Stars, Stripes and Summer Nights

About the Book:

Stars, Stripes & Summer Nights

Title: Stars, Stripes and Summer Nights
Author: Celeste Dador
Publisher: Delacorte Romance
Release Date: May 12th, 2026
Genre: YA

A swoony, patriotic romance with Gilmore Girls charm—follow First Daughter Abby as she dives into a summer of surprises, small-town magic, and sparks with the boy who shakes up her world.

What if the person who turns your world upside down is exactly who you’re meant to find?

All First Daughter Abby Alzona wanted was one normal night. But one impulsive pizza order later, she’s front-page news—and officially exiled to a Wi-Fi-free country inn for the summer, along with her little sister Elle.

The inn belongs to Gabriel Calabrese’s family: he’s sarcastic, camera-obsessed, and definitely not dazzled by presidential perks (also, kind of the reason for the whole pizza fiasco). But Abby’s determined to make the most of her time away from the White House—with a summer bucket list full of things real teens get to do. Pool parties. Picnics. Maybe even a first kiss.

As she and Elle dive into small-town life, Abby starts to see what makes Gabriel tick. And maybe, just maybe, she’s falling for him. . . .

Book Review:

I thought this book was adorable! It was a sweet and fun YA romance that perfectly captured the feelings of growing up and figuring out who you are.

I felt for Abby! I am a fellow perfectionist and rule follower, and I empathized with her desire to be the perfect daughter for her parents. She was struggling with trying to break out of that mold, but at the same time, she did represent her family in a unique way. I thought her growth was handled with a lot of nuance. She didn’t become a rebel because that would have been out of character, but she did learn how to stand up for herself in a way that made sense.

Also, I loved the family vibes! Every member of the family was so sweet and supportive and the parents were actually involved in their kids’ lives. While there were some realistic secrets and tension, I think overall the adult figures were very positive in this story. And Elle was so much fun! Her energy and optimism was the perfect foil for Abby’s more calm and collected demeanor.

Gabriel was a huge sweetheart! While I would have loved to see a bit more of his personality, the story was more about Abby and her growth as a person. He really pushed her to become the best that she could be. And the small town vibes were so fun! I’m a huge Gilmore Girls fan, so this was right up my alley.

I would definitely recommend this sweet YA read! It is the perfect summer book just in time for Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage month.

I received an ARC

No Match Found

About the Book:

No Match Found: a romantic comedy (Matchify Book 1)

Title: No Match Found
Series: Matchify #1
Author: Martha Keyes
Release Date: June 3rd, 2026
Genre: Romantic Comedy

She built the perfect algorithm for love, but it didn’t predict him.

Vivian West has spent her adult life proving that love isn’t luck—it’s data. As the CEO of Matchify, the world’s most advanced matchmaking app, she’s built an empire on the science of compatibility. Love isn’t about fate; it’s about probability.

Grant Wilder doesn’t believe in perfect matches. The investigative journalist has spent his career exposing scams, and Matchify is next on his list. People want to believe love can be calculated, but he knows better. His instincts have never failed him—except, maybe, when it comes to Vivian.

She trusts the numbers. He trusts his gut. And the more they clash, the more undeniable their chemistry becomes. But according to Matchify’s algorithm, they’re completely incompatible. And numbers don’t lie… right?

No Match Found is a closed-door romantic comedy full of wit, office antics, and the type of romance that makes you giddy.

Book Review:

What a fun and intriguing story! I love the concept of this book and I was excited to see how everything would work out. No Match Found is the first book in Martha Keyes’ new series, Matchify. 

Vivian was a strong woman, a CEO of a company that she built but she was still scared of others truly knowing her. I loved getting to know Vivian and seeing what made her tick. She wanted to succeed and be loved just like all of us. She felt real and I felt for her as she navigated leading her company and taking risks. 

She had to learn to be brave in a different way as she interacted with Grant and got to know him better. Grant was doing his best to find the story about Matchify and definitely pushed Vivian’s buttons at times. It was interesting to learn about Grant through Vivian’s eyes. As she got to know him better, so did I. 

