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Spotlight Review: CHRISTMAS AT THE NANTUCKET RESTAURANT by Pamela M. Kelley

October 7, 2025

The Nantucket Restaurant Series, Book 2

From the publisher:

USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestseller Pamela Kelley invites readers to experience the warm glow of family, friends, and festivities this Christmas. Come spend the holidays on Nantucket.

Nantucket’s famous Christmas Stroll is always the first week of December and this year Mimi’s Place co-owners want to do something extra special for the restaurant. It will be Emma and Paul’s first Christmas together as a couple and Mandy’s first holiday as a newly divorced mother of two. Although Mandy does have a promising new relationship, she wants to take things very slow, and the holidays are for sure not the time to dive in too deep.

Their sister Jill and her new husband, Billy, are planning to spend the whole month of December on Nantucket too, juggling remote work for the executive search firm they own together in Manhattan with relaxing, spending time with family, and helping out at the restaurant too.

Gina Caruso, the awesome bar manager, is spending her first winter on Nantucket after having lived for years in Boston. It’s a bit of an adjustment―winters on Nantucket are so much quieter than the city life she was used to. She’s even more confused when someone she had a major crush on back in the city moves to Nantucket, while Jared Hawthorne, the new sous chef at Mimi’s Place makes it his mission to introduce Gina to all of Nantucket’s holiday festivities. Suddenly her boring winter is starting to look a lot more interesting.
https://amzn.to/3HG5kHn

In this heartwarming sequel to The Restaurant, Kelley returns to her beloved Nantucket to blend romance, family ties, and holiday charm. The story centers on three sisters—Jill, Emma, and Mandy—who come together to celebrate Christmas. Jill and her husband, who run a successful executive search firm in New York, have temporarily relocated to Nantucket for a month of remote work while helping out at the family restaurant they inherited from their grandmother. Along with the restaurant came its gifted chef, Paul—now Emma’s husband—as they share their first Christmas as newlyweds. Meanwhile, bar manager Gina is spending her first winter on the island, caught in a romantic tangle between her longtime crush and the restaurant’s new sous chef.

Kelley’s trademark love for food comes through in her vivid, mouthwatering descriptions, and her depiction of a wintry Nantucket—complete with locals, visitors in fur coats, and the festive Christmas Stroll—feels authentic and inviting. Though a sequel, this cozy, feel-good novel easily stands on its own and makes for a delightful holiday read.

VERDICT: A perfect pick for fans of Elin Hilderbrand, Debbie Macomber, and Hallmark Christmas movies.

©Library Journal, 2025

10/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

CHRISTMAS AT THE NANTUCKET RESTAURANT by Pamela M. Kelley. Sourcebooks Landmark (October 7, 2025). ISBN: 978 1464246210. 272p.

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Audiobook Sunday: SEXY FILTHY BOSS by Piper Rayne

October 5, 2025

Narration by Lynn Norris & David Brenin

White Collar Brothers, Book 1

From the author:

IHe’s the sexy alpha male in the corner office who goes through assistants faster than free donuts in the break room.

I’m the assistant who was chosen to cover for his last fire.

The owner of the company is clear – hook the biggest client in our firm’s history and there’s a partnership for him and a promotion for me. Stipulation – we do it together.

It doesn’t take a tarot card-reading psychic to figure out where our story is headed…late nights, trips out of town, and more than a few awkward moments filled with sexual tension.

No worries though. I pride myself on my willpower. I can totally ignore his sexy grin, his rock-hard body, and his dreamy brown eyes. I will not become the woman other women hate.

But it turns out that Enzo Mancini has a lot of layer,s and if I don’t stop peeling, I’m going to lose everything, including my dignity.

https://amzn.to/4mnwrpq

I’d nominate this book for Worst Title Ever, but the algorithm knew what it was doing when it recommended it to me—I’m a devoted Piper Rayne reader who’ll tackle anything they write. Despite being put off by the title, I gave it a chance and ended up genuinely enjoying it.

Annie works as an assistant at a male-dominated advertising firm, hoping to climb the corporate ladder. Her sweet but unhelpful boss keeps her stuck in a support role, making it impossible to prove her capabilities. Enter Enzo Mancini, a fellow ad executive notorious for burning through assistants at lightning speed. When his latest quits, Annie’s boss desperately asks her to fill in temporarily. Though reluctant to take on extra work—especially for someone like Enzo—she agrees.

Everything changes when Enzo includes her in his latest campaign for a diaper company. This potential account could be the firm’s biggest win and Enzo’s ticket to partnership. As they work together, their professional relationship evolves into something deeper.

