Book Review | The Fraud Squad by Kyla Zhao

Title: The Fraud Squad
Author: Kyla Zhao
Genre: Adult Contemporary / Romance
Publication Date: January 17th, 2023
Publisher: Berkley Books
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐✨

Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for a complimentary earc to review! All opinions are my own.

“For as long as she can remember, Samantha Song has dreamed of writing for a high-society magazine—and she’d do anything to get there. But the constant struggle to help her mom make ends meet and her low social status cause her dream to feel like a distant fantasy.

Now Samantha finds herself working at a drab PR firm. Living vicariously through her wealthy coworker and friend, Anya Chen, is the closest she’ll get to her ideal life. Until she meets Timothy Kingston: the disillusioned son of one of Singapore’s elite families—and Samantha’s one chance at infiltrating the high-society world to which she desperately wants to belong.

To Samantha’s surprise, Timothy and Anya both agree to help her make a name for herself on Singapore’s socialite scene. But the borrowed designer clothes and plus-ones to every glamorous event can only get her so far. The rest is on Samantha, and she’s determined to impress the editor in chief of Singapore’s poshest magazine. But the deeper Samantha wades into this fraud, the more she fears being exposed—especially with a mysterious gossip columnist on the prowl for dirt—forcing her to reconcile her pretense with who she really is before she loses it all.” (Goodreads)

This was a fun read and even though I have read books with a similar plot, I thought this one really shined on its own.

The book is told from one point-of-view and it comes from Samantha Song. She has watched the high-society world from the outside for a long time, mostly through a magazine she wishes she could work for. Through her job at a PR agency, she meets Anya and through her Timothy. Both have connections to that world and they make a plan to turn her into a socialite.

Samantha is an interesting character. Sometimes I disliked her and other times I felt for her situation. I understand why and how she could act the way she did because fame and popularity can definitely cause a big head. I just felt so bad for those she mistreated, especially her friend who was also on the lower side of society. Samantha did have good qualities though. She cares for her mother and wants to see everyone be able to mingle. I also like that she is opinionated.

The other characters were decent but I feel like they didn’t get the same attention and felt a bit one-dimensional at times. This is also why the romance was on the meh side.

Where this book shines is the plot! I couldn’t put it down when it came to her becoming a socialite. It was cool to see her shine in a place outside of her own. She did it with such grace. I wish I had her confidence.

Overall, this was a good read. I am looking forward to what she writes next.

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Arc Review: Well Matched (Well Met #3) by Jen DeLuca

Title: Well Matched (Well Met #3)
Author: Jen DeLuca
Genre: Adult Contemporary / Romance
Publication Date: October 19th, 2021
Publisher: Berkley
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for an earc to review! All opinions are my own.

“An accidentally in-love rom-com filled with Renaissance Faire flower crowns, kilts, corsets, and sword fights.

Single mother April Parker has lived in Willow Creek for twelve years with a wall around her heart. On the verge of being an empty nester, she’s decided to move on from her quaint little town, and asks her friend Mitch for his help with some home improvement projects to get her house ready to sell.

Mitch Malone is known for being the life of every party, but mostly for the attire he wears to the local Renaissance Faire–a kilt (and not much else) that shows off his muscled form to perfection. While he agrees to help April, he needs a favor too: she’ll pretend to be his girlfriend at an upcoming family dinner, so that he can avoid the lectures about settling down and having a more “serious” career than high school coach and gym teacher. April reluctantly agrees, but when dinner turns into a weekend trip, it becomes hard to tell what’s real and what’s been just for show. But when the weekend ends, so must their fake relationship.

As summer begins, Faire returns to Willow Creek, and April volunteers for the first time. When Mitch’s family shows up unexpectedly, April pretends to be Mitch’s girlfriend again…something that doesn’t feel so fake anymore. Despite their obvious connection, April insists they’ve just been putting on an act. But when there’s the chance for something real, she has to decide whether to change her plans–and open her heart–for the kilt-wearing hunk who might just be the love of her life.” (Goodreads)

I’m always worried about continuing on with a series because sometimes the next book just doesn’t live up to the hype. I loved Mitch from the beginning so I was really hoping this book would be good and guys, it didn’t let me down! I laughed and I cried. This author knows how to give me all the feelings.

