Contemporary | Stacy Alesi's BookBitch.com™

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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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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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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LOST AND LASSOED by Lyla Sage

September 12, 2025

Rebel Blue Ranch, Book 3

From the publisher:

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • She thrives in chaos. He prefers routine. The only thing they have in common? How much they hate each other.

From the bestselling author of Done and Dusted and Swift and Saddled, the highly anticipated next book in the Rebel Blue Ranch series, a small-town romance in which enemies turn to lovers when they’re forced to work together during one hot summer

Teddy Andersen doesn’t have a plan. She’s never needed one before. She’s always been more of a go-with-the-flow type of girl, but for some reason, the flow doesn’t seem to be going her way this time.

Her favorite vintage suede jacket has a hole in it, her sewing machine is broken, and her best friend just got engaged. Suddenly, everything feels like it’s starting to change. Teddy is used to being a leader, but now she feels like she’s getting left behind, wondering if life in the small town she loves is enough for her anymore.

Gus Ryder has a lot on his plate. He doesn’t know what’s harder: taking care of his family’s 8,000 acre ranch, or parenting his spunky six-year-old daughter, who is staying with him for the summer. Gus has always been the dependable one, but when his workload starts to overwhelm him, he has to admit that he can’t manage everything on his own. He needs help.

His little sister’s best friend, the woman he can’t stand, is not who he had in mind. But when no one else can step in, Teddy’s the only option he’s got. Teddy decides to use the summer to try and figure out what she wants out of life. Gus, on the other hand, starts to worry that he’ll never find what he needs.

Tempers flare, tension builds, and for the first time ever, Gus and Teddy start to see each other in a different light. As new feelings start to simmer below the surface, they must decide whether they should act on them. Can they keep things cool? Or will both of them get burned?

https://amzn.to/3VmCCyE

This is the third book in the Rebel Blue series, and while I read them completely out of order, it didn’t matter at all—I loved every single one! What makes these books so compelling are the heartwarming stories, the serene beauty of Rebel Blue Ranch, and the vibrant, realistic characters.

Teddy Andersen is both passionate and warm. Previously portrayed as chaotic, headstrong, and fearless, this book reveals her softer, creative, and compassionate side. She remains fierce, strong, and relentless, but she’s also deeply perceptive and supportive when the people she loves need her most.

Gus is the perfect embodiment of the grumpy cowboy with a heart of gold. He masterfully balances a tough exterior with hidden warmth that he shows only to his daughter, Riley. His thoughtfulness and patience with her was absolutely wonderful to witness. As the eldest Ryder brother, Gus carries enormous responsibility and often struggles to delegate work or share his burdens with family. Throughout the story, he slowly learns to open up and accept that he can’t be everything to everyone.

When the boutique where Teddy works closes, she needs summer employment while figuring out her next move. Meanwhile, her nemesis Gus has finally admitted he can’t handle everything alone and desperately needs help with Riley. Despite their mutual dislike, Teddy becomes the perfect solution, and both manage to set aside their animosity for Riley’s sake.

Seeing Teddy—who was never vulnerable with others—accept that she could simply be herself with Gus and Riley was deeply reassuring. Both characters love fiercely when it comes to their families, and both fear not being enough. These shared fears and similar ways of loving others become the foundation of their unexpected bond. Their relationship unfolds beautifully as they finally surrender to their desires, confront their true feelings, and allow themselves to explore what’s growing between them.

This is enemies-to-lovers done right. Teddy and Gus’s journey—from fiery, snarky tension to sizzling chemistry to heartfelt romance—is deeply satisfying. Another fantastic addition to the Rebel Blue series.

The series in order:

8/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

LOST AND LASSOED by Lyla Sage. Dial Press Trade Paperback ( March 5, 2024). ISBN: 978-0593732434. 320p.

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Spotlight Review: PITCHER PERFECT by Tessa Bailey

September 9, 2025

Big Shots, Book 4

From the publisher:

#1 New York Times bestselling author Tessa Bailey is back with an all-new enemies-to-lovers, fake-dating sports romance about a playboy hockey rookie and the disciplined softball pitcher completely immune to his charms.

