Category Archives: Review

Fantasy, Mystery, Review, Satire Fiction

#Review #Audiobook – The Reign of the Anti-Santas: A Christmas misadventure for grownups by Colin Dodds

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Rudolph’s in a Cadillac, Santa’s in hiding and Christmas itself is being bought and sold with the fate of the world at stake. The Reign of the Anti-Santas tells how Christmas fell into the hands of Santa’s spoiled kids, low-level gangsters, faded TV-movie heartthrobs, tech bros and lifestyle gurus, and what happens when one elf and an old Santa on the lam step up – against all odds – to save the day.

A raunchy thrill ride through seventy Christmas Eves, The Reign of the Anti-Santas is Goodfellas meets ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas – just in time to wash the candy-cane taste out of your mouth, get Mariah Carey out of your ears, and change how you see December 25th forever!

  • “Verdict: Get It” – Kirkus Reviews
  • Runner Up, 2023 Best Contemporary Fiction – Indies Today Awards
  • Silver Award, Seasonal/Holiday Fiction – Reader Views Annual Literary Awards
  • Finalist, Humor – Foreword Indies Book of the Year
  • Finalist, Literary Fiction – Literary Global Book Awards
  • Finalist, Cross-Genre – Literary Global Book Awards
  • IndieReader Approved
  • IndieReader Books of the Month List

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

“(A) memorable fictional cosmos… Underneath the sharp wit, however, is a profound cautionary tale about the slippery slope between the sacred and profane… Dodds artfully couples uproarious comedy with deadly serious cultural commentary. An engrossing novel that’s both hilarious and insightful.” – Kirkus Reviews (Verdict: Get It)

“(A) fascinating fable… as modernity takes its toll on Christmas… among the more cynical story beats are moments of introspection that cut deep. It’s a meaningful and strangely beautiful read… a compelling story of life, human nature, and at least one of the meanings of Christmas.” – IndieReader (4.5/5 STARS) IndieReader Approved, IndieReader Books of the Month List

“(A) unique and audacious Christmas tale that takes readers on a rollercoaster ride… truly captivating… a fully realized universe of elves with a rich history and culture… challenges our preconceptions of Christmas and invites us to ponder the true essence of the holiday.”– Book Commentary (5/5 STARS)

“(A) potent combination of dark humor, satire, and even tragedy” – Readers’ Favorite Reviews (5/5 STARS)

“If you’re looking for meaning, there is plenty to be found, and if you crave satire, there is none better. Even if you’re just looking for a fun twist on some beloved traditions, you’ll be glad you picked up this unconventional elf-noir holiday extravaganza… A holiday parody for the ages…” – Indies Today (5/5 STARS)

“The transition of Christmas history becomes an immersive and captivating read… joy and laughter in this witty and thought-provoking narrative.” – Lit Global Reviews (5/5 STARS)

“If you’re looking for meaning, there is plenty to be found, and if you crave satire, there is none better. Even if you’re just looking for a fun twist on some beloved traditions, you’ll be glad you picked up this unconventional elf-noir holiday extravaganza… A holiday parody for the ages…” – Indies Today (5/5 STARS)

“Dodds has crafted the perfect book that just may change your perspective on the holiday… fresh perspective and wit are what drive the story… a coming-of-age story for us all.” – Reader Views (5/5 STARS)

“(A) romp through the season that will delight adult readers… a vivid plot that keeps readers laughing, guessing, and thinking, make The Reign of the Anti-Santas a top recommendation” – Diane Donovan, Midwest Book Review

 

Goodreads

 

Amazon

 