Enzo is drop-dead gorgeous but emotionally unavailable, preferring one-night stands over relationships. However, working with Annie awakens unfamiliar feelings. His close-knit family adds another layer—their widowed mother desperately wants grandchildren, especially since her sister’s kids are already reproducing. The three single Mancini brothers hatch a plan to set up their baby sister, hoping for future grandbabies.

Though that matchmaking effort doesn’t quite succeed, Enzo and Annie’s connection intensifies. I loved Annie’s backbone—she refuses menial tasks and demands meaningful work, which Enzo genuinely respects. Their growing attraction builds naturally to its steamy conclusion, and based on the cover and title, you know these two will generate serious heat.

The family dynamics shine throughout. Enzo’s seamless integration into Annie’s family feels authentic, while his own family’s closeness adds warmth to the story. A running gag about the brothers settling everything through Rock, Paper, Scissors—with Enzo always losing—provides perfect comic relief.

The dual narration elevated this audiobook significantly, with both narrators bringing their characters to vivid life. It was compelling enough to send me hunting for the rest of the series. Enzo’s brother Carm is up next, and I’m here for it.

10/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

SEXY FILTHY BOSS by Piper Rayne Narrators: Lynn Norris & David Brenin. Piper Rayne Inc.. June 19, 2019. Listening Length: 7 hours and 42 minutes.

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Spotlight Review: IF IT MAKES YOU HAPPY by Julie Olivia

September 30, 2025

From the publisher:

An Instant USA Today Bestseller!

Grab your favorite fall candle, cuddle into a comfy blanket, and travel back in time to 1997 in this cozy, slow-burn romance set in the autumn glow of small-town Vermont.

Now with exclusive bonus content!

My new next-door neighbor seems to have everything figured out. Small town golden boy? Check. Single dad extraordinaire? Check. Hot baker forearms? I didn’t notice them, I swear.

I, on the other hand, don’t–at all–have anything figured out. Trust me, I didn’t think taking over my mom’s dream bed and breakfast in Copper Run Vermont was going to be easy. It should be a good place to heal after my divorce. But apparently my scones belong in the garbage with my small talk skills. As pointed out by none other than Cliff.

Cliff is inescapable. He knows exactly what people need–always. His charm, the way he wears flannel, and even his pastries, make not wanting to be friends with Cliff and his daughters pretty hard.

Friends? I can make friends. That’s safe. Except I’m leaving in three months to pass the inn off to my little sister and get the promotion in Seattle I’ve been working towards. So ask me why I’m thinking about kissing my hot neighbor.

https://amzn.to/4nFnLfc

This was my first read by this author, and I’m thrilled to discover her extensive backlist waiting to be explored. The book perfectly captures fall vibes (which I desperately miss living in South Florida!), 90s nostalgia, and a tender small-town romance between two divorced characters finding love again. I was completely absorbed in their story and could hardly put it down.

The story opens at Michelle’s mother’s funeral, where she is grappling with complicated emotions tied to their strained relationship. The presence of her awful ex-husband doesn’t help, as he is threatening to announce their divorce at the service. She hasn’t told her family yet, as they’ve been dealing with other crises. During the funeral, she notices a mysterious man attending with his daughters and wonders who he is.

Michelle’s parents had opened a bed and breakfast in Vermont—her mother’s beloved passion project. With her mother gone, Michelle puts her successful Seattle advertising career on hold to run the B&B through the fall, until her younger sister can graduate from college and take over permanently. Her father, too heartbroken to return to the place filled with memories, stays with Michelle’s sister during her final semester.

The mysterious man from the funeral turns out to be Cliff, Michelle’s new neighbor. He’s a single father to a teenager and an elementary-aged daughter, running his own bakery in town. He’s also caring, affectionate, and touchy-feely, qualities that overwhelm Michelle, who isn’t comfortable with physical touch or unsolicited help.

Despite Cliff’s warmth clashing with Michelle’s carefully constructed walls, a friendship gradually forms and deepens into something more profound. Both are stubborn and struggle with communication, yet they fit together like puzzle pieces. Their slow-burn romance creates delicious tension as they realize they’re falling in love. What makes their journey particularly poignant is how both carry wounds from their marriages—harsh words from their exes about their worth as partners—while facing the reality that Michelle’s stay is only temporary.

