#BookReview Warming My Winter Heart by Michelle Cornish

Warming My Winter Heart by Michelle Cornish is a delightful and sweet romance read!

I’m the kind of girl who likes to curl up on the couch with a blanket, a warm cup of tea and a great contemporary book that will whisk me away into a story. Warming My Winter Heart did just that! This adorably fun romance novel will let you escape and have a little soap opera-esque drama in your life as well.

Lexi Blair is coming home from L.A. because she heard her ex-fiancé has died. Even if they didn’t get along, the poor girl is upset over this. Yet, surprises are bound for this girl because he’s not actually dead… and he wouldn’t mind getting back together. This nasty scheme implemented by people in her close circle is just one of many dramatic plot twists that will have you glued to the edge of you seat and enjoying the soap opera-ness this book has to offer! But it gets better guys! There might be another handsome man waiting in the wings that Lexi can chase after… John is just the guy for her, but he’s got his own problems to deal with.

I really liked this book! It’s a soft, sweet, contemporary book that is easy to read and moves at a fast pace. The romance doesn’t start until about halfway through the book so it’s also quite the slow burn. The world develops, we meet the characters and then we get into the real action.

Other positives in list form:

1. A puppy named Prince William – because why not? He’s adorable, he’s got an awesome name and he’s quite the trouble maker.
2. Oh Canada! This book is set in a fictional Canadian city but it’s a great Canadian read regardless! I love supporting Canadian authors and I love reading Canadian fiction. Have I said Canadian enough for you yet? No? How about one more “Canadian” to make a statement?
3. Accounting and Marketing are mentioned in this book as careers. For some reason, I rarely come across romance novels that have those careers. It’s kind of random, but to me it was a bonus!
4. The world and characters are not perfect. Don’t you hate those characters that are Mary Sue’s and seem to have it all going for them? These characters have real problems and act real. I felt like I would actually now some of these characters if they magically popped out of the book and came alive. I like stories where the people are realistic and relatable. Not everyone has a perfect, little life!
5. The best friend’s name is Briar. I am Briar. This is mega cool! Other than Sleeping Beauty (Briar Rose), I rarely see the name Briar pop up anywhere. It’s goofy, but again – you gotta find the small things in life that make you happy.
6. The book is about 200 pages long, which for me is the perfect length for a dramatic romance. The book doesn’t feel like it’s too short and it doesn’t feel like it drags on. The length is literally perfect in my mind. It’s also not so big and daunting that you don’t want to read it. The book is manageable – which sounds awful in writing but is a huge bonus for readers like me.
7. You can easily put this book down and jump back into it later. Because the book is not overly complicated, it’s one of those books that if you don’t want to binge read it (why wouldn’t you though? It’s amazing), then you can set it down for a couple days and come back to it. I also like that as a reader who tends to have a lot going on (and I read this over the holidays, so as you can imagine things can get a little crazy).
8. The cover is adorable! And did I mention there’s a tree farm in the book? Yeah. This book has so many Canadian winter vibes. I love it!

Overall, this book is spectacular, fantastic and marvellous!

I, of course, am a little biased because a character is named after me (yay best friend Briar!) and I was mentioned in the author’s notes (literally one of my life goals!) but I still think it’s an amazing read. I highly recommend it to romance lovers seeking an easy read with lots of drama. Michelle Cornish is a writer to watch out for! Seriously, her books need more attention. I’ll be grabbing more of Michelle’s book as soon as possible. Join me in this adventure! Grab this book and chat (or gossip) with me about it!

Five out of five stars!

I received a free copy of this book from the author, Michelle Cornish, in exchange of an honest review.

You can purchase this book on:
Amazon.ca
Amazon.com
Indigo
Kobo
B&N

Check out the author, Michelle Cornish, by clicking on the links below:
https://www.michellecornish.com/
Twitter: @Chellevester
Instagram: @michellejcornish
Goodreads Author Page

Looking for more romance? Here are some other indie romance books featured on my blog that you might enjoy:
#BookReview My Christmas Charade by Melanie Ting
#BookReview Love Comes for the Rock Star by Savannah Adams
#BookReview Donut Disturb by Melissa Williams

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#BookReview My Christmas Charade by Melanie Ting

Ooooohhhh boy!