Twinsie Kelly’s Review

Ok, this is definitely for the grown-ups and those of us with a satirical sense of humor, not for the faint of heart. I listened to this in audio format and the narrator hit it out of the park! The story is told from an elf’s point of view from waaaay back in the day when he was younger. He accidentally ends up in Santa’s sleigh and ends up helping deliver toys that Christmas. However, NO ONE helps Santa deliver toys. This is where these two forge a special bond. But just like with everything, even magical Christmas, it costs money. Then you follow this elf throughout his life. He talks about how the blue-collar elves work, how some of the elves turn into Pine trees, big business/mafia comes in and takes over Christmas, elves fleeing the North Pole, Rudolph owning dealerships and driving a Cadillac. Sex, drugs, gambling, and MONEY! This story is so over the top in some areas that you just have to keep going to see what else this author is going to come up with. I feel like calling it a trainwreck that you can’t stop watching is not a good way to describe it but in some ways that is the only way that I can describe it. I found myself hurrying to turn the audio back on so I could find out what else was going to happen. It was just insanity ALL THE TIME! Over many, many years this special elf becomes THE elf that ultimately helps to save Christmas. There were laughs, there were gasps, but there was a happily ever-ish end to the story. You just have to read it!

 

Colin Dodds profile image

Colin Dodds is an award-winning author and filmmaker, whose works include Pharoni, Ms. Never and The 6th Finger of Tommy the Goose. He grew up in Massachusetts and lived in California briefly, before finishing his education in New York City. Since then, he’s made his living as a journalist, editor, copywriter and video producer. His work has appeared in Gothamist, The Washington Post and more than three hundred other publications, and been praised by luminaries such as David Berman and Norman Mailer. Forget This Good Thing I Just Said, a first-of-its-kind literary and philosophical experience (the book form of which was a finalist for the Big Other Book Prize for Nonfiction), is available as an app for the iPhone. He lives in New York City, with his wife and children.

Fantasy, Fantasy Romance, Mystery, Paranormal, Part of a Series, Review, Shifters, Suspense, Thriller, Vampire, Werewolf, Witches

#Review – Trinkets, Treasures, and Other Bloody Magic (Dowser Series Book 2) by Meghan Ciana Doidge

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Three months ago, I lost my foster sister, Sienna, to the darkness. As in blood magic and chaos and general mayhem. No one saw it until it was too late, but I should have. Now, I have a wounded heart and soul that I can’t even reveal to anyone around me, because I’m supposed to hate Sienna with the fiery passion of the justified. And I do. I just wish I didn’t feel so lost without her, so unsure of the path I thought I had carved for myself, and so outclassed by the powerful Adepts constantly by my side these days. I’m not even sure if they’re with me for my own protection or because my shiny new powers are rare and valuable. Assuming I ever figure out who or what I am, and how my magic actually works. Even chocolate can’t save the day every time … just most of the time. At least I’ve got that going for me.

Trinkets, Treasures, and Other Bloody Magic is the second book in the Dowser series, which is set in the same universe as the Oracle, Reconstructionist, Amplifier, Archivist, and Misfits of the Adept Universe series. While it is not necessary to read all the series, in order to avoid spoilers the ideal reading order of the Adept Universe begins with Cupcakes, Trinkets, and Other Deadly Magic (Dowser 1).

 

Goodreads

 

Amazon

 

Twinsie Kelly’s Review

I was completely hooked after reading Trinkets, Treasures, and other Bloody Magic that I jumped headfirst right into Book 2. Well, Sienna is gone and Jade is working to practice her magic. She continues to be extremely frustrated as everyone seems to be one step ahead of her. There are still lots of questions to be answered…a rare magical species is found, a life debt that is acting up, and then there are the families that are so full of loyalty, love and half-truths. Now a sorcerer wants to use her. The question is whether he wants to use her for good or evil. I really enjoyed the first book and couldn’t wait to get into the second book but the second didn’t go quite the way I thought it would. There were so many new characters that were introduced and then they just disappeared for a long time. You get a new plot with additional information about Jade’s past that then finally brings some answers. The ending really had my head spinning. It definitely wasn’t what I was expecting, and I honestly am not sure I am 100% behind where the story is going. I plan to continue the journey to at least the third book before I make any final decisions because I am very curious what happens next. This has definitely taken some twists and turns that were very unexpected.

 

Meghan Ciana Doidge profile image

Meghan Ciana Doidge writes tales of true love conquering all, even death. Though sometimes the love is elusive, the vampires and werewolves come out to play in the daylight, and bloody mayhem ensues.

Audio Book, Horror, Mystery, Paranormal, Review, Thriller

#review #audiobook Hide by Kiersten White narrated by Emma Galvin

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The challenge: spend a week hiding in an abandoned amusement park and don’t get caught.

