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THE FINEST PRINT by Erin Langston

August 15, 2025

From the author:

One sensational love story.

American journalist Ethan Fletcher traversed the globe to claim his late uncle’s Fleet Street print shop, only to find his unexpected inheritance is shackled by ruinous debt. To save his business and finally direct his own course, he needs to raise capital, and quickly. Good fortune comes in the form of Belinda Sinclair, the eccentric daughter of a respected London judge—and she just so happens to be a beautiful failure of a novelist.

Bruised by scandal, Belle has spent years writing a gruesome courtroom mystery no respectable publisher will touch. Until she meets Ethan—barely respectable, barely a publisher, but with two broad hands that can work a press and an enterprising spirit that breathes new life into her pages. Emboldened by the prospect of seeing her story in print, Belle agrees to Ethan’s plan: she will transform her grisly manuscript into a serialized penny dreadful, and he will sell it as a means to settle his accounts.

In the close confines of the print shop, Ethan and Belle discover their partnership is conducive to far more than fiction. Helpless to deny their deepening devotion, they dare to compose a future free of his financial burdens and her social constraints. But when a series of punishing obstacles jeopardizes the story they’ve been writing off the page, they must confront how much they are willing to lose… and what it will take to save everything.

https://amzn.to/4ondc1w

This author was new to me, and while the book was published last year, and it made the Washington Post’s list of the best romances of 2024, it’s been sitting in my to-be-read pile ever since. This historical romance was a delightful departure from the typical nobility-focused novels that dominate the genre. Instead of the usual parade of dukes and earls, it centers on ordinary people navigating their extraordinary circumstances—a refreshing change that offers insight into how ordinary people actually lived.

Ethan, an American, arrives in London after he inherits his uncle’s print shop, only to discover he’s inherited crushing debt along with it. Having spent nearly everything on the journey, he faces losing it all unless he can find a way to pay what’s owed.

Belle, the daughter of Justice Sinclair, has an unusual passion: she loves eavesdropping on her father’s courtroom proceedings, drawing inspiration for the gory mystery novel she’s writing. Unfortunately, no publisher will touch her work, and she’s already considered a social outcast after breaking off her own engagement.

When chance brings them together, they strike a mutually beneficial deal. Ethan will serialize Belle’s novel as penny dreadfuls, using the profits to escape his debts. His ultimate dream is starting a newspaper like the one he worked for in Boston, but England’s punishing newspaper taxes make such ventures financially fraught and out of the reach of the masses.

What unfolds is a beautifully crafted story of forced proximity and shared ambition. Working side by side, Ethan and Belle gradually recognize the deepening connection between them. Their relationship develops with tender respect and genuine hope—each shared moment drawing them closer to love, each thought colored by care for the other’s dreams and happiness.

This emotionally rich novel is utterly unforgettable. For readers seeking a love story built on longing, mutual respect, and the slow, authentic unfolding of true connection, this one is a must-read.

8/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

THE FINEST PRINT by Erin Langston. Erin Langston (self-published). (September 26, 2024). ISBN: 979-8988316534. 364p.

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THE SUMMER THAT CHANGED EVERYTHING by Brenda Novak

August 8, 2025

From the publisher:

She returned to prove her father’s innocence, but there’s no telling what she’ll find…

It’s been fifteen years since Lucy Sinclair saw her father. Fifteen long years since she sat in a courtroom and watched him sentenced to life in prison. He murdered three victims—all people she knew—which ruined her life at just seventeen. But now she’s back in Virginia to talk to him, wondering if there’s more to the story of what happened that fateful night.

An old flame, Ford Wagner, makes his own return to North Hampton Beach, fleeing a marriage that seems destined for divorce. He’s wary of Lucy and her digging into the past, but the more time they spend together, the closer they get and the more he finds himself reconsidering the truth behind the death of their mutual friend that summer. Problem is, there are plenty of those in this small coastal town who would prefer things stay quiet…

https://amzn.to/3H9av2B

Lucy was seventeen when her father was convicted of murdering three people in their small town. The conviction shattered her world—the townspeople turned against her, and she felt forced to flee. She hasn’t returned home or spoken to her father in fifteen years.

Now, haunted by unanswered questions about that terrible summer, Lucy decides to return to uncover the truth she’s never understood.

The town has always drawn wealthy summer residents to their sprawling beachfront homes, and Ford is among them this year. He’s come back to prepare his family’s house for sale while grappling with his impending divorce. Fifteen years ago, he and Lucy had shared an intense but brief romance during that fateful summer. Though they’d fallen hard for each other, Ford abandoned Lucy when his family pressured him to cut ties after her father’s arrest—a decision that has haunted him ever since.

