It took me a little while to settle into the story, but once I did, I found it to be such a heartwarming read with characters that were easy to care about.

Personally, I would have loved a little more detail in the ending. I felt like a few things wrapped up a bit quickly, but it didn’t take away from the heart of the story.

One thing to note is that commitment issues play a significant role in the plot, so if that’s a trope you tend to avoid, it’s worth keeping in mind. As well as the miscommunication trope.

Ethan completely stole my heart He was such a precious addition to the story, and every scene with him made me smile.

And all of the Princess Bride references? Absolutely loved them

Overall, this was a sweet, cozy romance with heartfelt moments and a message that lingered long after I finished reading.

Tropes
Best Friends to Lovers
Fake Dating
Slow Burn
Faith Themes
Lake Cabin Setting
Wildlife Photographer MMC

: Kisses Only 
: None

BLURB: Aspen won’t put down roots, and Mia is afraid to fly.

By-the-book Mia has every moment of her life laid out in glittery color-coded ink. Her world is neat and tidy, and she knows exactly what she wants. The one thing she can’t seem to keep organized is her travel-happy lifelong friend. Aspen—restless and endlessly chasing the next adventure—is building his career as a nature photographer, and spends his days anywhere but home. Each goodbye is chipping away at something Mia can’t quite put her finger on.

When Aspen announces he’s leaving on his longest assignment yet, Mia realizes she’s tired of waiting for a someday that never seems to arrive; tired of post cards, phone calls with bad reception, and emails in the place of real connection. When she decides it’s time to call it quits, a desperate Aspen tells one small lie: one that lands him an invitation to Mia’s family lake cabin for the week.

The catch? Everyone thinks they’re dating.

Now, surrounded by family, cozy bonfires, and a lake cabin that holds memories around each corner, Aspen and Mia must pretend their love story is more than fiction. With Aspen’s departure looming and Mia’s patience stretched to its breaking point, they have one week to figure out the real reason hurts so deeply to let go.

Because pretending to be in love seems easy, until real feelings get involved.

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Hidden Identity 
Forced Proximity 
Romantic Suspense 
Slow Burn 
Playful Banter 
Frenemies to Lovers 

: Kisses Only 
: None 

BLURB: They were each other’s first love. Now they might be each other’s last hope. Perfect for fans of Ally Carter, Spies, Lies, and Alibis is an unputdownable binge-fest, full of laughs, heart, and mischief.

Cybil Langford has spent years hiding behind her polished, professional facade as the executive assistant to a powerful real estate mogul, where she’s perfectly positioned to collect intel on her boss’s criminal network. But when her mission leads her into the path of Lorenzo Ramirez–a ruthless crime boss with deadly plans–she’ll need every ounce of cunning and charm to stay one step ahead.

Then he walks back into her life.

Ben Bradley is deep undercover for the FBI, living under an alias, as a financial advisor with a reputation for helping the wealthy and corrupt launder their money. His target? Lorenzo Ramirez, a dangerous crime boss with his hands in everything from smuggling to murder. But when a familiar face from his past suddenly reappears, things get . . . complicated.

The last time Cybil saw Ben, he was an annoying prankster–and her first crush. The last time Ben saw Cybil, she stole a piece of his heart. Neither expected to run into each other at a high-stakes fundraising gala where crime, corruption, and undercover agendas collide.

Forced to work dangerously close, neither knows the other’s true agenda. Cybil sees the boy who once broke her heart, now a man whose motives are deeply suspect. Ben sees the woman he never got over but can’t determine if she’s an innocent caught in the crossfire or a willing accomplice. As they navigate a world of spies, lies, and fragile alibis, they must dismantle the walls around their hearts.

The intel is classified. The trust is fragile. And their covers are one lie away from blowing wide open

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The post Spies, Lies, & Alibis by Natalie Walters appeared first on Lilys Reading Corner.

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MY REVIEW: This was such a fantastic addition to the series! So far every book has been a 5 read for me and this one was no exception! It is a fast paced story that is impossible to put down with just the right amount of suspense to keep you guessing! The MCs were so fun to read about
I loved Charlotte so much and Lady Jane’s Aunt as well! 
Overall this was such a fun read and I can hardly wait for more in this series to be released! 

Protective MMC 
Friends to Lovers
Historical Fiction 
Touch of Suspense 
Disowned Lady 
She Saves His Life
Slow Burn 

: Kisses Only 
: None 

BLURB: Society turned its back. So she rewrote her fate.