The prize: enough money to change everything.

Even though everyone is desperate to win–to seize their dream futures or escape their haunting pasts–Mack feels sure that she can beat her competitors. All she has to do is hide, and she’s an expert at that.

It’s the reason she’s alive, and her family isn’t.

But as the people around her begin disappearing one by one, Mack realizes this competition is more sinister than even she imagined, and that together might be the only way to survive.

Fourteen competitors. Seven days. Everywhere to hide, but nowhere to run.

Come out, come out, wherever you are.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58890948-hide

https://www.amazon.com/Audible-Hide/dp/B09HVCCSVV/ref=sr_1_1?crid=27Y4FL6AAGWOV&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.w7AwE0UVbT3o0FbASARM_hTpHWfACsoHD2-EpRYrF7ckzccfV3PaOmEIOeH08nkodmXBKpq2-F8C6dGRLV1KQGkmlDfnzv8BDva5_1y_SQLo-StWfLXsmPpRRIXNLKLGFDVuJZJchm6pBzu_2hZxzmoCUH2qihoBpc7cVUfWApcNCPQSJHFwQzS2PG1qHTickf6jkqce5ufs3oAEDSkAEIDzuygCUaCyVP9Ne7Tiw8k.tFJDu0P9huYeVg_5KQDGdY568d5yp7cDtAe6K_aU7Ew&dib_tag=se&keywords=hide&qid=1772555226&sprefix=hide%2Caps%2C186&sr=8-1

i bought this book here is my honest review

14 competitors, 7 days 1 abandoned amusement park. these 14 different people from all different walk of life are now competing in a trial run for a competition, the ultimate game of hide and seek, goal to hide in the park from sunup to sundown without getting caught. they have no phone, no map and very little supplies to make it through. sleep doesn’t come easy for any of them, and fear is in full force with them. 2 competitors will get out a day, who will win or more likely who will survive? the park has a long history and 1 of the competitors has a past that is the same as this game. come out come out wherever you are.

Kiersten White is the #1 New York Times bestselling, Bram Stoker Award-winning, and critically acclaimed author of many books for readers of all ages, including the And I Darken trilogy, the Sinister Summer series, the Camelot Rising trilogy, Star Wars: Padawan, Hide, Mister Magic, and Lucy Undying. She also has a very large tortoise named Kimberly, which isn’t relevant, but she wanted you to know.

Audio Book, Comedy, gay, Review, short story, Standalone

#review #audiobook #comedy How Y’all Doing :Misadventures and Mischief from a Life Well Lived by Lesile Jordan narrated by Lesile Jordan

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Viral sensation and Emmy Award-winner Leslie Jordan regales fans with entertaining stories about the odd, funny, and unforgettable events in his life in this unmissable essay collection that echoes his droll, irreverent voice.

When actor Leslie Jordan learned he had “gone viral,” he had no idea what that meant or how much his life was about to change. On Instagram, his uproarious videos have entertained millions and have made him a global celebrity. Now, he brings his bon vivance to the page with this collection of intimate and sassy essays.

Bursting with color and life, dripping with his puckish Southern charm, How Y’all Doing? is Leslie doing what Leslie does best: telling stories that make us laugh and lift our spirits even in the darkest days. Whether he’s writing about his brush with a group of ruffians in a West Hollywood Starbucks, or an unexpected phone call from legendary Hollywood start Debbie Reynolds, Leslie infuses each story with his fresh and saucy humor and pure heart.

