Favorite Books of 2023!

Hi, everyone! I wanted to share my favorite reads of 2023. I decided to keep to just five titles per category, to have it really be my favorite books of the year (because I read a lot of books I enjoyed, but these were the books I loved the most this year)! I’m also only including one book per author, even though a few could have had more here!

(And thank you to the publishers who I got e-ARCs from for a bunch of these books!)

Do we have any of the same favorites?

And I hope you all have a very Happy New Year 2024! :)

Blog Tour: Technically Yours - Review!

Technically Yours by Denise Williams

Seven years ago, he fell in love with a stranger he couldn’t have—today, she’s back in his life and the sparks between them threaten to set her career on fire.

Pearl Harris has learned the hard way to be careful in work and in love. When she is appointed acting director of OurCode, a nonprofit aimed at inspiring high schoolers to code, she has a chance to make lasting change for the organization, but a scandal has put their reputation at risk. Further complicating matters, Pearl didn’t expect the one man she hasn’t stopped thinking about in seven years to be the newest member of her board of directors.

Cord Matthews fell for Pearl when they met in an elevator seven years ago. She’s just his type: smart, capable, and makes him laugh, but when she broke his heart, he decided love wasn’t for him. After five years with no contact, their connection is immediate despite the many roadblocks in their way and Cord must consider breaking his ban on serious relationships. But going public with a romance between them might derail Pearl’s career and the progress she’s made at OurCode. 

Pearl and Cord both are hesitant to trust their feelings and take a risk as they grow closer, but it becomes impossible to keep ignoring the electricity between them. Cord is a skilled programmer, but a workplace romance might spell disaster for both of them, and love isn’t easily debugged.

-summary and cover via Goodreads 

Review: I really enjoyed reading this romance! Great characters, and I loved the ending! Overall, I would definitely recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Blog Tour: CHRISTMAS IN THE CROSSHAIRS - Author Guest Post - Review - Giveaway!

Christmas in the Crosshairs (Love Inspired Suspense) by Deena Alexander

Author Guest Post:

Since it’s the holiday season, I thought it would be fun to share a delicious, easy-to-make recipe.
 

My father has baked cookies every Christmas for as long as I can remember, and my all-time favorites are his Italian Rainbow Cookies! I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.

Rainbow Cookies

 
INGREDIENTS:
4 Eggs
1 Cup sugar
1 Cup flour
3 Tsp. almond extract
3 Tbsp. Amaretto 
2 Sticks melted margarine
Food coloring: Red, yellow, green
1 Bag semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 jar Apricot or Raspberry jam or jelly (whichever you prefer)
 
DIRECTIONS;
 
Preheat oven to 350
 
Beat eggs and sugar together. Add flour and stir. Add Amaretto, almond extract, and melted margarine. Beat well. Separate into three bowls (an even amount of batter in each bowl). Add one color food coloring to each bowl (until batter is desired color).

Spray three 9 X 11 disposable baking pans with non-stick spray. Pour one color batter into each pan and spread evenly. Bake at 350 for 14 – 15 minutes (cooks quickly, so watch closely and remove if browning). Remove and let cool.

Melt chocolate chips.

Once cool, spread apricot or raspberry jelly over one colored sheet. Put next sheet on top of it. Spread a layer of jelly over that sheet. Put next sheet on top. Cover top layer with the melted chocolate chips – spread thin. 

Cut into small rectangles and enjoy!

Those look absolutely delicious!

About Christmas in the Crosshairs

 Christmas in the Crosshairs (Love Inspired Suspense) Inspirational Romantic Suspense Setting – Seaport, Long Island, New York Love Inspired Suspense (November 28, 2023) Mass Market Paperback ‏ : ‎ 224 pages ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1335597794 ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1335597793 Digital ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0BTJ3BSJW

A baby in need of protection— and a hitman in pursuit.

After evading an attack, defense attorney Adam Spencer is on the run from a dangerous hitman. The killer’s wife is Adam’s only hope at apprehending the criminal—until she lands in the hospital. Now he must depend on her twin sister, Jaelyn Reed, to find the answers they need…all while protecting the baby niece Jaelyn didn’t know she had. But with threats at every turn, trust may be the deadliest trap…

From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.