Lady Jane Lyttelton had always done precisely what was expected of her—until the moment she stood at the altar beside an aged duke. Rather than seal her fate, she ran. Disowned by her family and shunned by Society, her future seemed hopeless… until an unexpected inheritance offered her a chance at independence and a second chance at life.

Alistair Winslow, Viscount Alcott, returned from war with more than a title and scars. Haunted by what he had been forced to do to survive, he now shoulders the weight of protecting his sister and upholding the family name. When Jane saves his life in a dark London alley, he finds himself drawn into her troubles and into feelings he cannot afford to have.

But danger lurks in every shadow. As Alistair’s investigation regarding the questionable deaths of men in his Army company takes a deadly turn, Jane refuses to remain safely out of harm’s way. To protect her, he must confront his past and the man intent on destroying them both. Yet the greatest battle he faces may be against his own heart, for to love her could cost them everything.

As the sixth novel in the Courting the Unconventional series by author Laura Beers, A Brilliant Defiance continues the series. This is a light-hearted, clean and wholesome romance set in the Regency era. All books in this series have their own Happily-Ever-After and are best enjoyed in proper order.

The post A Brilliant Defiance by Laura Beers appeared first on Lilys Reading Corner.

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: Kisses Only : None

OVERVIEW: Piper McKenna couldn’t be more thrilled that her prodigal brother, Reef, has returned to Yancey, Alaska, after five years. But her happiness is short-lived when Reef appears at her house covered in blood. A fellow snowboarder has been killed–but despite the evidence, Reef swears he’s innocent. And Piper believes him.

Deputy Landon Grainger loves the McKennas like family, but he’s also sworn to find the truth. Piper is frustrated with his need for facts over faith, but he knows those closest to you have the power to deceive you the most. With his sheriff pushing for a quick conviction, some unexpected leads complicate the investigation, and pursuing the truth may mean risking Landon’s career.

With Piper waging her own search, the two head deep into Canada’s rugged backcountry–and unexpected complications. Not only does their long friendship seem to be turning into something more, but this dangerous case is becoming deadlier with each step.

Have you read this one yet? I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

The post Shattered by Dani Pettrey appeared first on Lilys Reading Corner.

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: Kisses Only : None

OVERVIEW: Page-turning romantic suspense set amid the gorgeous beauty of Hawaii and the impending danger of a volcano.

A brainy—and perpetually single—volcanologist, Annie Tagama works alongside her father at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. But despite her pedigree, Annie has lost her passion or volcanology. She’s quietly grieving the mysterious loss of her brother in the Middle East.

When Annie discovers that her brother might still be alive—and in trouble—she shakes off her malaise and joins forces with Mano Oana, the unnervingly handsome family friend she had always blamed for her brother’s death.

As Annie and Mano investigate—and find that they have a lot more in common than tragedy—an evil force gathers strength on the main island. An ancient cult has reemerged—and Annie’s little sister is somehow involved. As the old religion bubbles to the surface like lava, the old practices are not far behind . . . including human sacrifice.

Annie and Mano are desperate to find her brother and save her family from destruction before the ancient evil smothers them all in an earth-shattering eruption.

This is the second book in the Aloha Reef Series. Have you read it yet? I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

The post Black Sands by Colleen Coble appeared first on Lilys Reading Corner.

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MY REVIEW: This is the second book in the Another Bailey Brother Series and it is so so good! I absolutely loved it and that epilogue?!?! I think that is the best one I’ve ever read I love it so much
The way that Owen is SO smitten with Annie is I love a man who yearns
I love Owen’s students, Grandma Elsie, little Alice, Bucky, and Steve, Annie and Levi’s relationship, the secret tattoo, yeah pretty much everything about this book

He Falls First
Best Friends to Lovers
Golden Retriever MMC
Yearning
She’s His Matchmaker
Only One Bed

: Kisses Only
: None

OVERVIEW: Dear Ask Annie,
I know my best friend is THE ONE. But how do I tell her that?


Annie Archer has a problem… She can’t get one email—one mind-boggling letter from her advice column out of her head. The one? Does the one even exist?

She should be able to answer this question, just like all the others. Except, she doesn’t have firsthand experience with the one. In fact, except for those few months back in tenth grade when she went temporarily insane and fell for her best friend—she’s never been in love. But then, her advice is based on research and facts, not experience.

