But personally, I’d say skip it. There are better romances to read.
The Last Love Note by Emma Grey
Format: Audiobook – Narrator: Leeanna Walsman
Genre: Contemporary Fiction | Contemporary Romance
Spice Level: Rated PG – Closed-Door
GR Rating: 4.07
My GR Rating: 3
Read more on GoodReads.
GR Description: You may never stop loving the one you lost. But you can still find love again.
Kate is a bit of a mess. Two years after losing her young husband Cameron, she’s grieving, solo parenting, working like mad at her university fundraising job, always dropping the ball—and yet clinging to her sense of humor.
Lurching from one comedic crisis to the next, she also navigates an overbearing mom and a Tinder-obsessed best friend who’s determined to matchmake Kate with her hot new neighbor.
When an in-flight problem leaves Kate and her boss, Hugh, stranded for a weekend on the east coast of Australia, she finally has a chance, away from her son, to really process her grief and see what’s right in front of her. Can she let go of the love of her life and risk her heart a second time?
When it becomes clear that Hugh is hiding a secret, Kate turns to the trail of scribbled notes she once used to hold her life together. The first note captured her heart. Will the last note set it free?
The Last Love Note will make listeners laugh, cry, and renew their faith in the resilience of the human heart—and in love itself.
My Review:
(This is one of the books that I reacted to in a real-time reactions episode. Check out episode #96 if you want to hear my in-depth thoughts.)
This was my first time reading this author, and I can confidently say she writes beautifully. Her depiction of grief, loss, and death is vivid and deeply emotional. However, I wouldn’t classify this as a romance novel. It leans much more toward contemporary fiction with a touch of romance, which was disappointing for me. I went in expecting to watch a love story unfold, but instead, I found an incredibly heavy, heartbreaking story about a woman who loses her husband at a young age and struggles to raise her son, build her career, and simply hold herself together while navigating her overwhelming grief.
Unfortunately, the plot felt disjointed and somewhat unfocused. Certain scenes didn’t seem to serve a clear purpose, making the story feel scattered—almost like the author was trying to do too much at once. The book started out light-hearted and humorous, but then took a sharp, serious turn, ultimately becoming a long, drawn-out exploration of grief that started to lose my interest. The dual timeline structure, shifting between past and present, didn’t help much either—I found myself far more invested in the past than in the present storyline. And because I struggled to connect with the characters, I had a hard time emotionally engaging with the story as a whole.
I listened to the audiobook, and I will say the narration was excellent. The story takes place in Australia, and the narrator’s Australian accent really helped immerse me in the setting. However, because the book was so emotionally heavy, I often found it difficult to pick it back up. I had to be in the right mindset to continue and, at times, had to push myself to finish.
That said, the last 30% of the book finally felt more like the romance I had been hoping for. It had its tender, swoon-worthy, and genuinely sweet moments, making the slow burn worth it to some degree. However, the ending felt a bit rushed, and I was left with lingering questions.
Sensitive readers should be aware that this book deals with difficult topics, including spousal death, grief, loss, fertility struggles, and miscarriage. Also, there is no language and no spice.
Overall, this was just an okay read for me. While I wouldn’t personally recommend it, I recognize that it’s a well-written and emotionally raw portrayal of loss and healing. If you’re looking for a deeply emotional, authentic story and don’t mind a heavier read, this might be for you. But if you’re expecting a true romance, you may want to adjust your expectations before diving in.
Bridget Jones’s Diary by Helen Fielding
Format: Audiobook – Narrator: Barbara Rosenblat
Genre: Contemporary Romance/RomCom
Series: Book 1 in the 4-Book Bridget Jones Series
Spice Level: Rated PG – Closed-Door
GR Rating: 3.81
My GR Rating: 4
Read more on GoodReads.
GR Description: Sunday 1 January: 129 lbs. (but post-Christmas), alcohol units 14 (but effectively covers 2 days as 4 hours of party was on New Year’s Day), cigarettes 22, calories 5424.