My Review:

I really enjoyed reading this Love Inspired Suspense book! Jaelyn and Adam were great main characters, and even though they had been through horrible things, I loved getting to see them find happiness. The epilogue was a fantastic ending! Overall, I would definitely recommend this romance novel!

I received a finished copy from the blog tour company/publisher.

About Deena Alexander

Deena grew up in a small town on the south shore of eastern Long Island, where she met and married her high school sweetheart. She recently relocated to Florida with her husband, three kids, a son-in-law, and four dogs. Now she enjoys long walks in nature all year long, despite the occasional alligator or snake she sometimes encounters. Deena's love for writing developed when her youngest son was born and didn't sleep through the night, and she now works full-time as a writer and a freelance editor.

Author Links:

• Webpage: http://deenaalexander.com/index.html
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• Blog: http://deenaalexander.com/blog.html
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• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DeenaAlexanderAuthor
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• Twitter: https://twitter.com/DeenaAlexanderA
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• Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/20382104.Deena_Alexander
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• BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/deena-alexander
​
• Newsletter: https://gmail.us10.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=d7e6e9ecdc0888d7324788ffc&id=42d52965df

Purchase Links - Amazon B&N Kobo Harlequin Apple Google Play 

TOUR PARTICIPANTS

November 28 – Maureen's Musings – REVIEW 

November 28 – Just Another Teen Reading Books - REVIEW, AUTHOR GUEST POST November 29 – Mystery, Thrillers & Suspense – SPOTLIGHT 

November 29 – Because I said so -- and other adventures in Parenting – REVIEW 

November 30 – The Avid Reader – REVIEW, INDIVIDUAL GIVEAWAY

November 30 – Diane’s Book Journal – SPOTLIGHT

December 1 – Christy's Cozy Corners - REVIEW, CHARACTER GUEST POST, INDIVIDUAL GIVEAWAY

December 2 – fundinmental – SPOTLIGHT

December 3 – Celticlady's Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

December 3 – #BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee – SPOTLIGHT

December 4 – Reading Is My SuperPower – REVIEW

December 5 – Guatemala Paula Loves to Read – REVIEW

December 6 – Hearts & Scribbles – SPOTLIGHT

December 6 – Sapphyria's Books – REVIEW

December 7 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW

December 7 – Novels Alive – REVIEW

December 8 – Ruff Drafts – AUTHOR GUEST POST

December 8 – Angel's Book Nook – SPOTLIGHT

December 9 – Lady Hawkeye – SPOTLIGHT

December 10 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – SPOTLIGHT

December 11 – Literary Gold – SPOTLIGHT

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Review: Myrtle, Means, and Opportunity!

Review: Myrtle, Means, and Opportunity Elizabeth C. Bunce

In the fifth book of the Edgar Award-winning series, Myrtle Hardcastle uncovers a string of murders during a treasure hunt on a haunted Scottish estate. When her governess inherits an estate on a Scottish island, amateur detective Myrtle Hardcastle couldn't be more excited. Unfortunately, the ancestral castle is both run-down and haunted. Ghostly moans echo in the walls, and there are rumors of a cursed treasure lost on the island—an ancient silver brooch that may have cost the former lord his life. But who had the motive, means, and opportunity to kill him? And could this Scottish trip mean the end of Myrtle's plans to get her father and governess together?

Then Myrtle's investigation stirs a villain out of hiding. The estate’s boat is stolen, so there’s no escape from the island. Myrtle is forced to play a deadly game, hunting for the brooch with a thief breathing down her neck—someone who will stop at nothing to get the treasure, even if it means murder.

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Review: This book was absolutely wonderful! My heart felt so full after finishing it. I loved getting to read about all the characters who returned in this book, and getting to meet all the new ones, as well. The mystery was really well written, and while I figured out part of it, I didn’t guess everything, which is always fun in a mystery novel. The setting was fantastic. And the ending!! I had such a big smile on my face, with a certain event that happened (no spoilers, but I think avid fans of the series will be as happy as I was while reading.) at the end. I would happily read many more Myrtle books! Overall, I loved MYRTLE, MEANS, AND OPPORTUNITY, and I highly recommend the Myrtle Hardcastle series to anyone who enjoys a good mystery, with wonderful characters!

