Romance Level: Kisses Only
 Language: 3 uses of hll, 2 uses of dmn
 Genre: Contemporary Romance
 Lily’s Verdict:  Soft DNF (30%)

My Thoughts:

I had such high hopes for this cozy fall romance Unfortunately, I struggled to connect with the FMC, and her personality just wasn’t clicking with me. By around 30%, I found myself losing interest and decided it was time to set this one aside.

I’m calling this a soft DNF because I really did love the autumn atmosphere and the adorable premise! I may give it another chance someday when I’m more in the mood for this type of story

The post Soft DNF – Pumpkin Spice And Not So Nice by Becky Monson appeared first on Lilys Reading Corner.

Genre: Biography/Memoirs 
Lily’s verdict: Loved it 

This was such a fascinating collection of stories! I felt so inspired and empowered reading about these women and the impact they made throughout history.

Some of the women featured were already familiar to me, while others I knew very little about, so I loved getting to learn more about their lives and accomplishments.

I also really enjoyed the author’s storytelling style and the way she brought each woman’s experiences to life. It made their stories feel incredibly engaging and personal rather than simply reading a collection of historical facts.

Overall, this was such an inspiring and fascinating read, and I’m so glad I picked it up

Non Fiction
Feminism 
Historical
Biography/Memoirs

BLURB: Her America recognizes eight remarkable women who refused to wait for permission to prove a woman’s worth in society. They fought for American independence, the abolition of slavery, women’s suffrage, and civil rights with their pens and their voices, empowered by their unwavering convictions and courage, to challenge the status quo. Through vivid fictional vignettes and meticulously researched nonfiction accounts, Her America immerses readers in these women’s crucial role in transforming this nation.

Mercy Otis Warren ignited a revolution with her politically impassioned plays and became the first published female historian of America.
Sojourner Truth electrified audiences with her “Ain’t I a Woman?” speech and turned her freedom into a crusade for abolition and equality.
Elizabeth Cady Stanton authored the Declaration of Sentiments, launching the women’s suffrage movement.
Susan B. Anthony built an unstoppable campaign for women’s voting rights that reshaped American democracy.
Harriet Tubman rescued enslaved families through the Underground Railroad and later commanded Union troops to freedom.
Eleanor Roosevelt redefined the role of First Lady and shaped the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Jovita Idár founded schools, organized resistance, and wielded her pen to defend Mexican American civil rights.
Marguerite Higgins broke barriers as a Pulitzer Prize–winning frontline war correspondent.

Her America is an essential addition to any collection on women’s history, social justice, and the power of courage in action. It is perfect for classrooms, book clubs, and libraries, as it invites discussion, inspires leadership, and connects past to present with clarity and mastery.

The post Her America by Heather B. Moore appeared first on Lilys Reading Corner.

Romance level: Kisses only
Language: None
Content Warning: past loss of sibling
Genre: Historical Fiction
Lily’s verdict: Loved it

Okay, there were definitely some tears shed with this one

I absolutely loved Violet and her fiery personality! Her banter with Cyril was SO much fun, and watching their relationship slowly develop throughout the story made the payoff that much sweeter. The rivals-to-lovers + slow burn combination was perfection

And young Cyril?! He was so incredibly sweet and precious with Violet. Their past added so much emotion to the story and made me even more invested in seeing where their relationship would go.

I also really enjoyed the dual timeline and getting to slowly piece together their history. There were moments that genuinely broke my heart, but that made the ending even more satisfying

And THAT ENDING!! Such a beautiful way to bring everything together

Overall, this was such a wonderful historical romance, emotional, sweet, full of fantastic banter, and a love story that was absolutely worth waiting for!

Rivals to Lovers
Historical Fiction
Dual Timeline
Slow Burn
Forced Proximity
“It’s Always Been You”

BLURB: Violet Whittemore has spent her life proving she’s every bit as capable as the men who doubt her. Opening Locke Hill College for Exceptional Young Women is her greatest triumph—a school where girls can learn, grow, and become extraordinary. But when her father appoints her childhood nemesis, Cyril Burke, as headmaster, Violet vows to fight for what she’s built. 

In a daring move, she proposes a challenge: for one season, she and Cyril will share the position. At the end of the term, the one who proves most successful will assume the role permanently. 