I was seeking holiday books this year, and this one did not disappoint! Like normal, Melanie Ting has crafted a perfectly swell book that will make your heart flutter.

My Christmas Charade (the third book in the Holiday Hat Trick series) is about a sweet, Government financial analyst named Emily who fake dates the snarky, sarcastic and crude former hockey player Ian. She brings him home for Christmas after her boyfriend of ten years breaks up with her (his name is Lucas, FYI), to show her family how her new flings are totally acceptable. Because, obviously, a brutally honest, rude jerk with a mullet like Ian could not possibly be liked by her parents. Until, you know, everyone loves him – including her!

This book is packed full of Canadiana and I LOVE IT. Seriously, I love a good book that represents my home country in a variety of ways. Hockey players from Timmins? Yup. I’ve heard those jokes before! The ridiculous expensive of an NHL ticket (especially the Toronto Maple Leafs), yuuuuuuuup! Honestly, this book packing so many little Easter eggs for Canadians was just incredible. I loved it!

Throw in these other awesome notes:

1. Em’s real name is Emerald – that’s ridiculously awesome.
2. Em owns a hedgehog. YES A HEDGEHOG LIKE OMG CUTENESS.
3. The relationship not being like BAM! instalove is totally appreciated.
4. The comments about protection and being healthy in the sexual department – respect!
5. Melanie Ting writing this book so well that the chemistry between Ian and Em felt real – awesome!
6. Enemies to lovers, kind of? I wouldn’t say they are necessarily enemies but they don’t get along. This is a trope I haven’t read much of, so it was nice to slip into it.
7. So many great one liners or just snarky comments. I love some sarcasm and wit in my books! Loooove it!
8. Lots of hot sex. Melanie Ting is great at writing sex scenes. Seriously. Woooo. It was hot.
9. Can we make the whole foul mouth hockey player a trope yet? It totally is a trope in real life up here in the good ol’ North.

Overall, this book is magical and fun! It’s a great romance that should be hitting the rounds and getting more readers. It’s a hidden gem that I highly recommend.

Five out of five stars!

I received a free copy of this book from the author, Melanie Ting, in exchange of an honest review.

Click on the links below to send you off to some purchasing sites:
Amazon.ca
Amazon.com
Indigo
Kobo
B&N

Check out the author, Melanie Ting, on:
Goodreads Author Page
http://melanieting.com/
Twitter @MelTing21

Seeking more romance reads in your life? Check out some other books reviewed on my blog:
#BookReview My Hallowe’en Heartbreak by Melanie Ting
#BookReview Christmas Treats by Piper Rayne, Melissa Williams and more…
#BookReview Seeing Colour by Amber Faucher

Give me a shout out on Twitter if you read this review! #briarsreviews @ReviewAlholic

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#BookReview Christmas Treats by Piper Rayne, Melissa Williams and more!

I’m a little late to the release party on this book but I am still super happy to say I picked up a holiday read in time for the holidays. Seriously, it’s like a curse for me. I always get them in July or August.

So, Christmas treats! This is an anthology/collection of Christmas tales from many authors. I came for Melissa Williams (one of my recent fave romantic comedy writers, like OMG) but I stayed for all the wonderful treats packed in this story (enjoy the pun, folks).