How Y’all Doing? is an authentic, warm, and joyful portrait of an American Sweetheart— a Southern Baptist celebutante, first-rate raconteur, and keen observer of the odd side of life whose quirky wit rivals the likes of Amy Sedaris, Jenny Lawson, David Rakoff, and Sarah Vowell.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/55339007-how-y-all-doing

https://www.amazon.com/How-Yall-Doing-Misadventures-Mischief/dp/B08PL4M1LM/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2OJA4EW2J8GOP&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.ybHGRp1G9jEuTqPhYxNxAx5W0fVm10lbDEt6YiKoIgBdXZ_8VT4vnf5fUtCQp8UZVtK47VkpNfaIWtXUWJSndTgRKEwbYClrrOyNSsnijAe2NYDa-4CmPdYPuw4Mm1FwSDdnPJ0m-M4qx9AklnJqG3ilhysTK_vbyhojQHaYd7XMrgoDvDJOw6vDJHutFhMXXaC20i-sD6_S6bry5C7njWVs_MSCIohI_EwOfRCpopk.OB5IWW_VVQQEGw5GTzeBQGBXfdgVoU42Pcz-NwYya9M&dib_tag=se&keywords=leslie+jordan+book&qid=1772121372&sprefix=leslie+jones+book%2Caps%2C369&sr=8-1

i bought this audiobook here is my honest review

Follow the wonderful, hilarious, smart, and sassy Leslie Jordan as he tells his life story in his voice. I’ve never laughed so hard, and I could listen to him talk all day. his version of somethings you never noticed on tv, from his wonderful performances in his lifetime is just a joy to listen to. especially how somehow, he became a social media superstar. The comedy world and tv world truly isn’t the same since Mr. Jordan passed suddenly. Well Shit, How Y’all Doin’ and all his other lines that made him who he is will live forever in history.

In 1982, Leslie Jordan stepped off a Greyhound bus from the hills of Tennessee, said “hello” to Hollywood and has never looked back. With hundreds of television shows, films and commercials to his credit, he has become a familiar face on the entertainment scene.

Leslie is the 2006 Emmy Award Winner for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series for his delicious portrayal of “Beverley Leslie” on “Will and Grace.” Television audiences will also remember him for his recurring roles on “Privileged,” “Ugly Betty,” “Boston Legal,” and “Reba.”

Feature film audiences will recognize Leslie from his performance as “Brother Boy” in Del Shores’ adaptation of his play “Sordid Lives’” with Olivia Newton-John, Delta Burke and Beau Bridges. He is reprising the role in the television series based on the play and film for the cable network Logo. Other upcoming feature film appearances include “Love Ranch” in a wonderful scene with Helen Mirren directed by Taylor Hackford.

On stage, Mr. Jordan won the Ovation Award, The Garland Award and The Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle Award for his portrayal of “Preston Leroy,” the aging, sodden barfly in Del Shores hit play “Southern Baptist Sissies.”

Mr. Jordan has enjoyed considerable success as a writer. His book My Trip Down the Pink Carpet for Simon and Schuster is currently in bookstores. Material from the book formed the basis of a 90-minute one-man show, which had a successful 45 city book-signing/performance tour in 2008. A dvd of the show shot during performances in Atlanta will be released.

Audio Book, Fantasy, Paranormal, Part of a Series, Review, Shifters

#review #audiobook #whychoose Bitter Brambles (Ivy Institute 2) by Albany Walker narrated by Brooke and Jake Bordeaux

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I expected to die as soon as I stepped foot into the Ivy Institute, but dying would have been too easy.

Nothing at The Ivy is quite what it seems. Not the enigmatic demon whose touch kills everyone he touches, yet somehow saved my life the first day I arrived. Nor the dark deity combat instructor who vows to train me to survive the Undertaking. A deadly game held to entertain the Gods he’s forsaken.

The headmistress brought me here to be her secret weapon. She made it clear if I can’t be useful, I’ll be dead. When I’m torn from The Ivy and my mates, I’m certain she’s responsible.

Huddled in the icy cliffs of Mount Nivei lies Frostburn Institute where the cold will kill you nearly as fast as its inhabitants.

Death seems inevitable, until an unlikely ally makes himself known.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/221312795-bitter-brambles

 

i was given this audiobook from the author for an honest review

After arriving at Ivy, Briar was starting to get a bit comfortable she’s now got not 1 mate but 2 one she has fully attached to and the other just emotional. while working on her fighting next thing she knows it was black, she was bit by a snake and on the verge of dying, then she was traded to a new cold institute. both of her mates are fuming not knowing where she was and not being able to know how to get her back. Briar just wants to survive and after proving herself different, in the meantime she not only was discovering that she had some powers that she didnt know she had, she also now mated to a wolf shifter as well as her 2 back at the Ivy. this girl has her hands full while just trying to survive. the audio book was great and the story is just as good.