The conflict reaches its peak when Michelle’s sister and father finally arrive at the B&B. Her sister finds Cliff attractive and asks Michelle to play matchmaker. Despite the pain it causes her, Michelle agrees—partly because she’s been encouraging Cliff to start dating again. The request equally wounds Cliff. Their disastrous date becomes a revelation when Cliff can’t stop talking about Michelle, making it clear to her sister where his heart truly lies.

The beauty of Michelle and Cliff’s romance lies in its intimate details: his daily visits to her B&B, her watchful care of his daughters, his persistent quest to discover her favorite baked good. These small moments build alongside the painful ones, creating a rich tapestry of connection. When they finally come together, their physical chemistry burns off the page with perfect intensity.

The supporting characters brilliantly enhance the story’s foundation. From Cliff’s daughters to Michelle’s family to the colorful townspeople (with definite Gilmore Girls festival vibes!), everyone contributes meaningfully to the narrative. I particularly loved Michelle’s reluctant relationship with her ex’s dog, whom she rescues from being sent to the pound, even though the dog doesn’t particularly like her. Their conversations are amusing moments that lighten the story’s heavier themes.

The ending carries bittersweet tension as Michelle’s departure date approaches, creating heartbreaking longing before the satisfying resolution. This book took my heart on a masterful emotional roller coaster ride—cozy yet weighty in all the right places. The epilogue, set eight years later, provides a perfect and beautiful conclusion. The author’s note reveals this was her passion project, making it an ideal introduction to her writing. I’ll definitely be reading more of her work.

9/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

IF IT MAKES YOU HAPPY by Julie Olivia. Penguin Publishing Group. (September 2, 2025). ISBN: 979-8217187072. 513p.

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Audiobook Sunday: THE DNF* LIST!

September 28, 2025

As my long time readers know, I have been having trouble with my eyes for years now. I have a somewhat unusual form of glaucoma, called Narrow Angle Glaucoma, that has been treated fairly successfully. I’ve had numerous surgeries along the way, and my next is scheduled for mid-October. That one is a fairly common procedure, but with a twist – I have a cataract in my left eye, but it has somehow attached itself to my iris. My surgeon says it’s just a few more steps for him to take, and that he can do it in his sleep – which I begged him not to do!

Due to surgery to repair a hole in my macula, I ended up with a small blind spot in my right eye. It is due to scar tissue, which I discovered when I had to take the vision test to renew my driver’s license. I had to read some lines, and when I finished, the woman at the DMV asked me to please read the last column. But I didn’t see another column! I had to get a letter from the eye doctor to renew my license, in which I learned a somewhat scary fact – you can actually be legally blind and still allowed to drive, provided you have a note from the doctor.

I know as I age, it is only going to get worse, not better. I have pretty much given up on reading print books, and thank God for the Kindle. I feel so blessed that this is happening to me now, when there are digital options available. If this had happened to me in a previous generation, I would have been screwed. With all that, I decided I had best learn to listen to audiobooks.

Over the years, I’ve tried many times to listen, but I always found my mind wandering. I would be driving along and realize I had no idea what was happening in the book I was listening to. I ended up successfully listening to some children’s books, and read the entire Harry Potter series on Audible. Then I graduated to the Outlander series. I had read all the print books, but my BFF Judy told me to try the audiobooks, too – she loved the reader. Davina Porter is the narrator, and she is Scottish but completely understandable (not always the case!), and she really added depth to the stories. Not only did I listen to them all, but so did my husband! I also watched the series on Starz, with subtitles because Scottish/British accents are not always understandable to me. Porter has retired with only one book left in the series, so the publisher has entrusted it to one of the stars of the TV series, Kristin Atherton, who plays the new Jenny, starting in season 7 (IYKYK). Not only will she read the last book in the series when (???) it comes out, but she has reread the entire series. You can now listen to either narrator. I haven’t tried them yet, though I will definitely be listening to the last book in the series that she reads.

Meanwhile, I have finally found that I can listen to romances on audio successfully. Makes sense, that’s what I read, primarily, so why not listen to them too? That said, I have found many books that I love, and several others that I just couldn’t listen to. Sometimes it was the narrators, sometimes it was the story itself.

Recently, my friend Nora suggested I try the Lucky River Ranch series by Jessica Peterson. I snagged the first book, Cash, from Hoopla, my favorite library audiobook app. I listened to the first few chapters and had to stop. I love Western romances, but apparently, I don’t like Western accents! I grabbed the ebook instead and loved it. I haven’t tried that with most of the audiobooks I’ve stopped, however, because they weren’t recommended by someone I trust but rather suggested by the publisher or algorithm.