The romance was slow burn. Grant and Vivian started off as sort of enemies, at least not on the same team. But spending time together forced them to reconsider. I was invested in the story and wanted to see how it would end. 

I really enjoyed this book and I would totally recommend it! Vivian’s friends/coworkers were fun and I hope that they all get their own books! I am so excited for the next book. No Match Found is a closed door contemporary romance

Book Highlights:

Friends

MMC Journalist

FMC CEO

Matchmaking app

Data and writing

Opposites attract

Forced proximity 

Working together 

I received a complimentary copy

Trails of the Trash

About the Book:

Trials of the Trash (Janitors School of Garbage, Vol. 2)

Title: Trails of the Trash
Series: Janitors School of Garbage
Author: Tyler Whitesides
Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishers
Release Date: September 3rd, 2024
Genre: Children’s Fiction

Three young garbologists must defend the world from new magical trash creations.

Landon Murphy never imagined he would spend his summer battling the animated trash monster known as the Megalajunk, and he is eager to continue studying from the wizard-like janitors at the School of Garbage. He’ll need to improve his skills with magical pushbrooms and plungers now that the Thingamajunks have gone rogue.

When two Thingamajunks show up at Landon’s mother’s wedding, Landon is desperate to save his family. Using the lock he kept after defeating the Megalajunk, Landon accidentally triggers his own temporary transformation into the trash leviathan.

Now, he and his stepsister, Jade Shu, must team up again with Sabra, Dr. Bernard Weizmann, and Daisy Gates to figure out why the Thingamajunks are popping up to ruin parties, weddings, concerts, and other celebrations. Landon suspects the Locksmith is behind the attacks, but information about the mysterious figure is scarce.

The questions continue to pile up, but one thing is certain: War is coming to the landfill, and Landon, Jade, and Sabra will need all their courage, creativity, and focus to lay a trap for the Thingamajunks—before it’s too late.

Book Review:

An exciting second book in the Janitors School of Trash series! I had a lot of fun reading this story. I haven’t actually read the first series, but you can definitely jump into this second series and still enjoy it!

I enjoyed returning to the world. It is such an interesting concept. Landon’s POV feels very natural and I was easily engaged. I think his struggles are very relatable. He was facing a lot of changes and adjusting doesn’t happen all at once. I appreciated how his growth continued from the first book. He is learning about himself and where he fits in the context of all he is learning. 

I loved all the other fun characters too! Jade and S are a great team for Landon and really cover his weaknesses. They also learn a lot over the book, especially Jade. There are also a lot of characters who are from the earlier series, which is a fun connection. 

The story moves along quickly and there is a fun adventure feeling to it. I am enjoying the overarching story that is being developed and interested to see how things will progress. This is a fun MG fantasy adventure with themes of friendship, teamwork, and channeling emotions in a helpful way. 

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review

Beauty and the Bad Boy

About the Book:

Beauty and the Bad Boy: A YA Sweet Romance (Beauties and Boys Book 1)

Title: Beauty and the Bad Boy
Series: Beauties and Boys #1
Author: Sarah Sutton
Release Date: May 15th, 2026
Genre: YA

She’s the perfect girl that gave him his bad boy image.
And now he’s back for revenge.

My name is Eleanor Brighton, and I’m the perfect daughter.

P-E-R-F-E-C-T.

For the past four years, I’ve painstakingly built my life to be impressive in every way–great grades, steadfast maturity, and even dedicating to attend my dad’s alma mater in the fall to make him proud.

Except lately, it kind of feels like he resents me for it.

And now I have another problem.

Beckham Jennings is back in town.

Four years ago, the country club’s most-hated bad boy was chased out of town after setting one of the gardens on fire. Now he’s back with a smirk and a reputation, and he gives me a lazy promise:

He’s going to steal my heart.

As if it hasn’t belonged to him since I was eight years old.

But his words are more than some flippant game–they’re a threat. From the hard look in Beck’s eyes, it’s clear he hates me for what happened four years ago… and he should. Because it was all my fault.