Albany lives in Michigan where she’s happily married to her high school sweetheart. She spends most of her time juggling her four children’s extracurricular activities, with her nose stuck in a book. When not reading you can find her writing her very own book boyfriends. Albany’s passion is writing romance with real characters that are far from perfect, but always seem to find their own happily ever afters.

Fantasy, Paranormal, Reverse Harem, Review

#review #audiobook #whychoose Tender Thorns (Ivy Institute 1) by Albany Walker Duet Narration by Bridget and Jake Bordeaux

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Nestled in the shadows of the Mori Forest lies The Ivy Institute. It may look like something out of a fairytale, but if the rumors are true, it’s where nightmares reign.

The only way to get into the elite facility is by invitation and, once received, it’s impossible to refuse.

They were never supposed to know I existed, yet here I am, walking toward the only place that might be more dangerous to me than where I grew up.

Secrets shroud the institute and its inhabitants, but I have secrets too. Secrets that will get me killed…or worse.

I guess I’m about to find out.

Please note: Tender Thorns is a dark academia whychoose romance novel intended for mature audiences.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/206876665-tender-thorns

https://www.amazon.com/Tender-Thorns-Ivy-Institute-Book/dp/B0F6YVJH9L/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.r3_JPmfcWxPnsJAUUU0LuNR__fjbquzVOch-hc5mpj-tUgUZmnvs07-CXCg1nV-KZRo28eo0moTJohcikPLu8PPt_i9GoHOlXzHWIC_yfP1RAuFbmqOj8_FusXEJyDgnm4gsoOkV-7Im8eFbQ2mTPaQHZaPfWHeg7JxvKNUvbMWsvt7sQ8T-ckxFwgRYaCF75u7vyrlnlx-eJCXzeKlP4uGzi4W3RnK4kVZN4fNv7eDyGvS7XJSm_NCJzKZk3fK9NMTbG95YGxm3AO0DyxYEnMKKr9fd3vCh2RWo7AS7dKY.dmCEKPUYEraQt41fjFkKihHJYgMoayyPJ6T3A52GNI4&qid=1767971941&sr=8-4

i was giving this audiobook by the author for a honest review

Last week I received my invitation to The Ivy Institute to train with all the others like me or so I’m told, my father got greedy and used me as his cash cow. I was almost unstoppable so when I got my invitation I was dreading it. al the Ivy Institute we were the elite from witches, vampires, shifters, healers and almost any kind of supernatural being you could think of now I was one of them, at my new home where I hope I would learn about my powers and hopefully survive. in a new place where I’m granted privacy and respect, I’m not sure what to do with it but I’m hoping they too aren’t taking advantage of me. this was a great read it started out a little slower for me, but I had just finished a different genre, so it took me a while to get into it but once it picked up for me it was fantastic as usual.

Albany lives in Michigan where she’s happily married to her high school sweetheart. She spends most of her time juggling her four children’s extracurricular activities, with her nose stuck in a book. When not reading you can find her writing her very own book boyfriends. Albany’s passion is writing romance with real characters that are far from perfect, but always seem to find their own happily ever afters.

Apocalyptic, Dystopian, Part of a Series, Review, Sci Fi, Suspense

#Review #AudioBook – Compound 26 (The Makanza Series Book 1) by Krista Street

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A deadly virus. A brilliant, young researcher. And an infected survivor who threatens to steal her heart.

In a society ruled by sanctions and curfews, Dr. Meghan Forester emerges as the youngest and most promising scientist to join the fight against Makanza—the deadly virus that’s ravaged the world.

Inside Compound 26, a giant government-controlled research facility, Meghan’s new job involves studying the Kazzies, the rare survivors who carry the virus and now exhibit supernatural powers. But as her work unfolds, Meghan’s horrified at the brutal and unethical practices the Kazzies are subjected to.

And most surprisingly, she falls in love with one.

Faced with growing conflict over helping the Kazzies versus following the Compound’s strict policies, Meghan must choose: obey the government’s unethical practices or risk everything to save the only man she’s ever loved.