When Ford discovers Lucy has returned, his protective instincts flare. The townspeople make their hostility clear, especially as Lucy begins asking dangerous questions about the past. What begins as renewed friendship deepens into something more as Ford joins Lucy’s search for answers.

While a bit slow and somewhat repetitive in the beginning, as the story unfurls, it becomes much more engaging. This second-chance romance weaves together mystery and passion as two former lovers investigate the crimes that tore their world apart. The combination of coastal intrigue and rekindled love creates a compelling story of redemption, truth, and the courage to face the past.

8/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

THE SUMMER THAT CHANGED EVERYTHING by Brenda Novak. MIRA (June 3, 2025). ISBN: 978-0778360162. 368p.

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MUCH ADO ABOUT HATING YOU by Sarah Echavarre Smith

July 25, 2025

From the publisher:

A Shakespearean Fanfic Spicy Enemies to Lovers Rom Com

Enemies by day. Spicy fanfic author and devoted reader by night.

Things are about to get downright Shakespearean.

All’s fair in love. And war. And fandom.

Financial auditor Micah Mila is used to being the bearer of bad news, and her latest assignment in the local university’s English department has been especially taxing—no thanks to a literature professor who clashes with her at every turn. Thankfully, she has an after-hours escape: reading spicy Shakespearean fanfic.

Professor Aidan Scott is damn good at his job. But Micah has been a thorn in his side since the moment he laid eyes on her—eyes that really like what they see. Yet, with his job on the line, there’s no room for distractions. At least, not beyond the sexy fanfic he secretly writes.

When Micah discovers the man getting under her skin is the writer heating her up, their enemy vibe turns steamy. But with Micah’s audit due and Aidan’s career at risk, separating fantasy from reality becomes more than a little complicated…

https://amzn.to/4fmaVzz

Aidan Scott, an English professor with a secret passion for writing steamy Shakespeare fanfiction on a Wattpad-style platform, has an immediate problem when financial auditor Micah Mila arrives at his university. Hired to audit the English department and identify cost-cutting opportunities, Micah poses a direct threat to everything Aidan holds dear—his beloved teaching position and the students who adore his classes.

When Aidan and Micah first meet, sparks fly—but not in a good way. In the elevator, Aidan makes a snide remark about the incoming auditor, unaware that Micah is standing right beside him. The resulting animosity creates an immediate barrier between two people whose substantial egos prevent them from moving past their initial antagonism.

What neither realizes is that they’ve already formed a connection through the very fanfiction site where Aidan publishes his work. In the anonymous comment sections, they’ve found solace in venting about their real-world nemesis, completely unaware they’re confiding in each other. Their online dynamic is playful and open in stark contrast to their tense real-life interactions.

The novel attempts to navigate the enemies-to-lovers trope, working toward an inevitable romantic resolution despite seemingly insurmountable obstacles. However, the execution falls short of its ambitious premise. The character development lacks depth, making it difficult to invest in their constant bickering and eventual romance. Both Aidan and Micah remain frustratingly surface-level throughout most of the story.

While the book includes steamy scenes, they feel more like obligatory additions than meaningful moments that advance the relationship or deepen our understanding of the characters. The romance ultimately ends with a resolution that strains credibility rather than satisfying the emotional journey.

Despite an intriguing setup that cleverly combines academic drama with digital-age romance, this novel disappoints by prioritizing conflict over character growth, leaving readers with a love story that never quite convinces, making for a disappointing read.

Note: I never heard of this imprint, Afterglow Books by Harlequin, and now I will be leery of any other books they publish. Harlequin has several imprints, but this is the first time I’ve felt this way.

7/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

MUCH ADO ABOUT HATING YOU by Sarah Echavarre Smith. Afterglow Books by Harlequin (May 27, 2025). ISBN: 978-1335574992. 288p.

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EAT POST LIKE by Emily Arden Wells

July 11, 2025

From the publisher:

A Stirring Novel of Self-Discovery, Resilience, and Culinary Adventures from New York to Italy and Paris, Unraveling the Secret Life of a Lost Love—Perfect for Summer Reading

Eat Post Like is a heartwarming debut novel of self-discovery, resilience, and the transformative power of food.

Cassie Brooks has her life all figured out.

Make partner at the prestigious law firm she works at by age 35

Put in as much work as required to make goal #1 happen

Spend as much time as possible with her boyfriend, James Colwell

Work might be exhausting, but for now she’s satisfied making good money and enjoying New York City with James. He’s an accountant but has surprisingly eclectic taste in food. Cassie is starting to think he could be the one when her life flips upside down with one call: James has died tragically.

