A great modern romance to indulge in!
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Having read all of the books Red Drink Ink has published thus far, Strapless is the one that is closest to being a standard romance novel. While the other RDI novels concentrate more on dating in the big city while climbing the coorporate ladder, Strapless is a classic romance novel disguised as contemporary chick lit.
Working for Whunderthings, a Victoria's Secret-like lingerie shop, New Yorker Darcey Elizabeth Daxter has been given the opportunity of a lifetime: she is now in charge of opening the store in Australia. Having had her heart broken in New York, she has nothing but work on her mind. But no sooner does she arrive in Australia than she meets Dylan -- a gorgeous Aussie sheep farmer. He is sexy, incredible in bed, and totally wrong for her. While Darcey's career is the main focus in her life, Dylan's dream is to have a housewife to have babies with. Should Darcey give up her career and life in the city, or should she follow her heart?
While there are various aspects of Bridget Jones-type of modern chick literature in this novel, the description and overall style of writing screams contemporary romance a la Danielle Steel. Still, this is a novel worth reading, and another great read from Red Dress Ink. I recommend it.
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A really fun story with a great, relatable heroine! I love that the friendships between women went in refreshing and unexpected directions, and the romance developed realistically even through the enjoyable tropes at play. Cant wait for more from this author!
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I was very excited to read this debut contemporary romance by Julie Rowe since she is a fellow chapter mate at Heartbeat, RWA. I would categorize this wonderful story as a contemporary romantic adventure with strong medical elements. :) I loved how the first part of the book focused on Emilie and why she had come (run away to) Antarctica, and how by the middle of chapter two Ms. Rowe had deflected the spotlight from Emilie to Tom. Why had he come back to a god-forsaken ice cube four times? Well, as the story unfolds we find out Emilie is a widow with a vision of completing her deceased husband's medical/scientific project. Tom remains a mystery for most of the book until Emilie forces him to face his fears and admit he isn't like his father. Tom was a gorgeous hero - what's not to love about a hero who bakes cookies! When their wild night of carefree romance turns into something more complicated, Emilie isn't sure she wants to stick around in Antarctica, but Tom insists she can't leave unless it is a matter of life and death. A tragic accident of two co-workers brings the two of them closer, and once Emilie makes up her mind about what she wants to do about their situation, she challenges Tom to do some self examination and step up to being a true hero - which, of course, after three days, where the reader bites her nails along with Emilie, he does!
 I loved the setting in this book. It was an added bonus and well depicted. Good book all around!
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I know many have stated that this was a modern twist on the classic Cinderella and I have to say that for the main part I would have to agree but please don't get hung up on that because this is so much more than that, it is thoroughly modern and refreshing.
Swann is the college football superstar and Ella is the shy but clever student that isn't even anywhere near being a member of his social circle but when they end up at the same party and are almost goaded into sharing a kiss, their lives suddenly have become forever entwinned.
The second their lips part, there is a feeling that this I just the start of something specialjust one slight problem and that is the fact that she vanishes as soon as she is out of his arms and he has no idea how to track her downare you seeing the resemblance with the famous fable now!
Well, he sets his stall out and despite how demented his friends seem to think he is, he resigns himself to the fact that no matter what, he is going to track her downbut can he!
Or should I say will he actually have to try too hard?
Because when he arrives to meet his Chemistry tutor he cant help but feel that they have met before could she may be the one he has been searching for?
I loved their connection, and I also thought that the plotline nods that the author gave to the Cinderella story was enchanting, and I have to say that I loved the fact that I got my villain too (not totally horrid but enough to have my heckles rising!) Ellas mother was so malicious, seriously restricted Ella and that narked me because I knew that she was impacting the grown of a relationship that had the potential to be something totally glorious.
I don't think it is possible not to adore this story, it gave me the perfect excuse for a delicious duvet day with my own very modern fairy-tale.
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Nancy Herkness really knows how to write a great contemporary romance featuring a millionaire hero and the hard working heroine. This trope has been used time and again in romance novels, but with The All-Star Antes Up (Wager of the Heart #2), its fresh, original and engaging.