The book is told in the perspective of April. In the first two books there isn’t much from her but I did like getting to know her better in this one. She is facing a lot of change when it comes to her daughter graduating high school and an ex-husband who left her who now wants to congratulate their daughter who he has never even met. No wonder she goes to a bar and runs into Mitch who rescues her from a guy who doesn’t understand the word no.

Even though this is a romance, there is a lot of development when it comes to April. I loved seeing her grow and realize that sometimes we just have to break free and do things we wouldn’t normally do or change our plans for something better.

Mitch is a sweetheart and I love him to pieces! I can’t ever get enough of him. We are used to seeing the confident side of him and this time around there is a more vulnerable side. In those moments it was easy to understand him and I seriously loved April for standing up for him when it came to his family belittling him about his job choice. There is nothing wrong with not getting a degree that pays more. Do what you love! Success shouldn’t be determined by how much money you make. Success is also weighed differently by person and if one person loves what they do than who cares! I’ve seen this type of thing in person and it just annoys me to no end.

Emily, Simon, Stacey, and Daniel are back as side characters and I always like seeing how their lives are going. Emily and April also share a great sibling bond.

When it comes to the romance of the book, I loved it all! The plot of fake dating is mentioned very early on when Mitch asks April to be his fake girlfriend for a family affair. The banter between them was hilarious. The book is just funny in general! It doesn’t take too long for them to realize that something is there between them and I liked the journey of them finding out together even if it wasn’t all rainbows and sunshine. Relationships, even fake ones haha, have their obstacles. If you also like the “only one bed” trope then it’s just another reason for you to pick this one up!

Overall, this was another fantastic book to add to the series. I finished it in one day and stayed up way too late but it was just so hard to put down!

Arc Review: The Royals Next Door by Karina Halle

Title: The Royals Next Door
Author: Karina Halle
Genre: Adult Contemporary / Romance
Publication Date: August 31st, 2021
Publisher: Berkley
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for an earc to read in exchange for a review.

“An ordinary summer goes royally awry when a prince and princess move next door, bringing their handsome bodyguard with them, from New York Times bestselling author Karina Halle.

Piper Evans: elementary school teacher by day–avid romance reader and anonymous podcaster by night. She lives a quiet, reclusive life, taking care of her mother, who struggles with mental illness, avoiding her regrettable ex, who bartends in town, and trying to make inroads in the tight-knit island community that still sees her, five years in, as an outsider.

And she’s happy with how things are–really–until British royals rent the property next to hers and their brooding bodyguard decides she’s a security threat. Piper quickly realizes that one person’s fairy tale is an ordinary woman’s nightmare as a media frenzy takes over the island and each run-in with Harrison Cole is hotter and more confusing than the last. But beneath Harrison’s no-nonsense exterior lies a soft heart, one that could tempt a woman who’s sworn off attachments into believing in white knights.

But when Piper finds herself smack in the middle of a royal scandal that rocks the island she’ll need more than Harrison’s strong arms to shield her–she’ll have to do a little rescuing herself. With careers, hearts, and friendships on the line, Piper and Harrison will have to decide what they’re willing to give up for a chance at their own happily ever after.” (Goodreads)

I wanted to pick this one up after seeing the cover on Instagram. I love illustrated covers and this was no different. It’s beautiful! I will say that I had a hard time connecting to the characters and I don’t think this has anything to do with the book. There are a lot of good things to say about this book.

There is something about royalty life that intrigues people and I can definitely see commonalities between the fictional characters in this book and the actual royal family. I always like reading about different fictional royalty families because authors do a great job of making them stand out from others. Monica and Eddie were good characters and it’s a shame what the media does to people. The media has a way of digging about and creating chaos that doesn’t even involve them. It’s utter madness but its something that is prevalent in our own world and not just the fictional ones.