I am privileged to have access to advance copies of upcoming titles and have started many audiobooks that way. I have also not finished many of them. There are also many audiobooks that I borrowed from my library but didn’t finish, but unfortunately, I didn’t keep records of those.

They are divided into two camps: books that I just didn’t like the story enough to keep going, and you can tell those by how far I got. And books that I didn’t like the narrator, and you can tell those by how far I didn’t get.

Coming in Hot by Josie Juniper, narrated by Max Rauch & Cecily Foster: 53%

Crash Landing by Annie McQuaid, narrated by Emma Love: 47%

Joy Ride by Ellen Meister, narrated by Sarah Naughton: 27%

Santa Overboard by Carolyn McBride, narrated by Maria Marquis: 47%

32 Days in May by Betty Corrello, narrated Joy Nash: 2%

The Carsons of Lone Rock Books 1-4 by Maisey Yates, narrated by Samantha Cook: 3%

Claire Casey’s Had Enough by Liz Alterman, narrated by Stephanie Rose: 1%

The Four Engagement Rings of Sybil Rain by Hannah Brown, narrated by Cherami Leigh: 1%

If you’ve read my audiobook reviews, you know that there are some narrators who irritated me, but I pushed on and listened to them anyway. I guess sometimes I have more patience than other times.

I remember when I worked for the public library prior to listening to audiobooks, I had patrons who selected audiobooks by the narrator and didn’t really care about the author or even the genre. I haven’t tried that yet, but it seems like most of the narrators I like generally read in the romance genre, so maybe that wouldn’t help me spread my wings, so to speak.

Is there a narrator that you love? Will listen to anything they read? Or a narrator you hate and wouldn’t listen to even if your favorite author had the narrator reading their book? I’d love to hear about your audiobook experiences! I am looking for suggestions as I travel along my audiobook journey. Please leave comments below. I read them all. Thanks!

9/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

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MR. FIXER UPPER by Lucy Score

September 26, 2025

From the publisher:

From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Things We Never Got Over

He started to work the laces of his boots loose. Toeing them off, he tugged his t-shirt over his head.

“Oh my God. What are you doing?” Paige’s voice barely rose above the spray from the showerhead.

“I’m washing your damn hair.”

It’s a constant battle on set between sexy home renovation reality TV star grumpy Gannon King and his no-nonsense field producer. Paige St. James has zero time for temperamental talent.

Mr. Sex in a Toolbelt has made it his mission in life to get a rise out of her, but Paige is a master at locking down her temper. They’re on the road together working long hours fixing houses and changing lives. When cracks in her legendary coolness start to show and sparks fly, Gannon is infatuated and the cameras are there to capture it.

But he’s fallen for a pretty face before and Paige won’t be taken seriously if she’s caught sleeping with the star of her show. She also can’t seem to resist those big, rough hands. Those smoldery hazel eyes. The dimples. The toolbelt. That fiercely protective vibe.

Too bad it’s all about to fall apart.

She never should have trusted him.

He never should have let her go.

Author’s Note: A protective grumpy hero, a not easily impressed heroine, the worst human being on TV ever, a grand gesture so big you’ll need a box of tissues, and THAT SHOWER SCENE.

https://amzn.to/469dAtm

My Lucy Score Obsession Continues!

Paige works as a field producer for an HGTV-style renovation show with a meaningful twist—every house they restore belongs to a family with a powerful, often heartbreaking story, like a child battling cancer. The show’s star, Gannon, is a brooding heartthrob with a grumpy streak, but Paige knows how to handle him. That is, until their chemistry starts to sizzle and the network executives spot a golden ratings opportunity.

Despite having no interest in being on camera—Paige thrives behind the scenes—the promise of a substantial raise and keeping the big boss happy is too tempting to refuse. She desperately needs the extra income to fund her passion project: a documentary exposing the persistent gender disparities plaguing Hollywood. This subplot adds genuine depth and relevance to the romance.

As Paige and Gannon’s connection intensifies, buried secrets surface, creating delicious complications. Their dialogue crackles with wit and humor, while their chemistry practically steams off the page. The tension builds relentlessly—I found myself racing through pages, unable to slow down.
I’m now diving deep into Score’s entire backlist, hunting down every book I may have missed, and so far, every single one has exceeded expectations. She has an exceptional talent for weaving together heat, sweetness, and humor in perfect harmony. As I used to remind my library patrons: if you haven’t read a book yet, it’s new to you—who cares when it was published!

Keep writing, Lucy Score. I’ll keep reading every word.

9/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

MR. FIXER UPPER by Lucy Score. Bloom Books. (October 10, 2023). ISBN: ‎978-1728295152. 400p.