I received an ARC from the publisher.

Blog Tour: The Wake-Up Call - Review!

The Wake-Up Call by Beth O'Leary

Two hotel receptionists—and arch-rivals—find a collection of old wedding rings and compete to return them to their owners, discovering their own love story along the way.

It’s the busiest season of the year, and Forest Manor Hotel is quite literally falling apart. So when Izzy and Lucas are given the same shift on the hotel’s front desk, they have no choice but to put their differences aside and see it through.

The hotel won't stay afloat beyond Christmas without some sort of miracle. But when Izzy returns a guest’s lost wedding ring, the reward convinces management that this might be the way to fix everything. With four rings still sitting in the lost & found, the race is on for Izzy and Lucas to save their beloved hotel—and their jobs.

As their bitter rivalry turns into something much more complicated, Izzy and Lucas begin to wonder if there's more at stake here than the hotel's future. Can the two of them make it through the season with their hearts intact?

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Review: This was a lovely read! I really enjoyed the plot. I thought Izzy and Lucas were wonderful! The ending was my favorite part! Overall, I would definitely recommend this adult romance!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Review: Case of the Bleus!

Review: Case of the Bleus by Korina Moss

What in the bleu blazes is happening in Yarrow Glen now?

Cheesemongers from across the Northwest have come to the Sonoma Valley for the Northwest Cheese Invitational. As owner of the local cheese shop, Curds & Whey, Willa Bauer loves it. The event showcases custom cheese creations, and it’s the perfect time to gather with old colleagues to honor her former boss, the late and grate cheese legend, Max Dumas. He was famous for journeying into the wild bleu yonder to where he aged his award-winning custom Church Bleu. Only Max knew the recipe and location to his beloved cheese, and many are eager to have these revealed at his will reading.

But instead of naming someone to inherit his cheese and its secrets, Max stuns everyone with one cryptic clue. When a fellow cheesemonger dies under mysterious circumstances––the woman they all thought would get the secrets to Max's prized possession––everyone falls under suspicion. Willa adores Church Bleu as much as the next cheese connoisseur, but it’s not to die for . Is a killer trying to get away with murder...and the cheese?

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Review: This was another five star read from Korina Moss! The Cheese Shop Mysteries are one of my favorite cozy series, and I absolutely loved this newest book. I don't want to say too much about the mystery aspect, but I will say I thought it was really well written, and I loved the treasure hunt part of it! And the personal lives of all the characters got a little advancement in this book, which I really enjoyed.

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Review: It Found Us!

Review: It Found Us by Lindsay Currie

From the author of Scritch Scratch and The Girl in White comes a new spooky mystery about a girl detective who must decode a series of ominous clues tied to a century-old tragedy to find a missing teenager before it’s too late…

Twelve-year-old Hazel Woods has always had an unusual knack for sleuthing. Some may call it snooping, but all she really wants is to solve mysteries around town. So, when she not-so-accidentally overhears her brother Den planning to sneak into the cemetery at night for an epic game of hide-and-seek, she decides to secretly tag along. This seems like the perfect opportunity to investigate the claims that the cemetery is haunted.

But the moment the game ends, Hazel realizes something is very, very wrong. From her hiding spot in the bushes, she overhears that her brother’s best friend, Everett, is missing. Everyone else was found by the seeker but there’s no sign of Everett anywhere. It’s as if he just . . . vanished

Hazel and Den are determined to find Everett before it’s too late. But as they begin to unravel the terrifying clues that started appearing since that night in the graveyard–eerie whispers that sound like someone counting, the intermittent smell of smoke, and the cold, lost presence that follows them everywhere, she’s not sure what they are dealing with. But Everett needs more than search parties and scent-tracking dogs to find him, especially if his disappearance is tied to the history of the cemetery, and the lost, century-old spirits that might still be trapped there.