The main character of the book and neighbor to the royal party is Piper. She is an elementary school teacher who’s hobby is all about romance novels and has her own podcast for it. It’s nice to read about bibliophiles. Her passion for romance is kept under the radar as with many people who read the genre. It definitely has it’s stereotypes and the book brings the conversation into light.

Besides all that, she also helps to take care of her mom who deals with neurological issues. It’s not often I read about mother-daughter bonds but I’m glad it was included because it’s very sweet.

The love interest, Harrison Cole, is a jack-of-all-trades and takes his job quite seriously. He may start off standoffish but he does open up. I can’t say that I ever liked him that much but I think that just stems from not being able to connect from the book in general.

When it came to the plot, it’s filled with romance, plot twists, and growing friendships. The romance is on the steamier side which makes sense for the topic that centers around stereotypes of the romance genre. I don’t have a problem with it but it’s just not what I like about romance books and I know others won’t have this issue. I did like the friendship more and I’m glad there was an epilogue to nicely wrap everything up since it is a standalone.

Overall, this was a good book and I can see a lot of people liking this one.

Arc Review: Isn’t It Bromantic? (Bromance Book Club #4) by Lyssa Kay Adams

Title: Isn’t It Bromantic? (Bromance Book Club #4)
Author: Lyssa Kay Adams
Genre: Adult Contemporary / Romance
Publication Date: July 20th, 2021
Publisher: Berkley
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for an earc to read in exchange for a review!

“With his passion for romance novels, it was only a matter of time before Vlad wrote one.

Elena Konnikova has lived her entire adult life in the shadows. As the daughter of a Russian journalist who mysteriously disappeared, she escaped danger the only way she knew how: She married her childhood friend, Vladimir, and moved to the United States, where he is a professional hockey player in Nashville.

Vlad, aka the Russian, thought he could be content with his marriage of convenience. But it’s become too difficult to continue in a one-sided relationship. He joined the Bromance Book Club to learn how to make his wife love him, but all he’s learned is that he deserves more. He’s ready to create his own sweeping romance—both on and off the page.

The bros are unwilling to let Vlad forgo true love—and this time they’re not operating solo. They join forces with Vlad’s neighbors, a group of meddling widows who call themselves the Loners. But just when things finally look promising, Elena’s past life intrudes and their happily ever after is cast into doubt.” (Goodreads)

From the beginning of this series, I loved the Russian aka Vlad. He was humorous and romantic. I’m so glad that the author decided to give him his own book because he deserves all the love and happiness that this book had to offer!

One thing I always enjoy about these books is the dual point-of-view. We already know Vlad but we know nothing about his mysterious wife, Elena. I liked getting to know her and the feelings she has towards Vlad both before and after their marriage of convenience. Also that trope was exceptional in this book!

Elena is very passionate about journalism and uncovering her father’s truth that is connected with his disappearance. When it comes to this series, this was the most intense. I do like seeing the continual theme of how women can be poorly treated whether it’s a work environment or being trafficked from another country in hopes for a better future. Trafficking is such an important issue and I’m glad to see it get page time.

Vlad is the best cinnamon roll in the world. His love life wasn’t what I was expecting at all but it made me appreciate him more. I also love his love for animals because it’s exactly how I am, haha. Give me all the animals! His life doesn’t just revolve around hockey either. Since Vlad is passionate about romance novels, he has decided to write his own. It’s always nice to get snippets of what the men are reading or in this case, working on.

Their relationship is rocky from the beginning. They tiptoe around one another and don’t have the best communication. I loved seeing them work through their problems slowly and get the help they need from those around them.

Another trope I loved in this book was the found family. Not only is the Bromance Book Club always there for their members but Vlad also had another group made up of ladies who had lost their husbands and were alone. They also came to the rescue for his marriage and worked with Elena. It just gave me all the feelings.

Overall, this was my favorite book so far. I’m glad I finally sat down to read it as it was so worth it! I am curious if there will be more books. I feel like there was a hint at a new relationship but only time will tell!

Goodreads Monday: The Royals Next Door by Karina Halle (5/31/21)

Hello Readers!

