Our Favorite Contemporary Romance

☆ 3.75

MILD, HEA

“This was a great story - as a marketer by trade, though, I was completely sidetracked by the FMC wanting to be a CMO with only 4 years of experience. Really sweet neighbors-to-lovers novella.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Workplace Romance, Slow Burn, Neighbors, Hidden Identity, Witty Banter, Short/Novella, Tech Startup, Divorced, Valentine's Day Romance, Holiday Romance

⭐ 4.0

MILD, HEA

“This Christmas meet-cute is adorable. She's lonely on accident, he's lonely on purpose. But neither of them really wants to be.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Holiday Romance, Christmas Romance, Meet-Cute, Doctor, Neighbors

⭐3.75

HOT, TO BE CONTINUED

“I gave this a 3.75, but I'm still thinking about it. What a tangled web.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Politics, Second Chance, Friends to Lovers, Love Triangle, Dom/Sub, Dominant MMC, Forbidden Love Interest, Possessive MMC, "Male, Male Female Relationship (MMF)", Widower

⭐ 4.0

MEDIUM, HEA

“I really liked Deacon. He did his own thing, really thought he was a ladykiller and got shot the F down by the FMC - very enjoyable to read.” - Penelope Black

tropes: MMC/FMC has a Cute Dog, Strong Sister Bond, Afraid of Commitment, Motorcycle Club, Possessive MMC, Sassy Heroine, Tattoos, Bodyguard, Lawyer, Bounty Hunter, Bad Boy/Good Girl, Witty Banter, Protective MMC, Forced Proximity, Dominant MMC

⭐ 3.5

HOT, HEA

“Sig seemed a little creepy. He was "into" younger girls and had to always ask them if they were of age. It was hard to get past that. The story itself was disturbing as red was saved from human trafficking and breeding. Very dark, but had a HEA.” - Penelope Black

tropes: MMC rides a motorcycle, Motorcycle Club, Overcoming Past Trauma, Slow Burn Due to Past Trauma, Slow Burn, Destitute FMC, Down on His Luck MMC, MMC/FMC has been to Prison, Tattoos, Touch Her and Die Vibes, Human Trafficking

⭐ 4.0

HOT, HEA

“Pleasantly surprised by this one. Stella is a strong FMC (for once). Refuses to accept help until Trip actually proves himself to her. Stella doesn't ask for help, but Trip gives it to her. They basically know what each other needs.” - Penelope Black

tropes: MMC rides a motorcycle, Motorcycle Club, Slow Burn Due to Past Trauma, Slow Burn, Destitute FMC, Down on His Luck MMC, MMC/FMC has been to Prison, Tattoos, Touch Her and Die Vibes

⭐ 4.0

HOT, HEA

“This one was way raunchier than I expected. Loved their banter, the slow burn of the book.” - Penelope Black

tropes: Age Gap, One Bed, Boss/Employee, Marriage of Convenience, Brother's Best Friend, Billionaire, Overcoming Past Trauma, Slow Burn, Dirty Talker

⭐ 3.5

HOT, HEA

“It’s hot, sweet, a little unbelievable, but a cute story and a short read.” - Cardigan B

tropes: MMC is a smut narrator, Best Friend's Sister, French Alps, Brother's Best Friend, English FMC, Christmas Romance, Witty Banter, International Romance, Submissive FMC, Dominant MMC, Dirty Talker

☆ 3.75

No Spice, HEA

“Sweet story of a girl on a mission to fulfill her grandmother's dying wish. She happens upon Theo, or rather, Theo makes her THINK it's a coincidence that they cross paths. He's there to intercept the item Mirren is so desperate to find. Along the way, they also find friendship and an awkward one night stand proposition.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Short/Novella, Only One Bed, Secrets, Forgiveness Arc, On a Journey

⭐ 3.5

HOT, HEA

“EH. One minute they're lying to Leo’s boss to cover for each other, the next they're embroiled in a murder mystery to save everyone's jobs, not actually catch a killer. “Unqualified” is the polite way to say they’re both inept.” - Cardigan B

tropes: MCs are Fake Dating, Murder Mystery, Work Trip/Business Trip, FMC & MMC Enter Into A Contract, Brother's Best Friend, Small Town Return, Reformed Playboy