The bad boy I created is ready for revenge… and for the first time in forever, I’m tempted to give in.

H-E-L-P.


Beauty and the Bad Boy is an enemies to lovers sweet YA romance, with all the swoon and none of the spice. If you like cinnamon roll bad boys, imperfect good girls, and swoonworthy slow burns, the first book in the Beauties and Boys duology is for you.

Book Review

This was a super cute read! I love this universe, and it was fun to see more characters get their HEA.

Nellie was such an interesting character! I really felt for her and her drive to be perfect at all times. She felt so real and even though I didn’t agree with all of her choices, I still understood why she made them. Her determination to be enough for her parents was really driving a lot of her decision making. The twin connection she had with Jamie was really fun too! I love sibling dynamics and they actually felt like real siblings to me. It was interesting to see her reaction to Destelle leaving too. While I understood Destelle’s need to leave, I like how her departure was realistically explored.

Beckham was a sweetheart! He seemed like a bad boy, but he was really just struggling through a lot of things. I like how he pushed Nellie and forced her to see herself clearly while still supporting her. I would have loved to see more scenes from his POV, but in a lot of ways, the focus being more on Nellie made sense. They were adorable together!

The plot kept me engaged the whole time! I couldn’t wait to find out what happened next. Jamie and Daisy’s book is going to be so cute, and I’m excited to read it. This is perfect for anyone who loves sweet YA novels.

Treasures of Falcon Point

About the Book:

Treasures of Falcon Point (Falcon Point Suspense Book 4)

Title: Treasure of Falcon Point
Series: Falcon Point Suspense #4
Author: Sian Ann Bessey and Traci Hunter Abramson
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Release Date: June 1st, 2026
Genre: Clean Suspense

When two of the Lang family’s priceless paintings vanish from a London gallery, where they have been on display, CIA operative Cole Bridger and his cousin Lars Hendriks immediately make the trip from a family wedding to investigate. Along with Lars’s fiancée, Marit, and Cole’s girlfriend, Isabelle, they must uncover the thief before any more paintings disappear. But as they delve deeper into their investigation, the group makes a startling discovery: there’s a very real possibility that this theft was an inside job.

With tensions rising and the threat of further thefts looming, the foursome devises an outrageous plan to catch the culprit in the act: a fake wedding at the gallery. Unwilling to force Lars and Marit to change their plans for a Falcon Point ceremony, Cole convinces Isabelle to stand in as his bride. Yet as the charade ensues, Isabelle’s personal desires clash with duty, leaving her questioning the true depth of her relationship with Cole.

The stage is set for a high-stakes face-off. But as the elaborate ruse unfolds, Lars and Marit’s return to Falcon Point is unexpectedly threatened. In this heart-pounding finale of the Lang family saga, the true risk to the cousins’ heritage becomes dangerously clear.

Book Review:

Ahhh, I can’t believe that this is the end of the series. This has been quite a journey and I am so sad to say goodbye to these lovely characters. Treasures of Falcon Point is the fourth and final book in the Heirs of Falcon Point series. We once again get to follow Cole, Lars, Marit, and Isabelle on their adventure as they try to find their family’s paintings 

This book was so exciting! I didn’t know what was going to happen. I wanted to see how they would recover the paintings and who was behind the theft. I loved seeing the characters all together again. They had such good chemistry and it was fun to read about their interaction. 

Poor Cole could be so clueless at times as he got laser focused. But I love how Lars and Marit tried to support both him and Isabelle as they searched for the paintings. Isabelle was certainly going through it in this book but I loved how strong she was. Cole and Isabelle had to figure out what their relationship meant to them and how they could make it work. 

The interactions between Lars and Marit were so sweet. It was fun to read about them helping find the paintings. The story was engaging. I loved learning about how everything was connected. It really brought the first book full circle. This was a great book and I would totally recommend it! I just wish that we got to see more of the other characters too. Treasures of Falcon Point is a clean romantic suspense. It is best read in order of the series. 

