#galley review

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REVIEW : I Think They Love You by Julian Winters

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars

I typically read a book in 5 days but this one I read in 24 hours. I simply could not put it down. Maybe it’s because I love a Fake Dating Rom Com. Or that I was in the mood for a contemporary romance. Or because I fell in love with Denz and Braylon and their magnetic banter. Or because I could live vicariously through the parties featured in the story. It was probably all of the above because I absolutely loved it.

This is a fake dating mixed with second chance romance between Denzel Carter and Braylon Adams, who dated in college and then split up, and who meet again 5 years later which is where the book takes place. There are also some serious issues about meeting the expectations of your ambitious, talented family where everyone is involved in the family business, and the pressure you feel from your Father vs. finding your independence. There’s a bit of "nice Succession" in it, too, with a competition between Denz & Kami, the siblings that will inherit 24 Carter Gold, their Father’s very successful, high-end wedding-now-event planning company. It’s a wonderful framework for a romance and the extended family members are sassy and delightful.

There are super cute details like Brayson being labelled “Formerly Known as Bray” in his phone and “ex-now-fake-boyfriend” is how Denz refers to him in his POV. Braylon texts Denz random dad jokes which made me chuckle. The comedic timing is very funny. And of course there’s kissing with a 2/5 steam level!

I’ve only read Prince of the Palisades which I liked, but this grabbed me and never let go. Winters is known for writing contemporary YA romance, but I really hope he writes more queer adult romances because he’s great at it!

OUT: JAN 28, 2025

Thanks to NetGalley & St. Martin’s Press for the ARC

[quirkycatsfatstacks]

WOTN: A Killing Frost by Seanan McGuire

Fae Laws And Complications Abound in A Killing Frost A Killing Frost is the latest novel to come from the October Daye series. Once again, fae law is making Toby’s life difficult. You think being a hero would earn her a break or two, but that is not the case. Can you believe that October Daye is fourteen books in at this point? In many ways, it still feels like the series is brand new. Probably…

[mermaidsirennikita]

ARC Review: Her Lessons in Persuasion by Megan Frampton

4/5. Releases 1/24/2023.

For when you're vibing with... Fake dating, nerds in love, baby boy baby boy, and VIRGIN HEROES!!!

Wilhelmina is not particularly interested in finding a husband. At twenty-four, she's largely given up on it, instead compiling a list of the men she would not be interested in marrying (this list does include Ivan the Terrible, it is quite funny). Her new stepmother (19) has other ideas, instead insisting that Wilhelmina hits the town and looks for a man, which is why barrister Bram Townsend seems so convenient. He and Wilhelmina did share a pretty great kiss that time she accidentally fell on him, and he is up for a fake courtship...

Megan Frampton's books are great to read in the midst of an angsty period of your life, or between overwhelmingly heavy books. They're light, they're breezy, and they have enough story and romance to make you feel like you're investing in something, versus just moving your eyes across the page in order to pass the time. Her Lessons in Persuasion is no different. To me, this is the kind of book you could call a historical romcom and actually mean it.

Quick Takes:

--Both the hero and the heroine are virgins in this one, which I fucking loved. Bram may not know what he's doing, but he's researched it! Thoroughly! And he will apply that research! Frampton writes good sex, and I could've stood to see a bit more of it, but I do appreciate the virgin-on-virgin action here.

--Bram's backstory is actually pretty great, and an excellent setup for a series, bravo. I'll be interested to see a cluster of heroes who don't come from extreme privilege--Bram being a self-made hero and a complete nerd could've been hard to pull off, as I think we have this idea of the working class hero as like.... the rough and tumble, Derek Craven type. But she pulled it off really well here.

--I actually loved Alethea, Wilhelmina's young, excessively girly stepmother. At parts, I will say that I worried about Wilhelmina verging into Not Like Other Girls territory, but Frampton held her back. I mean, it's also a bit different when the girly girl you're not a fan of is boinking your dad. I can allow for some issues there.