⭐ 4.0

HOT, HEA

“The best in this seasonal series. Two childhood friends reconnect after a series of misunderstandings. The description of the two of them on a twin bed gave me flashbacks to college.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Christmas Romance, Second Chance, Small Town Return, MCs were Childhood Friends, Best Friend's Older Brother

☆ 4.25

HOT, HEA

“Almost abandoned because I genuinely hate running and its about grimace runners. But I persevered and I'm glad I did. A "will they, won't they" that ends exactly how you want it to. Loved them together. Oh, and fuck Jeremy.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Christmas Romance, Paramedic, Teacher, Age Gap Romance, Short/Novella, Ex-Boyfriends Father, One Night Stand

⭐ 3.5

HOT, HEA

“Contrary to the rating, I liked this one. I was frustrated with the sister story and how coddled she was, which led to this entire situation. But the dynamics between Delilah and Saint were genuine.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Enemies to Lovers, Forced Proximity, MC likes Sister's Boyfriend, Slow Burn, Sweet & Spicy Banter, Redemption, Second Chance, Childhood Friends Reunion

⭐ 3.75

MEDIUM, HEA

“This is a great story. The only criticism I have is how deep her love was for the MMC at the tender age of 8. Nope.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Second Chance, Chef, Childhood Trauma, American Football, Childhood Friends, 35+ FMC, Abusive Parent(s)

⭐ 4.25

HOT, HEA

“Funny, endearing, spicy. Twins from the first two books who grow up and start looking for what they want. And Kate is a charming FMC who gets their nuttiness from the jump.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Twins, MFM, Redemption, Entrepreneurs, Professor, Dom/Sub, Grumpy/Sunshine, Overcoming Trauma, Divorce

⭐ 3.75

HOT, HEA

“Wasn't as good as Neon Gods, they didn't give any background on Eros, like they did on Hades. And they focused a lot on her self esteem issues. Which I guess did set up a nice resolution for the mirrors.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Mythology Retelling, Marriage of Convenience, Forced Proximity, Grumpy/Sunshine, Plus-Siz FMC, Curvier FMC

⭐ 4.0

MEDIUM, HEA

“Two childhood rivals reconnect after college. Everyone’s trying to play it cool, but they dig each other.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Enemies to Lovers, Workplace Romance, Small Town , Friends with Benefits, Forced Proximity, Hate to Love You, Slow Burn

☆ 4.0

MILD, HEA

“Me reading this book: I love this, I love this, I love this, NOOOOOOOOO. I rage rated this lower than I intended because of the last chapter.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Enemies to Lovers, MCs were Childhood Friends, Childhood Crush, Break Their Heart To Save Them, MC has Interfering Family, Loss of Parent (Death), Trapped in a Cabin, Snowed in Together, Healing from Sickness, Slow Burn Due to Past Trauma, Short/Novella

⭐ 4.75

MILD, HEA

“Brilliant format - it's done in email exchanges over ten years...until we get to present. I was DYING of secondhand embarrassment during the library incident.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Anonymous Online Romance, Teacher/Student (Both Adults), Meet-Cute, Hidden Identity, Short/Novella, Valentine's Day Romance

☆ 2.75

MILD, HEA

“"Even in the dark. The affection and yearning on her face were impossible to miss." This quote is a good example of the writing - it didn't make sense and it didn't have any appeal. It was AI-esque. Also this: "I'd like to work on my fear of snakes. I've been hiding behind my fears too long." Jesus. Sometimes a snake is just a snake. Why does Morgan have to work on herself? Why can't she just be imperfect?” - Cardigan B

tropes: Lesbian, Second Chance, Short/Novella

⭐ 3.75

HOT, HEA

“1. Main characters nickname is Bith (short for Tabitha), but I keep thinking Biff from Back to the Future 2. Zach is a complete asshole and Bith keeps chasing after him and it's pathetic.” - Penelope Black

tropes: Age 25+ FMC, Breakup Due to Misunderstanding, MC has a Secret Past, High School Reunion, MC in Grad School, Sister's Best Friend, English MMC, English FMC, Afraid of Commitment, Rich/Wealthy FMC, Social Class Divide, Witty Banter, Opposites Attract

⭐ 4.0

MEDIUM, HEA

“I teared up in the first 11 pages. This is such a good read. Our first Lauren Rowe, but it won’t be our last.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Loss of Spouse/Partner (Death), FMC is a Single Mom, Firefighter, MC has a Tragic Past