Months into her grief, she uncovers a worn diary belonging to James and stumbles upon a remarkable revelation: James was the mastermind behind the hottest, anonymous foodie account in the city. With detailed food reviews, lists of new restaurants, and a tantalizing plan to involve Cassie, James had been preparing for an adventure of a lifetime.

When Cassie unwittingly accepts a dinner reservation on behalf of James’s viral account, she embarks on a whirlwind journey filled with unforgettable meals and unexpected connections. She goes from endless hours on-call as a lawyer to savoring exquisite pasta in Italy and indulging in the finest French cuisine in Paris.

But as Cassie navigates the demands of being an influencer and embracing her newfound passions, she struggles to find balance. Does she have what it takes to maintain her secret identity while pursuing her own dreams? Can she balance her grief of losing James with the thrilling possibilities that lie ahead?

https://amzn.to/3HVUMUP

Cassie is an ambitious lawyer clawing her way toward partnership, which means she’s perpetually on call and utterly consumed by work. This devotion to her career wreaks havoc on her two-year relationship with James, a man of seemingly infinite patience. In Cassie’s ruthless prioritization, work comes first, she comes second, and James trails a distant third. He endures this treatment because he’s deeply in love and holds onto the hope that someday Cassie will realize he matters more than billable hours. Tragically, that day never comes—James dies in an accident before Cassie can reassess her priorities.

With no family of his own—like Cassie—James leaves everything to her, including his apartment. Cassie steels herself to sort through his belongings. Hidden in his closet, she makes a startling discovery: multiple fake identities complete with costumes, IDs, and credit cards. What initially seems sinister reveals itself as something entirely different—James was secretly @NewYorkSecretDiner, the anonymous and wildly popular food critic with millions of followers.

After accessing his phone and social media accounts, Cassie discovers an invitation for James to join the prestigious Viand review team (think Michelin) for a European food tour. Seizing this opportunity, she requests a sabbatical from work and heads to Europe, determined to honor James’s memory by stepping into his shoes.

Despite having shared countless meals with James and following his Instagram account, Cassie faces the daunting challenge of masquerading as an expert among elite food bloggers and a renowned cookbook author. She throws herself into preparation—studying restaurants, researching chefs, and learning food photography—all while terrified of being exposed as a fraud.

The journey proves transformative. As Cassie navigates grief while experiencing extraordinary restaurants and luxury accommodations, the book becomes rich with meticulously detailed descriptions of real establishments and cuisine. The author, herself a food writer, brings authentic expertise to every page. While I’ll likely never afford to dine at most of these places (Noma has permanently closed, and the others are simply beyond my budget), I savored every description. Though I consider myself something of a foodie, I’m not as adventurous as this author—sometimes I prefer reading about exotic dishes rather than actually eating them.

This is fundamentally Cassie’s story of personal growth and self-discovery. While there’s a touch of romance, food remains the true star. The secondary characters, though not deeply developed, serve their purpose as mirrors reflecting Cassie’s transformation.

If you love food and travel writing, this book will satisfy your appetite. If you’re seeking complex character development or intricate plotting, you might want to look elsewhere. For what it sets out to accomplish, I found it genuinely enjoyable.

7/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

EAT POST LIKE by Emily Arden Wells. Avon (June 3, 2025). ISBN: 978-0063307438. 384p.

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THE FRIENDSHIP FLING by Georgia Stone

June 13, 2025

From the publisher:

The Hilarious New Grumpy/Sunshine, Friends-to-Lovers Romantic Comedy―and your New Favorite Summer Romcom

In this delightfully charming and heartfelt debut love story, two lonely and wildly different strangers embark on a short-term friendship over one London summer—only to discover they may be something more by the time the season ends.

No one would ever call Ava Monroe a people person, which isn’t ideal for a barista in a busy London coffee shop. She’s sarcastic, blunt, and cynical, and her relationships are strictly no strings attached. With her best friend Josie soon leaving for a year, Ava knows she’ll be all alone unless she shakes up her routine. But she can’t risk bringing chance back into her carefully controlled life.

Then insufferably cheerful, country-hopping, undeniably gorgeous Finn O’Callaghan rolls into her coffee shop with a horrifying proposal —a strictly friends-only summer fling. Finn needs a local to help him complete his London bucket list, and Ava needs to reassure Josie she won’t be on her own. And it’s only for a few months.