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Spotlight Review: GHOST BUSINESS by Jen DeLuca

September 23, 2025

Boneyard Key, Book 2

From the publisher:

Clashing ghost tours lead to a sizzling romantic rivalry in the second romance in the new series from USA Today bestselling author Jen DeLuca.

Boneyard Key, Florida, is the only home Sophie has ever known. Her love for its supernatural history has flourished into a career, as she guides the one and only ghost tour through the town’s can’t-miss haunted spots. And while her bank account isn’t full by any means, her heart is. Or at least, it was.

But there’s a newcomer in town. The son of a Fortune 500 businessman, former theater kid Tristan has grown his tours from a fraternity fundraiser to a multicity ghost tour conglomerate. It’s doing well, but not well enough—if he can’t prove that he’s solidly in the black by the fall, Dad’s going to pull his funding, spelling the end of his career. Boneyard Key, with its haunted reputation, seems like the perfect place to boost his bottom line.

When the two ghost tours clash, Sophie’s expletive-filled rant goes viral, and the rivals strike up a deal. Whoever has the most successful business by summer’s end stays, while the loser must ghost. But the more Tristan comes to appreciate Boneyard Key, the more Sophie comes to appreciate Tristan, and what starts as begrudging respect becomes something spicier. Can they put their feuding businesses aside to make room for a chance at love, or is Boneyard Key too small for two ghost tours?

“Fans of the first book in DeLuca’s series will be happy to return to Boneyard Key in this lighthearted and funny small-town paranormal romance. The beachside setting and steamy summer relationship make for great vacation reading, with a smattering of supernatural elements that offer the perfect chill to offset the heat.”—Library Journal
https://amzn.to/46yGLpD

While paranormal romance isn’t typically my genre, Jen DeLuca is an exception I gladly make. I adore her writing style, and after enjoying the first book in this series, Haunted Ever After, I was eager to dive into book two—and it did not disappoint!

Sophie has spent her entire life on Boneyard Key, living with her beloved aunt until the older woman’s recent passing. Still reeling from this devastating loss, Sophie struggles to find her footing while supplementing her income by leading tourists on historically accurate ghost tours around the island. It’s not a booming business, but on most Friday and Saturday nights, she draws enough of a crowd to keep going.

One evening at the local bar, Sophie meets the attractive Tristan Martin, and sparks immediately fly. However, when she mentions her ghost tours, he grows visibly uncomfortable. It’s been ages since anyone has caught her attention, so his sudden disappearance leaves her disappointed and confused—he completely ghosts her (pun intended!).

Unbeknownst to Sophie, Tristan has come to town to expand his own ghost tour business, Ghouls Night Out. Dressed in period costume complete with a top hat, he spins fabricated tales to entertain his customers, recycling the same tired ghost stories we’ve all heard since childhood. Unfortunately, his theatrical performances are infuriating the actual ghosts inhabiting the town. Fortunately for Tristan, he doesn’t believe in the supernatural—until he witnesses some unmistakably spectral activity himself.

The entire town rallies around Sophie, giving Tristan the cold shoulder. But his natural charm gradually wins people over, including Sophie herself. They eventually strike a deal: they’ll compare weekly sales figures throughout the summer, and whoever runs the more successful ghost tour operation will take over completely while the other bows out of the business.

For Tristan, the stakes couldn’t be higher. While he operates tours in multiple cities, his father serves as his primary investor, and if he doesn’t turn a profit soon, the funding will be pulled. That would mean layoffs—and Tristan being forced into a soul-crushing finance job under his father’s thumb. Complicating matters further, he’s falling hard for Sophie, who resists their attraction until their chemistry becomes impossible to ignore. In the end, they scrap the bet and embrace their happily ever after.

This was a lighthearted, delightful read without a single scary moment. The local ghosts are more mischievous than menacing, providing comic relief rather than genuine frights. The enemies-to-lovers romance unfolds at a perfect slow burn, creating a beautifully satisfying arc. I’m officially hooked—and excited to see what DeLuca writes next.

9/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

GHOST BUSINESS by Jen DeLuca. Berkley (September 9, 2025). ISBN: 978-0593641231. 368p.

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Audiobook Sunday: CHASING FOREVER by Piper Rayne

September 21, 2025

Narration by Vanessa Edwin & Stephen Dexter

Plain Daisy Ranch, Book 4

From the author:

It was a fun Vegas getaway—until I woke up married to my ex-fiancé’s brother.