⭐ 4.0

HOT, HEA

“The filthiest, sweetest Hallmark-esque book you'll find. She's been evicted from her family for DARING to divorce her weasel of a husband. He's got a pretty low bar for affection. He teaches her to love herself. She teaches him that he's worth seeing.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Christmas Romance, Praise Kink, Dirty Talker, Religious Trauma, Childhood Celebrity Crush, Celebrity, MC is Shunned by Family, Redemption, Opposites Attract, Surprise Pregnancy

⭐ 3.5

HOT, HEA

“I genuinely liked this story and the writing. It was sweet, spicy, hopeful. HOWEVER, the stalker storyline seemed to come out of nowhere and the culprit was too much of a twist. No breadcrumbs just BOOM it's this guy.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Age Gap Romance, Alpha MMC, Witty Banter, Opposites Attract, Found Family

⭐ 3.75

MEDIUM, HEA

“As a marketer, we do NOT make the money to buy a Maserati. Also, I can't get over the charcoal grey suit with brown shoes.” - Penelope Black

“This starts with Amelia getting her ass handed to her for being entitled. I was instantly hooked.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Boss/Employee, 25+ FMC, 35+ FMC, Revenge, Forgiveness Arc, Witty Banter, Tall MMC, Enemies to Lovers, Sleeping with the Boss

⭐ 3.75

HOT, HEA

“Maybe I watched too much Sons of Anarchy for this one. I hope there is another one.” - Penelope Black

“I'm a sucker for a well-written older woman. Krista knows herself and has her wits about her.” - Cardigan B

tropes: 40+ FMC, Military, Possessive MMC, Veteran, Touch her and die, MMC rides a motorcycle, Alpha MMC, Disabled MMC/FMC, Fake Dating, Forced Proximity, Grumpy/Sunshine, Motorcycle Club, Protective MMC, Small Town, Tall MMC, Witty Banter, Bartender FMC

⭐ 3.75

HOT, HEA

“Aw, this was precious. She goes on a blind date only to meet her date's dad instead. Instant sparks and they just live for each other. I loved that there wasn't any age shaming. The pineapple flavored condoms sounded nasty.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Age 30+ FMC, Age 50+ MMC, Age Gap Romance, Blind Dating, Breakup Due to Misunderstanding, Interfering Family, Single Dad, Hot Dad, Possessive MMC, Grumpy/Sunshine, Curvier FMC

☆ 4.0

MEDIUM, HEA

“FMC has a bit of an irritating personality - seems a little clueless for a Stanford scientist. If someone told me to "watch out and be on guard" for my future boss, you bet your ass I would be digging into it further instead of just accepting it.” - Penelope Black

tropes: STEM, Scientist, Grumpy/Sunshine, Back-stabbing BFF, Sabotage, MCs are Fake Dating, Fake Relationship, MMC Falls First, Meet-Cute, MC is an Orphan, Loss of Parent (Death), Villain Becomes MMC, Stanford, Enemies to Lovers, Longtime Crush, Academic Setting

⭐ 4.0

MILD, HEA

“Starts off with a lovely enemies to lovers trope, but the FMC eventually realizes it is one-sided. This is my favorite kind of book - smart FMC, witty banter, enemies to lovers, cats, golden retriever MMC and so much more. Could have used just a tad more smut.” - Penelope Black

tropes: Smart FMC, Cute Cats, Enemies-to-Lovers, Workplace Romance, Golden Retriever MMC, MMC is FMCs biggest cheerleader, Scientists, Women in STEM, Tall MMC/Short FMC, Green-eyed MMC, Pierced FMC with Colorful Hair, Opposites Attract, Sabotage, NASA

⭐ 4.0

MEDIUM, HEA

“Surprised and delighted. There is A LOT of inner dialogue so be prepared. For the most part, it was thoughtful, it did get a little overwhelming at times as you want to scream at the FMC to STOP OVERTHINKING. Loved the MMC and his patience with the FMC.” - Penelope Black

tropes: STEM, Scientist, Revenge, Down on Her Luck FMC, Overcoming Past Trauma, Dating Coach, Tattoos, Academic Rivals, Workplace, Enemies to Lovers, Hate to Love You, Hidden Relationship, MMC Falls First, Slow Burn, Witty Banter