Goodreads Monday is hosted by Lauren’s Page Turners. To participate, choose a random book from your TBR and show it off.

Title: The Royals Next Door
Author: Karina Halle
Genre: Adult Contemporary / Romance
Publication Date: August 31st, 2021
Publisher: Berkley

“An ordinary summer goes royally awry when a prince and princess move next door, bringing their handsome bodyguard with them, from New York Times bestselling author Karina Halle.

Piper Evans: elementary school teacher by day–avid romance reader and anonymous podcaster by night. She lives a quiet, reclusive life, taking care of her mother, who struggles with mental illness, avoiding her regrettable ex, who bartends in town, and trying to make inroads in the tight-knit island community that still sees her, five years in, as an outsider.

And she’s happy with how things are–really–until British royals rent the property next to hers and their brooding bodyguard decides she’s a security threat. Piper quickly realizes that one person’s fairy tale is an ordinary woman’s nightmare as a media frenzy takes over the island and each run-in with Harrison Cole is hotter and more confusing than the last. But beneath Harrison’s no-nonsense exterior lies a soft heart, one that could tempt a woman who’s sworn off attachments into believing in white knights.

But when Piper finds herself smack in the middle of a royal scandal that rocks the island she’ll need more than Harrison’s strong arms to shield her–she’ll have to do a little rescuing herself. With careers, hearts, and friendships on the line, Piper and Harrison will have to decide what they’re willing to give up for a chance at their own happily ever after.” (Goodreads)

I first saw this cover on Instagram awhile ago and I immediately added it to my tbr. I’m so glad I was approved on Netgalley! I will be starting it today and I can’t wait to see where the story goes.

Does this one sound like something you would read?

Find me on Instagram / Goodreads

E-Arc Review: The Kindred Spirits Supper Club by Amy E. Reichert

Title: The Kindred Spirits Supper Club
Author: Amy E. Reichert
Genre: Adult Contemporary / Romance / Paranormal
Publication Date: April 20th, 2021
Publisher: Berkley
Rating: 3 stars

Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for an earc to read in exchange for a review!

“Jobless and forced home to Wisconsin, journalist Sabrina Monroe can tolerate reunions with frenemies and kisses from old boyfriends, but not the literal ghosts that greet her in this heartwarming tale of the power of love and connection from acclaimed author Amy E. Reichert.

For Sabrina Monroe, moving back home to the Wisconsin Dells–the self-described Waterpark Capital of the World–means returning to the Monroe family curse: the women in her family can see spirits who come to them for help with unfinished business. But Sabrina’s always redirected the needy spirits to her mom, who’s much better suited for the job. The one exception has always been Molly, a bubbly rom-com loving ghost, who stuck by Sabrina’s side all through her lonely childhood.

Her personal life starts looking up when Ray, the new local restaurateur, invites Sabrina to his supper club, where he flirts with her over his famous Brandy Old-Fashioneds. He’s charming and handsome, but Sabrina tells herself she doesn’t have time for romance–she needs to focus on finding a job. Except the longer she’s in the Dells, the harder it is to resist her feelings for Ray. Who can turn down a cute guy with a fondness for rescue dogs and an obsession with perfecting his fried cheese curds recipe?

When the Dells starts to feel like home for the first time and with Ray in her corner, Sabrina begins to realize that she can make a difference and help others wherever she is.” (Goodreads)

What drew me to this book was the setting. As a girl who grew up in Minnesota, I remember driving to The Dells for some family time usually during fall break. I’ve even rode on the ducks before which is also referenced in the book. It was fun and brought back memories. There is also mentions of cheese curds and I am a sucker for those!

As far as uniqueness goes, this book has it! I’ve never read a romance where there is paranormal added for more flare. It was interesting and I liked getting to know the main ghost, Molly.

Sabrina Monroe is a little down in her dumps and it doesn’t get much better when she has to deal with people from her past. She even has to work for one of the worst ones. It’s easy to understand her feelings because a lot of the things she had to deal with would be too much for anyone. Even though I understood most of her actions, I still didn’t fully connect with her but it didn’t stop me from liking what I read.