From its beginning as a weekly column in a British newspaper, Bridget Jones’s Diary quickly became a best-seller in England. After gaining international popularity, it also shot to the top of the New York Times best-seller list. A 30-something single professional, Bridget Jones prefers a diary to a day planner for tracking her life. Each entry is an honest and hilarious step in her endless quest for self-improvement. (New Year’s Resolution: Go to gym three times a week not merely to buy sandwich.) Caught between match-making relatives, other singles, and smug marrieds, Bridget records the triumphs and faux-pas of her life in this diary. Funny, witty, and, at times, charmingly innocent, Bridget Jones’s Diary has a voice that is absolutely authentic. You’ve seen the Bridgets of the world trot by on their way to the office or gym. Now, through Barbara Rosenblat’s narration, you’ll spend some wonderful hours in the company of one. But be warned: from the very first line, you’ll be laughing out loud and looking for friends to introduce to this wonderful young woman.
My Review:
This movie is one of my all-time favorite romcoms, so I thought it was time that I finally read the book it’s based on. I listened to the audiobook, and I have to say, the narrator was absolutely fantastic. She brought Bridget to life with such energy and personality, making the listening experience highly entertaining. Her animated performance added so much charm to the story, making even the more frustrating moments enjoyable.
That being said, I have mixed feelings about the book itself. The diary format, while true to the concept, didn’t work well for me. It felt choppy and disjointed, making it hard to feel like I was following a cohesive story. While I appreciate the humor and wit throughout, I found myself preferring the movie, which had a much better flow and focused more on the romance. The book, on the other hand, felt more like a day-in-the-life of Bridget, with some romantic moments sprinkled in, rather than a strong central love story. I especially wished for more focus on Bridget and Mark’s relationship, which was much more developed in the film.
One thing I did appreciate was that, despite the frequent cursing (which I didn’t love), it remained a closed-door romance without any explicit spicy scenes. And while it’s definitely a product of its time—it was written in 1996, and it feels that way—it still has a lot of charm.
What truly made this book shine for me was Bridget herself. She’s quirky, crass, and endlessly relatable. She’s the kind of character you can’t help but root for, even when she’s making terrible decisions. There were moments when I just wanted to reach through the pages (or, in this case, the audio) and give her a hug. The book does a great job of capturing the struggles of self-acceptance, love, and modern life with a perfect blend of humor and heart.
Even though I didn’t love the writing style, I had a lot of fun with this book, and I’m curious enough to pick up the second one. If you’re looking for a lighthearted, hilarious romcom with a deeply endearing main character, this book is definitely worth a read (or a listen!). Highly recommend the audiobook!
Unknown Threat by Lynn H. Blackburn
Format: Audiobook – Narrator: Kate Forbes
Genre: Romantic Suspense | Christian Fiction
Series: Book 1 in the Defend and Protect Series
Spice Level: Rated PG – Closed-Door
GR Rating: 4.38
My GR Rating: 4
Read more on GoodReads.
GR Description: US Secret Service Special Agent Luke Powell is lucky to be alive. Three of his fellow agents have died in unusual circumstances in the past ten weeks. Luke is devastated by the loss of his friends and colleagues, and his inability to locate the killer feels like a personal failure. He’s an expert at shielding others, but now the protectors are in need of protection.
FBI Special Agent Faith Malone is driven to succeed and confident in her ability to solve every case she’s assigned. She’s been put in charge of the investigation into the unprecedented attacks, and with Luke’s life in danger, the stakes have never been higher. But it’s hard to know how to fight back when you don’t know who the enemy is.
As more agents are targeted, Luke and Faith will have to work together to bring a killer to justice and prevent any more names from joining their fallen brothers and sisters on the Secret Service Wall of Honor.
My Review:
This was my first time reading anything by Lynn H. Blackburn and only my second romantic suspense novel, so I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. While I’m still figuring out if this genre is for me, I found this book to be an engaging and enjoyable read.