To Ava’s surprise, their mismatched friendship of convenience becomes oddly tolerable, and as they work their way through Finn’s list and around the sun-drenched city, from rooftops and floating bars to nights at the museum, their adventures—and Finn’s company—start to feel . . . nice. Incredibly, terrifyingly, dangerously nice.

Still, rules are rules—Ava has good reasons for them—and as the days get shorter, Finn’s departure gets closer. Because that’s the thing about summer: it always ends. Right?
https://amzn.to/3F3l7ih

This debut had a surprising twist in the grumpy/sunshine ouvre – she’s the grump, and he is pure sunshine. Ava works as a barista in a London coffeeshop. She hates her job, but it is also perfect for her; she likes the routine but hates dealing with the customers, and she’s none too subtle about it. Her best friend and roommate, Josie, is concerned about Ava because she has no social life other than her one-night stands. Josie wants Ava to make some friends, and when she pushes her, Ava tells her that Finn is her new friend.

Finn works across the street from the coffee shop, but lingers in the store on the regular. He is in London for the summer, then he’s off to parts unknown. Finn has traveled the world, and starts getting antsy when he’s in one place for too long. In every new city he visits, he creates a bucket list of touristy things to do and see, and his London list is extensive. When cornered about being Ava’s new friend, he agrees to deceive Josie but insists that Ava help him with his London bucket list. And a friendship begins.

As Ava and Finn experience what London has to offer, feelings begin to grow. Ava is determined to quash those feelings and continues with her dating app one-night stands until it just stops working for her. But Finn has a deadline – he has applied to work for the same company his father works for, in San Francisco. He has a complicated relationship with his parents, but he figures his father will be impressed with the new job and will want to spend time with him, something he has felt sorely lacking in his life.

But nothing goes as planned for Ava or for Finn. Complicated doesn’t begin to cover the baggage they are both carrying, but their friendship is real and deep. There is a lot of humor here, and their banter is fabulous. I couldn’t help but root for them to find their happy ending, and for Finn especially to learn how to deal with his family and their fraught relationship. Nothing makes me happier than finding a new author. This was a terrific debut, and I’m looking forward to reading whatever Stone comes up with next.

6/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

THE FRIENDSHIP FLING by Georgia Stone. Harper Perennial (June 3, 2025). ISBN: 978-0063434790. 384p.

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Audiobook Sunday: SALTY, SPICED, AND A LITTLE BIT NICE by Cynthia Timoti

May 25, 2025

Read by Eunice Wong

From the publisher:

“Crazy Rich Asians” meets “Always Be My Maybe” in this deliciously sugar-free rom-com from debut author Cynthia Timoti.

Ellie Pang has had enough of her controlling family who has been micromanaging her life since her type 1 diabetes diagnosis. When her parents orchestrate a public proposal from their business partner’s son, a proposal that goes humiliatingly viral, Ellie escapes to the other side of the country to put her dream of opening a sugar-free bakery into action. After all, she’d done her research. How hard can it be?

She hits a snag when her storefront turns out to be a dump and in need of major renovations. Worse, the only person who can help her turn things around is Alec Mackenzie, her brother’s best friend and the man responsible for crushing her teenage heart ten years ago.

But Alec has a proposal of his own: he needs a pretend girlfriend in order to cement a business deal. All they need to do is feign love and affection, while trying not to maim each other. But when the thin line between hate and fake-madly-in-love starts to blur, and buried secrets resurface, Ellie must learn to trust her heart, and choose between love and family.

“Timoti skillfully blends romance with meaningful discussions about family expectations, chronic illness, and cultural identity in her strong debut.”—Library Journal

“A woman finds the courage to rebuild her life in Timoti’s touching debut . . . Though there are perhaps one too many plot contrivances easing the way of their enemies-to-lovers relationship, the push and pull between the leads feels both authentic and electric, and it’s a joy to witness Ellie come into her own. Timoti is an exciting new voice in romance.”—Publishers Weekly

https://amzn.to/4m4EsAB

Ellie has always been a devoted daughter to her wealthy, traditional Chinese-Indonesian parents—but her mother is driving her to the brink. Determined to unite their fortunes, her mother pressures Ellie into dating the son of a business associate, one of the country’s most eligible bachelors. But when he proposes just a few months into their relationship—on New Year’s Eve, no less—Ellie turns him down. He’s kind, but she doesn’t love him. A video of the proposal goes viral, and the fallout is swift.

Furious, Ellie’s mother retaliates by bribing Ellie’s boss to fire her, hoping to force her into joining the family business. But Ellie longs for independence and is chafing under her mother’s dictatorial thumb. She decides to pursue her true dream: opening a bakery that specializes in sugar-free, low-carb treats. As a Type 1 diabetic, Ellie has a personal connection to the concept—diagnosed after a childhood hospitalization, she’s managed her condition well, despite the challenges.