 

The Makanza Series is a complete series in which fantastical powers collide with modern science. Dive into this imaginative and romantic series today. Download now!

 

Goodreads

 

Amazon

 

Kelly’s Review

I picked this up on a promotion for free and gave it a try. This is during a time that is beyond infection. Infecteds have been rounded up and locked away, for “science.” Meghan has worked extremely hard to understand the virus become a scientist to join the fight against the virus. As she starts work at the facility, she realizes that the Kazzies are being tested against their will. They are being tortured, and she is in waaay over her head. I listened to the audio book and the narrator did very well. However, the story itself moved rather slow and seemed to repeat itself, or rather the scenarios repeated themselves a bit. There really wasn’t a big climax either. I felt like there should have been more action or more of a romance going on but I couldn’t really get invested in the story because it took a bit too long to get there. I am interested in what happens next but I am not sure if I will be continuing this series. It’s a 3.5 stars for me. We will see what happens.

 

Krista Street profile image

Krista Street loves writing fantasy and paranormal romance books. She’s a Minnesota native but has lived throughout the U.S. and in another country or two. She loves to travel, read, and spend time in the great outdoors. When not writing, Krista is either chasing her children, spending time with her husband and friends, sipping a cup of tea, or enjoying the hidden gems of beauty that Minnesota has to offer.

Fantasy, Paranormal, Part of a Series, Review, Teen & Young Adult Contemporary, Urban Fantasy/Urban Fiction, Vampire, Werewolf, Witches

#Review #AudioBook – Cupcakes, Trinkets, and Other Deadly Magic (Dowser Series Book 1) by Meghan Ciana Doidge

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If you’d asked me a week ago, I would have told you that the best cupcakes were dark chocolate with chocolate cream cheese icing, that dancing in a crowd of magic wielders — the Adept — was better than sex, and that my life was peaceful and uneventful. Just the way I liked it. That’s what twenty-three years in the magical backwater of Vancouver will get you — a completely skewed sense of reality. Because when the dead werewolves started showing up, it all unraveled … except for the cupcake part. That’s a universal truth.

Cupcakes, Trinkets, and Other Deadly Magic is the first book in the Dowser series, which is set in the same universe as the Oracle, Reconstructionist, Amplifier, Archivist, and Misfits of the Adept Universe series. While it is not necessary to read all the series, in order to avoid spoilers the ideal reading order of the Adept Universe begins with Cupcakes, Trinkets, and Other Deadly Magic (Dowser 1).

 

Goodreads

 

Amazon

 

Kelly’s Review

This book! Listen to it, trust me, you will be hooked!

In my opinion, a narrator can make or break a story for me. The narrator did a fantastic job of capturing the main character, Jade, but was also able to take on the other characters as well. The narrator hooked me! There are times when it takes me a while to finish an audio book because I am just not that invested in them. I found myself making time to listen. I was like, I NEED MORE!

The characters and world building were well developed. Jade and Sienna bickered and bantered like most siblings which would bring a smile to your face because you can imagine doing this with your own sibling(s). The vampires and wolves….Let me tell you something. There is a death that I did not see coming and completely threw me off my game. For that, I applaud the author because it is hard to surprise me with something like this and I love a twist like this! (claps loudly)

This series is so much different than the normal paranormal vamps, werewolves, and witches. It is so much more. It is fun to listen to with its witty banty and mystery. Highly recommend!

 

Meghan Ciana Doidge profile image

Meghan Ciana Doidge writes tales of true love conquering all, even death. Though sometimes the love is elusive, the vampires and werewolves come out to play in the daylight, and bloody mayhem ensues.

Audio Book, Comedy, Novella, Review, Romantic Comedy

#Review #AudioBook – Like It’s 1999: a Boston Classics novella by Karen Grey

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Love ‘em and Leave ‘em Alice Kim and “Hot” Steve Lowell are perfect for each other. It’ll only take them ten years to figure that out.

Just because they throw the most bodacious wedding party ever…

Just because they’re perfect partners in pranks…

Just because they love all the same boss movies…

Just because they share one totally bangin’ night of sex together…

Does not mean they’ll break the One Time Rule.