1. The Gingerbread Showdown by Piper Rayne
   I read this story as I just put on gingerbread scented hand cream, isn’t it ironic? To start off, A GINGERBREAD RECIPE YES. Then, this super, duper cute fall hard and fast kind of love story? I’m digging it. The writing is also super easy and flows nicely. I might have to pick up some more books by Piper Rayne soon! 4 out of 5 stars!
2. Sweet Girl by M.C. Cerny
   What an adorably funny story with an even better synopsis (die from her cooking… geez, I was smirking and giggling). This story had me feeling like there was maybe a story out there already with more information on the couple though. Regardless, it was very nice! 3 out of 5 stars.
3. ‘Tis The Season to be Jelly by Kyra Fox
   Okay, the title alone is fabulous. I found this one to be more romantic and whimsical to me, for unknown reasons. I just really vibed with Kyra’s writing and found myself drifting away into the story. I really loved Eloise and Declan, and I think Kyra might just be another author I’m going to have to check out. 4 out of 5 stars.
4. Baker’s Dozen by Kali Brixton
   Another hidden gem! Scott and Nova are a romantic couple with some dust under the rug or skeletons in the closet. These two are so sweet for each other and will warm your heart with how much they care. 4 out of 5 stars.
5. Deck… the Balls by DL Gallie
   What is it with these amusing names? I’m really enjoying the giggles I can have out of the titles. Also, a synopsis designed like a recipe? Even cooler! Add in all the comedy in this love story, yep. I love it! Jesse and Reese deserve their own series. 4 out of 5 stars!
6. Muchas Smoochas by Halo Roberts
   Are you looking for a second chance romance? GET READY TO RUMBLE with Muchas Smoochas. You can tell Enrique and Freya are meant to be. The writing style alone will make you sigh happily and enjoy the ride. This is just what I was needing! 5 out of 5 stars.
7. Nog or Never by Melissa Williams
   This is what I came to the anthology collection for. I love me some Melissa Williams and I was totally pumped to grab this story! Of course it’s at the end because I really want to read it. That’s how anthologies go! Best friend’s little sister trope? I AM IN. I AM SOLD. LETS GO.

So my highlights of this story: Icing bags as dicks, continuation of Bake Rattle and Roll, good ole Canadian setting, brother’s best friend trope (yessssss), reuniting with an old flame (yesssss), Belinda and Luke being adorable together, and a sugary sweet ending. What more can a girl ask for? 5 out of 5 stars!

Other notes:

I still find it super cool when I get an electronic copy and it has links I can click to go right to a story. I’m not sure if every copy is like this, but mine was super cool! I’m like a child on Christmas clicking and getting sent right to the story I want! It’s a goofy thing to be excited about, but hey. It counts.

And all the recipes! Yesssss!

So, I came for Melissa and I left with so many adorable stories and amazing recipes. I have to say, this is one fantastic book. Give it a read if you’re still seeking some Christmas and Holiday Spirit!

Four out of five stars!

I received a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.

Click one of these links to send you to a magical place to purchase this book:
Universal Book Links
Amazon.ca
Amazon.com
Indigo
Kobo
B&N

Are you looking for some more romance books to read? Give these books a chance:
#BookReview Donut Disturb by Melissa Williams
#BookReview After the Kick by Savannah Adams
#BookReview How to Flirt with a Naked Werewolf by Molly Harper

Give me a shout out on Twitter if you read this review! #briarsreviews @ReviewAlholic

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**Photos via Publisher.

#BookReview Call Me Mrs. Miracle by Debbie Macomber

Let’s get into the Christmas spirit with an adorable Christmas book by the always lovely Debbie Macomber!

 

Call Me Mrs. Miracle is an absolutely delightful Christmas romance book!

Emily Merkle is mistakenly called Emily Miracle, and takes on the name Mrs. Miracle. She’s an older woman who does wondrous work at the toy store she got hired at. Jake is her boss, and he’s ordered what seems like WAY too many toy robots that his father, the owner, is not too pleased about. He meets Holly Larson, a woman taking care of her nephew since his Mother has passed and his Father (her brother) is in Afghanistan. Gabe, her adorable nephew, really wants one of those robots. She might be in luck, since her and Jake meet and he’s more than happy to set one aside for her. Will there be a Christmas miracle?

This book is so utterly cute! It’s the perfect book to curl up with a blanket and some tea and just sink into. It’s full of Christmas spirit and packed tight full of ooey gooey romance. It is predictable, especially since this turned into a Hallmark movie, but it’s everything I wanted and more in a Christmas romance book. It’s sugary sweet and just fun.

Four out of five stars.