⭐ 4.25

MEDIUM, HEA

“Be still my heart. What an adorable twist of fate this was. I still don't quite know how they ended up in a library banging after hours.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Age 30+ FMC, Age 30+ MMC, Breakup Due to Misunderstanding, Second Chance, Ex Pro-Athlete, Boss/Employee, Love Letter Lunacy, Hidden Relationship, Slow Burn, Witty Banter, Friends to Lovers, First Love Returns, Progresses Over Years, Story Told in Past and Present

⭐ 3.5

MEDIUM, HEA

“The lie isn't big. Luna's sister is kind of an asshole. Luna needs to grow some balls.” - Penelope Black

tropes: Age Gap Romance, Motorcycle Club, Workplace Romance, Boss/Employee, Grumpy/Sunshine, Possessive MMC, Slow Burn, Hidden Identity, Touch Her and Die Vibes, Morally Grey MMC, Opposites Attract

⭐ 4.25

MEDIUM, HEA

“Not enemies, but not friends. Just people thrown together, dealing with their emotional baggage. They realize there's something bright in the other person and seek out those lights. There's thought and consideration without too much internal dialogue.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Tennis, Grumpy/Sunshine, Forced Proximity, Food is Love, Slow Burn, Matchmaker, Healing Together, Sports

⭐ 3.75

HOT, HEA

“Super cute. A girl is cleaning out her grandma's apartment and gets into two predicaments where she meets a hot firefighter. She’s so clumsy and he finds that endearing. She’s a bit of a lovable train wreck.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Christmas Romance, Firefighter, Meet-Cute, "Clutzy, Accident-Prone FMC", Rescue, Small Town

⭐ 3.5

MILD, HEA

“Actually was sweet, but lacked depth.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Forced Proximity, Only One Bed, Fake Relationship, Cross-Cultural Romance, Christmas Romance, Loss of Spouse/Partner (Death), Pro-Athlete, Breakup Due to Misunderstanding

☆ 3.5

MEDIUM, HEA

“MMC isn't as chaotic and obsessive as C.R. Jane's typical MMCs. It might be a nice book for someone new to C.R. Jane as an author. Was a tad slow for my tastes. The Santa Clause Suit kink was definitely a new one. And it was nice to see an MMC that hates bananas just as much as I do.” - Penelope Black

tropes: Second Chance, Morally Grey MMC, Possessive MMC, Celebrity, First Love, Obsessive MMC, Protective MMC, Forced Proximity, Christmas Romance, Holiday Romance, Small Town

⭐ 4.25

MEDIUM, HEA

“I love ‘Challenge Harriett’, pushing herself to be uncomfortable. An FMC who evolves and truly grows-what a refreshing read! For a doctor, Ethan certainly is a block head. Thank all that's holy that he figures his shit out.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Doctor, MMC/FMC has a Cute Dog, Forced Roommates, Friends to Lovers, Abusive Parent(s), MC is a Twin, New York City, Holiday Matchmaking, Christmas Romance, FMC Falls First

⭐ 4.5

MILD, HEA

“Mostly murder mystery, Christmas setting. I loved this story. A damaged, emotionally battered woman has to learn to trust herself after a shit husband stole her light. Ethan, whom she says she hates, becomes her protector and unexpected ally. They solve the disappearance and attempted murder of their favorite crime author..” - Cardigan B

tropes: Murder Mystery, Holiday Romance, Seasonal, MC has a Secret Past, Slow Burn, Writer/Editor, Protective MMC, MMC Falls First, Only One Bed, MC is trapped, Divorced FMC, Emotional Abuse, Enemies to Lovers, Story Told in Past and Present

⭐ 4.0 & ⭐ 2.5

MEDIUM, HEA

“This book was adorable. I always love when a broody MMC encounters a sunny, sweet FMC and she changes him!” - Penelope Black (4.0/5)

“There is no way the guys in the shed didn't hear them banging in the shelves.” - Cardigan B (2.5/5)

tropes: Lumberjack vibes, Enemies to Lovers, Forced Proximity, Small Town, Age Gap, Grumpy/Sunshine, Reclusive MC, FMC in a Male Profession, Innkeeper/Hotel/Concierge, Down on Her Luck FMC

⭐ 3.5

MEDIUM, HEA

“Not my fave MQ story - the characters are likAble enough, but the FMC and MMC are too young and green to identify their feelings and not get hurt at every perceived slight. Great DJ names, though.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Roommate, Best Friend's Ex, Opposites Attract, Friends to Lovers, College Reunion for MCs