Boston Bearcats rookie Robbie Corrigan is living the dream. He’s made it to the NHL, his best friend/teammate and fellow “orgasm donor” is his roomie—and the women of Boston love them both. Life is sweet. That is, until he meets Skylar Paige, division 1 softball pitcher, girl least likely to take anyone’s bull…and the one member of the opposite sex immune to his charms. Robbie might be dazzled by the badass pitcher, but Skylar pegs him as a filthy player and wants nothing to do with him.

When he discovers she’s carrying a serious torch for her brother’s best friend, Robbie knows he should just go back to clubbing and whipped cream bikini parties, but he can’t seem to leave Skylar to flounder on her romantic quest to land another man. Nor can he miss out on the opportunity to spend time with her and hopefully redeem himself. Before Robbie knows it, he’s agreed to be Skylar’s fake boyfriend/love coach at an upcoming family wilderness competition where her crush will be in attendance. What could go wrong?

Through a series of contests that require them to trust each other, Robbie and Skylar grow closer and closer until their fake relationship starts to feel like the realest thing they’ve ever known and the sizzling lessons in sensuality burn out of control.

But it’s all just pretend…right?
https://amzn.to/47me4xj

Skyla plays softball for her college team, but is also passionate about baseball. So when her brother asks her to pitch in a quirky exhibition game against a team of professional hockey players, she’s all in. The catch? These hockey pros think baseball is a joke, while the baseball players dismiss hockey as nothing more than glorified brawling. Skylar finds herself caught in the middle of this testosterone-fueled turf war.

Things heat up when she overhears one of the hockey players, Robbie, bragging about his latest hookup in crude terms. The comment infuriates her, and just like that, the enemies-to-lovers spark is lit. Robbie, however, is instantly smitten with Skylar, but as someone who’s never committed to anything beyond one-night stands, he’s completely out of his depth when it comes to pursuing a real relationship. Meanwhile, Skylar has been nursing a crush on Madden—her brother’s best friend—for years, though he’s never seen her as anything more than his buddy’s little sister.

Their ultra-competitive family hosts an annual “Olympics,” and this year, Skylar is determined to finally catch Madden’s attention. To pull it off, she recruits none other than Robbie—the loudmouth hockey player—to help her. Robbie jumps at the chance to spend time with her, even if it means helping her win over another guy. The situation becomes even more complicated when Skylar, admitting her limited romantic experience, asks Robbie to teach her about flirting and intimacy. Naturally, he’s more than happy to oblige.

Bailey delivers once again. Eventually, emotions boil over, truths come out, and everyone ends up exactly where they’re meant to be. The journey is packed with humor, heart, and plenty of steam. This series seems to be shifting from hockey to baseball, and I’m totally here for it. Can’t wait to see what’s next!

9/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

PITCHER PERFECT by Tessa Bailey. Avon (September 9, 2025). ISBN: 978-0063380820. 336p.

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HE FALLS FIRST by Jill Shalvis

September 5, 2025

Colburn Brothers, Book 1

From the publisher:

No one is going to convince her to fall in love again…

Penny Rose has learned her lesson and now she’s paying the price. That’s why she’s sharing a dilapidated house in a tiny California town with her feisty grandmother and tween brother living off the leftovers from her catering job. It’s a far cry from her dream life. But who needs dreams… or love… or sex when there’s amateur plumbing projects to tackle and breakfast casseroles to bake?

One thing’s for sure, she’s never falling in love again. Not even with the sexy, snarky contractor who keeps testing the walls she’s built.

Ryder Colburn has his hands full running the family business and caring for the ailing father who’s a virtual stranger from the cold, heavy-handed man he used to be. He’s got zero free time for hobbies or women. Or so he thinks until one walks into his life… and the path of an oncoming car.

Ryder doesn’t mind playing the hero for the skittish, independent woman. Maybe it’s the secrets in her eyes or the scar on her chin. Whatever the reason, he’s compelled to get closer.