Content warnings: 

Violence 

I received a complimentary copy

The Touch of Capital Reef

About the Book:

That Touch of Capitol Reef: A Sweet Road Trip Romance (Romancing the National Parks)

Title: The Touch of Capitol Reef
Series: Romancing the National Parks
Author: Hillary Slaughter
Release Date: May 4th, 2026
Genre: Romantic Comedy

Some first loves fade with time. Hers just walked back into her life.

The last thing Maggie expects when she joins her sister on a girls’ trip to Capitol Reef National Park is to run into Logan Butler: her first crush and the one that got away. But when he appears in the motel lobby as they’re checking in, her entire trip changes. Suddenly, this isn’t just a getaway. It’s a second chance.

Now, in addition to helping her sister navigate her first vacation post-divorce, Maggie’s reconnecting with the man she never thought she’d see again. When she learns he’s relocating to Utah, everything should fall into place. The only problem: Maggie just got an out-of-state job offer and may not be staying long enough to discover if there’s still a spark between her and Logan.

Between hiking, pie eating, and stargazing with a man whose dimples set her heart racing, Maggie must decide if her career dreams are really in Colorado or if the timing is finally right to give things with Logan a try.

Book Review:

What an adorable novella to start the Romancing the National Parks series! I was so excited for this and it did not disappoint! 

Maggie was a sweetheart! She felt very real and like someone I would want to have as a friend! She was facing a bit of a crossroads in her life and Logan’s reappearance was quite the surprise! I really liked her and Logan! They felt very genuine and complimentary, I liked how they connected and were able to support each other.

 I loved Maggie’s  relationship with her sister. They really were there for one another, but she wanted to be there for Lindsey in her specific difficulties. The story moved pretty quickly, but it was a novella. It felt natural though and I flew through the story. It was an sweet set-up for the series as well and I can’t wait to read more!

I received an ARC.’

Libby Bennet Fakes a Husband

About the Book:

Libby Bennet Fakes a Husband: A Sweet Hockey Romance

Title: Libby Bennet Fakes a Husband
Series: ?
Author: Ranee S. Clark
Publisher: Sweetly Us Press
Release Date: July 2nd, 2026
Genre: Romantic Comedy

This marriage is strictly a business deal. Zero romance and zero chance I’ll let a charming guy ruin everything again.

Ten years ago I blew up my life on national television. Now I’m taking control of the narrative—buying a hockey team and trading on the sport’s popularity to guarantee that everyone is paying attention when I step back into the spotlight on my terms.

There’s just one problem. The league board won’t approve the deal unless I look … stable.

So I propose to my new consultant, former pro hockey player, Jordan Atkinson.

That’s right. Propose marriage … nothing says stable like an impromptu engagement.

Now we’re telling the world we’ve been secretly in love for six months—convincing my family, surviving the cameras, and pretending this is all very real.

Because it’s not supposed to be.

Except Jordan is exactly the kind of man I swore I’d never trust again: charming, confident, and way too good at getting past my defenses. So I set rules. Firm boundaries.

But he keeps proving me wrong. Respecting my limits, showing up when it matters, and making me question everything I thought I knew about men like him.

And that’s the most dangerous story of all.

Libby Bennet Fakes a Husband is a closed-door, marriage of convenience hockey romance with a one bed situation, forced proximity, and a heroine who refuses to be charmed by the hot hockey player.

Book Review:

This is an adorable read! I really liked this spin off of Not That Impressed and how we got to see Libby grow.

Libby was such an interesting character! I really liked how her character was portrayed in Not That Impressed because they humanized her. But now as an adult she was trying to get people to see her as more than a victim. I felt for her as she went through that journey, and it was interesting to see her personality shine even as an adult. She was still the same person, but she had grown a lot and was trying to help everyone else see that. While she tried to do this, she was also learning how to trust herself again. It was interesting to see her dynamics with Jordan, and her hesitation made a lot of sense for her character.

Oh my goodness Jordan was adorable! He was such a great fit for Libby because he respected her boundaries while still taking care of her. I would have loved to see a little more of his character arc, but it made sense to me that the focus of the book was Libby. 