⭐ 3.5

MEDIUM, HEA

“This book was way too long. It was really slow to start.” - Penelope Black

tropes: Cute Dog, Hidden Past, Redemption, Golden Retriever, First Love Returns, Enemies to Lovers, Fake Engagement, Progresses Over Years, Forced Proximity, Royalty, Witty Banter

⭐ 4.25

HOT, HEA

“I loved this book. It was fun, intriguing, had just the right amount of backstory, explained the character motivations, HAD SOME OF THE HOTTEST SPICE I'VE READ.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Mythology Retelling, Throne, Forbidden Love Interest, Grumpy/Sunshine, Independent FMC, Forced Proximity

☆ 4.25

MEDIUM, HEA

“Oooo Sara (FMC’s former high school bff) did her dirty, but she chose the high road. Which, it turns out, is full of second chance orgasms and happiness.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Best Friend's Older Brother, Second Chance, Childhood Friends Reunion, Childhood Crush, MC has Interfering Family, Wedding Season, Short/Novella

⭐ 4.25

MEDIUM, NHEA

“GUTTED. So distraught I made an IG post about it HERE. She lifted me up and tore me down in just 82 pages. Love Meghan Quinn anyway. Ooo and the audio is Teddy Hamilton. deep sigh” - Cardigan B

tropes: Best Friend's Ex, One Night Stand, Separated/Divorcing/Divorced, MC has Matchmaking Parents, Family Business, Short/Novella, Christmas Romance, Holiday Matchmaking

⭐ 3.5

HOT, HEA

“This was cute. A "hot mess" of a girl moves into a new building and has a crush on a hot guy. He's crushing back. They finally connect at the building holiday party and are set up by the neighbors.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Christmas Romance, Meet-Cute, Neighbors, Hidden Identity

⭐ 3.75

HOT, HEA

“I want the life of two retired lawyers who throw booze-soaked garden parties. Ezra was adorable. Dani was a pill, but grew a lot.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Enemies to Lovers, Lawyer, Family Business, MC has Interfering Family, Healing Together, MC has Strained Relationship with Parent, Age 30+ FMC, Age 30+ MMC, MMC/FMC has a Cute Cat

☆ 3.75

MILD, HEA

“Sweet story. I liked Lylah and Noah. The fact that the sister made them promise not to date is fucked up. And she was the worst kind of best friend. Her brand was to use small digs as affection. Not a fan. Lylah deserves better.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Short/Novella, Best Friend's Older Brother, Wedding Season, Small Town Return, Second Chance, Reformed Playboy, Rescue, MC has Interfering Family, Childhood Crush

☆ 4.0

MILD, HEA

“So cringe when the MCs first interact in acting class, I was impressed at how much secondhand embarrassment the author could evoke from me. Rory's 'Happy V D" pants were hilarious. I haven't read anything by this author before, but this was witty and charming. I'll read more.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Second Chance, Longtime Crush, Valentine's Day Romance, Academic Setting, One Night Stand, New York City, Strong Sister Bond, Short/Novella, Holiday Romance, Theatre/On Stage

☆ 4.5

MEDIUM, HEA

“Hilarious. I looked forward to every minute reading this gem. Whitney has hit rock bottom: She lost her promotion, her boyfriend, and her way. So she joins her family for Christmas. And who is her brother's special guest? Her college ex-boyfriend Eli. He's a hunk, a charmer, and the one who got away. But he's no longer the closed off boy he was. And he shows her in every way he can. wink.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Christmas Romance, Holiday Romance, Second Chance, MC has Interfering Family, Family Saga, Loss of Parent (Death), Slow Burn, Strong Sister Bond, Secrets, Down on Her Luck FMC, Story Told in Past and Present

⭐ 3.5

MEDIUM, HEA

“An air mattress on a rooftop? Wouldn't stay put. A romantic thought that was completely illogical. And he described her orgasm scream as "a pitch only dogs can hear" and that really fucking sucks. Really liked our FMC Magnolia.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Sex Education/Learning Intimacy, High School Reunion, Friends to Lovers, Female Friendship Group, Dom/Sub

⭐ 4.25

MEDIUM, HEA

“Intense, world-destroying YEARNING. Not as good as Bride, better than Deep End. There were so many endearing and heartbreaking moments, always juxtaposed with comic relief. “ - Cardigan B

tropes: Age 20+ FMC, Age Gap Romance, Slow Burn, Friends to Enemies to Lovers, STEM, Italy, Brother's Best Friend, Age 35+ MMC