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Review: This was another wonderfully spooky Middle Grade book from Lindsay Currie! Hazel was a great main character, and I thought it was so fun that she loved solving mysteries, and being a sleuth. (It had young Nancy Drew vibes!) There were lots of genuinely creepy moments throughout the book. The reason behind the hauntings was so well written, and made me cry, but I won't share anything else about that, because I don't want to spoil anything. Overall, I loved this book, and I highly recommend it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Review: Codename Charming!

Review: Codename Charming by Lucy Parker

Following Battle Royal, beloved author Lucy Parker pens another delicious romantic comedy about a fake relationship between a grumpy royal bodyguard and the charming, sunny assistant who melts his cold, hard exterior.

Petunia De Vere enjoys being the personal assistant to lovable, bumbling Johnny Marchmont. But the job has its share of challenges, including the royal's giant, intimidating bodyguard, Matthias. Pet and Matthias are polar opposites--she's spontaneous and enthusiastic, he's rigid and stoic--but she can sense there's something softer underneath that tough exterior...

For Matthias Vaughn, protecting others is the name of the game. But keeping his royal charge out of trouble is more difficult than he imagined because everywhere Johnny goes, calamity ensues, and his petite, bubbly assistant is often caught in the fray. Matthias hates the idea of Pet getting hurt and he's determined to keep everyone safe, even if it means clashing with his adorable new coworker.

When a clumsy moment leads to a questionable tabloid photo, the press begins to speculate that Pet is romantically involved with Johnny. To put an end to the rumors, the royal PR team asks Pet and Matthias to stage a fake relationship and the two reluctantly agree. But as they spend more time together outside of work, they begin to wonder what real emotions this pretend connection might uncover. Especially when a passionate kiss leaves both of their heads spinning...

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Review: This was one of my most anticipated reads for 2023, and I am happy to report it lived up to all my expectations! I loved BATTLE ROYAL (which is about Dominic and Sylvie), but I knew I would end up loving this one more, and I was right! Pet was a favorite character from the first book, and from the scene at the end of it (no spoilers, but if you’ve read it you know what I’m talking about), I knew Matthias and Pet’s book would be fantastic. They are absolutely adorable together. I just love them so much!

I also loved getting to see characters from the first book again, and meeting new ones as well. They are all so well written, and unique. The ending was wonderful. I highly recommend this book, I totally and completely loved it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Review: Ghosted!

Review: Ghosted by Amanda Quain

Never Have I Ever meets The X-Files in Amanda Quain's Ghosted, a gender-bent contemporary retelling of the Jane Austen classic, Northanger Abbey.

Hattie Tilney isn’t a believer. Yes, she’s a senior at America’s most (allegedly) haunted high school, Northanger Abbey. But ever since her paranormal-loving dad passed away, she’s hung up her Ghostbusters suit, put away the EMF detectors and thermal cameras, and moved on. She has enough to worry about in the land of the living--like taking care of her younger brother, Liam, while their older sister spirals out and their mother, Northanger’s formidable headmistress, buries herself in her work. If Hattie just works hard enough and keeps that overachiever mask on tight through graduation, maybe her mom will finally notice her.

But the mask starts slipping when Hattie’s assigned to be an ambassador to Kit Morland, a golden retriever of a boy who’s transferred to Northanger on—what else—a ghost-hunting scholarship. The two are partnered up for an investigative project on the school’s paranormal activity, and Hattie quickly strikes a deal: Kit will present whatever ghostly evidence he can find to prove that campus is haunted, and Hattie will prove that it’s not. But as they explore the abandoned tunnels and foggy graveyards of Northanger, Hattie starts to realize that Kit might be the kind of person that makes her want to believe in something—and someone—for the first time.

With her signature wit and slow burn romance, Amanda Quain turns another Austen classic on its head in this sparkling retelling that proves sometimes the ghosts are just a metaphor after all.

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Review: Amanda Quain's debut novel, ACCOMPLISHED, made my favorite books post the year I read it. So I went into this book with high expectations. Were they met? Absolutely! This was another fantastic book from this author. It was messy, and happy, and sad, and I think, in the end, hopeful. I loved Hattie as a main character, and reading about her growing throughout the story was wonderful. My heart broke for her at multiple points during the book, but getting to see her journey was great. I thought all the side characters were well written, from Kit, to her family, and her friend group. And I loved the ending! Overall, I would highly recommend this YA book!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Review: All Alone with You!

