BookishRaquel
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Undeniably Married
- Boston's Irresistible Billionaires, Book 4
- By: J. Saman
- Narrated by: Dane Anderson, Emma Wilder
- Length: 11 hrs and 25 mins
- Unabridged
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The last thing I expected when I ran out on my wedding was to wake up in Vegas married to Mason Reyes, the cocky, gorgeous, and much younger NFL quarterback for the Boston Rebels. I've always been a smart, responsible doctor. The good girl. And yet here I am with a drunken photo of our nuptials leaked and spreading like wildfire. Considering my ex is his former teammate, it's as bad as it gets.
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Sweet, spicy, and fun
- By The Romantic Rush Blog on 01-04-25
- Undeniably Married
- Boston's Irresistible Billionaires, Book 4
- By: J. Saman
- Narrated by: Dane Anderson, Emma Wilder
Undeniably Amazing
Reviewed: 01-03-25
Undeniably Married is another delicious and addicting book from J. Saman. I love this series so much! I completely devoured this book and could not put it down. I loved being back in the Boston Irresistible Billionaires universe for Sorel and Mason's story.
The last thing Sorel expected was to run away from her wedding to land right into the arms of Mason Reyes, the swoony quarterback for the Boston Rebels, who is seven years her junior and her ex's former teammate. She also didn't expect to be whisked off to Vegas by said swoony man. What does a responsible, level-headed doctor who wants to be spontaneous and wild do in Vegas? She gets married, of course! Unfortunately, what happens in Vegas doesn't always stay in Vegas, and a photo of their Vegas wedding was leaked. Neither of them wanted a scandal on their hands, so to save face, they decided it was best to stay married for three months, with some rules, of course.
I am obsessed with Sorel and Mason. These two had amazing chemistry and were so HOT together. Mason is the perfect charming, sweet, protective, obsessed, and dirty-talking golden retriever man. He is patient, supportive, and handles every situation with maturity. Gah, I couldn't get enough of him! I admired Sorel's strength and bravery. The way she called out her cheating ex had me cackling and instantly rooting for her. Although getting married in Vegas probably wasn't the best way to get revenge on her ex, I loved that she did something out of her comfort zone. Sorel and Mason were perfect for each other. I thoroughly enjoyed their sweet and steamy journey.
J. Saman is a master of creating stories that pack a punch and completely pull you in. This story has laugh-out-loud moments, a steamy and swoony romance, drama and twists that keep you guessing, a fun, close-knit friend group, great family dynamics, and all the feels. This is a great story, and I can't wait for what comes next in the series.
Narration:
Emma Wilder and Dane Anderson perform this audiobook in dual-style narration. They are the perfect voices for Sorel and Mason, and I loved their captivating performances. Emma and Dane fully embodied the characters and captured the emotions, making this a fun listening experience.
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Forever Wild
- Wildcat Hockey, Book 5
- By: Rebecca Jenshak
- Narrated by: Sebastian York, CJ Bloom
- Length: 9 hrs and 43 mins
- Unabridged
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Hockey is everything. My game, my team—that's all that matters. But an accident during the playoffs leaves me sidelined and puts my future in question. With my teammates off enjoying their vacations, my only plan this summer is to heal and come back stronger than ever. No distractions. No babysitters. I want to be left alone.
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A Steamy Gumpy/Sunshine Hockey Romance
- By JH on 01-04-25
- Forever Wild
- Wildcat Hockey, Book 5
- By: Rebecca Jenshak
- Narrated by: Sebastian York, CJ Bloom
Forever Wild for Jack and Everly
Reviewed: 01-03-25
Forever Wild is the final book in the Wildcat Hockey series. Although the series is interconnected, the books can be read as standalone romance stories. This final book is about Jack and Everly's journey to love.
Jack is the broody, grumpy captain of the Wildcats hockey team. Everly is his teammate's little sister, and they've known each other since Everly was a teenager. When Jack suffers a significant injury that ends his season early and leaves him housebound, Everly steps in and begins visiting to check on him. She is fiery, doesn't let him get away with being moody, and doesn't hesitate to call him out when needed. As they spend more time together, they start to see each other in a new light, sparking a secret summer romance.
I loved Jack and Everly together. They had amazing chemistry, and their banter was top-tier. I loved how protective Jack was of Everly. Seeing him get a little jealous when she went on a date was fun. I loved the support they gave each other - she helps him see that there's more to life than hockey, and he supports her in chasing her dreams. Their slow-burn romance made my heart happy. I loved witnessing them find their way to each other. It's always sad to reach the end of a series, but this beautifully written story was the perfect way to say goodbye to these amazing characters.