When it comes to the romance, I thought it was cute at first. Ray wanted to get her attention so badly and he would do anything for it, especially agree to be her fake boyfriend. To be honest, I didn’t think the plot needed that and it just came off as too much since it didn’t play a really huge role. I did however like that he was always there for her in her times of need, especially after a hard day. Although, sometimes she would get mad at him for the smallest things and it kind of irked me.

I did like a lot of the plot but at times it felt too full and then would get really dramatic real fast. It just wasn’t always my cup of tea.

Overall, I liked this one for the most part. I would still recommend it if you are looking for a lighter romance with quirky vibes.

E-Arc Review: Meet Me in Paradise by Libby Hubscher

Title: Meet Me in Paradise
Author: Libby Hubscher
Genre: Adult Contemporary / Romance
Publication Date: March 23rd, 2021
Publisher: Berkley Books
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for an earc to read in exchange for a review!

“Marin Cole has never:
Seen the ocean
Climbed a mountain
Taken a risk on love
….But if her sister’s plan works, she just might do all three.

Ever since her journalist mother died on assignment, Marin has played it safe, refusing to set foot outside the state of Tennessee. Her wild-child younger sister, Sadie, has trotted the globe as a photographer, living off of art and adrenaline.

When Sadie returns from a tough assignment abroad and looks a little worse for wear, Marin reluctantly agrees to a sisters’ spa weekend on the tropical island of Saba. But her lifelong fear of travel is affirmed when Sadie misses the flight, Marin’s luggage gets mixed up with another passenger’s, and an episode of turbulence sends her hurtling into the lap of Lucas Tsai, the handsome stranger who stole her sister’s seat.

For the first time in a long time, Marin has to step outside of her comfort zone as she explores the island with Lucas and learns what she’s been missing out on. With each breathtaking new experience, Marin gets closer to her real self, the man she’s falling for, and the heart-wrenching truth about why she’s there in the first place.” (Goodreads)

From the cover and even from most of the blurb, I figured this would be a nice rom-com but there was so much more packed into this beautiful book. I didn’t know how emotional it would make me but there were plenty of tears shed and they were all worth it!

The book is split into two point-of-views: Marin and Sadie. Both sisters are completely different in looks and even their personalities. Marin would rather stay in and never leave Tennessee and worries about her sister more often than not. Sadie travels the world in search of great photos for her job. I honestly enjoyed reading about both, especially the antics of Sadie. She is a wild one!

From the beginning of the trip of a lifetime, which was supposed to be with her sister, Marin is pushed into new experiences from the get-go. There are so many hilarious moments because of it and the plane ride had me dying. And of course, there is the introduction of Lucas. The hot guy who stole her sister’s seat.

When it came to the plot, I was hooked. There are magical moments on this island and Marin is finally learning what it means to be her true self. One without worry and one that takes risk. It’s amazing how our siblings know exactly what we need even when we don’t. The island is also filled with a great cast of minor characters that help Marin in whatever way they can and become friends along the way.

Even though this book is about finding oneself, there is also heartache found throughout the plot as well. As the book gets going, I had a thought in the back of my mind on how it would go and even though I had prepared myself, it still wasn’t enough. So many tears! And even though I was an emotional mess, I loved it all because there was still hope and a bright future ahead.

Overall, I really enjoyed this one. It’s not often I find a book that makes me emotional but I like it because it makes the book that much more special to me. The romance was sweet and had me smiling. I know I didn’t take about it but it’s fun to be surprised when you read it! I’d highly recommend adding this one to your tbr.

E-Arc Review: The Dating Plan by Sara Desai

Title: The Dating Plan
Author: Sara Desai
Genre: Adult Contemporary/ Romance
Publication Date: March 16th, 2021
Publisher: Berkley Books
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an earc to read in exchange for a review!

“Even with a step-by-step plan, these fake fiances might accidentally fall for each other in this hilarious, heartfeltromantic comedy from the author of The Marriage Game.