Review: All Alone with You by Amelia Diane Coombs

HBO Max’s Hacks gets a romantic twist in the vein of Jenn Bennett in this swoon-worthy novel about a standoffish teen girl whose loner status gets challenged by a dynamic elderly woman and a perpetually cheerful boy.

Eloise Deane is the worst and doesn’t care who knows it. She’s grumpy, prefers to be alone, and is just slogging through senior year with one goal: get accepted to USC and move to California. So when her guidance counselor drops the bombshell that to score a scholarship she’ll desperately need, her applications require volunteer hours, Eloise is up for the challenge. Until she’s paired with LifeCare, a volunteer agency that offers social support to lonely seniors through phone calls and visits. Basically, it’s a total nightmare for Eloise’s anxiety.

Eloise realizes she’s made a huge mistake—especially when she’s paired with Austin, the fellow volunteer who’s the sunshine to her cloudy day. But as Eloise and Austin work together to keep Marianne Landis—the mysterious former frontwoman of the 1970s band the Laundromats—company, something strange happens. She actually…likes Marianne and Austin? Eloise isn’t sure what to do with that, especially when her feelings toward Austin begin to blur into more-than-friends territory.

And when ex-girlfriends, long-buried wounds, and insecurities reappear, Eloise will have a choice to make: go all in with Marianne and Austin or get out before she gets hurt.

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Review: This is now one of my favorite YA books! Eloise was such a wonderful main character. The anxiety and depression rep was excellent. Her relationship with Austin was adorable. And speaking of Austin! He was so sweet and kind and absolutely perfect for Eloise. Marianne was a great character, too! I liked how much Eloise's family was a part of the book. Overall, I absolutely loved this YA novel and I highly recommend it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Review: All That Glitters Isn't Old!

Review: All That Glitters Isn't Old by Gabby Allan

The bubbly fun of a rom-com meets the irresistible quirkiness of a cozy mystery in this buoyant new rom-cozy set off the coast of Southern California. It’s the perfect vacation spot for those who want to get away from it all. Unfortunately for Santa Catalina boat tour guide Whitney Dagner and her chonky cat Whiskers, it’s also the perfect vacation spot for people who want to get away with murder…

When she’s not piloting a glass bottom boat, showing the sights to tourists, Whit sells seashells by the seashore—among many other sea and sand souvenirs—to help keep her family shop, Nautically Yours, afloat. It’s a far cry from her corporate climbing ladder life in Los Angeles, but Whit and her frisky feline, Whiskers, love calling Catalina home and being close to family. Especially Whit’s grandmother Goldy, a fun and feisty senior who always marched to the beat of a different drum.

In her youth, Goldy was an item with a Catalina catch named Darren. But it was actually a ruse to fool Darren’s parents who wouldn’t have accepted his preference for men. Eventually, he left the island and chose the life—and life-partner—he wanted for himself. Back in town for his mother’s funeral, Darren takes the opportunity to heal his open wounds, and settle some scores.

In a surprise to the residents, Darren produced a documentary about the history of Catalina, and has arranged a premiere screening in the local theater. But his film career is cut short when his partner’s dead body is discovered the night before the opening. Rumors start swirling that Darren’s documentary was actually about Catalina’s people—and the things they’ve done—giving a lot of folks a lot of motives. Now, it’s up to Whit and her somewhat-ex-boyfriend policeman to catch a killer, and uncover just how much Grandma Goldy knows about the back door deals tied to Darren’s past…

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Review: I really enjoyed reading this newest installment in the Whit and Whiskers mysteries series! I loved reading about Whit solving another case. I liked getting to spend time with returning characters (Her boyfriend! Her friends! Her family!), and meeting new ones as well. This book had a bit of a zany adventure feel towards the end, which was fun! Overall, I definitely recommend this series for those who haven't read it yet, and this book to those who have!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

June Mini Reviews!

