To Heist and to Hold by Christina Britton book review

Heloise Marlowe, a determined widow and skilled blacksmith, infiltrates the notorious gaming club, Dionysus, to clear her sister-in-law Julie's name after a valuable heirloom necklace goes missing. Under the guise of seduction, she must navigate her feelings for the club’s owner, Ethan Sinclaire, who is grappling with rumors that threaten his establishment's reputation. As Heloise and Ethan’s lives intertwine, they must confront their pasts while uncovering the truth behind the theft and the suspicions surrounding the club. Their growing attraction complicates their mission, leading to a passionate romance that blooms amidst deception and danger. 

Readers of historical romance will be enjoy by "To Heist and To Hold" for its unique perspective on the working class, diverging from the typical ballrooms and aristocratic settings. Heloise is a relatable and empowering heroine, defying societal norms as a blacksmith and a member of the Wimpole Street Widows Society. The novel masterfully combines mystery, romance, and emotional depth, showcasing the characters' struggles with guilt and trust amidst a backdrop of intrigue. The chemistry between Heloise and Ethan adds a layer of tension and excitement, while the supporting characters add a lot to the story. With its blend of steamy moments, witty banter, and genuine connection, this book is a must add to your TBR pile.  I really enjoyed it and I particularly loved all the name (of characters) choices in this story.

This book is out today!  Thanks to @Forever and #NetGalley for an ARC.

Dream Harbor #4: The Strawberry Patch Pancake House by Laurie Gilmore book review

This is book #4 in the Dream Harbor series and I have to say that I love coming back to a familiar world with both old and new characters. In this book, Archer, a world-renowned chef and single father, relocates to provide a stable home for his young daughter, Olive, after her mother's untimely passing. Faced with the challenge of running a pancake restaurant and winning over the locals, Archer struggles to balance his new life while gaining custody of Olive, who is hesitant to connect with him. Enter Iris, a free-spirited woman who has never held a job for long and is searching for a fresh start. When offered the opportunity to be Olive's nanny, she is hesitant but ultimately decides to take the plunge. The job has good pay and a place to live. As she navigates her new role, she finds herself drawn to Archer, who surprises her with his cooking skills and brooding charm. Their evolving relationship is filled with sexual tension as they grapple with their pasts and the challenges of parenting. With a delightful blend of humor, romance, and community spirit, this story captures the essence of finding love and family when least expected, leading to a heartwarming happily-ever-after that readers will cherish. 

I love this book because of  its charming small-town setting and lovable characters. The single dad and nanny trope adds a layer of sweetness and tension as Archer's protective instincts clash with Iris’s desire for independence. Readers will enjoy the forced proximity that heightens their chemistry, making each interaction feel electric. The slow-burn romance allows for emotional depth, as both characters confront their pasts and learn to trust one another. The narrative is sprinkled with humor and heartwarming moments, making it a perfect escape for those seeking lighthearted yet meaningful stories. With well-developed secondary characters that enrich the plot, readers will feel immersed in the close-knit community of Dream Harbor. If you have read the other books in this series, you know what to expect.  If you are just jumping in, you will love the HEA, the fun and quirky characters and sexy scenes.

Big Shots #4: Pitcher Perfect by Tessa Bailey book review

NHL rookie Robbie Corrigan is a charming playboy who seems to have it all—stardom, a best friend as a roommate, and the adoration of Boston’s women. However, everything changes when he meets Skylar Paige, a fiercely independent Division 1 softball pitcher who is immune to his charms. She puts Robbie in his place, seconds after they meet.  She is not impressed by his conquests and lets him know. However, their paths will soon cross because Skylar harbors a long-time crush on her brother’s best friend.  Her best friend backs out of a an event and Skylar decides she needs a fake boyfriend for this family wilderness competition. Robbie steps in to help make her crush jealous. As they navigate through the challenges of their faux relationship, trust builds between them, leading to unexpected chemistry. Their banter and growing closeness force them to confront their feelings, and soon, what started as a pretense begins to feel all too real. 

I didn't realize this was book 4 in this series, but it was super easy to jump into and I did not feel like I was missing out on a back story.  I loved how Skylar was hot, sporty and a little awkward.  Robbie did not give the best first impression, but I love how his character was developed throughout the story. Parts were laugh out loud funny, there was a little tension and some pretty hot sex! The fake dating trope is great, with Robbie's flirty nature contrasting perfectly with Skylar's strong-willed persona. Robbie's growth from a cocky player to a caring partner adds layers to his character. Skylar’s journey of self-discovery and vulnerability resonates with many, showcasing a strong female lead who doesn’t shy away from her ambitions. With a backdrop of sports and family competition, this story promises a lighthearted yet heartfelt read that blends sizzling romance with character development, ensuring readers are left swooning for more. It was an enjoyable read.  Once I started I could not put it down.  Some reviews are pretty harsh on the story and the author, but this is a great sports romance that is well written with a HEA.  This book was just released on September 9, 2025 and it should definitely be added to your reading list.

Let's Give 'Em Pumpkin to Talk About by Isabelle Popp book review

Textile artist, Sadie Fox reluctantly returns to her small hometown of Pea Blossom, Indiana, to care for her father's beloved pumpkin patch during the summer. Her mission is simple: grow a giant pumpkin to win back her father's respect. However, disaster strikes when a horde of wild hogs ravages the entire patch. Just when things seem hopeless, Josh Thatcher, her father's charming neighbor and a former tech millionaire turned gourd enthusiast, offers his help. The story unfolds with the classic grumpy-sunshine dynamic, where Sadie embodies the grump, and Josh is the sunny, supportive figure. As they work together to rebuild the pumpkin patch, unexpected feelings begin to blossom, leading to a stormy kiss that hints at something deeper. This unexpected rom-com captures the essence of small-town life, the warmth of autumn, and the complexities of relationships, all while exploring themes of self-discovery and healing.

I think romance readers will appreciate the unique role reversal, with Sadie as the grumpy lead and Josh as the affable sunshine, that adds a refreshing twist to the classic opposites-attract trope. The cozy autumn setting enhances the romantic vibes, making it perfect for curling up with a blanket and a warm drink. Deeper conversations about mental health provide emotional depth, allowing readers to connect with the characters on a more profound level. Stu, Sadie's father, is a pivotal character who adds depth to the narrative. His estrangement from Sadie showcases the emotional distance that can develop between loved ones, especially when burdens of expectations weigh heavy. I like how he ultimately becomes a symbol of reconciliation, illustrating that it’s never too late to mend broken bonds and appreciate the love that exists within a family.  There is still some spice!  Once Sadie and Josh get together...*fans self*.  This book was just released in late August, so it's just in time for pumpkin-spice season!