Daisy Patel is a software engineer who understands lists and logic better than bosses and boyfriends. With her life all planned out, and no interest in love, the one thing she can’t give her family is the marriage they expect. Left with few options, she asks her childhood crush to be her decoy fiance.

Liam Murphy is a venture capitalist with something to prove. When he learns that his inheritance is contingent on being married, he realizes his best friend’s little sister has the perfect solution to his problem. A marriage of convenience will get Daisy’s matchmaking relatives off her back and fulfill the terms of his late grandfather’s will. If only he hadn’t broken her tender teenage heart nine years ago…

Sparks fly when Daisy and Liam go on a series of dates to legitimize their fake relationship. Too late, they realize that very little is convenient about their arrangement. History and chemistry aren’t about to follow the rules of this engagement.” (Goodreads)

I was so excited to get this one from Netgalley after really enjoying her first book, The Marriage Game, last year. This author doesn’t get enough love but she deserves it!

Besides the author catching my eye for this book, I am always here for fake dating/fake fiancés. It just brings me so much joy and this one didn’t disappoint.

Daisy Patel isn’t looking for love but her family wants to see her get married. They will do anything to set her up even if that means bombarding her at a conference for work. In walks Liam and it’s all smiles from me from that moment on!

Liam has a damaged past and a motorcycle. He may not think he is relationship material but his actions prove otherwise. I loved getting to know him through the course of the book and finding out why he disappeared all those years on her prom night when he was supposed to be her date. I did like that they knew each other and I think it made the romance that much better. He does get his own point-of-view which I liked a lot. It explains more of his background and why he was always at her house instead of spending time with his own family.

When it came to the other characters, Layla is back and she was the main character in the The Marriage Game. It was nice to see her around once again, as well as the whole family. This family is one of my favorite bookish families and they always make me laugh!

The romance in this book is much steamier than her first (if I am remembering correctly, haha). It does start off as hate from one side but it doesn’t take long for them to realize what’s between them. They do have their struggles and communication isn’t always there but I loved it all. They had me laughing, smiling, and even crying. They are just the cutest!

Overall, I really enjoyed this one and am hoping she writes another book because I need more from this family and this writer! If you haven’t read The Marriage Game yet, I definitely would so that way you can read this one too.

E-Arc Review: Much Ado About You by Samantha Young

Title: Much Ado About You
Author: Samantha Young
Genre: Adult Contemporary / Romance
Publication Date: February 2nd, 2021
Publisher: Berkley
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an earc to read in exchange for a review!

“The cozy comforts of an English village bookstore open up a world of new possibilities for Evie Starling in this charming new romantic comedy from New York Times bestselling author Samantha Young.

At thirty-three-years old Evangeline Starling’s life in Chicago is missing that special something. And when she’s passed over for promotion at work, Evie realizes she needs to make a change. Some time away to regain perspective might be just the thing. In a burst of impulsivity, she plans a holiday in a quaint English village. The holiday package comes with a temporary position at Much Ado About Books, the bookstore located beneath her rental apartment. There’s no better dream vacation for the bookish Evie, a life-long Shakespeare lover.

Not only is Evie swept up in running the delightful store as soon as she arrives, she’s drawn into the lives, loves and drama of the friendly villagers. Including Roane Robson, the charismatic and sexy farmer who tempts Evie every day with his friendly flirtations. Evie is determined to keep him at bay because a holiday romance can only end in heartbreak, right? But Evie can’t deny their connection and longs to trust in her handsome farmer that their whirlwind romance could turn in to the forever kind of love.” (Goodreads)

I stumbled upon this one on Netgalley and couldn’t resist the cover. It also didn’t help that it’s about an English village. I just love books with that kind of setting. Although there were good moments, this book also had it’s issues.

One of the reasons I liked this book was the setting. It was perfect and I liked that all of the minor characters knew each other, although they gossip quite a lot! Most of the minor characters have a side story and they were interesting but also kind of took away from the romance aspect of the plot since it felt like there was a lot going on.