Hi, everyone! I'm posting June mini reviews today of a bunch of books. Here we go!

The Beast and The Bookseller by Eva Devon

I really enjoyed reading this historical romance! I liked the romance between the two leads, and I thought the plot was good. Overall, I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Chaperone by M Hendrix

I thought this was an interesting YA Dystopian read! Overall, I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Girls and Their Horses by Eliza Jane Brazier

This was a really good mystery/suspense novel that I enjoyed reading! Overall, I would definitely recommend reading!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Ms Perfectly Fine by Kate Callaghan

I thought this was a nice contemporary adult romance! There was good chronic pain rep in the book, and I always appreciate that. The romance was great! Overall, I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Everyone Wants to Know by Kelly Loy Gilbert

I thought this was an interesting YA novel, that I would would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Bookshop Cinderella by Laura Lee Guhrke

This was a great historical romance! I really liked the couple in this one, and I liked the bookish aspects of the book as well! Overall, I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

And Break the Pretty Kings by Lena Jeong

I really enjoyed reading this book! It was an excellent debut fantasy, and I look forward to whatever else this author writes. The  characters, writing, and plot were all great. Overall, iI would definitely recommend this book!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Those We Drown by Amy Goldsmith

This was a terrifying read, that I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Night It Ended by Katie Garner

This was a really interesting thriller/suspense novel, that I would definitely recommend to those who think the plot sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

A Most Agreeable Murder by Julia Seales

This was a fun historical mystery that was such a mash up of different genres, that I enjoyed reading! I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Charlotte Illes Is Not a Detective by Katie Siegel

The premise of this one was really fun! And I thought it was a good read! The mystery was well done. Overall, I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

We Ship It by Lauren Kay

I thought this was a great YA summer read, that also touches on some serious topics. And I think the cover is really cute! Overall, I would recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

How the Murder Crumbles by Debra Sennefelder

I thought this was a great beginning to a new cozy mystery series, with a fun premise! Overall, I would definitely recommend trying it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Kismat Connection by Ananya Devarajan

I thought this was a really good YA read! I liked the characters, and thought it was well written. Overall, I would definitely recommend it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Mini Reviews (YA Edition)!

Hi, everyone! Today is going to be mini reviews, featuring YA books from the past few months. Here we go!

Lying in the Deep by Diana Urban

This was a great YA mystery/suspense novel! The plot and characters were well written. Overall, I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Renaissance of Gwen Hathaway by Ashley Schumacher

This was a good YA novel, with a fun setting, that touched on some serious topics! Overall, I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Silver in the Bone by Alexandra Bracken

This was a really good YA fantasy novel, that had a fascinating plot! Overall, I would definitely recommend trying it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Queen Bee by Amalie Howard

This was an entertaining YA regency read, with great characters! Overall, I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Tell Me What Really Happened by Chelsea Sedoti

This was an interesting YA mystery, told in a unique way. Overall, I would recommend to those who think the summary sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Fake Dates and Mooncakes by Sher Lee

This was a fun YA romance, featuring my favorite trope, fake dating! It was well written, and the characters were great. Overall, I would definitely recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Lake House by Sarah Beth Durst

This was a terrifying YA thriller, that would be perfect to read when you want to scare yourself!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Picture-Perfect Boyfriend by Becky Dean

This was a fun YA summer read, with a cute romance and fun characters! I liked how the main characters family played such a big role, and I liked the plot. Overall, I would definitely recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Something More by Jackie Khalilieh

This was a good YA read, with great autistic rep! Overall, I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Threads That Bind by Kika Hatzopoulou

I thought this was a really interesting and unique YA fantasy novel! I would definitely recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Plus One by Kelsey Rodkey

I enjoyed reading this contemporary YA novel! The plot was fun, and the characters were good. And I always love plus-size rep in books! Overall, I would recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Hot Dutch Daydream by Kristy Boyce

This was a fun YA read that's perfect for summer! The characters were great. Overall, I would recommend it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Midyear Book Freakout Tag!

Hi, everyone! I'm filling out my answers to the Midyear Book Freakout today.

best book you’ve read so far this year?