The Wager of Hearts series features three rich men who make a bet. Unless they all find love with that special woman within a years time, they will lose something materialistic they hold near and dear to them, plus give a very large amount to a charity. The All-Star Antes Up is Lukes story. Hes a big time NFL quarterback and a self made millionaire who thinks his days are numbed playing football. He lives and breathes football, but also has good financial sense. He thinks his family only admires him for his sports skills and not his intelligence, unlike his brother Trevor, who is very smart. Trevor is staying with Luke while he finds a job as a professor at one of the prestigious colleges surrounding NYC. But Trevor isn't an ideal roommate. Hes become rude, cranky and almost cheats on his wife by asking for an escort via the concierge in Lukes building. Because of that illegal request, Luke meets Miranda.

The All-Star Antes Up kept me riveted from beginning to end. I love this type of story, and the setup. The chemistry between Miranda and Luke is great, especially the first love scene. Luke puts his home gym to good use, and WOW, what a scorcher! I also loved how normal and just plain nice these two are, especially when Luke tries to help Trevor, who is in a downward spiral.

There are some misunderstandings and drama that arises to bring about a great HEA for Miranda and Luke. Finding out what Luke was willing to give up to find a forever love with a woman was a nice wink wink reveal.

The All-Star Antes Up impressed me so much that its one of the first book Ive read for 2016 that gave me the warm fuzzies and will probably go down as one of my favorite of this year.

Katiebabs
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Series:  N/A
Category /Genre:  Contemporary Romance
Recommended for:  16+ adult themes (no sexual content)
Grammar/editing:  A  near perfect
Received from:  Ashley Blevins, P.A. (in exchange for an honest review)

Dean is 17 and has been on the streets for two years.  His day is busy with plans for survival  food, hoping for a cot for the night, and spending time in the library for warmth and a bathroom.  A shower is a coveted treat.  Anna is also 17, a latch-key kid living with a mother who is never there.  She is determined to make good grades and get into an Ivy League college.  Community service is on her to-do lists because it is needed for the acceptance committees.  She has no plans to actually become involved in the lives of any of those she is helping. Slowly, Dean and Anna become friends.  They get closer to one another, but when the realities of Deans world crash through, he pushes her away.  Is there a way for them to move forward and face the future together?

This is not just Annas story; nor is it just Deans story.  It is their story.  It is a story of acceptance, realism, and optimism.  It is also a story of finding your limitations and knowing when to ask for help.  It is a story of realizing that help and charity are two very different things and both are needed and appropriate at times.  Anna and Dean have both closed themselves off from the world.  Their backgrounds are so similar, except for one small variance that made all of the difference in how they lived.

I could not put this book down.  This was definitely one of those leave me alone. Im reading kind of days.  I didn't have to get lost in this world, because it is our world.  You can look in any city in this country and find a Dean and/or Anna.  I loved the theme of optimistic hope with a firm grasp on reality that this story provided.

As far as I could find, this is the first full-length novel presented by Ms. Marie.  I look forward to reading more from this wonderful new author!
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This is a wonderful contemporary romance with complex characters and a well-crafted plot that is emotional and playful.  I loved the instant attraction and sizzling chemistry between sexy veterinarian Nate Kinkaid and psychologist and part-time model, Lauren Royall. Once I started reading, I was completely captivated and couldn't put the book down until I read the last word.  This is the first book I have read by Bonnie Phelps but I like her style and want to read more by this talented author.  I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book and liked it so much, I purchased a copy for my keeper library.
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I loved this! I devoured it in one day, what a great follow up to The List!
The characters are great; there is humor, steamy sex and a touch of drama.
If you are looking for an entertaining contemporary romance to make you smile, Tawna Fenske delivers!
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On Dublin Street by Samantha Young was a book that I couldn't wait to read. I devoured this book and I cant wait until May to read the next book in the series, Down London Road.  From the moment I started reading the first page, I knew that I was in for a real treat from this author. On Dublin Street is a contemporary romance about a young woman who is trying to deal with her past and the one man who wants to open her up to a happy future.