Seeing her job loss as an opportunity, Ellie researches small towns and finds one on the west coast that seems like the perfect place for her bakery. She rents a shop online, sight unseen, packs up her car, and drives cross-country. When she arrives, the location is everything she hoped for—except for one major issue: a fallen tree has damaged the roof, and the necessary repairs will strain her budget.

Enter Alec—her brother’s best friend, her childhood crush, and the guy who once broke her heart. He now owns a local construction business and offers to renovate the bakery and let Ellie live in his guest bedroom in exchange for a favor: Ellie must pretend to be his girlfriend. Alec is on the verge of forming a partnership with a large national firm, but the woman behind the deal seems more interested in him than his business, and he wants to make his boundaries clear.

Though Ellie has resented Alec for the past decade—ever since he rejected her, saying he could never see her as more than his best friend’s little sister—she reluctantly agrees. With no other contractors available for months, and no way to legally or safely live in the damaged shop, she has little choice.

Their relationship is complicated, marked by past wounds, family pressures, business entanglements, and Ellie’s health. But as they navigate these obstacles, they begin to rediscover each other, and what started as a pretend romance slowly turns into something real.

The narrator does a wonderful job bringing the story to life. While Ellie’s tendency to catastrophize can be a bit much at times, it fits her character: young, sheltered, and thrust into unfamiliar territory. The portrayal of chronic illness is both realistic and respectful. Overall, this is an impressive debut from a promising storyteller, and I’m excited to see what comes next.

5/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

SALTY, SPICED, AND A LITTLE BIT NICE by Cynthia Timoti. Narrator: Eunice Wong. Spotify Audiobooks: May 06, 2025. Listening Length: 10 hours and 36 minutes.

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JILTED by Vi Keeland

May 16, 2025

From the publisher:

From #1 New York Times bestseller Vi Keeland comes a brand new slow burn, swooning romance where 27 Dresses meets The Hating Game.

Weddings. I spend every working minute talking and writing about them, when just the thought of one makes me want to scream. After my fiancé abandoned me at the altar last year, my dream job at Bride magazine has turned into a reoccurring nightmare.

To add insult to injury, the bridezilla at my latest assignment somehow roped me into filling in for a missing bridesmaid. Of course, I had to get paired with the most gorgeous groomsman. Wilder Hayes is perfect―except when he opens his mouth and we end up bickering all evening. That is, until the coat closet incident.

At least I’ll never have to see him again. Or so I think… Until I walk into work on Monday and find out Wilder isn’t just a jerk, he’s also my boss’s son. And I’ll be spending the rest of the season working with him at every single wedding I cover this year.

It’s a match made in heaven…or hell. Only time will tell.

DELUXE EDITION–a gorgeous paperback edition featuring bright turquoise sprayed edges!

https://amzn.to/4jEtoIa

Jilted is a charming, feel-good romance that’s equal parts fun and heartwarming. It’s one of those stories where you quickly become invested in the characters’ journeys and can’t help but smile along the way.

Sloane, our heroine, is obsessed with weddings—she works for a wedding magazine and hosts her own wedding-themed podcast. But after being left at the altar, her personal and professional worlds collide in the worst way. Despite the heartbreak, she has to keep doing her job, which means immersing herself in all things love and marriage. When her latest assignment unexpectedly places her in a wedding party, she’s paired with a man who has mesmerizing eyes—and an attitude that quickly kills the vibe. Still, a few drinks and a night of dancing might be exactly what Sloane needs to start rediscovering herself.

Wilder, the handsome, cocky playboy, isn’t exactly looking for commitment—but Sloane changes something in him. He finds himself drawn to her in a way he’s never experienced. Determined to spend more time with her, he devises a plan to keep her close by involving her in the weddings of his friends. Sloane, still nursing her wounds, has sworn off men for the time being. But Wilder might be the one person who can convince her to take a chance again.

Told in dual point of view, we get insight into both Wilder and Sloane’s perspectives, which adds depth to their connection. Their banter is witty, their chemistry undeniable, and their emotional growth genuine. Wilder, despite his past, shows a surprising level of patience and attentiveness, proving he’s more than just a smooth talker. Sloane, on the other hand, slowly lets her guard down and begins to find healing through their unexpected bond.

What makes this story stand out is the natural progression of their relationship. There’s no rush, no forced drama—just two people getting to know each other and slowly falling in love. Supporting characters like Sloane’s family and Wilder’s brother and friends enrich the story and add warmth and humor to the narrative.