So, time to research. Convincing Owen to be her hands-on experiment isn’t too difficult. She’ll set him up, use her guaranteed advice, and find him the girl of his dreams. It’s a foolproof plan… until everyone around them—including half her readers–start asking why she isn’t dating Owen.

Yep—Annie has BIG problems. At the top of the list—falling for her bestie.

Owen Bailey has—you guessed it—a problem. He’s found the one. He fell for his best friend a long time ago, even if she doesn’t know it. He’s been watching Annie go out with guy after guy, only to never be The Guy. And now she wants him to date other women? As in—not her?

He’ll do anything for Annie. But he doesn’t have to like it. Doesn’t she see that they were meant for each other? How can he convince her that he’s the one?

If he’s going to show Annie that it’s time for her to abandon her plans and see what’s right in front of her, he’ll need advice.

Lucky for him, he knows exactly who to ask.

Have you read this one yet? I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

The post Owen Bailey Needs Advice by Jen Atkinson appeared first on Lilys Reading Corner.

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MY REVIEW:A friends to lovers romance with playful banter and just enough mystery/suspense to keep you on the edge of your seat! I read this one in one sitting
I love love love this book! The MCs were so fun! Their chemistry was amazing! The storyline flowed well, all around a phenomenal read!

Regency Romance
Friends to Lovers
Marriage of Convenience
He Falls First
Playful Banter
Scandalized Lady
Reluctant Heir

: Kisses Only
: None

OVERVIEW: When duty collides with desire, can love rewrite their fate?

Mr. Evander Addington had his life carefully mapped out—a quiet, predictable future as a Fellow at Oxford. But everything changed when his older brother unexpectedly passed away, making Evander the reluctant heir to an earldom. Suddenly thrust into the spotlight of the ton, Evander finds himself in a world he never wanted to be a part of. The only decision still within his control? Whom he would marry. And for that, he chooses the one woman he’s always loved—Lady Olivia Kendall.

After a scandal ruined her reputation, Olivia never dreamed of marriage. Branded by Society, she had resigned herself to a quiet life as a spinster. So when Evander—her dearest friend—proposes a marriage of convenience, she is torn. The union could restore her standing, but what would it cost him? And would he come to resent the very offer that could save her?

As they embark on their new life together, the tension around them grows undeniable. Someone is determined to force Evander’s hand, and Olivia may soon find herself in the scheme. With each mounting threat, a single, unexpected kiss breaks through her carefully built defenses and changes everything. Now Olivia must decide: will she risk their friendship—and her heart—for a chance at true love?

As the fifth novel in the Courting the Unconventional series by author Laura Beers, Pursuing His Viscountess continues the series. This is a light-hearted, clean and wholesome romance set in the Regency era. All books in this series have their own Happily-Ever-After and are best enjoyed in proper order.


Other series by Laura Beers include The Beckett Files, Regency Brides: A Promise of Love, Proper Regency Matchmakers, Regency Spies & Secrets, Gentlemen of London, Lords & Ladies of Mayfair and The Lockwood Family.

The post Pursuing His Viscountess by Laura Beers appeared first on Lilys Reading Corner.

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MY REVIEW: Ahhh I always love a good regency romance! Noah and Hannah’s relationship was so sweet and I loved the progression of it! This was such a fun story to read, and it was nearly impossible to put down! Very entertaining! 
My internal thoughts while reading:
– Ugh, I really don’t like Hannah’s mother, i mean really, why is she the way that she is?
– I adore Hannah and Sarah’s friendship
– Hannah’s personality is my favorite! 
– He said THANK YOU?!?!
– NOOOO, don’t fall for it!!!
– The ballroom scene at the food table had my laughing so much
– Ahhh loved the ending so much and that epilogue was so sweet!

Regency Romance 
Slow Burn 
Never Been Kissed
Friends to Lovers 
They Save Each Other
Laugh Out Loud Scenes 

: Kisses Only
: None 

OVERVIEW: Hannah Gibbons is no stranger to being seen as little more than her dowry—a prize to be claimed by eager suitors for their own gain and a tool to be used by her parents to elevate their social status. So whenever Hannah’s impetuous nature strikes, her parents assume their name sullied, and pack up and move away to start fresh. But now Hannah has more at stake—friendships, and even love, are on the table, and she is determined not to lose it this time.