I've had good luck with books this year, and read some really great books! But my answer for this one is In Myrtle Peril by Elizabeth C. Bunce. It released towards the end of 2022, and I saved it to be my first read of 2023, because I just knew I would love it. And I was right!

best sequel you’ve read so far this year

Okay, I could say In Myrtle Peril again, but for this answer I'm going to go with Curds of Prey by Korina Moss, which is the 3rd book in the Cheese Shop Mysteries. I love this cozy series!

BUT I also want to mention A Love by Design by Elizabeth Everett, which was the 3rd (and final) book in The Secret Scientists of London series. I love all three books in this series so much, and I had to mention this final novel. (Also, I can't wait for Elizabeth's new series beginning next year!)

new release you haven’t read yet but want to?

*laughs* There are A LOT of new releases I haven't read yet! BUT if I have to name just one.... *goes to look at Goodreads TBR shelf* I'm going to go with When You Wish Upon a Lantern by Gloria Chao, who is one of my favorite YA authors. I really look forward to reading it!

most anticipated release for the second half of the year?

Now after the first question I answered, you all know I have to say Myrtle, Means, and Opportunity by Elizabeth C. Bunce, which is the final (*insert sound of sobs*) book in the Myrtle series, and releases in October. I can't wait!

I also have to mention The Blonde Identity by Ally Carter! I grew up reading the Gallagher Girls books, and when I saw she was releasing an adult romance spy novel?? *heart eyes* I just know it's going to be so good. (releases in August!)

biggest disappointment?

I don't want to answer this question...

*skips to next one*

biggest surprise?

I'm going to say All Alone with You by Amelia Diane Coombs. It was a really good surprise! I went into it with really no expectations, because while I thought it sounded good, I didn't know much about it. And I ended up absolutely loving it! I can tell you this is now one of my favorite YA novels.

favorite new author (debut or new to you)?

This is a really difficult question to answer! I've read a lot of debut books this year, and also just a lot of authors who were new to me. I think I'm going to go with... No, I can't decide!

newest fictional crush?

There have been a few this year, but I really loved Ben from Summer Reading by Jenn McKinlay!

newest favorite character?

Pet from Codename Charming Lucy Parker! She was a delightful, quirky character that I loved reading the POV from. (And fun fact: Her love interest, Matthias, was who I almost answered the previous question with!)

book that made you cry?

There have been... a lot. But I'm going to go with It Found Us by Lindsay Currie. I don't want to spoil anyone, so I'll just say there was something towards the end of the book that made me cry. (I also just want to say that this was another wonderfully spooky book by Lindsay Currie!)

book that made you happy?

Woo Hoo! You're Doing Great! by Sandra Boynton! Her books made me so happy when I was little (And they still do! I read her books now, and I still love them.), and this book just made me happy.

most beautiful book you have acquired this year?

I haven't bought many physical copies of books this year...

what books do you need to read before the end of the year?

A lot. Like, a lot. *hides Goodreads TBR shelf from you all*

content creators you've been loving?

Besides all the blogs I still read, I've really been obsessed with booktube this year. A few of my favorite content creators there are Alexandra Roselyn, Haley Pham, katie is reading, megwithbooks, and oliviareadsalatte. I highly recommend all of their channels!

There we go! My answers to the tag. Now, tell me: What books have been your favorite so far this year? And if you watch booktube, who are your favorite creators there? :)

Mini Reviews (Contemporary Romance Edition)!

Hi, everyone! In my quest to catch up on books I need to review, we are focusing on contemporary romance today!

A Guide to Being Just Friends by Sophie Sullivan

I think Sophie Sullivan always writes excellent contemporary romance, and this new book was no different! Great characters, and a good romance. I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Just My Type by Falon Ballard

I loved Lease On Love by this author, and I was really looking forward to this book! And I really enjoyed it! A great romance, and well written. Overall, I would recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Plus One by Mazey Eddings

This was a good contemporary romance novel, that I would definitely recommend to those who enjoyed Mazey's previous books!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Last Word by Katy Birchall

This was a well written romance novel, that I would definitely recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Emma of 83rd Street by Audrey Bellezza & Emily Harding