--I appreciated the interclass conflict being present but not overwrought. It's a fact of life that neither Wilhelmina nor Bram seem particularly shocked by, and it makes sense to me that these two characters, both of which don't necessarily adhere to the stereotypes of their respective classes, would find each other.

--Supportive male friendships! A hero who's in a book club and DEFENDS HIS OPINIONS STRONGLY!!!

Is this fluffier than what I would typically opt for? Probably, yes. But it's very satisfying, very romantic, and just kind of... a lovely break from the constant dramarama of life and fiction.

Thank you to Netgalley and Avon for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[jesswallflowerreviews]

Dating and Other Theories

Dating and Other Theories by Susannah Nix Pub Date: Jun 20 2024

4 Stars

I recieved a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a review. I read this when it was originally published in 2018 and immediately read the following two books in the series. This series follows strong, smart, powerful women who do not hide their incredible knowledge and the men who are not afraid to love them. I have the following books in the series 4 stars as well. I can respect that they have decided to change the covers and titles as the trends in marketing have changed since then.

[monsterkong]

🚀 Unlocking Business Success: Mindset Matters with Phoebe

Hello, dream chasers! 🌟 Welcome back to Business Story of the Week! Today, we have an inspiring guest—Phoebe, a business mindset coach who’s here to spill the tea on how you can break through mental blocks and take your life and business to new heights. Let’s get into it!

Success: Is It Strategy or Mindset? 🤔

We’ve all been there—wondering if the right strategy will finally unlock the success we’ve been chasing. But here’s the truth: it’s mindset that really matters. Phoebe breaks it down for us in this week’s episode. 🧠 While strategies are important, it’s your mindset that will make or break your progress. You could have the best marketing plan in the world, but if your mindset isn’t in the right place, you’re setting yourself up for failure.

Phoebe’s Journey: From Health Challenges to Business Triumphs 💪

Phoebe didn’t have an easy start. Her 20s were filled with serious health issues—multiple surgeries, chronic pain, and even being told she had a 50% chance of survival due to a spinal infection. 😱 Can you imagine? Instead of letting that define her, Phoebe fought back. After 18 months of holistic treatments, she emerged stronger than ever, determined to help others achieve success—not just in business, but in life.

Her key takeaway? Your health—both physical and mental—is the foundation of your success. If you’re not taking care of yourself, you won’t be able to show up fully for your business or your dreams.

Mindset First, Strategy Second 🚀

Phoebe now works with entrepreneurs to help them separate strategy from mindset. It’s not enough to have a killer business plan. You need to believe in your ability to succeed, even when things get tough. One of Phoebe’s favorite responses when a client says, “I’ve tried that, and it didn’t work,” is: “It hasn’t worked yet.” That subtle shift in thinking changes everything.

So if you’re feeling stuck in your business or life, remember: it’s not about finding the perfect strategy. It’s about building the right mindset.

[outdoorovernights]

Kelty Camp Galley Deluxe Review

So, you’re heading out on a camping trip and wondering how to keep your kitchen gear organized without losing your mind? Well, look no further than the Kelty Camp Galley Deluxe – Camp Kitchen Organization Kit. This little wonder promises to keep your outdoor cooking essentials tidy and ready for action, from dusk till dawn. Why You’ll Love It Pockets Galore If you enjoy the small wonders of…

[protagonistspub]

Target Acquired by Lynette Eason

Target Acquired by Lynette Eason is the second book in the Lake City Heroes series. It is Christian romantic suspense published by Revell. I received an Advanced Reader’s Copy of this novel in exchange for my fair and honest review, which this and my video review are. This is a dual timeline novel with the book opening up in an insane asylum in post-WWII era. The present day timeline follows…

[coloursofunison]

I'm delighted to be sharing my review for Old Girls Behaving Badly by Kate Galley #blogtour #newrelease #comedy