When it came to the main character, Evie, I didn’t mind her but sometimes she could be annoying. Her life in Chicago wasn’t going great so she booked a flight out of there. The vacation was unconventional since she would also be running a bookshop but I was here for it. Yay for an exciting adventure! Before she left she told herself no men while she was away. That lasted one day. The guy uses the line, “let’s just be friends” and she figures why not. Obviously, I knew what was going to happen. She was also jealous a lot and it kind of got old.

The romance in the book didn’t happen quickly when it came to the physical nature but you could tell from the instance they met there was an attraction between them. After that, their friendship moved rather quickly and they were seeing each other a lot. I guess I feel kind of in the middle when it came to their relationship. On one side, it’s great they started out as friends but it also moved rather quickly too. At least their were cute moments.

*Spoilers*

As with any romance, there is a plot twist that has to ruin them. I did not like it at all. Two of Evie’s other rules for dating were that she wouldn’t date a younger man (She’s 33) and that they couldn’t be rich. Well, surprise surprise! Roane is both of those things. She finds out from one of the villagers who isn’t friends with Roane and hell breaks loose. She gives him back the engagement ring and heads back to Chicago saying he isn’t the same man.

I feel like Evie blew this way up too much. It honestly killed the ending of the book for me. She can help all of the villagers with their troubles but can’t deal with her own and runs away again. Except she isn’t gone long and basically forgives him anyways. I just didn’t get the point of it all.

Also, it’s crazy to me that she was so close to her friend in Chicago but was ready to give up her entire life for a guy and a bookstore within a span of a couple months.

*End of Spoilers*

Overall, I liked it for the most part but it could have been better. I know it may not seem that way, haha. I do think other readers will like it and if it sounds good then give it a chance!

E-Arc Review: The Bright and Breaking Sea by Chloe Neill

Title: The Bright and Breaking Sea
Author: Chloe Neill
Genre: Adult Fantasy / Historical Fiction
Publication Date: November 17th, 2020
Publisher: Berkley

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an e-copy to review! All opinions are my own.

“Kit Brightling, rescued as a foundling and raised in a home for talented girls, has worked hard to rise through the ranks of the Isles’ Crown Command and become one of the few female captains in Queen Charlotte’s fleet. Her ship is small, but she’s fast–in part because of Kit’s magical affinity to the sea. But the waters become perilous when the queen sends Kit on a special mission with a partner she never asked for.

Rian Grant, Viscount Queenscliffe, may be a veteran of the Continental war, but Kit doesn’t know him or his motives–and she’s dealt with one too many members of the Beau Monde. But Kit has her orders, and the queen has commanded they journey to a dangerous pirate quay and rescue a spy who’s been gathering intelligence on the exiled emperor of Gallia.

Kit can lead her ship and clever crew on her own, but with the fate of queen and country at stake, Kit and Rian must learn to trust each other, or else the Isles will fall….”(Goodreads)

I’m going to start this off by saying that this is a case of “it’s me, not you.” and although there were good parts to this book, it just wasn’t a book I overly enjoyed.

At the beginning, a man named Gerard is introduced. There isn’t much context given but it was enough to entice me. From there, Kit is introduced and she is a pretty interesting character.

Kit is the captain of a ship that is employed to the queen. It’s a pretty nifty job and can be quite dangerous when the sea is filled with sea dragons and there are swashbuckling pirates. She is courageous and doesn’t let her gender get in the way. I also liked the bits with her sister, Jane, because it shows that family is important to her. Jane is also pretty wild with those explosives!

I will say that some of the characters felt flat and it was hard to connect with them.

After the initial prologue, the book was a bit slow and took me awhile to get into again. I think for me the problem was that I was expecting more fantasy whereas I would say this is more historical fiction with just a hint of magic. Maybe the magic will play a bigger role in the next book.

I also seem to hit a wall with my interest when it comes to seafaring books. I don’t know why and I keep trying to make them work for me but it’s just not a favorite setting of mine.

Overall, this book was good but it just wasn’t really a book for me. I think many will like this one especially if they enjoy historical fiction, strong female characters, and seafaring adventures.