Lord Noah Bradley, a man of kindness and quiet integrity, has long dreamed of marrying, but when his heartfelt proposal to Miss Margaret Lewiston is rejected, his spirit is shattered. Left to face the sting of heartbreak, he struggles to regain his footing as life’s unexpected challenges—both in his relationships and his work—threaten to overwhelm him. But his new friendship with Miss Hannah Gibbons begins to help him find comfort and solace.

Will Noah’s heart find new hope in the woman who has become his greatest ally? Or will he remain too lost in the shadows of his past to recognize the love right in front of him?

Have you read this one yet? Let me know your thoughts in the comments!

The post A Beguiled Gentleman by Audra Wells appeared first on Lilys Reading Corner.

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MY REVIEW: Oh my word, August is so smitten Marlow and all the accents had me rolling with laughter this book had me giggling and kicking my feet the whole way through it is such a phenomenal read! The library scene is my absolute favorite and the movie-watching scene and chapter 20 and the entire book I am obsessed with this book! 

FOUR YEARS?!?!?!? Talk about a man who years

This is the second book in the Rumors of Cape Georgeana Series and it can be read as a standalone or in order or release! 

Single Parent 

He Falls First

Single POV 

Small Town 

Friends to Lovers

He Takes Care Of Her

: None

: Kisses Only 

OVERVIEW: Sweet. Savory. Slightly unhinged. Who doesn’t want a love story like that?

I, Marlow Brown, do not.

I have goals. I run a diner, and I’m saving for a beach vacation where a man who looks like Cristiano Ronaldo serves me drinks in coconuts. I’m also raising my teenage brother. Helping Brady reach adulthood without going to juvie is my top priority—along with teaching him to drive and keeping the truth about him a secret. Minor goals.

I just have to put out the literal fire in my kitchen first.

Luckily, my friend August is here to help. He’s always here—putting out fires, rescuing me from the walk-in fridge, and being way too observant for comfort. Usually, I repay him in pancakes, but I’m starting to suspect he wants something else.

(Me. August wants me. I’m afraid I might want him, too. And we’re going to mess up all of my plans.)

Bacon Pancakes is a small-town, friends-to-lovers romcom with nothing explicit, but plenty of swoon. And pancakes. There are lots of pancakes. 

Book two in the Rumors of Cape Georgeana series, but can be read as a standalone.

• Have you read this one yet? Let me know your thoughts in the comments!

The post Bacon Pancakes by Elise Haynes appeared first on Lilys Reading Corner.

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MY REVIEW: The store scene in chapter 9 is one of my favorite parts of the book this is such a beautifully written redemptive story about two childhood best friends that had feelings for each other but the time was just never right and they end up drifting apart. Fast forward to 10 years later and they are thrown back together to work side by side on remodeling a failing inn that they both loved as kids. While dealing with some hard things they heal and grow together and therein blooms a beautiful relationship
“You didn’t get left because you weren’t enough. He left because he couldn’t meet you where you shine.” Love this quotes so much

Best Friends to Lovers
Jilted Bride
He Falls First
Nutcracker-Inspired Romcom
Christmas Season
Second Chance Romance
Small Town

: Kisses Only
: None

I rated this 4

OVERVIEW: Sometimes the sweetest love stories aren’t choreographed—they’re discovered.

When my fiancé leaves me on our wedding day, going home is the last thing I want—until it becomes the only place left to start over.

Storybook Ridge is supposed to be a temporary reset… except I walk straight back into the arms of Colton Atwood.
My best friend. My almost. The boy I never kissed—and the man I never stopped comparing everyone else to.

Now he’s restoring the Sugar Plum Inn, a place practically stitched together with Christmas magic. And when the walls start humming with familiar music, and the lights flicker like they’re trying to tell me something, I can’t ignore the truth:

This town—and this man—still feel like home.

Then Colton secretly signs us up as partners for the Christmas Tour of Homes, and suddenly we’re tangled in twinkle lights, late-night projects, and feelings I promised myself I’d never revisit.

I’m afraid of choosing wrong.
He’s afraid I’ll run again.
But the magic of the Sugar Plum Inn has other plans… and so does my heart.This book was previously published as Love at the Sugar Plum Inn, but has been altered and expanded.

Once Upon a Sugar Plum is a cozy, closed-door, (light) magical-realism Christmas romance featuring best friends to lovers, second chances, small-town charm, holiday magic, he falls first, she’s scared to, home renovation bonding, one couch, and a Nutcracker-themed enchantment that brings them back together.

Have you read this one yet? Let me know your thoughts in the comments!

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