I loved getting to see the Bennets again too! There are a bunch of fun cameos throughout this book, but the focus of the book is Libby and Jordan. And their story kept me hooked! I finished this book in a couple of days because it was just so good. I would recommend this sweet, clean romance for anyone who loves romcoms!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.

A Mage Marked

About the Book:

A Mage Marked (A Mage in Vegas Book 1)

Title: A Wizard’s Way
Series: A Mage in Vegas #1
Author: Brittany Fichter
Release Date: May 19th, 2026
Genre: Urban Fantasy

Humans don’t belong in the world of magic…

But what if magic has marked the human?

Julia Mayburn never meant to get caught up in the world of magic. But being the best friend of the world’s only wizard has consequences… like accidentally being adopted as her human “pet.” And Julia’s been stuck on the supernatural side of Vegas ever since.

But her introduction to the world of magic was nothing compared to what’s coming next. Because Julia’s no typical human, it turns out. Julia has an odd ability to repel magic.

This unusual ability makes her the target of the suddenly curious supernatural world. Which means Julia gets a babysitter—one who happens to be her best friend’s new brother-in-law… and the future elven High King. And Julia’s not sure which is worse—surviving her latest kidnapping attempt or figuring out how not to be awkward around the super hot (and more than a little intimidating) elven Prince Alexander, despite knowing him most of her life. But she’d better figure it out fast, because Julia’s life is about to get a whole lot more magical.

Join Julia, Alexander, and the gang as they set out on an all-new adventure full of magic with snark, clean romance, and Vegas like you’ve never seen it before in the Mage in Vegas Trilogy!

Author’s Note: The Mage in Vegas trilogy is best read after A Wizard in Vegas by Brittany Fichter, as this character is one of the side characters from that trilogy.

Book Review:

I loved the first series and I was so excited to see that Julia and Alexander were getting their own book series. I had a feeling about them and I am so happy to see that I was right. A Mage Marked is the first book in Brittany Fichter’s A Mage in Las Vegas series. 

Poor Julia, she had been through so much in the past series and she was still trying to figure out who she was. I loved seeing her continue to fight and stand up for herself. She had such a big heart and really cared for her friends, they were her family. But she was also trying to find her place as a human among supernaturals. I love her growth throughout the book and even her self-reflections. As Julia grew she learned more about herself and who she was. 

I felt for Alexander, he was shouldering the weight of the world. He was trying to balance caring for his family, protecting Julia, and leading the supernatural world. He was also carrying the weight of the curse and his own fears. It was cool to get to know Alexander more and see him open up to his friends. He felt responsible for everything but he couldn’t handle it on his own. I loved how he began to trust Julia more and it was sweet to read about him falling for her. 

This book was so exciting and there were so many things going on! I didn’t know what was going to happen or what I was going to find out. I loved getting to see the other characters and learn more about them. This world is so fun! The romance was also sweet. Alexander and Julia started to fall for each other as they spent more time together. 

I would totally recommend this book! It was so good and I didn’t want to put it down. My only complaint is that it ended on a cliff hanger! I need the next book! A Mage Marked is a clean urban fantasy romance. 

I received a complimentary copy

Frost and Flame

About the Book:

Frost and Flame (The Firemen of Waterford TN)

Title: Frost and Flame
Series: The Firemen of Waterford #4
Author: Savannah Scott
Release Date: April 14th, 2026
Genre: Rom-Com

He’s handsome and broody—the kind of quiet that makes you wonder what’s going on under the surface.

I’m the new rookie at the station—and the only woman firefighter in the history of Waterford Fire. Translation: every move I make is being measured, and quietly evaluated. No pressure. Not to mention the pranks these guys pull.

The only thing on my mind besides proving myself at work is a daughter who thinks baseball is a personality trait. Oh! And, my mom just decided she’s moving in with us.

Romance is not on the schedule. Neither are complications.

Am I distracted by Greyson’s quiet competence or the way he shows up when it matters? Nope.

I’m definitely not intrigued by the hints of softness beneath that military-grade self-control. And I am absolutely not interested in a man who keeps his past locked up tighter than a firehouse locker.