After Watson brother #1 ditched me at the altar, I stopped believing in happily-ever-afters. So I have no clue how I ended up saying “I do” to Brooks—Watson brother #2—somewhere between tequila shots and bad decisions.

Okay, that may not be true.

Sheriff Watson has been a charming thorn in my side ever since his brother left our small ranch town in his rearview mirror. He’s a little too steady, a little too sweet, and way too intuitive because he sees through my facade. But no matter how tempting he is, he’s still a Watson.

I demand an annulment. He refuses, bargaining four real dates before he signs.

Fine. I’ll sabotage each one and keep my heart safely locked away. It’s easier this way because he has no idea the secret I’m keeping.

Of course, Brooks doesn’t go down easy—he has enough faith for both of us. He tackles my fears at every turn, making me wonder what would happen if I went all in.

But trusting the wrong man once nearly ruined me—doing it again might finish the job.

https://amzn.to/3I47tgr

I first read the third book in this series, The One I Didn’t See Coming, and intended to circle back to the earlier ones—but forgot. Then this newest installment popped up in my Hoopla feed—bless the algorithm, because it turned out to be an absolute delight.

The drunken Vegas wedding is romance novel gold, and this story executed the trope perfectly. Lottie’s backstory provides the emotional foundation: Holden Watson left her at the altar, devastating her ability to trust—both men and herself. So when she wakes up married to his brother, Brooks, after a night she can’t remember, mortification doesn’t begin to cover it. An immediate annulment seems like the only solution.

Brooks, however, has secretly harbored feelings for Lottie for years. Once Holden claimed her, Brooks stepped aside. But now that fate has thrown them together, he’s not letting go without a fight. His parents are furious, hers are curious, and Brooks—small-town sheriff and son of the mayor—is determined to prove he’s the right man for her. He negotiates four dates before he’ll agree to an annulment. Those four dates change everything.

This is a slow-burn romance packed with angst, humor, heart, and heat—plenty to keep the pages flying. My only complaint is the cover design, which I found genuinely off-putting. But Piper Rayne, the writing duo behind the book, never disappoints—and this one’s no exception. I’ve downloaded the first two books in the series, so expect those reviews soon!

9/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

CHASING FOREVER by Piper Rayne. Narrators: Vanessa Edwin & Stephen Dexter. Piper Rayne Inc.. August 22, 2025. Listening Length: 8 hours and 35 minutes.

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THE LAST ONE AT THE WEDDING by Jason Rekulak

September 19, 2025

From the publisher:

From the author of the runaway hit, Hidden Pictures, comes a stunning new work of domestic suspense

“Part conspiracy thriller, part family drama, The Last One at the Wedding kept my heart racing and my mind reeling.” ―Riley Sager

“The ultimate middle-class Dad battles the 1% for his daughter’s soul in the best thriller I’ve read all year.” ―Grady Hendrix

Frank Szatowski is shocked when his daughter, Maggie, calls him for the first time in three years. He was convinced that their estrangement would become permanent. He’s even more surprised when she invites him to her upcoming wedding in New Hampshire. Frank is ecstatic, and determined to finally make things right.

He arrives to find that the wedding is at a private estate―very secluded, very luxurious, very much out of his league. It seems that Maggie failed to mention that she’s marrying Aidan Gardner, the son of a famous tech billionaire. Feeling desperately out of place, Frank focuses on reconnecting with Maggie and getting to know her new family. But it’s difficult: Aidan is withdrawn and evasive; Maggie doesn’t seem to have time for him; and he finds that the locals are disturbingly hostile to the Gardners. Frank needs to know more about this family his daughter is marrying into, but if he pushes too hard, he could lose Maggie forever.

An edge-of-your-seat thriller that delves deep into the heart of one family, The Last One at the Wedding is a work of brilliant suspense from a true modern master.

“Engrossing. . . . Rekulak’s characters feel real, and the unwavering pace will keep readers up all night.” ―Publishers Weekly

“Rekulak has a freakishly fertile imagination.” ―The New York Times

https://amzn.to/46k1psr

Frank Szatowski is the definition of steady. He’s driven for UPS for 26 years without a single accident and served honorably in the Gulf War. But when it comes to his daughter Maggie, his life has been anything but stable. They haven’t spoken in three years—not since a painful falling-out that neither of them has managed to mend.

Frank raised Maggie mostly on his own, with occasional help from his sister Tammy, who juggles caring for elderly patients and foster kids. So when Maggie unexpectedly calls, tells him she’s getting married, and asks him to walk her down the aisle, Frank is stunned. It feels like a second chance—a shot at redemption.