I quite enjoyed this retelling of Emma! I thought both Emma and Knightley were good characters, and I liked the other people we meet in the novel as well. Overall, I would recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Not That Kind of Ever After by Luci Adams

This was an interesting contemporary romance, that I would recommend try to those who are curious about it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Yours Truly by Abby Jimenez

I thought this was a well written romance, with great characters! And I loved the anxiety rep in it. Overall, I would recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Only Game in Town by Lacie Waldon

This was a good contemporary romance, with a unique premise! I really enjoyed reading it. Overall, I would recommend to those who think it sounds interesting!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Ana Takes Manhattan by Lissette Decos

I thought this was a good romance, that I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Ellie Is Cool Now by Victoria Fulton and Faith McClaren

This book had a fun premise, and I would definitely recommend to those who think it sounds interesting!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Double-Decker Dreams by Lindsay MacMillan

I loved the setting of this book, and I liked the plot of it! Overall, I would recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Gigi, Listening by Chantel Guertin

This was a fun contemporary romance, with a bookish main character! Overall, I would recommend it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Take the Lead by Alexis Daria

A great romance for DWTS fans, I would definitely recommend trying this book!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Real Love by Rachel Lindsay

I enjoyed reading this book, and I would definitely recommend trying it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Do-Over by Suzanne Park

I love Suzanne Park's books, her sense of humor always makes me laugh! This was another great book by her, that I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

One Hot Cowboy Wedding by Carolyn Brown

This was a good cowboy romance, that I would recommend to anyone who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

He's My Cowboy by Diana Palmer, Rebecca Zanetti, & Delores Fossen

I thought all three of the novellas were really good, and I don't think I could pick a favorite! Overall, I would recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Falling Hard for the Royal Guard by Megan Clawson

This was a cute rom-com that I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Leave It to the March Sisters by Annie Sereno

I thought this was a good book! Even if you've never read Little Women (I knnnooww! I did see the movie years ago, but I've never read the book), I think you're able to enjoy it. I would recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

More Mini Reviews!

Hi, everyone! Here are some mini reviews to help me catch up even more. And we're focusing on Historical Romance today!

A Spinster's Guide to Danger and Dukes by Manda Collins

This was another fantastic historical romance/mystery novel from Manda Collins! Her books are always a fun read, and I quite enjoyed this newest one. Overall, I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Artfully Yours by Joanna Lowell

This was a really unique historical romance, that I would definitely recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Counterfeit Scoundrel by Lorraine Heath

This was a great historical romance novel from Lorraine Heath! The plot was unique. I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Hotel of Secrets by Diana Biller

This was a really unique historical romance with great characters! Overall, I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Yours Truly, The Duke by Amelia Grey

I really liked this one! The characters were great, and I liked the ending. Overall, I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Countess by Sophie Jordan

This was a great beginning to a new historical romance series that I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Duke's Secret Cinderella by Eva Devon

This was a great take on the Cinderella fairytale, that I enjoyed reading! Overall, I would recommend it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Portrait of a Duchess by Scarlett Peckham

I thought this was a unique historical romance novel, that I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Four Weddings and a Duke by Michelle McLean

I quite liked this one! The characters were great, and I loved reading about their growth throughout the book. Overall, I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

What Happens in the Ballroom by Sabrina Jeffries

I think Sabrina Jeffries writes fantastic historical romance, and this one was no different! The characters were great, and I look forward to the next book. Overall, I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

How to Best a Marquess by Janna MacGregor

This was another great book from Janna MacGregor! Overall, I would recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Lady Knows Best by Susanna Craig

I love the premise of this series, and I thought this first book was great! Overall, I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

No Life for a Lady by Hannah Dolby

I thought this was a unique historical novel with a mystery aspect to it! Overall, I would recommend to those who think it sounds interesting!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Earls Rush In by Jennifer Haymore

I thought this was a good historical romance, that I would recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Husband List by Ella Quinn

I really like Ella Quinn's romance novels, and this one was no exception! I quite enjoyed it, and would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Duke Gets Even by Joanna Shupe

I thought this was a good historical romance, and I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.