Joss (Jocelyn) is living in Scotland with the hopes of publishing a book. She has left her life in the United States after some very tragic losses and tries to repress the hurt and pain that has happened to her. She is trying to make a life for herself but the past still has its grips on her.

Braden is a sexy, wealthy, and accomplished man.  While he has had some hurt in his past, he doesnt let that define him. If there is something that he wants, he goes after it. He wants Joss, his sisters new roommate.

Joss and Braden have this explosive relationship. There is a fierce sexual tension between them, from their very first meeting and throughout the rest of the book. Aside from their physical relationship, there are issues that Joss needs to deal with and while Braden doesnt ever push her to tell him, its obvious that he wants to be a part of her life.

On Dublin Street is a terrific read. It was all that I had anticipated and more. Samantha Young wrote a very sexy contemporary story that will appeal to a wide range of readers. I absolutely recommend reading this book. Its just that good!
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Glam Squad & Groomsmen by Samantha Chase is a wonderful second-chance (maybe more than that) romance that is great addition to the Enchanted Bridal series!

Penny Blake gets to dress up as a bride for her job at Enchanted Bridal. She wants to do more with the business, but for now the shes assistant manager and gets to model the dresses. When she sees her ex-boyfriend and his sister, her world is about to get a bit more complicated.

Spencer Buchanan is helping his sister plan her wedding and its tortious, until he runs into his ex, Penny. Now, things are looking up. Being with Penny is making Spencer see what hes missing.

I loved Spencer and Penny, and even though it took numerous times, a happy ending is on the horizon for these two. Filled with sweetness and plenty of happy to go around, Glam Squad & Groomsmen is a book you should not pass up!
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I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. WOW! Yes, I enjoyed this book. Once I started it I didn't want to put it down (I spent most of the night reading it).  It's a contemporary romance that takes place in the medical community in Chicago. There are many reasons I liked this book and I'll get to them but others have done a recap of the book so I won't repeat it, much. Our two main characters are McKenna who comes from a large family of mostly alpha males except for her and her younger sister. She's had the love and support of her parents, siblings and friends. She's a midwife by profession, a community activist and volunteers to help the underprivileged in and outside the US. Next is Logan who is a dedicated OB (baby Dr). He comes from a wealthy family but hasn't had the support from parents and has no siblings. He does have the love and support of his grandmother as well as many expensive luxuries. Logan has an outstanding reputation as does McKenna. She is outgoing, responsive and very receptive despite recently breaking off a relationship that has left her hurt and distrustful. Logan is a divorcee who likes to reflect and think prior to saying something or making a major decision. He is the department head which makes him somewhat McKenna' s boss. They both go on a mission to Guatemala and it teaches them both about the other and to reflect on their lives. Both have had hard time opening up and giving their hearts especially when they've had tragedy touch their lives. It is great to see family and friends play such an important roll in this story. Being different can be a good thing and working toward a common goal helps in every aspect of their lives. I also like stories that bring forth some of societies darker side and shows the poor and underprivileged & that their are people that truly care.  In a small way this story reminds us that there are those that need our help without taking anything away from this warm and at times funny romance. I look forward to reading the other books in this series as well as more of Ms Lohr's books.
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**I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions are my own and not influenced by my source.**

This book is Contemporary New Adult Perfection!

I was sucked into this book the moment I started reading. Not only is the plot fun, it is also heartwarming.

Haley and Kyle are such charming and genuine people that I couldn't help but love them. They are definitely one of my favourite fictional couples ever. It was great to see them grow as characters and overcome their own personal problems with the help of each other. I liked that their issues were real; issues that many readers can identify with like self-esteem and everyday family issues. I loved how they worked on this issues both with each other and on their own. They were a great match for each other and it was so much fun (and often times funny) to watch them fall in love.