But there’s a catch: her fiancé, Aidan Gardner, sets off every alarm in Frank’s gut. Aidan is a quiet, brooding artist known for painting disturbing portraits. His father is a powerful tech billionaire, and the whole Gardner family seems… off. Frank’s unease deepens after an awkward dinner at Aidan’s sleek Boston penthouse—especially when he discovers something unsettling hidden in the bathroom.

As the wedding draws near, Frank starts digging. What he uncovers is chilling. An art teacher expresses concern about Aidan’s past, and Aidan’s mother is conspicuously absent from the wedding festivities. Then Frank hears whispers linking Aidan to a missing 21-year-old woman. When chaos erupts at the wedding itself, Frank realizes he’s running out of time. He must uncover the truth about the Gardners—and protect Maggie before it’s too late.

This story is a slow-paced read with lots of twists and red herrings – not quite a thriller, but more of a mystery. Frank isn’t always easy to root for—he’s stubborn, gruff, and prone to missteps, but his flaws make him human. And when it counts, Frank shows up.

9/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

THE LAST ONE AT THE WEDDING by Jason Rekulak. Flatiron Books (October 8, 2024). ISBN: 978-1250895783. 352p.

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Spotlight Review: THE BLONDE WHO CAME IN FROM THE COLD by Ally Carter

September 16, 2025

The Blonde Identity Series, Book 2

From the publisher:

A Second-Chance Adventure Rom-Com about Rival Spies, Thrilling Secrets, and a Mission of Survival

An action-packed, second-chance rom-com about two rival spies who must join forces in order to stay alive, from New York Times bestselling author Ally Carter.

Ten years ago, they joined the CIA.

Six years ago, he left the game.

Five years ago, they fell in love.

One year ago, she ran out into the cold with absolutely no intention of ever coming back.

And two minutes ago, they woke up, bloody and bruised and handcuffed together in the dark.

They don’t know where they are. They don’t know how they got there. And they have absolutely no idea who is after them or what this nameless, faceless villain wants.

The only thing that’s clear is that, after ten years of covers and chemistry, secrets and lies, these two rival spies have been sucked into their greatest mission yet, and now they’re going to have to team up to stay alive. (If they don’t kill each other first.)

“Carter’s follow-up to The Blonde Identity is a thrilling and amusing romance featuring finely drawn characters and a twisty, page-turning story. Readers will be on the edge of their seats, unable to put this book down until they discover what happens to Alex and Michael, in spydom and in love.” — Library Journal

“Bestseller Carter combines suspense, sizzle, and snark in this delightful standalone sequel to The Blonde Identity. . . With snappy dialogue, slow-burning romantic tension, and some exciting twists, this makes for an entertaining diversion.” — Publishers Weekly

https://amzn.to/4m2f90Q

I loved The Blonde Identity, so I was eager for the sequel—but unfortunately, it just didn’t recapture the magic. The biggest issue was the fragmented storytelling: short chapters of 3–5 pages that constantly jump between the present day and events from one to ten years previously. The frequent shifts in time and location made the plot hard to follow, and with so much of the book focused on backstory, the tension and stakes didn’t kick in until the final pages.

That said, the premise is instantly gripping: two rival spies—Alex Sterling and Michael “King” Kingsley III—wake up bloodied, bruised, and handcuffed together in the dark, with no memory of how they got there. Unlike the first book’s memory-loss device, this setup forces a long-overdue confrontation between characters who’ve been avoiding each other for a year, creating fresh emotional stakes.

Alex Sterling is a standout lead, written with depth and vulnerability beneath her sharp exterior. Her relationship with her sister Zoe and her guilt over past choices add emotional weight, making her journey from guarded to open-hearted feel earned. King, too, is more than a brooding archetype. His photographic memory is both a gift and a burden, and Carter thoughtfully explores how someone who remembers everything grapples with forgiveness. His purchase of a Scottish castle—and the reasons behind it—adds surprising emotional nuance.

The supporting cast, especially Zoe and the enigmatic Merritt, enriches the world without distracting from the central romance. Each character feels purposeful and real. The banter between Alex and King is sharp but never forced, advancing both plot and emotional tension. A late twist involving a double agent delivers genuine shock, with clues cleverly planted throughout. The reveal feels earned and consistent with the characters’ motivations.

Still, some plot elements stretch believability—especially the handcuff scenario, which requires a generous suspension of disbelief. Fortunately, the romantic arc holds up thanks to the characters’ well-established history. Their five-year separation introduces real obstacles that can’t be resolved with a simple heart-to-heart. Both have evolved, making their reunion feel like a new relationship built on old foundations.