The two had always been rivals, sparring over books, facts, and games of marbles. But with Locke Hill’s future on the line, their old competition burns brighter than ever. And though Violet tells herself she can’t stand Cyril Burke, she can’t seem to look away from the man he’s become—handsome, confident, and far too compelling for her peace of mind. 

With the future of the school hanging in the balance, one season will decide who deserves to lead. But the closer they work together, the clearer it becomes that the only thing worth winning is each other’s heart.

Click the photo above to read this fantastic story!

The post Hearts Of Locke Hill by Krista Jenson appeared first on Lilys Reading Corner.

Lily’s Content Guide
Romance level: Kisses only
Language: None 
Content Warning: past loss of parent
Genre: Contemporary romance
Lily’s verdict: Really enjoyed it

This story made me want to book a flight to Rome immediately It was such a fun, charming romcom filled with beautiful scenery, witty banter, and plenty of sweet moments.

The chemistry between the MCs was instant, and their playful rivalry made their relationship so entertaining to watch unfold. I especially loved all of the puns, they had me smiling the entire time The fact that they appreciated each other’s jokes when no one else did was one of my favorite little details.

The only thing I’d mention is that there are a few sections with heavier information dumping, so it does require a bit more focus while reading. Once I settled into the story, though, I really enjoyed it.

If you’re looking for a romance that feels like a summer getaway through Rome, this one is definitely worth adding to your TBR

Summer Travels
Rome Setting
Flirty Banter
Only One Vespa
Photo Contest
Rivals to Lovers

BLURB: You can’t fall in love with someone who lives somewhere else and expect a happily-ever-after.

Lexi Walker has finally committed to the Italian adventure that she and her late mother dreamed of for years–complete with a meticulously crafted itinerary, four sealed letters to open at Rome’s most iconic sites, and her mother’s final painting to present at the art festival Lexi is helping organize. She’s ready for the perfect Roman getaway. What she doesn’t expect is for her mother’s artwork to start manifesting in real life, turning her carefully planned trip into something unpredictable.

Italian-American architect Mark Russo has sworn off American tourists after having his heart broken, and he’s certainly not about to let another one distract him from winning the restoration bid that could reunite his estranged father with his grandfather. But when the captivating woman next to him on the flight to Rome proposes a photography challenge–whoever captures the heart of Italy in seven days wins–Mark can’t resist the bet or her charm. 

As Lexi follows the letters from her mother around the city, she encounters Mark everywhere she goes. Their competitive banter turns to undeniable chemistry, but they both know the cardinal rule of holiday romances. Will a little magic–and a lot of mishaps–break the Roman Holiday Rule?

Click the photo above to read this adorable story!

The post The Roman Holiday Rule by Andra Loy appeared first on Lilys Reading Corner.

: Innuendo, Kisses Only (before DNF)
: 30 uses of d*mn
6 uses of a**hole
39 uses of h*ll
11 uses of a**
1 use of d*ck

DNF

The post DNF – The Quit List by Katie Bailey appeared first on Lilys Reading Corner.

Unfortunately, this one just wasn’t the right fit for me. I loved the cozy fall setting and the cat café premise, but I struggled to connect with the writing style and never became invested in the characters. At nearly a third of the way through, the story still felt slow to me, and I found myself having a hard time staying engaged.

This is very much a personal preference, and I can absolutely see readers who enjoy slower paced, cozy small-town romances appreciating it more than I did. Since I wasn’t connecting with the story, I decided it was best to DNF rather than continue when it wasn’t holding my interest.

The post DNF – Autumn At The Cat Cafe by Kathleen Fuller appeared first on Lilys Reading Corner.

One thing I wasn’t expecting was how invested I became in Julia’s storyline! I almost found myself wanting her story just as much as Jeremy and Amelia’s, and I would have loved to see her get her own book.

The only part that didn’t quite work for me was the last portion of the story. Amelia’s indecision went on a little longer than I would have liked, and I found myself wishing things had been resolved a bit sooner. Even so, I still really enjoyed the journey and had a hard time putting this one down.

Enemies to Lovers Vibes
Historical Fiction
He Falls First 
Best Friend’s Brother
Opposites Attract 
Pride and Prejudice Vibes 

: Kisses Only 
: None 
: sexual assault 

BLURB: Of all London’s eligible suitors, why did the most impossible gentleman have to be the most unforgettable? 