What really drew me in was the mystery. The suspenseful plot, filled with action-packed moments and unexpected twists, kept me hooked. At times, it played out like an action movie in my mind, making it a fast-paced and exciting listen. I was more invested in unraveling the case than in the romance, though I did enjoy the chemistry and playful banter between Luke and Faith. Their relationship had great tension and buildup, even if it didn’t completely steal the show for me.
I also really appreciated the look into the lives of Secret Service agents and FBI personnel. This was my first time reading a story centered around these professions, and I found the dynamics between the characters fascinating. The camaraderie, teasing, and deep bond among the team added a fun and heartfelt element to the story.
As for the audiobook, the narrator did a good job, but she wasn’t my favorite. That said, the pacing of the story itself was strong, keeping my attention from start to finish. I also appreciated the light faith elements woven throughout the book—they added a nice touch without feeling overwhelming.
With no language or spice, this book is a solid choice for those looking for a clean, suspenseful read. For someone new to the genre like myself, this was a great introduction, and I’m interested in continuing the trilogy to see what happens next!
A Lady in Attendance by Rachel Fordham
Format: Audiobook – Narrator: Lauren Ezzo
Genre: Historical Romance | Christian Fiction
Spice Level: Rated PG – Closed-Door
GR Rating: 4.20
My GR Rating: 4
Read more on GoodReads.
GR Description: Five years in a New York state reformatory have left a blemish on Hazel’s real name. So when she takes a job as Doctor Gilbert Watts’s lady in attendance in 1898, she does so under an alias. In the presence of her quiet and pious employer, Hazel finds more than an income. She finds a friend and a hope that if she can set her tarnished past in order, she might have a future after all.
As Gilbert becomes accustomed to the pleasant chatter of his new dental assistant, he can’t help but sense something secretive about her. Perhaps there is more to this woman than meets the eye. Can the questions that loom between them ever be answered? Or will the deeds of days gone by forever rob the future of its possibilities?
My Review:
This book is yet another gem from one of my all-time favorite historical romance authors. I will read anything she writes! Her books are always sweet, wholesome, and utterly charming—the kind that make you swoon and wrap your heart in a warm embrace. As I work my way through her backlist, this book did not disappoint. Like her other novels, it’s completely clean, with no language or spice, making it a delightful comfort read.
I listened to the audiobook, and it was wonderfully done. The narration kept me engaged the entire time. While I read this during the winter, it would be a perfect choice for fall or that cozy transition from autumn to winter.
One of the things I love about historical fiction is how much I learn about the past, and this book was no exception. Hazel, the MFC, works as a dental assistant—referred to as a “lady in attendance”—and it was fascinating to see how dentistry operated in the nineteenth century. But beyond the historical details, Hazel herself was such a compelling character. She’s strong, resilient, and full of grace despite the adversities she’s faced. The way the author gradually revealed pieces of Hazel’s past rather than overwhelming us with backstory at the beginning made me feel deeply connected to her. I kept wanting to know more, and that emotional investment made her journey all the more rewarding.
Gilbert, the MMC, was equally wonderful. A bit shy but incredibly kind and steadfast, he complemented Hazel beautifully. I adored the way he fell for her—his quiet strength, his unwavering loyalty, and the way he showed his affection with subtle yet deeply romantic gestures. For a dentist in this time period, he was surprisingly swoon-worthy!
Their romance was a slow burn, but it was so worth it. What I appreciated most was the emotional depth of their relationship—it wasn’t about physical attraction but about true connection, trust, and understanding. Too often, romance novels focus on outward appearances, but this one emphasized heart, character, and compatibility. Their banter was also fantastic, adding an extra layer of charm to their love story.
Beyond the romance, this book had so much more to offer—mystery, suspense, friendship, and powerful character growth. I was completely hooked, always eager to see what would happen next. The subtle faith elements were a lovely touch, adding depth without feeling heavy-handed. At its core, this is a beautifully written story of faith, forgiveness, and the healing power of love.
I absolutely adored this book and can’t wait to continue working through Rachel Fordham’s backlist. If you love historical romance with heartwarming depth, this one is a must-read! Highly recommend!