⭐ 3.5

HOT, HEA

“I love a murder mystery! I was drawn in early with the cloak and dagger subterfuge that was happening. But the plot lost me. Also..not to be weird, but there's too much consent.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Folklore Romance, Murder Mystery, Why Choose, Polyamory Love, Billionaire, Morally Grey MMC, Obsessive MMC, Dom/Sub

⭐ 4.0

MEDIUM, HEA

“I really liked this one. I liked how he would ask her what she was thinking and she would just say it. I wish more people were like that. It's refreshing. This one also had a bit of a mystery which was fun.” - Penelope Black

tropes: Amnesia, Second Chance, Forced Proximity, Cute Dog, Loss of Time, Loss of Parent, Medical Condition, Forgiveness Arc, Tattoo Artist, PTSD, Slow Burn

⭐ 4.0

MILD, HEA

“Adorable. Surprisingly honest about the pressure for romance during the holidiays. A true second chance HEA.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Return to Hometown, Second Chance, Holiday Matchmaking, Christmas Romance, Small Town, Love Letter Lunacy, First Love, MC has Interfering Family, Novella

⭐ 3.5

MEDIUM, HEA

“This is a cute story. It’s not deep, but it’s sweet.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Short/Novella, Friends to Lovers, Overcoming past breakups, Summer Fling

⭐ 3.75

MILD, HEA

“Two royals pretending to be peasants and they meet against all odds. Really sweet.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Hidden Royalty, Royal/Commoner, Tour Bus, Meet-Cute, Hidden Identity, Forced Proximity, MC has Interfering Family, Valentine's Day Romance, Seasonal

⭐ 4.25

HOT, HEA

“Lilly was soo childish. I wanted to slap her most of the time. I don't like calling them man panties.” - Penelope Black (3.75/5)

“Stumbled upon this one for free on Kindle. The burn build is INTENSE and when they finally get together, it's memorable.” - Cardigan B (4.75/5)

tropes: Hidden Royalty, Opposites Attract, Grumpy/Sunshine, Forced Proximity, Only One Bed, Slow Burn, Bodyguard, Golden Retriever, Castle Life, Hidden Identity, Secret Identity, Forgiveness Arc, Witty Banter, Dirty Talker

⭐ 3.75

MILD, HEA

“This went hard into the spa descriptions. I almost didn't finish. And the FMC had some major "my sister is the whole package" trauma. I was cackling at "water coffin" when the MMC describes the apparatus.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Firefighter, Shy FMC, Golden Retriever, MMC all in from the Beginning, Lumberjack Vibes, The Ugly Duckling, "Male, Female Relationship (MF)", Spa, MC is trapped, FMC with Self-Esteem Issues, Curvier FMC

☆ 3.5

MILD, HEA

“The focal point of this story is really Weston's dramatic change from an impressionable teenager to a man unafraid to stand up to his family for the woman he loves. I liked the story, but there just wasn't much meat on these bones.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Short/Novella, Second Chance, Childhood Promise Fulfilled, Childhood Sweethearts, Singer/Musician, Cowboy/Rancher, MC has Interfering Family, Overcoming past breakups

☆ 3.5

MILD, HEA

“The story centers around the tour and a shrimp taco night gone horribly wrong. It was funny and charming. Not much meat on the bones, though, and lots of background on the stage blocking.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Second Chance, Mistaken Identity, Rich/Wealthy MMC, Friends to Lovers, Rescue, Theatre Actress, Theatre/On Stage, TV/Movie Actor

☆ 4.5

MEDIUM, HEA

“She's just a misunderstood woman in love who communicates through demonstration. She didn't mean to get you lost in the woods, she meant to navigate you to a sacred site you've been pining over. The fact that you didn't understand isn't her fault, okay?” - Cardigan B

tropes: Short/Novella, Trapped in a Cabin, Childhood Crush, Virgin FMC, Breakup Due to Misunderstanding, Praise Kink, MC is a Bully (at the start), Boss/Employee