I'm delighted to be sharing my review for Old Girls Behaving Badly by Kate Galley #blogtour #newrelease #comedy @rararesources #OldGirlsBehavingBadly @KateGalley1 #boldwoodbloggers @theboldbookclub @BoldwoodBooks

Here’s the blurb A delightfully heartwarming and funny story that proves it’s never too late to change the habits of a lifetime, perfect for fans of Judy Leigh, Hazel Prior and Maddie Please. Something old, something new, something stolen…? Gina Knight is looking forward to the prospect of retirement with her husband of forty-three years. Until, to her surprise, said husband decides he needs…

[quirkycatsfatstacks]

Review: Castle Swimmer Vol. 1

Writer/Artist: Wendy MartinPublisher: Ten Speed GraphicReleased: October 22, 2024Received: NetGalleyFind it on Goodreads | More Graphic Novels Summary: Kappa is the Beacon, a fact known well before his birth. Every culture and city has its own legend about Kappa. Some believe he’ll come and bring with him good fortune. Others think he’ll be what they need to change their lives forever. It’s…

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[jolenes-book-journey]

Book Review of The Mystery Writer by Sulari Gentill

Book Review of The Mystery Writer by Sulari Gentill The Mystery Writer by Sulari Gentill My rating: 4 of 5 stars Theodosia Benton went to school in Australia to become a lawyer. Halfway through she drops out of school and runs to her brother in America. What she really wants to do is become a published author. She has a burning desire to create wonderful stories and get a traditional publishing…

[geoffwhaley]

Book 1,019: The West - Naoíse Mac Sweeney

This was a fascinating read. Mac Sweeney takes what you think you know about “Western Civilization” and attempts to flip it on its head via fourteen mini-biographies about historical figures, only a few of which I knew immediately. I feel horrible it’s taken me this long to push my response out. The publisher reached out in January 2023. I blew past the publication date in May 2023, and finally…

[othercat2]

Oh, would that any triangle I've seen actually be interesting or compelling, and not "Hottie A (safe or bland choice) vs. Hottie B (dangerous bad choice yet so hot!) Our Heroine Must Choose One!" Which is the most exasperating, annoying and tedious thing imaginable. Or "Hottie A and Hottie B are fighting each other for Heroine! Heroine must choose!" Which is also tedious. I mean, I'm sure there are ways to make A or B, pick one interesting? But as a romantic trope it's less interesting or compelling than poly negotiations.

Also, I don't think anyone is seriously suggesting that people not write stories where a partner cheats. On the other hand, I have seen people ascribe to stranger ideas so who knows. Stories about cheating are less boring, but tend to fall into very similar patterns of behavior with a limited number of reactions and fall out, most of them ugly, and not very cathartic.

"i hate love triangles" "i hate cheating" "stop writing about love triangles and cheating" people write about love triangles and cheating because complex emotions and romantic conflict are deeply compelling themes. get good.

[reddjena]

I'm Back! With a new release from Sarah K.L. Wilson to Share

Here on the first of June, I’ve decided to start making regular posts on this blog again. Starting with a book from a favorite author that releases today! Although I was selected for the street team for this title and was supposed to have read the full book in order to share my review, I must admit that I have not accomplished that goal. This is a beefy book since it is the author’s first…

[beckysbook5]

Demon's Reign by David Estes and Ben Galley - Book Review!

Today on my blog I have a review for #DemonsReign by David Estes & Ben Galley! An epic and intricate tale filled with magic, deceit and some truly epic world building! #BookReview

Tarkosi Terelta is a nobody. A nobody who will save his world from demons and the hellfire they bring. The third-born of a shamed family, Tarkosi’s lot in life is to spend his days as a worker, feeding temperamental lancewings under a harsh master. His days in the bloodwood city of Shal Gara are full of drudgery, tedium, and pain, his own ambitions cast aside in the name of order. That is until…