My Phony Valentine by Courtney Walsh
Format: Kindle Unlimited
Genre: Contemporary Romance/RomCom | Sports Romance
Series: Book 1 of the 2-Book Holidays with Hart Series
Spice Level: Rated PG – Closed-Door
GR Rating: 4.26
My GR Rating: 4
Read more on GoodReads.
GR Description: A chance meeting. A hunky hockey player. A fake romance.
Hardly an ordinary day in the life of Poppy Hart.
My days usually consist of agonizing over my failing restaurant, worrying about my mountain of debt and nursing my broken heart.
Everything changes when I bump into a man in the coffee shop and claim him as my new boyfriend. To my absolute horror, he turns out to be hockey’s most renowned bad boy, Dallas Burke. To my absolute delight, he goes along with my story.
When his no-nonsense manager and meddling grandmother jump in the picture, they see a win-win solution for my failing restaurant and Dallas’s less-than-stellar reputation.
A full-fledged fake romance complete with contract negotiations, pretend dates, and phony PDA.
But as I get to know the real Dallas Burke, who is not the man the press says he is, it becomes clear that if this isn’t real. . . someone better tell it to my heart.
My Review:
(This is one of the books that I reacted to in a real-time reactions episode. Check out episode #96 if you want to hear my in-depth thoughts.)
I absolutely love Courtney Walsh’s books—she’s one of my favorite authors for clean, closed-door romance. Her stories are always sweet, heartfelt, and deeply relatable, and this one was no exception.
This was an utterly charming hockey romance with a fun fake dating trope, likable characters, and a cozy small-town setting. I adored the playful chemistry between the main couple, the witty banter, and especially the sassy, snarky grandmother who stole every scene she was in. The side characters were just as delightful, and I loved getting to know Poppy’s family. It was also a nice touch that her father is deaf, incorporating sign language naturally into the story. Plus, I’m already looking forward to seeing another one of her sisters in another book in this series!
One of the things I appreciated most was the complete absence of strong language or spice—just a wholesome, romantic story that still packed plenty of swoon-worthy moments. I also loved that there was no frustrating third-act breakup or overused miscommunication trope. Instead, this was a mature, heartfelt romance between two adults who actually communicated like adults.
This book made me laugh, swoon, and even tear up toward the end. While it’s a light and fun romcom, it also has surprising emotional depth, as both Dallas and Poppy must confront their pasts and work through personal struggles. The themes of forgiveness and grace, especially learning to extend that grace to yourself, were beautifully woven into the story.
If you enjoy sports romances, sweet and uplifting love stories with real emotional depth, and the fake dating trope done right, then you must pick up this book. Courtney Walsh never disappoints, and I will always recommend her books. This one was SO good—highly recommend!
All Made Up by Kara Isaac
Format: Digital eBook – Kindle Unlimited
Genre: Contemporary Romance/RomCom | Christian Fiction
Series: Companion Book, start with Close to You
Spice Level: Rated PG – Closed-Door
GR Rating: 4.24
My GR Rating: 4
Read more on GoodReads.
GR Description: Everyone thinks Katriona McLeod is living the dream. Her professional career as a make-up artist sees her traveling the world working with the stars and she’s got no shortage of men wanting her affection. Only problem is she’s never gotten over Caleb Murphy, the one guy she’s ever loved. When she accepts a job on the latest looking-for-love reality TV show, Falling for the Farmer, she discovers to her horror that Caleb is the leading man and she’s cast as one of his harem. But she hides a secret, which means that even if she wanted a second chance with the guy who broke her heart, she could never have it.
Caleb Murphy couldn’t care less about C-Class celebrity fame or reality TV, and he certainly doesn’t believe it could lead him to love. The one thing he does care about is fulfilling his mother’s last wish. Kat’s presence on the show seems to offer up a solution that will make both the network and his mother happy. It might have been almost ten years since they split, but he knows he can trust her with his plan. Just as long as he doesn’t fall in love all over again with the woman who will never stay.