Jilted is a character-driven romance that highlights the power of communication, personal growth, and second chances. It’s a light, engaging read with a perfect happily ever after. Don’t miss it!

5/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

JILTED by Vi Keeland. Bramble; Deluxe edition (May 6, 2025). ISBN: 978-1250359858. 272p.

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AN AMISH WIDOW’S PROMISE by Winnie Griggs

May 16, 2025

Sweetbrier Creek, Book 2

From the publisher:

One Amish man helps to revive a young widow’s struggling orchard—and heal her heart—in this light, warmhearted Amish romance perfect for fans of Jo Ann Brown and Jocelyn McClay.

Widow Miriam Esh has to find a fiancé, or her overbearing bruder-in-law will sell her familye apple orchard. He’s already taken it upon himself to hire someone—likely another man presuming he knows what’s best for her land. But if she’s going to save it, Miriam must focus on finding a suitable husband, not on the new orchardist or on how good he is with her son, and definitely not on how his smile scatters her thoughts . . .

By the looks of things at the Esh estate, Daniel Beiler knows Miriam could use a hand. Only the stubborn widow doesn’t want to take any of his advice. Yet as they spend their days working side-by-side and sharing warm meals, Daniel and Miriam can’t deny the growing comfort in each other’s company. So when Miriam begins receiving attention from eligible men seeking a wife, Daniel must admit his feelings for her before it’s too late. With the promise that he’ll be the partner she can trust, can Daniel convince Miriam that he should also be the mann in her life?

https://amzn.to/44jdkr8

I can’t review this without saying that the characters’ names hit weirdly close to home. Daniel is my son, his wife is Miriam, and their son is Jonah, the same as these characters. I can’t recall ever reading a book where all the main characters’ names were also names of my family members, and I thought it especially interesting as these characters are Amish, and my family is decidedly not!

Miriam is a young widow left with a little boy, Jonah. Her husband left half of their apple orchard to their son, and the other half to his brother who has no interest in the orchard. In fact, he wants to sell it, but Miriam is adamant that it is her son’s legacy and fights her brother-in-law as best as she can. She doesn’t have any legal standing, but that doesn’t deter her. They agree on a compromise; he will hire someone to run the orchard for a period of time, but he is moving on to a new job in a new town, and doesn’t want the responsibility of the orchard. She will find a husband who will let her keep the orchard; easier said than done.

The hired orchardist is Daniel, who has been working at another orchard for years, in hopes of purchasing it one day. Instead, the owner brings in his own family, and Daniel is out of a job. He is now hopeful that he will be able to buy Miriam’s orchard, but she is unaware of the deal he made with her brother-in-law.

Miriam grew up in this place and has been working in the orchard for most of her life, and she truly loves it. But she resents all the men in her life ignoring her knowledge and making decisions for her, instead of with her, including her own husband before he passed. Daniel is knowledgeable about orchards, but she still wants a say in any work that is being done. There is some miscommunication there, and Miriam is none too pleased with him. But she can’t help but appreciate how good he is with her son, who needs a man to look up to, and Daniel is the kind and gentle man she hoped for.

Miriam and Daniel butt heads continuously, until he finally wears her down and she starts to trust him. But he is keeping a secret from her, and he knows things are going to go sideways when she finds out. I really liked the strength Miriam showed throughout, and how she stuck to her guns despite her growing feelings for Daniel. Eventually, they work their way to one another, and a happy ending for this sweet family is found.

I read the first book in this series, An Amish Christmas Match, and really enjoyed it, but it is not necessary to read them in order. This book stands alone beautifully.

5/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

AN AMISH WIDOW’S PROMISE by Winnie Griggs. Forever (April 29, 2025). ISBN: 978-1538766392. 320p.

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SUMMER IN THE CITY by Alex Aster

May 2, 2025

From the publisher:

From #1 New York Times bestselling author Alex Aster comes her adult debut novel Summer in the City—a swoony, fast-paced rom-com set in New York City in which a screenwriter and a sexy tech CEO go from lovers to enemies and back to lovers again…

Twenty-seven-year-old screenwriter Elle has the chance of a lifetime to write a big-budget movie set in New York City. The only problem? She’s had writer’s block for months, and her screenplay is due at the end of the summer.

In a desperate attempt at inspiration, Elle ends up back in the city she swore she would never return to, in an apartment she could never afford (floor-to-ceiling windows, skyline views, and a new coffee shop to haunt included). It’s the perfect place to write her screenplay…until she realizes her new neighbor is tech “Billionaire Bachelor” Parker Warren, her stairwell hookup from two years ago. It’s been a lovers-to-enemies situation ever since.