☆ 3.5

MEDIUM, HEA

“Let's start with this: This book and title don't go together. It is not a Christmas romance and they never end up snowed in anywhere. This book is depressing and contains deep scientific facts about CTE (head injuries famously linked to NFL players), the tragic death of a brother, and the crushing knowledge that today's choices could make tomorrow bleak. Does contain an adorable hellion child and insane dogs.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Celebrity, Mysterious Illness, Friends to Lovers, FMC has a Cute Dog, MC has Interfering Family, Football (American), Witty Banter, Healing from Injury, Personal Growth Journey, Loss of Sibling (Death), Slow Burn

⭐ 3.75

MEDIUM, HEA

“I really liked the dynamics between Eli and Olivia. It's refreshing to see a book character fail at something. And then have to work to get through it. I loved the Charleston charm. One of my favorite places in the states and now I want to go back and find a hot chef.” - Penelope Black

tropes: Runaway Fiancé(e)/Bride/Groom, Southern Charm, Romance Writer, Neighbors, Chef, Body Modifications/Piercings/Tattoos, Tall MMC, "Smart, Strong, Independent FMC", 30+ FMC

⭐ 4.0

MEDIUM, HEA

“This one was entertaining. I enjoyed having a plot in a book other than just romance. A few twists and turns, with some enemies to lovers made for a great ride.” - Penelope Black

tropes: MMC rides a motorcycle, Motorcycle Club, Investigative Journalist, Murder Mystery, "Mysterious, Brooding (MMC)", Small Town

⭐ 3.75

MEDIUM, HEA

“I liked how this one starter, but I'm starting to get frustrated with the FMCs having ZERO friends or support. Also, he started to really love bomb her and she fell for all of it. The scenes in the book felt incomplete.” - Penelope Black

☆ 4.0

MEDIUM, HEA

“She's steadfast and true to herself, he's looking for solid ground. A travel blogger who meets a marine biologist and sparks unexpectedly fly. She's neurodivergent and he likes who she is. Sweet and funny.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Short/Novella, Trapped in a Cabin, Childhood Crush, Virgin FMC, Breakup Due to Misunderstanding, Praise Kink, MC is a Bully (at the start), Boss/Employee

☆ 3.75

MILD, HEA

“He's pined for her for years. She didn't notice him...until she did. There's no real event that brings them together, just the "Hattie's single" news which is enough for Colin to turn on the charm. And it's so potent that Hattie can't resist even after saying she didn’t think of him romantically? After all this time? Eh, maaaybe. It's a stretch.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Sports, Age 20+ FMC, Age 20+ MMC, College/University Students, Second Chance, MMC Falls First, Friendship Group, Short/Novella

⭐ 4.5

HOT, HEA

“Unless it has ridges, a penis being describe as ‘silky’ is irrelevant. Lucian is the original Suit Daddy. He’s a bozo about keeping Sloane at arms’ length but their chemistry is off the charts.” - Cardigan B

tropes: First Love Returns, Small Town Return, Billionaire, Stalker/Stalking, Second Chance, Friendship Group, Grumpy/Sunshine, Enemies to Lovers, Forced Proximity, Redemption, Protective MMC, MCs were Childhood Friends

⭐ 4.25

MEDIUM, HEA

“A quiet, small town, tattoo artist meets a tornado of a single mom down on her luck. Sparks fly, intrigue ensues and he can’t stay away - no matter how hard he tries.” - Penelope Black

tropes: Down on her Luck FMC, Grumpy/Sunshine, Terror of a Twin Sister, Mysterious/Brooding MMC, MMC with Viking Vibes, Band of Brothers, FMC does not have a baby at the end (for once)

⭐ 3.75

HOT, HEA

“Found this for free on Audible. She’s a celebrity with a stalker. They’re the bodyguards she hires to protect her. They give her peace of mind and…comfort. -wink wink-” - Cardigan B

tropes: Why Choose, Celebrity, Bodyguard, Stalker/Stalking, Only One Bed, Protective MMC

⭐ 3.5

HOT, HEA

“He used to bully her brother. She hated him until she saw the good in him. The brother lost an eye and they called him ‘Winky’ - so rude.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Age Gap Romance, MC is a Bully (at the start), Golden Retriever, Billionaire, Forgiveness Arc, MMC has been to Prison, Sex Club, Hate to Love You, Loss of Sibling (Death), Down on Her Luck FMC, Second Chance, Redemption