My Review:
This was my first book by this author, and now I’m hooked! I’m already planning to read her entire backlist. This story was absolutely delightful—cute, wholesome, and deeply endearing. It had the perfect balance of humor, heart, and emotion, making me laugh, swoon, and even tear up a little toward the end.
I didn’t realize going in that this book follows a side character from another story in the series who finally gets her own happy ending. However, I never felt lost or like I was missing key details. That said, I’m now eager to go back and read the previous books, even though I already know how this particular character’s journey unfolds.
The premise of this story is so much fun—a dating reality show set in the Australian Outback, reminiscent of The Bachelor, but with a fresh and charming twist. I loved the behind-the-scenes look at how the show operated, with all the little details that made it feel like a real reality TV experience. The book also playfully poked fun at the genre without being too over-the-top, which I appreciated.
That said, I did wish there had been a little more time spent on Kat’s experience as a contestant. We didn’t see much interaction between her and the other women competing for Caleb’s attention, and I would have enjoyed a few more group dates and the inevitable reality-show drama before the setting shifted to Caleb’s farm. The transition felt a bit fast, and I would have loved to soak in that dynamic just a little longer.
Despite that, Kat and Caleb completely won me over. They felt like real people dealing with real struggles, making them easy to relate to. Their chemistry was fantastic, and I loved how their relationship unfolded with both humor and depth. There were plenty of laugh-out-loud moments (the pig scene on the farm was a highlight!), but the story also carried a surprising amount of emotional weight. That depth made their romance feel even more rewarding, and I found myself fully invested in their journey.
This is a sweet, closed-door romance with no language or spice, and it also includes faith elements woven naturally into the story, which I thoroughly enjoyed. If you love second-chance romances with emotional depth, well-developed characters, and a fresh, unique setting, I highly recommend this book! I can’t wait to read more from Kara Isaac.
Better Than the Movies by Lynn Painter
Format: Audiobook – Narrator: Jesse Vilinsky
Genre: Young Adult (YA) Contemporary Romance/RomCom
Series: Book 1 of the 11-Book Better Than the Movies Series
Spice Level: Rated PG – Closed-Door
GR Rating: 4.28
My GR Rating: 5
Read more on GoodReads.
GR Description: Perpetual daydreamer Liz Buxbaum gave her heart to Michael a long time ago. But her cool, aloof forever crush never really saw her before he moved away. Now that he’s back in town, Liz will do whatever it takes to get on his radar – and maybe snag him as a prom date – even befriend Wes Bennet.
The annoyingly attractive next-door neighbor might seem like a prime candidate for romantic-comedy fantasies, but Wes has only been a pain in Liz’s butt since they were kids. Pranks involving frogs and decapitated lawn gnomes do not a potential boyfriend make. Yet, somehow, Wes and Michael are hitting it off, which means Wes is Liz’s in.
But as Liz and Wes scheme to get Liz noticed by Michael so she can have her magical prom moment, she’s shocked to discover that she likes being around Wes. And as they continue to grow closer, she must reexamine everything she thought she knew about love – and rethink her own ideas of what happily ever after should look like.
My Review:
I don’t read a lot of YA romance, but when I do, I seem to pick the gems—and this book was definitely one of them! This story was pure fun: charming, sweet, and wonderfully wholesome. While there’s some language, there’s no spice, making it a great pick for those who prefer a clean romance.
This was my first book by Lynn Painter, and I listened to the audiobook—which turned out to be an excellent choice. The narrator did a fantastic job bringing the story to life, giving each character a distinct voice that made them feel real. I could easily picture this playing out as an adorable teenage romcom, complete with all the swoon-worthy moments. It even made me tear up a little toward the end.
Yes, it’s predictable and a little cheesy (as most romcoms are), but that didn’t take away from the enjoyment. The pacing was great, keeping me engaged the entire time, and the characters were so much fun to get to know. Since the story builds up to prom, it makes for a perfect springtime read.
I also had a deeply personal connection to Liz. Like her, I lost my mom when I was young, and I really resonated with her complicated emotions—especially regarding her stepmother and best friend. Those aspects of the story felt so genuine, and I appreciated the depth they added.