When seeing him again turns into a full night of hate-fueled writing, Elle realizes her enemy/twisted muse might just be the key to finishing her screenplay… if she can stand being around her polar opposite. She writes anonymously, and he’s on the cover of every business magazine. He frequents fancy red carpeted events, and she doesn’t like leaving her emotional support five block radius.

One summer. One wall apart. He needs to fake a buzzy relationship during his company’s precarious acquisition. She needs to write a movie around a list of NYC locations. Both need a break from their unrelenting schedules, and a chance to rediscover the skyscraper glimmering, pizza crusted, sunlit charms of the city.

Summers always end, and so will this agreement. It’s all pretend. Promise.

Until it isn’t.

“Best-selling YA author Aster makes her adult fiction debut with a superbly crafted, splendidly entertaining romance that deftly delivers all the snappy repartee and crackling sexual chemistry of Nora Ephron at her cinematic rom-com best while also offering readers a beautifully crafted love letter to the many joys of New York City.” Copyright 2025 Booklist Reviews.” — Booklist

“Bestselling Aster makes her adult debut with a rom-com featuring a lovers-to-enemies-back-to-lovers trope. It follows a screenwriter who likes to be private and a news-making tech CEO during their swoony summer in NYC. — Library Journal

Order now to receive the stunning DELUXE LIMITED EDITION—only available on the first printing while supplies last! This collector’s hardcover features gorgeous sprayed edges with stenciled artwork, illustrated color endpapers, and special design features on the case.

https://amzn.to/4jEtoIa

Elle is a screenwriter in the grip of severe writer’s block, tasked with crafting a romance film while grappling with lingering trauma from her past. She writes under a pseudonym, thus avoiding all the Hollywood hoopla. She returns to New York to housesit her sister’s upscale apartment—her globe-trotting, pregnant sister who seems to have it all together. Their father is absent, and the memory of their late mother continues to cast a long shadow over Elle’s (often unhealthy) worldview. The studio gives her a tight timeline to finish the script, and she’s hoping living in New York City for the summer will help. They have already pulled permits to film in various locations throughout the city, so Elle needs to keep those in mind while she crafts the script.

Enter Parker Warren: tech billionaire, and—surprise—Elle’s new neighbor. He also happens to be the man behind her chaotic stairwell hookup from two years ago, which she had chalked up to a one-night stand with a bodyguard. Turns out, he wasn’t a bodyguard, but rather a billionaire entrepreneur. Now he wants Elle to pose as his girlfriend for the summer. Why? Because she’s one of the few people who couldn’t care less about his money or influence—and in return, she’d gain access to high-end locations for her screenplay. He won’t have to worry about taking a gold digger to the social events he needs to attend, so it seems like a win-win.

There’s one more twist: Elle wrote her most successful script after their infamous encounter. Whether she likes it or not, Parker has become her secret muse. Around him, she starts to feel alive again—jogging at dawn, making new friends, even braving karaoke nights, and most importantly, she is writing again. But opening her heart to him would mean betraying everything she thinks her late mother stood for. Can she let herself risk real happiness—not just for a summer, but for something more lasting?

The city becomes another character with this vivid, heartfelt portrayal of New York, and that always appeals to me. The chapters capturing the city’s energy and charm were outstanding. I appreciated the emotional arcs, especially Elle’s journey toward self-acceptance and the subtle reveal of her hidden identity. The happy ending is a given, and while I am not usually a fan of the billionaire boyfriend, Aster did a terrific job with it here. Turns out, I didn’t mind a bit. This is a cinematic romcom, and I can only hope a movie will follow.

5/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

SUMMER IN THE CITY by Alex Aster. William Morrow (March 25, 2025). ISBN: 978-0063411661. 304p.

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Spotlight Review: THE GRIFFIN SISTERS’ GREATEST HITS by Jennifer Weiner

April 15, 2025

From the publisher:

From #1 New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Weiner comes The Griffin Sisters’ Greatest Hits, a deeply moving novel set against the glitz and chaos of early 2000s pop stardom. Equal parts heartfelt family saga and behind-the-scenes look at fame, this is a story about sisters, secrets, and the power of second chances.

Cassie and Zoe Grossberg were thrust into the spotlight as The Griffin Sisters, a pop duo that defined the aughts. Together, they skyrocketed to the top, gracing MTV, SNL, and the cover of Rolling Stone. Cassie, a musical genius who never felt at ease in her own skin, preferred to stay in the shadows. Zoe, full of confidence and craving fame, lived for the stage. But fame has a price, and after one turbulent year, the band abruptly broke up.