 

Check this book out on:
Goodreads
Amazon.ca
Amazon.com
Kobo

 

If you love Christmas romances, check out these delightful book featured on my blog:
#BookReview Miss Kane’s Christmas by Caroline Mickelson
#BookReview Christmas in Silver Bells Falls by Samantha Chase
#BookReview Christmas on Mistletoe Lane by Annie Rains
#BookReview Hot Winter Nights by Jill Shalvis

 

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#BookReview Succubus on Top by Richelle Mead

Succubus Blues (the first book in this miraculous series) was one of my top books for 2019. Ever since I was in high school, Richelle Mead was one of my faves. Vampire Academy, Gameboard of the Gods and the Storm Born series ranked high on my list! It seemed only natural to finally pick this seires up.

Georgina Kincaid is a succubus with a mortal, author boyfriend named Seth (she is his ultimate fangirl, by the way). After the contents of the last novel, she learns that they cannot touch or get it on without killing him (that’s a good way to kill the vibe in a relationship). Meanwhile, one of her co-workers has been acting pretty strange, and to top it all off her old incubus buddy Bastien is back in town. Can’t a girl catch a break?

I didn’t enjoy this book as much as the first one, if I’m being brutally honest. The first book felt like a fairy tail and put really high expectations in my head! Unfortunately, Succubus on Top just didn’t meet those expectations. That being said, it was still a fun ride and worth the read. Everyone I talk to says the series only gets better, and I’m up for the challenge.

Georgina is a relatable character (despite the fact she basically has to sell her body to stay alive). She has flaws, her relationship isn’t perfect and she has temptations. I think we can all relate to that in some way. There are moments where I’m yelling in my head that this is a bad idea, but I know full well I’ve probably made one similar. Then, to top it all off, Seth is the dream man that every girl dreams of and more! That’s probably why this is making out to be an excellent love story. He cares and understands her in ways most people just don’t get, and it’s super romantic. Yet, this isn’t the typical romance novel. It’s not ooey, gooey or mushy gushy – it’s an adult relationship with depth and character (that might sound boring, but I promise you, there’s lots of sex and sexy scenes in this book).

I found the plot to be predictable in this book, while I didn’t really see everything coming in the first book. It’s not the end of the world, but for a sequel I was surprised it didn’t hit me as well as the first book did. Also… there was some quick forgiveness in this book and I feel like it’s not entirely… accurate? Maybe it’s just me.

Another plus for me is all of the side characters – the vampires, demons, angels, etc. Seriously, Carter seems like a fun guy, just saying.

Overall, Richelle Mead is a great writer with lots of grand ideas. I’d recommend picking up this series if you want a romance novel that is so much more (but still packs a good punch!). If you’re tired of the tired billionaire or jerky bad boy, meet Seth the nerdy, sweet and understanding author. He’ll give you chills and be the ultimate book boyfriend.

Three out of five stars.

Check out this book on:
Goodreads
Amazon.ca
Amazon.com
Barnes & Noble
Indigo
Kobo

 

If you love fantasy and romance, here’s some other books I’ve loved that you might love too:
#BookReview White Hot Kiss by Jennifer L. Armentrout
#BookReview Avalon Hall by Ruth Miranda
#TopBooksList Briar’s Top Fantasy Reads, Part 1

 

Give me a shout out on Twitter if you read this review! #briarsreviews @ReviewAlholic

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#BookReview Misadventures of the First Daughter by Meredith Wild and Mia Michelle

Geez Louise. If you’re looking for a super hot romance with lots of erotica and sex scenes littered throughout, with just a pinch of thriller in it, GRAB THIS BOOK.

I have a fond place for Meredith Wild. She is one of the authors that “introduced” me to erotica in romance. I wasn’t totally into erotica after reading Fifty Shades of Grey, but Meredith and a few other writers introduced me to how romantic and sexy erotica could be. It was only natural for me to want to pick up some more books by her and give them a chance.

Misadventures of the First Daughter is an excellent romp for you to thrust into (haha, puns!) and I’d highly recommend it if you like romance and erotica.