I have enough mysteries in my life. I don’t need one with broad shoulders, a turnout coat, and perceptive eyes that seem to look straight into my soul.

We both have baggage. Mine comes with a lunchbox and a bedtime routine.

But I’ve got a plan: keep my head down, do my job, protect my heart.

Check, check and … well, two out of three’s not bad.
Frost and Flame is the fourth standalone romcom in the Firemen of Waterford TN series. This story is a closed-door romance with kisses that just might need a fire extinguisher.

Book Review:

The final book about the Firefighters of Waterford TN is here! This was adorable romcom that I flew through it.

Hallie was such a fun character! She felt very real, struggling with the many changes in her life and balancing her role as a mother and her new job as a firefighter. I admired her strength and continued perseverance. Hallie was upbeat and warm, but very determined. I loved her family relationships too! She was an amazing mom and Mia was hilarious! I loved her energy and some of her quirky lines! It was also pretty hilarious to see how her mom and sister interacted with her. They definitely felt like a family, both full of love and care, but also full of teasing and embarrassing each other. 

I adored Grayson! He was reserved and serious, but so devoted to those he cared about. Grayson was thoughtful and caring, but also very private. I loved seeing how he cared for the people around him and the little league! That was one of my favorite parts, I loved the team and their antics. 

I loved seeing Grayson and Hallie reconnect! They had history, but also new responsibilities and were in a different place in life. They were so sweet together, pushing each other and supporting one another. I loved seeing how they opened up with each other. Hallie definitely brought out a different side of Grayson and it was so fun to see! Both Grayson and Halie had to decide what they wanted for their future and what they were willing to risk for it It was so cool to be back in Waterford and I loved seeing every one again! This is a sweet romcom with only kisses and the past death of a loved one that impacts the characters.

I received an ARC.

Love in a Mist

About the Book:

Love in a Mist

Title: Love in a Mist
Series: The Gents #5
Author: Sarah M Eden
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Release Date: November 11th, 2025
Genre: Historical Romance

France, 1789
An unexpected letter arrives for Lord Aldric Benick on the day of his father’s funeral, seemingly from beyond the grave, informing him of a mysterious inheritance waiting for him in France. Always ready for an adventure, his closest friends, the Gents, embark with him across the Channel to solve the intriguing riddle.

French beauty Céleste Fortier is trapped in the gilded cage her controlling family crafted. She has set in motion a daring and complicated escape, only to have her plan undermined by the arrival of her brother and his friends, the Gents. Among them is the handsome and intriguing Lord Aldric, who once stole her heart—and broke it.

Distance, she decides, is her best strategy, but when violence erupts on the streets of Paris, Aldric and Céleste are thrown together in a desperate flight from danger. They must trust each other and work together if they are to have any hope of survival in a France that suddenly feels a breath away from revolution.

Book Review:

I love Sarah M. Eden’s books! They are so amazing every time, and I love how the characters just feel like friends. I also think it’s so interesting how the Huntresses and the Gents’ stories continue to be intertwined and build on each other.

I felt so bad for Aldric! He was really struggling with his place among the Gents. He felt like he was broken and he didn’t want to hurt his new found family. It was interesting to see his point of view and how much he cared for his found family. In past books, he was harder to read than the other Gents, so I loved his sweetheart nature underneath his walls and his interaction with Celeste and Adele! Oh my gosh I loved Adele she was such a sweetheart.

Celeste was such a strong character! She was also feeling the effects of a horrible family. I love how Aldric supported her and really let her use her voice and her power. They were so perfect for each other, and they matched each other in their strategic thinking and their bravery.

This had a bit more suspense than some of the other Gent stories, and it was really interesting to read about this period of history from a more privileged point of view. I think I did have some disconnect because I felt like there wasn’t always as much focus on the people who were starving in France. But at the same time, these characters were rightly focused on getting their biological and found family out safely.

I would totally recommend this book! It is a clean, historical romance that can be read standalone, but I think is best to be read in order.