Even if they do… they don’t do relationships.

And they’re never getting married.

Like, ever.

In this friends-to-lovers, marriage-pact novella spanning the last decade of the 20th century, life forces a playboy and a playgirl grow up—and grow apart—before giving them a chance to create a happy-ever-after they can actually be happy about.

 

Goodreads

 

Amazon

 

Where are all my Gen-X’ers and Xennials?!?! This book has it all for us! All of our slang, excellent movie quotes, rad pranks, all the boombox holding nostalgia with an epic love story! EVERYTHING!!!! I listened to this book and having two narrators, one for Love ‘em and Leave ‘em Alice and Hot Steve, was ON POINT!

Alice and Steve end up being bridesmaids to their best friend. Yes, this will be an unconventional wedding as guys and girls will be on both sides. The best part is that Alice and Steve are the perfect partners in crime for the wedding. Actually, they are very similar in most aspects of their lives. As their story continues and we get to know them, they end up learning things about themselves that they aren’t really happy about. After the party they make a pact for the 10-year anniversary. But what happens in the middle and leading up to the 10-year anniversary is…well, a lot. I can’t call it a page turner because I listened to it, LOL! It was gripping and I couldn’t stop listening because I JUST HAD TO KNOW!

This was so nostalgic, plus the story just had a touch of everything! I highly recommend it! Just read it or listen to it already!

 

Karen Grey profile image

KAREN GREY is a USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of vintage romantic comedies with smart heroines and hunky heroes. Drawing on a long career as a performer, her retro 80’s and 90’s romances are populated with characters working both on- and off-stage in theater, TV and film.

She’s a lifelong omnivorous reader (including 20 years as an audiobook narrator). When not reading or writing, she’s lounging at the beach or hiking in the mountains. Or dreaming about both with an IPA in hand and a dog or a cat nearby.

To get the latest news, join her VIP club at followkarengrey.com.

Audio Book, Review, Romantic Comedy, short story, Teen & Young Adult Contemporary

#Review #AudioBook – The Exception to the Rule (The Improbable Meet-Cute collection) by Christina Lauren

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On February 14, an accidental email to a stranger opens the door to an unexpected relationship in a captivating short story by the New York Times bestselling authors of The Unhoneymooners.

One typo, and a boy and girl connect by chance. Wishing each other a happy Valentine’s Day isn’t the end. In fact, it becomes a friendly annual tradition—with rules: no pics, no real names, nothing too personal. As years pass, the rules for their email “dates” are breaking, and they’re sharing more than they imagined—including the urge to ask…what if we actually met?

Christina Lauren’s The Exception to the Rule is part of The Improbable Meet-Cute, irresistibly romantic stories about finding love when and where you least expect it. They can be read or listened to in one sitting. Let’s make a date of it.

 

Goodreads

 

Amazon

 

Kelly’s Review

I ran across this book when looking for a fun, sweet and quick-ish read. Then instead of reading it, I listened to it. I am not normally an audiobook kinda girl but once I started listening, I was HOOKED! The use of two narrators, one male and one female, was the key!

The accidental email that started this whole thing was just an accident, remembering the accidental email the following Valentine’s Day made me giggle, then the fact that they started competing to be the first to wish the other happy Valentine’s Day really had me LOL’ing! Obviously, you know they are going to meet but all their rules surrounding the “anonymous” emails that allow our two main characters to actually get to know each other and become friends that lead up to them actually meeting, is where its all at.

This is the perfect, sweet, funny and just all-around awesome read!

 

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Christina Lauren is the combined pen name of longtime writing partners and best friends Christina Hobbs and Lauren Billings, the New York Times, USA TODAY, and #1 Internationally bestselling authors of the Beautiful and Wild Seasons series, Dating You / Hating You, Autoboyography, Love and Other Words, Roomies, Josh and Hazel’s Guide to Not Dating,The Unhoneymooners, The Soulmate Equation, Something Wilder and The True Love Experiment. You can find them online at ChristinaLaurenBooks.com, @ChristinaLauren on Instagram, or @ChristinaLauren on Twitter.