Narration:
CJ Bloom and Sebastian York perform this audiobook using dual-style narration. They were the perfect voices for Everly and Jack. Sebastian's voice is perfect for a grumpy, broody character. I loved how CJ captured the essence of Everly's sassy, fiery, and independent nature. This audiobook was fun, and I didn't want to stop listening.
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The One
- Spade Hotel Series, Book 5
- By: Marni Mann
- Narrated by: Samantha Brentmoor, Connor Crais
- Length: 9 hrs and 3 mins
- Unabridged
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USA Today best-selling author Marni Mann brings an angsty, tortured hero, billionaire romance to the sizzling conclusion of the Spade Hotel series.
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Loved it!
- By Megan on 12-29-24
- The One
- Spade Hotel Series, Book 5
- By: Marni Mann
- Narrated by: Samantha Brentmoor, Connor Crais
Nobody compares to Rhett Cole
Reviewed: 12-31-24
This story is phenomenal! Rhett Cole's story completely wrecked me. Throughout this series, he has been the grumpy one who never wanted to be around and always seemed troubled. His actions were confusing and unexplained, but he was clearly holding on to something that made it impossible for him to really live his life. Now we know exactly what this poor, tortured man was going through. Rhett and Lainey's journey broke my heart and then put it back together.
Rhett and Lainey were high school sweethearts who planned to stay together forever. They were inseparable until a tragic event changed their lives forever. After fifteen years of no contact, they unexpectedly reunite. Determined to have another chance with the woman who has always had his heart, Rhett is ready to reveal the truth. Using a dual timeline was the perfect way to tell Rhett's story, and it revealed important details about what made Rhett the man he is in the present. He is a heartbroken, protective man who made decisions in the past he felt would protect the one he loves.
I am a huge fan of second-chance romance stories, and this one is beautifully written. This book is more than just a typical love story; it’s a moving journey that connects you to Rhett and Lainey and their feelings. I felt Rhett's grief and deep love for Lainey. I felt so sad for these two and was rooting for them. They were truly meant to be together, and I loved every second of their emotional journey back to each other. The One is a must-read and did not disappoint. Will you cry? All signs point to yes. Is it worth it? Absolutely!
Narration:
Samantha Brentmoor and Connor Crais perform this audiobook in dual-style narration. I can begin to express how much I enjoyed this audiobook. I started reading this book and then grabbed the audiobook on release day. I am so glad I did. Reading and listening to this book in tandem was an amazing experience. Samantha and Connor are two of my favorite narrators, and their voices worked so well together for Rhett and Lainey's story. Samantha and Connor are the perfect voices for these complex characters, and they brought them to life in the best way. Marni has written an incredibly emotional story, and being able to hear these emotions had a deep impact on me. I thoroughly enjoyed my immersive reading experience.
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Only with Me
- Sugarland Creek, Book 4
- By: Brooke Montgomery
- Narrated by: Teddy Hamilton, Ava Erickson
- Length: 9 hrs and 2 mins
- Unabridged
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A forbidden age gap stand-alone from small-town romance author Brooke Montgomery about a girl who connects with a mysterious man and her sister’s older ex-boyfriend who knows he should stay away…
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Another great Trip to Sugarland Creek
- By Michele S on 01-05-25
- Only with Me
- Sugarland Creek, Book 4
- By: Brooke Montgomery
- Narrated by: Teddy Hamilton, Ava Erickson
Waylon and Harlow
Reviewed: 12-31-24
Sugarland Creek is one of my favorite places, and this series brings me so much joy. I adore the characters Brooke Montgomery has created, and I'm completely invested in their stories. Only With Me is book four in this series, following Waylon Hollis and Harlow Fanning. This story starts with an emotional punch, so if you have triggers, please heed the trigger and content warnings provided by the author.
Waylon ends up in a group chat about horses and starts anonymously chatting with a girl. As they connect more deeply, he discovers she’s Harlow, his ex-girlfriend's sister. Initially, he stops talking to her to avoid revealing his identity, but later finds a way to be honest with her. Harlow is inexperienced and wants to learn about dating, so she asks Waylon for advice. While Waylon gives Harlow dating advice and spicy lessons, their relationship blossoms into something deeper.
