Holly James

I'm always down for a good time loop romance, but author Holly James' decision to designate the MMC as the character stuck in the loop instead of the FMC gives the love story an unfortunately creepy vibe. Jack has been reliving the same day for months, each time meeting Gemma, who doesn't remember him because it's a new day to her. But when they meet and flirt at a party, Jack kisses Gemma. The next/same morning, Gemma has a deja vu feeling about the handsome guy she bumps into. Without much show more ado, James tells Gemma the whole time loop dilemma, including his belief that in order for them both to move on, Gemma must fall in love with him. Today.

Given a different plot, James might be the perfect man, but this one requires him to behave like a stalker, following Gemma around even when she tries to avoid him. They do share some nice moments together, but not enough to compensate for the genuinely icky premise. And then throw in an Evil Ex Girlfriend and the whole thing collapses. Sure, Jack's been living the same day for months, but in real time he broke up with the Ex just days ago. And I always question the judgement of someone who is attracted to an obviously toxic person, even if Jack pleads the unconvincing "I knew the relationship was wrong from the beginning" shtick.

Gemma and her BFF Lila are charming together, and Gemma's complicated family dynamics are handled sensitively. But that's overshadowed by a romance that isn't romantic. YMMV if you don't get triggered by persistence that is uncomfortably close to obsessive stalking. show less

This was a fun and engaging romantic mystery with plenty of action, humor, and likable characters. When bookish Penny Collins reluctantly joins her sister Libby at a neighbor’s estate sale, she expects to browse antiques and maybe haggle a little. Instead, she finds herself in a heated argument over candlesticks with the deceased owner’s nephew, Anthony—right before a dead body falls out of a closet. From that moment, Penny’s quiet summer plans are derailed in spectacular show more fashion.

Penny, a computer sciences professor working toward tenure, is suddenly thrown into a whirlwind of danger. Mistaken for Anthony’s girlfriend and believed to possess something of great value, she’s forced to go on the run with him. Together, they dodge bullets, climb walls, and outwit henchmen—all while navigating a simmering attraction. Meanwhile, Anthony’s secretive job as a fixer complicates things further, as they’re hunted by a ruthless billionaire and the FBI.

The chemistry between Penny and Anthony is undeniable and adds a spark to the high-stakes mystery. Penny’s cleverness and level-headedness complement Anthony’s more action-oriented skills, making them a great team. Supporting characters like Libby and her kids add humor and heart, making the story even more enjoyable.

The plot, involving a missing billionaire’s wife and a web of secrets, keeps the reader hooked with twists and turns. The blend of romance, action, and intrigue makes this book a delightful read from start to finish. If you enjoy mysteries with strong characters, witty banter, and a dash of romance, this one is definitely worth picking up! Thank you NetGalley for this ARC. Love Holly James as she is a home town girl. show less

Thank you to NetGalley for providing an Ebook ARC of this story, this is my objective review. Our couple is Olivia (reporter) and Chuck (actor), who at the beginning of the story have had a passionate and short-lived romantic relationship. Physically they're irresistible to one another but emotionally they're volatile. After their loud public break-up goes viral, they agree to appear on a reality show together. For a million dollars they'll have to live in a house together for one month show more without touching each other. How hard could it be? Turns out pretty darn difficult, especially with unresolved personal issues and history getting in the way. I have to say, this book is a nice change of pace from the typical romance story that starts at the beginning of the story. In a book like this we get to see where things went wrong, and if the couple cares about one another to do the work to make things right. I'm such a sucker for a well-done redemption story. There was a lot of emphasis on Olivia's self-growth too, which worked here. Olivia and Chuck were portrayed as a couple who favored their physical connection over nurturing their emotional connection, and it was fun to see the emotional connection unfold during their time together in the house. It was like forced guerilla couples counseling. There is a nice amount of humor and, because this is a feel-good kind of book, a nice HEA and a resolution that wrapped a lot of loose ends up. This is a new-to-me author and I enjoyed this book enough that I'd read other books by her. show less

Gripping!

Erin Daniels had been trapped into being run by Agent Wallace for over ten years
She’s been undercover with as many aliases as good dinners.
Now her handler has disappeared and she’s being run by another agent, Calvin Bray, who’s just a bit too much of everything to be true.
Her new assignment is to find out how a group of glam moms from a high class neighbourhood were smuggling in high end baby carriages.
A walk in the park until her past and a large unaccounted for diamond come show more back to threaten her.
A tightly written novel with enough action, empathy and romance to satisfy.

A Kensington ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher. show less