When Amelia Moore is invited to London for the social Season, she hopes for a chance at love–but certainly not with Jeremy Beaumont, the Season’s most sought-after bachelor. Upon making the acquaintance of his sister Juliet at her first ball, Amelia becomes fast friends with her, but Jeremy’s protective nature leads him to question her motives, and he accuses Amelia of using his sister to capture his attention and fortune. Outraged at his arrogance, Amelia vows never to speak to him again, which proves a more difficult feat than she anticipated. 

As Amelia attracts the attention of other wealthy gentlemen, Jeremy feels compelled to warn her away from certain suitors, a goodwill gesture that she does not appreciate. When an unexpected circumstance threatens Juliet’s reputation, Amelia and Jeremy are forced to confront their undeniable attraction–and discover whether their battle of wills has actually been a dance toward love.

Click the photo above to read this story!

The post A Mismatch Made In London by Melanie Dickerson appeared first on Lilys Reading Corner.

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.

Click the photo above to read this story!

The post Love Is For The Birds by Halli M. Castro appeared first on Lilys Reading Corner.

Christian Fiction
Dark Themes
Vigilante 
Hidden Identity
He Saves Her
Thriller 

: 18 uses of h*ll, 2 uses of p*nis
: Eating Disorder, Emotional Abuse, Mental Illness, Addiction, Toxic Relationship, Sex Slavery, Murder, Violence, Drug Abuse, Body Shaming, Domestic Abuse, Kidnapping, Rape(not shown)

OVERVIEW: Two abandoned souls are on the hunt for one powerful man. Soon, their paths will cross and lead to one twisted fate.

Danny Hansen is a Bosnian immigrant who came to America with hopes of escaping haunted memories of a tragic war that took his mother’s life. Now he’s a priest who lives by a law of love and compassion. It is powerful men and hypocrites who abide by legal law but eschew the law of love that most incense Danny. As an avenging angel, he believes it is his duty to show them the error of their ways, at any cost. 

Renee Gilmore is the frail and helpless victim of one such powerful man. Having escaped his clutches, she now lives only to satisfy justice by destroying him, regardless of whom she must become in that pursuit.

But when Danny and Renee’s paths become inexorably entangled things go very, very badly and neither of them may make it out of this hunt alive.

Judge not, or you too will be judged.

Click the photo above to read this fast paced thriller

The post The Priest’s Graveyard by Ted Dekker appeared first on Lilys Reading Corner.

I found myself feeling for both characters throughout the story. Libby had been through so much, and while her hesitation was understandable, there were moments when my heart especially went out to Jordan as he tried to navigate the mixed signals and uncertainty.

One aspect I really enjoyed was the suspense element. The mystery added an extra layer to the story and kept me interested in seeing how everything would unfold

Overall, this one had some enjoyable moments, but I personally would have loved a little more emotional depth and relationship development between the main characters.

Marriage of Convenience
Billionaire FMC
Only One Bed
Suspense Elements
Slow Burn 
Golden Retriever MMC

: 1 Fade to Black scene that is very non-descriptive, Kisses Only 
: None

BLURB: This marriage is strictly a business deal. Zero romance and zero chance I’ll let a charming guy ruin everything again.

Ten years ago I blew up my life on national television. Now I’m taking control of the narrative—buying a hockey team and trading on the sport’s popularity to guarantee that everyone is paying attention when I step back into the spotlight on my terms.

There’s just one problem. The league board won’t approve the deal unless I look … stable.

So I propose to my new consultant, former pro hockey player, Jordan Atkinson.

That’s right. Propose marriage … nothing says stable like an impromptu engagement.

Now we’re telling the world we’ve been secretly in love for six months—convincing my family, surviving the cameras, and pretending this is all very real.

Because it’s not supposed to be.

Except Jordan is exactly the kind of man I swore I’d never trust again: charming, confident, and way too good at getting past my defenses. So I set rules. Firm boundaries.

But he keeps proving me wrong. Respecting my limits, showing up when it matters, and making me question everything I thought I knew about men like him.

And that’s the most dangerous story of all.

Libby Bennet Fakes a Husband is a closed-door, marriage of convenience hockey romance with a one bed situation, forced proximity, and a heroine who refuses to be charmed by the hot hockey player.

Click the photo above to read this story!

The post Libby Bennet Fakes A Husband by Ranee S. Clark appeared first on Lilys Reading Corner.