I loved Waylon and Harlow together and how vulnerable they were with each other. They developed a solid friendship and had amazing chemistry. Waylon had a mouth on him! Those lessons were HOT! I loved how protective and loving he was. Both characters faced challenges with mental health, such as anxiety and depression, adding depth to their connection. The mental health elements in this story are well-written and handled with care. This book is an emotional ride with a blend of heartfelt romance, humor, steam, and suspense. I love the Hollis family and can't wait for Wilder's story.
Narration:
Two of my favorites, Teddy Hamilton and Ava Erickson, did a fantastic job with this audiobook. They are the perfect voices for Waylon and Harlow. Teddy and Ava fully embodied the characters and really brought them to life. They are a really fun duo, and their captivating performances exponentially enhanced my experience with Waylon and Harlow's story.
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Across Eternity
- The Parallel Series, Book 4
- By: Elle O'Roark, Elizabeth O'Roark
- Narrated by: Samantha Brentmoor, Shane East
- Length: 11 hrs and 28 mins
- Unabridged
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The exciting conclusion to Across Time! Separated from Henri by 20 years, Amelie discovers that what she thought was a weakness may be her greatest strength, and that nothing about her family and her gift is what it seemed. Now, with war on the horizon and a challenge she never saw coming, Amelie will learn what the prophecy really means for them—herself most of all.
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A Stunning Conclusion to an Epic Love Story
- By Spellbound Reader on 01-03-25
- Across Eternity
- The Parallel Series, Book 4
- By: Elle O'Roark, Elizabeth O'Roark
- Narrated by: Samantha Brentmoor, Shane East
Captivating Story!
Reviewed: 12-30-24
This duet is unlike anything I've ever read before. Elizabeth O’Roark’s storytelling is incredible, and this book is unique and captivating. I love how the author intertwines time travel through the past, present, and future. The unexpected twists kept me hooked, and I deeply felt the characters' emotional journeys, especially Sarah (Amelie) and Henri, as they navigated pain, grief, betrayal, and forgiveness. There were moments that brought me to tears, some that made me want to scream, and others that had me on the edge of my seat.
I loved Henri in part one of this duet, but in part two, he really disappointed me and had me wishing Sarah would let him go for good. Reading what transpired between them was difficult and maddening. Henri and Sarah (mainly Sarah) went through so much. Sarah was a saint. I couldn't imagine being in her position. The betrayal was just too much. The story definitely took a darker turn (well, war is dark), but I liked that Sarah got some revenge. A lot happened in this story, and there were things I didn't like - OW drama, Sarah basically sacrificing her life for everyone and not getting much in return, Henri not groveling enough, & Marie and Yvette being terrible people), but Across Eternity is beautifully written and worth reading.
Narration:
Samantha Brentmoor and Shane East perform this audiobook using duet-style narration. They did a fantastic job with this story. Truthfully, they are the only reason I decided to listen to this duet. This is a 'new to me' author and a 'new to me' genre (paranormal, time travel romance), so knowing the story was narrated by two of my favorites made all the difference. Samantha and Shane pulled me into this story, and I could not stop listening. Their performances were powerful, and I felt every single emotion.
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Between Now and Forever
- By: Adriana Locke
- Narrated by: Rachel Vivette, Oliver Clarke
- Length: 7 hrs and 23 mins
- Unabridged
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When Gabrielle Solomon falls, she falls hard. Even if that means literally toppling over a porch railing in nothing but a flimsy towel—right in front of her sexy new neighbor. Jay Stetson is 100 percent hero material with those arms, that chest, and his deliciously oh-so-sexy smirk. The chiseled hunk in flannel has an irresistible off-limits attitude while plucking Gabrielle out of the bushes and saving her from a snake. Unfortunately, he’s not indulging in what Gabrielle is offering—not with his emotional train wreck of a past.
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Second chances
- By Corrine's Courage on 12-31-24
- Between Now and Forever
- By: Adriana Locke
- Narrated by: Rachel Vivette, Oliver Clarke
Beautiful and Emotional Romance
Reviewed: 12-18-24
Oh my goodness! I devoured this book! Adriana Locke truly never misses. I have not read a book by her that I didn't get completely lost in. Between Now and Forever was no different. This book follows Jay and Gabrielle, who find love amidst personal loss and past heartbreaks. After her ex-husband passes away, Gabrielle returns to her hometown and becomes neighbors with Jay. Their funny meet-cute (she literally falls into his life) sparks a slow-burning romance. Initially, Jay is super grumpy and tries to stay away from Gabrielle. Gradually, he warms up to her and her sons, especially as he bonds with Carter, the youngest of the two.
