… and realise they had their noses in their books and missed the bookstore. 😂
If I found myself in a bar, I’d probably be tucked away in a quiet corner with my phone, lost in a world of swoony romance and witty banter—like these books I recently read!
The Perfect Rom-Com by Melissa Ferguson is another fabulous story by one of my favourite authors (see my reviews here and here). Despite the title and amusing moments throughout, this book firmly lands in romantic women’s fiction territory.
Bryony’s journey is one you want to cheer on, even when everything seems to spiral from bad to worse. I sympathised with her anxiety struggles, admired her enormous heart for those around her, and felt her frustration when giving her all still wasn’t enough. Then there’s Jack, the quintessential romantic hero, albeit imperfect (because who is?). His forthrightness and attention to detail were so endearing—not just to Bryony, but to me, too! While certain characters made me want to crawl into my phone and throw a few well-deserved punches, I promise the ending makes the rollercoaster ride worthwhile.
All Over the Map by Lanie Jacobs is a YA novel with everything a great coming-of-age story needs—awkward history with her best friend’s older brother, a spontaneous road trip fuelled by an identity crisis, a strained mother-daughter relationship, and plenty of self-discovery along the way.
Kendall is relatable in all her messy, awkward glory. She stumbles through plenty of mistakes but, like most teenagers, somehow muddles through. With four teens of my own, I found the characters familiar and their struggles authentic. The banter was excellent, and the friendships were engaging. I remained captivated by the story, even as Kendall teetered on disaster.
Love and Memories by Mandi Blake is a Christian amnesia romance and the fourth book in the Love in Blackwater series. Travis—the ever-reliable paramedic who’s been a side character in several of Ms Blake’s previous books—finally gets his own story! Yay! He helps Isabella, a mysterious injured woman, discovered beside the road following a hit-and-run.
Travis and Bella’s chemistry builds beautifully as her memories return piece by piece. In true Mandi Blake style, the ending scenes of the book had me on the edge of my seat, glued to the action as it played out. This story also hints at another gripping book on the horizon.
Spring’s Pact by Dora Hiers is another wonderful faith-filled romance in the Season sisters’ series! Similar to the first book, Spring’s story tackles serious themes while also including heartwarming moments and a captivating best-friends-to-lovers romance.
Spring and Beckett’s friendship is solid, and I especially loved how Beckett loved her with quiet patience and unwavering kindness. He never pressured Spring to share the traumas of her past, instead allowing her to confide at her own pace. Having met in a group home as kids, they built a bond that became the foundation for their love story. Despite the heaviness of their pasts, their romance was tender, highlighting how God’s love and faith in Him can bring healing.
Have you read any of these books? I’d love to hear your thoughts and latest recommendations! Let me know in the comments below.
Until next time,
Sheridan