Now, let’s talk about Wes… what a book boyfriend! If I were younger, I’d absolutely have a massive crush on him. He’s sweet, charismatic, thoughtful, and effortlessly funny—the kind of character who steals the show. While the book claims it’s an enemies-to-lovers story, I saw it more as friends-to-lovers since Liz and Wes have known each other since childhood. And that’s one of my favorite tropes!
If you love romcoms, this book will hit all the right notes. The references to classic 80s and 90s romantic comedies were a delightful touch, making it even more nostalgic and fun.
I can’t wait to read the sequel and other companion books in this series—I need more Liz and Wes! I’m also eager to check out Lynn Painter’s adult romances now. Highly recommend this one, especially the audiobook!
The One with the Kiss Cam by Cindy Steel
Format: Kindle Unlimited
Genre: Contemporary Romance/RomCom
Spice Level: Rated PG – Closed-Door
GR Rating: 4.24
My GR Rating: 5
Read more on GoodReads.
GR Description: It was just one date.
My friend told me I needed more fun in my life, so I reluctantly said yes. Fun wasn’t exactly in my wheelhouse. After watching my own mother’s love life implode time and time again it’s only natural that I have a few rules to protect myself.
Actually, it’s just one rule…
Avoid relationships with men so I don’t get attached.
I wasn’t worried. Getting attached has never been a big problem for me. This guy was just a warm body in a chair. I was here for the basketball game. I was absolutely NOT here for my date.
Or the kiss cam.
Or the kiss.
Or the impromptu evening with the one man who seems bent on throwing my tidy world off of its axis.
But when my life takes a nose dive, he’s also the man who seems bent on proving to me that good men do exist, dreams can come true, and sometimes throwing out the rule book is when the magic really starts to happen.
My Review:
(This is one of the books that I reacted to in a real-time reactions episode. Check out episode #96 if you want to hear my in-depth thoughts.)
I LOVED this book!! This was my first time reading anything by this author, and I can confidently say she’s now one of my favorite clean, closed-door romance writers. This story was so deeply relatable that it has earned a spot as one of my all-time favorite romcoms! (There’s no language and no spice.)
Going in, I expected a light, fluffy romance—but what I got was so much more. This book was emotional, raw, and profoundly moving. I connected with Nora in a way I’ve never connected with another book character before. Her struggles, her pain, and her resilience resonated with me on such a deep level that I found myself tearing up multiple times—and by the end, I was full-on sobbing. It was one of the most heartfelt, authentic character journeys I’ve ever read.
And then there’s Duke—what an incredible book boyfriend! I adored him from the very beginning. He’s witty, charming, kind, and genuinely thoughtful. He doesn’t just treat Nora with kindness—he treats her as an equal, never making her feel less than because of their differences in wealth or circumstances. His playful banter with both his friends and Nora was so much fun, providing plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, but he also had such a swoony, tender side that made their dynamic feel even richer.
One of the things I loved most was how safe and comfortable Nora felt with Duke. She didn’t have to guard herself or fear judgment—she could be open about her struggles without feeling inferior. Their relationship wasn’t just built on flirty moments (though those were fantastic!); it was rooted in friendship, trust, and emotional connection. Given Nora’s difficult, unstable upbringing and deep-seated trust issues, Duke’s steady presence in her life was exactly what she needed.
I also have to highlight the exceptional writing. Romcoms can sometimes feel predictable, cheesy, or filled with forced dialogue, but this book broke the mold. It had unexpected twists and turns that kept me fully engaged, and the dialogue was some of the best I’ve ever read in the genre. The conversations between Nora and Duke felt real—natural, witty, and raw in all the right moments. Nothing felt cringy or forced, which made their chemistry even more believable.
This book completely stole my heart! I can’t recommend it enough. If you love romcoms that go beyond being just sweet and funny—ones with true depth, emotional weight, and unforgettable characters—you need to pick this one up. It’s thoughtful and impactful, and it left a lasting impression on me. I can’t wait to read more from this author!