The Bookish Ashley

Tessa Bailey takes readers on a delightful rom-com adventure in “Hook Line and Sinker.” The story centers around Fox Thornton, a charming King crab fisherman with a reputation as a ladies’ man. He enjoys the carefree life until he meets Hannah Bellinger, a woman who seems immune to his usual charms. Their friendship blossoms unexpectedly, but Fox is determined to keep things platonic, not wanting to risk losing her.

Hannah finds herself in town for work and ends up crashing in Fox’s spare bedroom. Despite knowing about his flirtatious reputation, she seeks his help to improve her lackluster love life, nursing a secret crush on a colleague. As they spend more time together, their friendship deepens, and the line between friendship and something more becomes increasingly blurry.

Tessa Bailey skillfully weaves a heartwarming and humorous tale of two friends navigating the complexities of love and friendship. The chemistry between Fox and Hannah is palpable, and readers will find themselves rooting for their love story. Bailey’s writing style is engaging, making it an enjoyable read from start to finish.

While “Hook Line and Sinker” successfully delivers on the rom-com charm, it does lose a few points due to some predictable plot elements. Despite this, the book is an entertaining and lighthearted escape, perfect for those seeking a feel-good romance.

In summary, “Hook Line and Sinker” is a solid addition to the rom-com genre, continuing Tessa Bailey’s knack for creating endearing characters and witty banter. If you’re in the mood for a light-hearted love story filled with humor and charm, this book is a catch that will leave you smiling.

Rating: 3.75/5 Stars

“Icebreaker” by Hannah Grace is an engaging sports romance novel that explores the unexpected connection between two fiercely competitive athletes, Anastasia Allen and Nathan Hawkins. As a devoted figure skater striving for her dream of joining Team USA, Anastasia’s life has been centered around her sport, while Nathan, as the captain of the Maple Hills Titans, is determined to lead his hockey team to victory.

The story takes an exciting turn when a misunderstanding forces the figure skating and hockey teams to share a rink, leading to an unfortunate injury for Anastasia’s partner. In a twist of fate, Nathan finds himself swapping his hockey stick for tights and embracing the challenges of figure skating under the guidance of a strict coach. The forced partnership between Anastasia and Nathan adds depth to the plot, as they discover they have more in common than they initially thought.

The character development in “Icebreaker” is commendable, and readers will find themselves invested in Anastasia and Nathan’s growth as individuals and as a pair. Their chemistry and interactions are well-crafted, making the blossoming romance feel genuine and heartfelt.

However, the book’s pacing occasionally feels rushed, leaving some aspects of the story underdeveloped. Furthermore, the “opposites attract” trope, while endearing, could have been further explored to add layers to the characters’ dynamic.

On the positive side, Hannah Grace’s writing style is fluid and engaging, making it easy for readers to be immersed in the world of competitive sports and the emotional journey of the protagonists. The author’s attention to detail in depicting the figure skating and hockey scenes is impressive, and sports enthusiasts will appreciate the authenticity of the setting.

In conclusion, “Icebreaker” is a satisfying sports romance that delivers an enjoyable read with moments of humor, heartache, and triumph. While the book may have benefited from a more nuanced exploration of certain themes, it succeeds in captivating readers with its captivating storyline and well-rounded characters. If you’re a fan of sports-themed romance novels, “Icebreaker” is worth adding to your reading list.

Rating: 3.5/5 Stars

“Beaches, Bungalows & Burglaries” by Tonya Kappes is the delightful first installment in the Camper & Criminals Cozy Mystery series, introducing us to the resilient and charming protagonist, Mae West. Don’t be fooled by her name; she’s no actress but a woman faced with a sudden turn of events that leave her broke and responsible for a rundown campground.

The story begins with Mae’s life taking an unexpected nosedive when her husband’s Ponzi scheme leaves her with nothing but a decrepit campground and a set of camper keys. To make matters worse, her husband escapes prison, and the FBI shows up at her campground, implicating her as a possible accomplice. As if that weren’t enough, a mysterious floating object in the campground’s lake casts suspicion upon her, making her the prime suspect.

Kappes excels in crafting an endearing protagonist with Mae West, a character who combines humor, vulnerability, and wit. Readers will find themselves rooting for Mae as she navigates her new life and tries to unravel the campground’s mysteries to clear her name. The cast of quirky supporting characters adds charm and depth to the story, making the small-town setting feel cozy and inviting.

The mystery aspect of the book is engaging, with enough twists and turns to keep readers guessing until the end. However, at times, the pacing feels a bit uneven, with certain plot points lingering longer than necessary. Additionally, the resolution of the mystery might feel rushed to some readers.

One of the highlights of “Beaches, Bungalows & Burglaries” is Kappes’ vivid and picturesque writing style, bringing the campground and its surroundings to life. The book evokes a sense of escapism, making it an ideal choice for cozy mystery enthusiasts seeking an easy and lighthearted read.

While the book could have benefited from more character development and deeper exploration of some subplots, Tonya Kappes succeeds in crafting an enjoyable and entertaining cozy mystery. The author’s humor and skill in creating an inviting atmosphere make the story stand out, leaving readers eager to return to the Camper & Criminals series for further adventures with Mae West.

In conclusion, “Beaches, Bungalows & Burglaries” is a cozy mystery that offers a mix of humor, mystery, and heartwarming moments. Tonya Kappes sets the stage for an engaging series, and fans of cozy mysteries will find Mae West’s journey through campgrounds and crime scenes to be a delightful escape from reality.

Rating: 3.5/5 stars