The physical chemistry is palpable but never overshadows emotional growth. Intimate scenes serve the story, revealing new layers to their dynamic. While the book struggles with pacing and underdeveloped villains, it ultimately delivers smart, funny romantic suspense with characters worth investing in. Carter has built a series with real potential, and this installment—despite its flaws—feels complete and satisfying.

9/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

THE BLONDE WHO CAME IN FROM THE COLD by Ally Carter. Avon. (August 5, 2025). ISBN: 978-0063386976. 336p.

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Audiobook Sunday: WELL, ACTUALLY by Mazey Eddings

September 14, 2025

Narration by Ariela Crow

From the publisher:

An utterly delightful and sexy second-chance romance between a black cat and golden retriever with Mazey Edding’s signature sparkling voice!

Eva Kitt never expected to be the host of Sausage Talk, interviewing B-list celebrities over lukewarm hot dogs, instead of pursuing the journalism career she dreamed of. But when Eva’s impromptu public call out of her college ex goes viral, she’s thrust into the spotlight. It doesn’t help said ex is Rylie Cooper, a beloved social media personality that has built a platform on deconstructing toxic masculinity and teaching men how to be good partners.

Forced to confront Rylie on a live episode of Sausage Talk, he offers Eva a deal: allow him to take her on a series of dates to make up for his toxic behavior, then debrief them on his channel to show he’s changed. Eva refuses to play nice, but agrees to the scheme to advance her own career and continue defaming Rylie’s good name. When these manufactured dates start to feel real, Eva has to wonder if the boy that broke her heart has become the man that might heal it.

“Edding’s latest rom-com is a second-chance enemies-to-lovers romp that nails her signature style, combining razor-sharp wit with an unexpectedly earnest story.” ―Booklist

“Witty… The setup is clever and the eventual love scenes are sensuous. The author’s fans will not be disappointed.” ―Publishers Weekly

“Readers who enjoy remarkably strong women leads and crave emotionally redemptive story arcs will adore this radiantly hot enemies-to-lovers romance from Eddings.” ―Library Journal

https://amzn.to/3I47tgr

The female lead, Eva, hosts a quirky podcast where she eats hot dogs with guests—apparently a riff on the YouTube channel Chicken Shop Date. She works for a media company that dangles the promise of a real journalism job to keep her compliant. Eva’s personality is a tough sell: she’s petty, mean, and whiny, which makes her hard to root for.

Rylie, the male lead, undergoes an unconvincing transformation from villain to hero. He and Eva had a disastrous one-night stand in college, after which he ghosted her—hardly an uncommon college experience, yet the story treats it like a major betrayal. Rylie has reinvented himself with a successful podcast about dismantling toxic masculinity, which infuriates Eva. Fueled by jealousy, she goes live to publicly recount their college hookup, criticizing his bedroom skills and questioning his right to call himself a “good guy.”

That live stream goes viral, and Eva’s boss wants to capitalize on it. They convince Eva and Rylie to do a podcast together and hash out their issues. He uses that to basically force Eva into dating him, and we learn that he really feels bad for the way he acted in college and still harbors feelings for Eva.

Despite being marketed as a romantic comedy, this book delivered neither romance nor comedy. Their chemistry doesn’t spark until they sleep together again, and suddenly everything clicks. What was meant to be witty banter often felt like Eva being cruel and whiny, while Rylie inexplicably adored her for it. I just couldn’t grasp their dynamic. And while I’m heaping on, let me add that Rylie constantly calls Eva “kitten,” which I found annoying at best.

I chose to read this book because it was selected for the August LibraryReads list, written by a Hall of Fame author I hadn’t tried before, so I was genuinely excited to dive in. This was one of the rare LibraryReads picks that didn’t work for me.

I kept pausing to read other books—actually finishing two entirely different audiobooks before returning to this one. I struggled to reach 75%, then gave up. I tried again and stopped at 89%, then finally forced myself through the last 11% out of stubbornness. It didn’t improve.

The narrator, Crow, did a solid job with the material, so I don’t fault the performance. If you’ve read this and loved it, I’d be curious to hear your take. It’s sitting just below four stars on Goodreads, and I did browse some of the positive reviews, but none of them changed my mind.

9/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

WELL, ACTUALLY by Mazey Eddings. Narrator: Ariela Crow. Macmillan Audio. August 5, 2025. Listening Length: 11 hours and 33 minutes.