I loved Jay and Gabrielle together. Their journey was complicated and had ups and downs; however, they were undeniably attracted to each other. Jay showed Gabrielle that although she could do things on her own, it was ok to lean on him for help. I was invested in the development of Jay's relationship with Gabrielle's sons. Carter was innocent and sweet and added a bit of humor to the story, while Dylan, the teenager, struggled to work out his feelings after losing their dad. Between Now and Forever explores parenting challenges, healing from past wounds, and embracing second chances. This well-written story is beautiful, emotional, and heartwarming.
Narration:
Rachel Vivette and Oliver Clarke, both new to me as narrators, delivered captivating performances in the audiobook. They really brought Gabrielle and Jay to life. Oliver portrayed Jay's pain and desire for solitude, while Rachel expressed Gabrielle's resilience, bright spirit, warmth, and journey to find love again. Their performances pulled me into the story and made me care deeply about the characters. Rachel and Oliver's emotional narration enhanced my listening experience.
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The Invitation
- The Brewer Family Series, Book 3
- By: Adriana Locke
- Narrated by: Jason Clarke, Lexi Maynard
- Length: 9 hrs and 34 mins
- Unabridged
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I hate Ripley Brewer. So, why am I cuddling on his lap, peering into his ocean-blue eyes while cameras record our every move? My best friend needs my help to save her career, and I would do anything for her. Besides, filming a reality show sounds fun … until Ripley shows up to play the role of my fake boyfriend. As always, we nearly come to blows within minutes of seeing each other. The playboy billionaire accuses me of a setup, but I insist I’d rather live in a world without carbs than spend a minute with him.
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Ripley & Georgia
- By booklvr212 on 12-22-24
- The Invitation
- The Brewer Family Series, Book 3
- By: Adriana Locke
- Narrated by: Jason Clarke, Lexi Maynard
Ripley and Georgia
Reviewed: 12-11-24
The Invitation is the third book in the Brewer Family series. This story features Ripley and Georgia, who have been at odds since their senior year of high school. Their frequent clashes stem from a long-standing mutual animosity, which intensifies when they end up on a reality dating show together due to last-minute casting changes. Both are too stubborn to back out despite discovering they will be each other’s dates because they each have personal reasons for wanting the show to succeed.
As Ripley and Georgia navigate their staged romance and spend actual time communicating, they begin to peel back the layers of misunderstanding and question why they fought so much in the first place. Ripley and Georgia's undeniable chemistry makes their journey from enemies to lovers believable and deeply satisfying. Ripley is so dang swoony! I love him so much! He is so patient, charming, and supportive of Georgia. The Brewer siblings are the best! They always have fun banter and bring the laughs. This was a really fun read, and I can't wait for the rest of the series.
Narration:
Lexi Maynard and Jason Clarke perform this audiobook in dual-style narration. Both delivered great performances and brought the characters to life. As always, I enjoyed Jason's performance. He fully embodied all things Ripley. Lexi did well portraying Georgia's strength and vulnerability. Lexi and Jason are great storytellers, and I enjoyed listening to Georgia and Ripley's fun and steamy enemies-to-lovers romance.
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Across Time
- The Parallel Series, Book 3
- By: Elle O'Roark, Elizabeth O'Roark
- Narrated by: Samantha Brentmoor, Shane East
- Length: 9 hrs and 28 mins
- Unabridged
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In a dangerous time before her own...a dangerous attraction. Amelie Besson is on the cusp of attaining the life she’s dreamed of—until she finds herself stuck in pre-war France, fifty years before her time. The country is about to be under German rule, but her most immediate problem is Henri Durand, the arrogant and infuriatingly handsome vineyard owner upon whom her survival depends.
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captivating time travel romance
- By chelsea -@chelseareadsromance on 12-31-24
- Across Time
- The Parallel Series, Book 3
- By: Elle O'Roark, Elizabeth O'Roark
- Narrated by: Samantha Brentmoor, Shane East
Wonderful Story!
Reviewed: 12-07-24
I absolutely loved Across Time. I could not put this one down. I love how unique this storyline is. I was completely invested in Henri, Amelie, and Marie.