So, plot time:

Charlotte is the First Daughter and her parents are rather strict. She starts rebelling and seeking all the fun in the world, meanwhile Zane Parker, her bodyguard, watches on. She has always kind of liked him, and suddenly those sparks are flying. They get entangled in a romantic web that they might not be able to save… Especially since their love is forbidden.

This book can be touchy for some people. There’s hints of sexual assault in it, so be wary. Otherwise, it’s a great erotica that kept me stringing along the entire time. There’s just so much tension in it that it is impressive! I absolutely want to pick up more of this series, especially since it dabbles with other authors as well. This Misadventures series seems like it’ll be a great romantic series for anyone to pick up. Surely there will be an author you enjoy in this collection!

Overall, it’s a great read! I highly recommend my fellow romance and erotica lovers to give this book a go! Good job Meredith and Mia!

Four out of five stars.

I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.

 

Check out this book on:
Goodreads
Amazon.ca
Amazon.com
Kobo
Indigo
B&N

 

You can find out more about the authors, Meredith Wild and Mia Michelle, on:
http://www.meredithwild.com/
Twitter @WildMeredith
http://miamichelleauthor.com/
Twitter @miamichellebook

 

If you love romance and erotica, here are some other books that you might enjoy that have been featured on my blog:
#BookReview Love, All by Tamsen Parker
#TopBooksList Briar’s Top Romance Novels
#BookReview At Mother’s Command 2 by Kay Brandt

 

Give me a shout out on Twitter if you read this review! #briarsreviews @ReviewAlholic

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#BookReview Something Borrowed by Louisa George

Oh-Emm-Gee.

Something Borrowed by Louisa George was seriously cute and is totally hyping me up for Valentine’s Day! You know, months early.

Chloe Cassidy just had the worst thing that could possibly happen to a wedding planner happen – her husband left her at the altar. Jump forward, and suddenly she’s getting flirty with the Best Man, otherwise known as the sexy Vaughn Brooks. Will this chef and wedding planner fall in love? Will her ex come running back to her? No matter what happens, romantic chaos ensues!

This book was seriously fun and absolutely delightful. I couldn’t put it down and I honestly didn’t want to. I love a good dramatic romance when I want to take a break from schoolwork. This book perfectly fit the bill! It is a wee bit stereotypical, but that’s exactly what I signed up for!

The big bonus of this book is that the characters are definitely flawed. They aren’t perfect and they’ve all had some rough times. Chloe’s ex does seem like quite the psychopath, but having one strange character out of the bunch is fine with me. I enjoyed watching these characters grow and change, it was refreshing. I don’t always see character in romance-y chick lit books so I’m impressed.

I also thoroughly enjoyed the side plot that I think will be carried on into another book. It was very sweet! I was confused at first as to why it was happening, but then I just enjoyed the ride. No spoilers, of course, because that would give away half the fun!

Are there negatives for this book? Yep, there sure are. Chloe’s Mother’s depression made me feel uncomfortable. There’s also a lot of blame in this book for certain situations that realistically wouldn’t happen (only through assumptions). None of this tore me away from the book, but I can see some readers not enjoying these aspects.

Overall, this book was a great read and I totally loved it. I want more books by Louisa George ASAP! I accidentally stumbled upon this book from Bookbub and the free iTunes bookstore, and I’m so glad I did. Hopefully more Louisa books find their way onto my shelves.

Four out of five stars.

 

Check out this book on:
Goodreads
Amazon.ca
Amazon.com

Here’s some other books you might enjoy if you love romance:
#BookReview Love Comes for the Bodyguard by Savannah Adams
#BookReview Back on Blossom Street by Debbie Macomber
#BookReview Tiny House, Big Love by Olivia Dade

 

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#BookReview How to Flirt with a Naked Werewolf by Molly Harper

So, it’s Halloween time around the blog. You might not like all the horror featured here, so I figured I might add some other genres in too! Werewolves are related to Halloween, so a little romance featuring a werewolf couldn’t hurt, right? Not everyone wants horror books to fill up their TBR shelves. Lucky for you, I have other awesome books to stock up your TBR. Molly Harper’s sexy series is definitely one of my faves! Check out my review below:

 

I accidentally stumbled across this book as a local discount store and the cover instantly caught my eye. I kept eying this book down, knowing full well I needed to pick it up, and I finally caved. To no one’s surprise, I have been eying this cutesy romance on my book shelf for AGES and I finally knew it was time to pick it up. Nothing is better than my guilty pleasure – romances with a pinch of fantasy!

