The Halifax Hellions by Alexandra Vasti book review

The Halifax Hellions is a lively and engaging historical romance featuring twin sisters, Margo and Matilda Halifax. Set in the Regency era, the story unfolds in two interconnected novellas. Margo, known for her wild reputation, finds herself on a road trip to stop her sister's elopement, accompanied by her brother's best friend, Henry, who secretly loves her. Their journey is full of misadventures and hidden feelings. Meanwhile, Matilda, tired of her notorious persona, seeks a fresh start with Christian, a brooding protector with specific tastes (exploring a little kink). Their dynamic explores themes of power and vulnerability, leading to a sexy and spicy romance. The book masterfully intertwines humor, love, and chaos, making it a delightful read. 

I loved this book!  I feel like I read it pretty quickly, but it's hard to compare a kindle version to a paper one in terms of length. I had not read the previously released novella's...but I have read other books by this author (in the same series?)The dual narrative offers a rich exploration of contrasting characters and their growth, with Margo embracing her spirited nature and Matilda seeking a new path. Alexandra Vasti's fun characters and witty dialogue bring the Regency period to life, while the themes of love, scandal, and self-discovery resonate deeply. The book's playful yet profound exploration of relationships, both romantic and familial, adds depth and charm. I love the contrast of the two love stories.  I love the main characters. There were some funny laugh out loud moments and there were some tense moments.  This book is sure to be a hit when it comes out on February 17, 2026. Thanks to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for an ARC.

The Nanny's Handbook to Magic and Managing Difficult Dukes by Amy Rose Bennett book review

Emmeline Chase, a spirited widow and recent graduate of the Parasol Academy for Exceptional Nannies, unexpectedly lands a job with the enigmatic Duke Xavier Mason after a teleportation mishap. Set in 1851 London, Emmeline must manage the Duke's three mischievous wards while grappling with her growing feelings for Xavier. As a horologist focused on crafting the "King of Clocks" for Westminster Palace, Xavier needs peace, but a lurking saboteur and Emmeline's magical mishaps create delightful chaos. Their attraction grows despite the Academy's rules, leading to a charming blend of romance, humor, and Victorian-era enchantment. 

This was such a unique book because of  its seamless blend of Victorian charm and magical whimsy. It's kind of Mary Poppins-ish but for adults, with some spice. The novel offers a refreshing take on the historical romance genre with its unique magical system that empowers women in traditional roles. Emmeline and Xavier's relationship develops naturally, characterized by strong chemistry and emotional depth, making the romance both heartwarming and believable. Bennett's deft handling of neurodivergent characters adds authenticity and inclusivity, enriching the narrative. Readers will appreciate the well-crafted secondary characters and the engaging plot involving clockmaking and mysterious sabotage. I did love the added suspense with the bad guys! With its witty dialogue, intriguing setting, and themes of love and acceptance, this book is a delightful escape for fans of historical romance looking for a touch of magic.  

Christmas Fling by Lindsey Kelk book review

Laura Pearce thinks she’s scored a bargain on a new flat—until she opens the door and finds her landlord, Callum McClay, straight out of the shower. Things get way worse (and weirder) when Laura makes a spontaneous decision to go home with Callum and pose as his girlfriend. But she can't go as Laura, she has to go along as Callum's made up girlfriend Caroline. She has to pretend to be a vegan Swedish masseuse who doesn't drink and tends to be rude. Cue snow, cozy trains, hostile relatives, her friends turning up as fake family members, and Callum’s ex making things awkward. Between the banter, embarrassing mishaps and a growing attraction, Laura and Callum start to feel more than just actors in a temporary charade. Told from Laura’s funny, sharp voice, this romcom mixes holiday fun and genuine heart—perfect for anyone who likes messy setups that lead to surprisingly real feelings. 

 If you live for fake-dating tropes, warm holiday vibes and characters who trade snappy one-liners like it’s a sport, this one’s right up your alley. The Scottish Highlands setting gives everything that extra cozy, cinematic feel—snowy trains, a grand family house, and those small traditions that make Christmas novels so addictive. Laura is smart, funny and refreshingly competent (neurosurgeon heroine who can roast you and save a life—yes please), and Callum is charming in a quietly awkward, utterly swoony way. He wants to be a pastry chef, but his parents can't accept that. Their chemistry is deliciously slow-burn: lots of near-misses, lingering looks, and those tiny, intimate moments that make you root for them hard. But sit tight for the spice.  You won't be disappointed. The supporting cast amps up both the laughs and the feels. There’s also a bit of realness in the story: sexism in STEM, family expectations, and the awkwardness of pretending to be someone else. Overall, it’s the kind of romcom that’ll have you laughing out loud, sighing at the sweet bits, and closing the book with a smile. A perfect read for the Christmas season.  I loved it!

Is This Real or Just Pretend? by Emily Sullivan book review

Alexandra Atkinson is a very competent financier whose sharp intellect keeps her family’s investment firm afloat—but her gender bars her from inheriting control. With her father nearing retirement and a resistant board demanding a male head, Alex faces losing the authority she quietly commands. Lucien Taylor, a once‑successful supper club owner returning from Paris after a bitter betrayal, needs capital to rebuild his life and support his family. Alex proposes a pragmatic bargain: she will fund Lucien’s venture if he publicly courts her long enough to remove the marriage objection to her board appointment. Their staged engagement, intended as a transactional arrangement, awakens unexpected vulnerabilities. Lucien recognizes the warmth beneath Alex’s composed exterior; Alex finds herself unsettled by an attraction she cannot manipulate. Victorian social strictures, lingering secrets, and repeated miscommunications complicate the pair’s progress from convenience to devotion. 

Historical romance readers will love the Victorian backdrop that provides the rich social constraints that heighten stakes: inheritance rules, patriarchal boards, and reputations that must be managed—all of which amplify the characters’ strategic choices. The author had a great setting, fun dialogue and lots of little details that just really added to the story.  The fake‑courtship premise supplies flirtatious tension and the pleasure of watching a scheme become genuine, with plenty of scenes where professional negotiations bleed into personal exposure. Fans of slow burn will appreciate how attraction simmers before confession, and readers who enjoy character‑driven conflict will be invested in the protagonists’ growth as they learn to trust and communicate. This was an overall fun read.  It was unique.  It kept my attention and I loved all the details.  Who doesn't want a fun HEA?