If you want a fantastic, funny and touching New Adult Contemporary read, this is the one you NEED to read!
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Indecent Exposure was such an amazing contemporary romance. No surprise, given that Tessa Bailey is the author, but even by Tessa standards this book was extra amazing! It was pretty much a flawless contemporary romance in my opinion. First off, the heroine was absolutely wonderful. I really loved Katie. She was such a quirky and likable heroine. And of course I loved Jack, but then I already liked his character from the previous book, so it wasn't surprising that I absolutely fell in love with him in this book. Although, when it came to Jack I was kind of surprised with how intense and serious his backstory was and all the issues he was dealing with as a result of his past. But, I really liked the way that the author dealt with Jack's issues in this book and the ways in which she had the heroine help him without having Katie completely try to change him and make him someone else. And talking about Jack and Katie together, their relationship was so adorable in every way. From the way that they met while she was on her strange mob hit location tour until the end when they admitted they were in love with each other there love story was EVERYTHING. Seriously, these two were so cute together. I always say that Daniel and Story from Tessa's Line of Duty series are my favorite of her couples, but Jack and Katie were so close to replacing them as my faves. Overall, this book was a flawless contemporary romance. I couldn't get enough of this story and these characters and I highly recommend it!
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This steamy romance, third in the Shillings Agency series but easily read as a standalone, is the story of Gordon and Isabelle. When Gordon is assigned to guard the haughty princess Isabelle, he sees beyond the facade to the woman underneath, one who is willing to take a chance with him for a night of passion, even if it should never be repeated. But when one night leads to another and real feelings start to develop between them, will it all fall apart before they can give thought to a real future together?

I really enjoyed this take on the classic royalty/bodyguard romance. The author did an excellent job of creating a fictional country with a modern twist, where an arranged marriage would be still considered appropriate for the good of two countries, and the expectations of society for the conduct of royalty would include conduct of a princess beyond reproach. This of course makes the clandestine affair between Gordon and Isabelle all the sweeter, knowing that it's a forbidden affair and that the clock is ticking. I liked both characters in the story - Isabelle for her contrasting private and public personalities and Gordon for being able to see beyond Isabelle's facade to the real woman underneath. The love scenes between them were super steamy and fun to read, full of emotion and heart. The eventual conflict and resolution was well put together and the whole read was entertaining from beginning to end. 4.5 stars!
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Like so many others I really loved this story, especially since I am really fond of second chance romances. The opening scene had me hooked and the relationship that blossomed between Ivy and Claire just made sense in a weird way. I think I want to hang out with them lol. The dialogue was crisp and snappy and the author never dipped into the purple prose that can make romances truly cringeworthy. In fact, this bordered on chick lit because the characters and plot were so open and well constructed - it wasn't just angst for the sake of romantic drama.
I think anyone who is a fan of cerebral, emotionally accessible characters with urbanity and humor will really love this book!
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I loved reading this book for The Boyfriend List Blog Tour!

Reagan is jilted and actually taking it sort of okay. Her and her best friend slash roommate Petra have a stroke of genius that is really great for a laugh as far as I'm concerned. The boyfriend list is a story about finding love where you least expect it. It was an overall good read. If you like Contemporary Romance this is a good book for you to check out.

I liked the characters especially Ian... duh. Petra is a great best friend and Justin and Isabelle are good in their roles as well. The concept of Brett was great I just felt like maybe it should have been explored more. I also liked Reagan's sister's character but felt like she was not well explored and established as a character in this story, I would have liked more Brett and more of her as well but that's just me. It's a fairly unique storyline and the plot is good although I felt like I was finished reading it way too soon. I would have liked to see where things went after the last outcome of the book.

The pace is great and I laughed and swooned, always good signs. I rated this book a four because I really liked the characters concept and storyline. It was an overall good read!
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K. Webster went back to her roots with this contemporary romance... She is so versatile, and can make any genre her bitch. Untimely You is no exception. It's not the deliciously dark that she does so well, but it's not all sappy-sweet, either. It's angsty, forbidden, heartbreaking, and sexy, but also witty and fun at times. The writing is fantastic, per usual.

K. Webster has a way of making you feel so invested in her characters. She can make you fall in love and root for anyone, if she so chooses. And I definitely fell for these two. I wanted these them to find happiness so badly!  If you're in the mood for one of those epic romance that will leave you with a full heart, Untimely You is your book.