⭐ 4.0

MEDIUM, HEA

“Mariana really can take the day to day and keep you entertained. FMC (for everything she had been through) was a little stupid with some of her actions. Who is going to quit a job when it pays well and it's going well. She was always sleeping or crying. What the hell was with the ‘it was so shocking that my butthole tightened.’” - Penelope Black

tropes: Tattoos, MMC rides a motorcycle, Motorcycle Club, Enemies to Lovers, Workplace Romance, Boss/Employee, Slow Burn, Grumpy/Sunshine, Surprise Virgin, Virgin FMC

⭐ 3.5

MILD, HEA

“Well, I waited. And waited. Nothing really happened. It was just watching ‘a day in the life’ of a single mom. Mariana can make mundane life interesting, but this story needed a little more something.” - Penelope Black

tropes: Slow Burn, Grumpy/Sunshine, Touch Her and Die Vibes, Protective MMC, Opposites Attract, Friends to Lovers, Loss of Sibling, Guardian, Found Family, Interfering Family, Small Town, Single Mom, Sweet & Spicy Banter, Neighbors, Military, Veteran , Latina/Hispanic FMC

⭐ 3.75

HOT, HEA

“It was cute. The ending killed the vibe of the book.” - Penelope Black

tropes: FMC is a Single Mom, MC is a Single Parent, Older Woman/Younger Man

⭐ 3.75

HOT, HEA

“I LOVE a competition story. And I loved the personalities in this book and how they all complemented one another. Achilles is brash but observant. Petroclus was bookish but sexy. And Helen was sophisticated but skeptical. The end felt rushed.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Police Officer/Detective, Mythology Retelling, Age Gap Romance, Competition Romance, LGBTQIA, Enemies to Lovers, "Male, Male Female Relationship (MMF)", Forced Proximity, Reverse Harem, Why Choose, Fiends to Lovers, Only One Bed, Bodyguard

⭐ 4.0

MEDIUM, HEA

“I enjoyed this one. Love a small town concept and childhood crushes.” - Penelope Black

tropes: Second Chance, MC is a Jilted Bride/Groom, Small Town Return, Small Town, Forced Proximity, FMC is a Single Mom, First Love, First Love Returns, Neighbors, Found Family, Slow Burn, Tattoos, Childhood Sweethearts

⭐ 3.5

MILD, HEA

“Eh, it was a cute "we aren't a couple, we are best friends" but the FMC and MMC coming together and kissing and the FMC not remembering was awkward.” - Cardigan B

tropes: MCs were Childhood Friends, Friends to Lovers, Breakup Due to Misunderstanding, MMC/FMC has Amnesia, One Night of Danger

⭐ 4.0

MEDIUM, HEA

“I reaaally liked this story. It has a "Baby Cakes" plot that's reminiscent of Rickey Lake in the 90s.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Rockstar, Betrayal & Secrets, Cutting Disorder, Plus-Size FMC, Childhood Friends, Childhood Trauma, Sick Parent, Concert Tour, Tour Bus, Morally Grey (MMC), Dyslexia, Revenge, Second Chance, Babysitter to Celebrity

⭐ 4.0

MEDIUM, HEA

“The best definition of enemies to lovers I've read. They aren't even rivals, they're just souls who don't get along. Until they do.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Eating Disorder, 35+ FMC, Medical, Enemies to Lovers, Slow Burn, Cheerleader Kink, Curvier FMC, Tall MMC/Short FMC, Workplace Rivals, Grumpy/Sunshine

⭐ 4.5

MILD, HEA

“Precious. They meet through an accidental dick coupon delivery. The end where they finally meet and realize who each is is heartwarming.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Short, Novella, Love Letter Lunacy, Nurse/Caretaker, Handyman, Down on her Luck FMC, Age 25+ FMC, Age 25+ MMC, Meet-Cute, "Smart, Strong, Independent FMC", Neighbors

⭐ 3.5

MEDIUM, HEA

“Adorable plot. Adorable plot devices like the dog Lt. Dan and the love notes they wrote one another. BUT the fake dating went on too long and Briana just can’t get a clue. It was frustrating.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Fake Dating, MMC has Social Anxiety, Enemies-to-Lovers, Workplace Romance

⭐ 3.75

HOT, HEA

“You had me at "Krampus role playing" - a fun story about a girl banging her boss. They were very responsible: they notified HR about their relationship and now they have sex in his office. The end.” - Cardigan B

tropes: Christmas Romance, Workplace, Boss/Employee, Role Play, Short/Novella, Monster MMC, Stalker/Stalking, Secret Relationship