Now, two decades later, the sisters couldn’t be further apart. Zoe is a suburban mom warning her daughter Cherry to avoid the spotlight, while Cassie has disappeared from public life entirely. But when Cherry begins unearthing the truth behind their breathtaking rise and infamous breakup, long-buried secrets surface, forcing all three women to confront their choices, their desires, and their complicated bonds.

With richly developed characters, a nostalgic nod to the pop culture of the 2000s, and a resonant tale of ambition, forgiveness, and family, The Griffin Sisters’ Greatest Hits will captivate readers from the first note to the final encore. Whether you’ve followed Jennifer Weiner for years or are discovering her for the first time, this book is a must-read for music lovers, fans of sisterly dramas, and anyone who cherishes a great story of second chances.

“Weiner is at her best when she’s writing about sisters, and her latest (after The Breakaway, 2023) features a memorable pair. A story about the ways those closest to us can hurt us the most deeply, the destructive power of guilt, and the rough road to forgiveness. This is an irresistible, multigenerational tale from a master of her craft. A compelling family drama [that] fans will gobble up.” — Booklist (starred review)

“Irresistible. [Weiner] breathes new life into the love triangle trope and offers a nuanced view of sisterhood’s complexities. [Her] fans will be delighted.” — Publishers Weekly

“Weiner excels at capturing the complex relationships among sisters, mothers, and daughters, and the novel’s nonlinear structure and multiple viewpoints add both nuance and interest. An excellent addition to the current crop of Y2K pop culture–themed novels; this will satisfy Weiner’s many fans.” — Library Journal

“Weiner deftly explores the pop landscape of the early 2000s. Zoe and Cassie are both realistic and flawed characters, each with their own challenges. There’s a compelling and dramatic love triangle here, too, but the true love story is between two sisters and their music. A heartfelt look at sisterhood, forgiveness, and the courage it takes to follow your dreams.” — Kirkus Reviews

Pre-order now to receive the stunning DELUXE LIMITED EDITION—only available on the first printing while supplies last! This collector’s hardcover features unique stenciled edges, specially illustrated endpapers, and a shiny stamped case.

https://amzn.to/4i91h31

I love Jennifer Weiner! I would read her grocery list should she choose to share it. She has this way of drawing the reader into her stories, her worlds, and it’s just magical.

This is ostensibly a story about two sisters who join a band, reach the pinnacle of success, and have a falling out, each going their own way. But it is about so much more than that.

Cassie is a musical prodigy, born to a lower-middle-class family who just doesn’t know what to do with her. She has the voice of an angel and can play anything on the piano. But she’s also painfully shy, and understands that she is different from everyone else, especially her younger sister. Zoe is the pretty one, the “normal” child, but the sisters are close and Zoe makes sure Cassie is included and berates anyone who offends her.

As they get older, Zoe longs for attention and joins a band despite not having much in the way of musical talent. When the band kicks her out on the eve of a “battle of the bands” competition, she is incensed and wants to get even. She persuades Cassie to join her on stage, and with her piano skills and her unbearably beautiful voice, they win the competition. Someone in the audience that night has a relative in the music business, and the next thing you know, they are signed to a record label and are in the studio. The record label hooks them up with a songwriter/guitarist, Russell, and they form a new band. Russell and Cassie are a perfect match, creating beautiful songs together, but Zoe thinks he’s cute and seduces him. Russell is torn between the beautiful Zoe and the immensely talented Cassie, and they all make some bad decisions along the way.

The band breaks up, and Cassie takes off, leaving her family and her career behind. She goes into hiding in the wilds of Alaska, living the spartan life she feels she deserves. Zoe tries to make a solo career with her music, but eventually ends up married and living the suburban mom life. The two sisters don’t talk for twenty years or more. Zoe’s eldest daughter, Cherry, inherited some musical talent and wants to pursue it as a career, but Zoe is adamantly against it. Eventually, Cherry runs away to California and lands a spot on a musical competition reality show. She decides to try to find the aunt she’s never met and manipulate her into helping with her music career.

The story moves back and forth in time and alternates viewpoints between the characters, so we really get to know them and can’t help but root for them. The family dynamics between sisters, then mother and daughter, a love triangle, the music business, and dealing with fame all make for a truly compelling read, and I couldn’t put it down. If you love family sagas, pop culture, or Daisy Jones and the Six, you won’t want to miss this book. I loved it.

4/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

THE GRIFFIN SISTERS’ GREATEST HITS by Jennifer Weiner. William Morrow (April 8, 2025). ISBN: 978-0063342446. 384p.

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