How to Flirt with a Naked Werewolf follows our lead Mo when she moves to a distant, small town in Alaska. She wants to get away from her parents overly obsessive nature of basically controlling her life. It’s like this move was meant to be, because suddenly she has friends and a job, and a hot man chasing after her. One day, sexy Cooper wakes up naked on her door step, and guess what? He’s the naked werewolf! But is he the werewolf/creature killing the people showing up dead in their town? Mo and Cooper will have to investigate. Will their relationship survive? You’ll need to read to find out…

This book was super funny and an absolute delight. I felt myself sinking into this book and disappeared until I have binged the whole thing. It really is a lovely, HEA type romance with just enough fantasy and paranormal in it to make it interesting. I really enjoyed watching Mo develop relationships and finally fit in somewhere. It’s what every reader seems to want – just to fit in – so it was easy to relate to her. I really liked Mo’s arc and that quite a few characters developed over time and became more likable. Also, Mo is thirty years old! Do you know how great it is to see a romance book where the character is an actual ADULT who doesn’t have her life figured out yet? RELATABLE. SUPER RELATABLE. THANK YOU!

Cooper is a more rough character and maybe not the most romantic of men, but I didn’t care. I was more focused on the fun Mo was having and the amazing sex scenes those two were romping in. This book is also a wee bit predictable, but that’s what I like in my guilty pleasure reads. Anywho, it seems like every plot has been done to death anyways.

There was a few “rougher” parts of this book – brutal death of a character who deserved some bad things to him, and a really sad loss – but other than that it’s a great contemporary, paranormal romance. I honestly don’t see anything bad with it because any “issues” that were there were so minor it didn’t matter. Sooner or later, I will need to find the remaining books in this series and binge it. Molly Harper is gearing up to be one of my new fave authors.

Overall, I loved this book! It’s sweet, light, full of romance, funny, mushy, sexy and just a great all around read!

Four out of five stars.

 

Check out this book on:
Goodreads
Amazon.ca
Amazon.com
Indigo
Kobo
B&N

You can find more Molly Harper books on:
Goodreads Author Page
http://www.mollyharper.com/

If you love romance, here’s some other books you might enjoy (regardless of the spooky time of the year or not):
#BookReview Love Comes for the Army Ranger by Savannah Adams
#BookReview The Perfect Fit by Mary Jayne Baker
#BookReview For Her Own Good by Tamsen Parker

 

Give me a shout out on Twitter if you read this review! #briarsreviews @ReviewAlholic

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#BookReview My Hallowe’en Heartbreak by Melanie Ting

Okay, so if I have to pick one sentence to describe this book it would be: double finger guns of awesomeness!

My Hallowe’en Heartbreak is a fabulous romance novel packed with Canadian culture and kooky comedy!

Sophia goes to a Halloween costume party with her boyfriend Elliott, and of course he turns out to be jerk bag #1. He gets it on with some chick in a bathroom, and thus the relationship is over. Nothing sucks more than breaking up with your boyfriend dressed up as Pikachu. Well, there probably is worse things but that sounds kinda brutal, eh?

But, don’t worry! Sophia runs into her old high school crush Henry MacDonald, a super hot musician who ends up offering her a ride. They get kinda cozy, and things begin to blossom. Of course, along the way Sophia’s lawyer job has some bumps on the road, Henry’s superstar ex makes a play and Elliott is well… Elliott. Not a good dude. But it’s all good, because this romantic comedy will leave your heart swimming and head singing!

I really liked this book! Romantic comedies are totally my thing and having a Halloween themed one made it every better (it’s my fave holiday, what can I say?). Diving into this book was a nice way to escape and have a few giggles, plus… SO MUCH CANADA! Canadian indie band touring the maritimes? CHECK! Shout out to Justin Trudeau (and making fun of him, because us Canadians like to make fun of ourselves), CHECK! It just keeps piling up and makes me feel like this book is totally what I expect, and can respect, as a little Canadian book reviewer.