Amelie is from the 90s, but after having dreams about her late sister telling her to find someone named Marie in Reims, she ends up in 1930s France. Despite her desire for a normal life without time travel, Amelie decides to make one last trip to the past, where she meets Henri, Marie's handsome but hostile brother. Amelie and Henri's relationship starts a bit rocky but evolves into a deep friendship, complicating her intentions to leave. I loved Henri and Amelie's enemies to lovers, slow-burn romance. They have amazing chemistry and banter. Although there was a lot of back and forth, it was clear they both felt something more for each other. This story is beautifully written. The suspense and mystery elements had me on the end of my seat. Plus, it ends on a cliffhanger that has me needing to know what happens next.
Narration:
Samantha Brentmoor and Shane East perform this audiobook in duet-style narration. Samantha and Shane are two of my favorites, so I knew this would be an amazing experience. They both blew me away! They put so much life into the characters, and I could feel every emotion. Their phenomenal performances made it impossible to stop listening.
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The Mistletoe Bet
- Strawberry Hollow, Book 1
- By: Maren Moore
- Narrated by: Desireé Ketchum
- Length: 3 hrs and 33 mins
- Unabridged
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When I'm forced to spend the holidays at home with my family in Strawberry Hollow, I have no idea how I'm even going to survive the week, let alone make it through my least favorite holiday… Christmas. That is until I run into my childhood crush and my brother's best friend, Parker Grant. Now, he's the sexy, off-limits doctor in our small town and nothing like the man I left behind six years ago.
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fun, cute and romantic!
- By Hannah Danielle Scofield (Justagirlandherbook21 - Bookstagram) on 12-07-24
- The Mistletoe Bet
- Strawberry Hollow, Book 1
- By: Maren Moore
- Narrated by: Desireé Ketchum
Cute Holiday Novella
Reviewed: 11-23-24
The Mistletoe Bet is a cute and sweet Christmas novella. The story follows Quinn, who returns to her hometown of Strawberry Hollow to spend Christmas with her family. Quinn is the typical Grinch, dreading every festive moment until she encounters Parker, her brother’s best friend, the local doctor, and childhood crush. Parker, known for his holiday spirit and charming ways, makes a bet with Quinn under the mistletoe: he believes he can make her fall in love with Christmas again before she leaves. The story unfolds as Parker uses all his charm and some steamy romantic tactics to change Quinn's view on the holiday season. As they spend more time together, Quinn's frosty attitude begins to melt, Parker and Quinn lean into their feelings, and new love blossoms. This novella blends a feel-good, romantic storyline with delicious steam, making it a perfect quick holiday read. I listened to the audiobook and really enjoyed the solo narration performance by Desireé Ketchum. She did a wonderful job distinguishing the characters. The narration elevated my experience with the story.
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Holly Freakin' Hughes
- By: Kelsey Kingsley
- Narrated by: Teddy Hamilton, Marie Hawkins
- Length: 10 hrs and 25 mins
- Unabridged
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Meet Holly Hughes, a moderately successful teen advice columnist living in a studio apartment on the Upper East Side with her boyfriend Stephen. She has it all, but at the ripe age of thirty-one, she wants more. She wants to be married, she wants a family, and she's going to have it all with Stephen. At least, that's what she thought, until Stephen announces he's gay, and the domino effect of unfortunate events begins.
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Yes to the audiobook, but not so much to the book itself.
- By Malika C. on 12-27-24
- Holly Freakin' Hughes
- By: Kelsey Kingsley
- Narrated by: Teddy Hamilton, Marie Hawkins
I loved this book!
Reviewed: 11-21-24
Holly Hughes hasn't had the best luck. She lost her job, and her boyfriend of five years broke up with her. Moving in with her sister on Long Island, she feels stuck and unsure of her future. Brandon Davis, a famous author, is also reeling from a breakup with his fiancée, who left him out of jealousy over his success. The two meet by chance at a bookstore, and what begins as an instant friendship gradually turns into something deeper. Holly’s quick wit and chaotic charm complement Brandon’s quiet strength as they help each other heal from their pasts. Brandon and Holly's journey was not easy, but it was real, relatable, and heartwarming. This story had a good mix of humor, heartfelt moments, and character growth. Brandon and Holly found love when least expected, and their HEA was well-deserved.
Narration:
Marie Hawkins & Teddy Hamilton were so good! I thoroughly enjoyed their performances. This was my first time listening to Marie Hawkins. She did an outstanding job giving a voice to chaotic, vulnerable, and insecure Holly. Teddy is an all-time favorite and did an amazing job portraying Brandon and his patient, swoony, and sweet nature. I could really feel the struggles both characters experienced throughout the story. Marie and Teddy brought this story and the characters to life in the best way.
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