Add in the whole ‘seeing your crush again and having a second chance at love’ trope, and I’m totally game. It’s adorable, what can I say?

So, if you want a single line to pimp out this book, it’d be this:
This book has snarky comedy that gives romantic comedy movies a run for their money!

Five out of five stars!

Extra bonus points: Each chapter is the title of a Canadian indie song! Holy moly I’m so proud and impressed and this book deserves all the love! My goodness. Go Melanie!

I received this book for free from the author, Melanie Ting, in exchange of an honest review.

You can find this fantastically written book by clicking on the following links:
Goodreads
Amazon.ca
Amazon.com
Kobo
Indigo
B&N

Check out the author, Melanie Ting, on:
Goodreads Author Page
http://melanieting.com/
Twitter @MelTing21

If you’re seeking some more romance books in your life, grab one of these books recently featured on my blog:
Another Canadian read: #BookReview Seeing Colour by Amber Faucher
A Sweet Clean Romance: #BookReview Love Comes for the Army Ranger by Savannah Adams
A Sassy, British Comedy: #BookReview A Bicycle Made for Two by Mary Jayne Baker

Give me a shout out on Twitter if you read this review! #briarsreviews @ReviewAlholic

And like me on Facebook for more urgent updates! @BriarsReviews on Facebook

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#BookReview When You’re Young and In Love by Patricia Bourque

When You’re Young and In Love by Patricia Bourque is a dramatic romance that has a lot going on.

Send yourself back to the 60s with this book as we follow Nick, a guy who had a lot going for him but got himself in a messy situation. He’s our lead character, and almost everything in this story is going to revolve around him. While his life was going to be perfect and totally put together, he ends up getting a sweet girl from his high school pregnant.

Side note: I wouldn’t necessarily call them high school sweethearts since this seemed like a one night stand to me, but I could be wrong.

So, these two end up getting married and having babies, because that’s what you did during that time. They didn’t have a happy marriage and didn’t seem to love each other. These two constantly fight over and over, and once they finally seem to be getting in a good place – tragedy strikes.

With that, life goes to crap for Nick for a bit. Things spiral downwards and he gets a job away from his family and doing his own thing. There he meets a beautiful young girl named Kelly who is 10 years his junior. The two hit it off, but have a weird on-and-off again relationship for many years.

Side note: Relationship is a strong word for it – it’s a fling but more than a fling, yet less than a relationship. Again, Nick is a messy guy. Things get confusing in his world, much like the star of a soap opera.

This story does remind me of the soap operas I used to watch back in my teenage years. A lot goes on, but we mainly follow Nick’s story and not his family. I had kind of hoped to see more of his ex and children, but this is Nick and Kelly’s story. I really wanted to see his ex’s story because she seemed totally evil. This book made her seem like the villain, even though there was probably a reason behind what she did. It reminded me of those stories where everyone’s side is different and everyone literally sees the opposite of the other person. Why? Because the way this story went, it made me feel like his ex raped him to get children, but I also didn’t get the vibes from her like that would happen.

Side note: Yes, yes. There isn’t exactly a vibe for that situation, but it seemed random and out of the blue. Did they actually get along and get it on with each other for a minute? Did he just do her because he was frustrated? I needed some more background information.

This story gives an interesting view on marriage and romance all in itself, and the views of individual people. Do you follow your heart or just stay? Do you just accept your fate or go against it? Do you fight or just lie down? It’s intriguing. I could easily start picking this book apart like an essay and try to explain to people what the themes and lessons behind this story could be.

Overall, this is a really good story if you like soap opera dramas or are seeking a book to pick apart (much like what you’d do for an English essay).

Four out of five stars.

I received this book for free from the author, Patricia Bourque, in exchange of an honest review.

Check out this book on:
Goodreads
Amazon.ca
Amazon.com

You can find out more about the author, Patricia Bourque, on:
Goodreads Author Page
https://www.patriciabourque.net/

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