“Readers of this funny, sweet, and sexy romance will be thrilled that Ryder has siblings, who will doubtless be featured in future adventures in Star Falls.” ― Booklist

https://amzn.to/47k2NgN

He Falls First is a heartfelt, slow-burn contemporary romance infused with humor and warmth. Set in a charming small town in California, the story introduces Penny, a caterer who moves into her Gran’s run-down house to help raise her tween-age brother. Fresh off a painful breakup, Penny has sworn off men and romance, choosing instead to focus on her family, baking, and DIY home projects.

Enter Ryder Colburn, a man with equally full hands. Between caring for his ailing father, managing the family construction business, and wrangling his unruly brothers, romance is the last thing on his mind. There is a legend in this town that anyone who sees a shooting star with three stars will soon find their soul mate. When Ryder and his brothers witness the phenomenon, they all pretend they hadn’t seen it because romance isn’t on their radar. But when Ryder takes on Penny’s home improvement project, she captures not just his attention—but his heart completely. What follows is his spectacular fall into love.

One of the most refreshing aspects of the story is Ryder’s patience and the couple’s unconventional approach to romance. By removing the pressure of dating, they create space to truly understand each other—quirks, triggers, and all.

Penny’s journey is equally moving. She finds a sense of home not just in Ryder, but in his brothers and the eccentric small-town community that embraces her. The found family trope shines here, offering a comforting sense of belonging and acceptance. Watching Penny heal from past trauma—and seeing Ryder do the same—makes their love story all the more rewarding.

He Falls First marks a strong beginning to the Colburn Brothers trilogy. With not one but two epilogues teasing future installments, the story leaves readers eager for more. The writing is engaging and emotionally rich, balancing lighthearted moments with deeper themes of healing, trust, and love. This captivating romance comes highly recommended for readers who enjoy contemporary love stories seasoned with humor, wit, and genuine emotional depth.

9/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

HE FALLS FIRST by Jill Shalvis. Sourcebooks Casablanca. (August 5, 2025). ISBN: 978-1464243899. 352p.

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THE SWEET LIFE by Debbie Mason

September 5, 2025

Sunshine Bay, Book 3

From the publisher:

Sometimes you can go home again . . .

Attorney Sage Rosetti is a force to be reckoned with. Work/life balance? Never heard of it. But when the unexpected loss of her mentor sends her spiraling, she’s prescribed a healthy dose of time off. Luckily, she’s just inherited the perfect home where she can recover. Unluckily, she’s now co-owners with her high school crush/nemesis, Jake Walker. How can she truly relax when her heart is at risk?

Sage’s mother, Gia, is dealing with a crisis of her own. A new book is about to reveal their family’s biggest secret—and Gia’s devasting heartbreak. The only person she can confide in is the one man she shouldn’t be getting close to: her sister’s ex.

But just as Sage and Gia are starting to find their paths, someone from Gia’s past resurfaces who could ruin everything they’ve worked so hard to build.

Book 1: Summer on Sunshine Bay
Book 2: Three Little Wishes

https://amzn.to/46dTkXi

Sage Rosetti is a driven attorney whose life is consumed by her work advocating for the abused and mistreated. Her dedication leaves little room for anything else—no relationships, no vacations, no personal time. But everything changes with one unexpected loss.

When Sage learns that her beloved mentor, Alice, has gone missing, she rushes back to the small town of Sunshine Bay. There, she’s devastated to discover that Alice has passed away. In her will, Alice leaves Sage her home, law practice, and lavender farm. Sage plans to retreat into this inherited sanctuary—but she soon learns the house comes with a surprise co-owner: someone from her past.

Jake, once a troubled teen with abusive parents, was taken in by Alice, who gave him love, stability, and the tools to succeed. He also happens to be Sage’s high school crush—and to her surprise, the feeling was mutual. As Sage and Jake navigate their shared inheritance, old emotions, lingering insecurities, and outside pressures threaten to unravel the fragile bond they’re beginning to rebuild.

Meanwhile, Sage’s mother, Gia, is rediscovering her passion for painting. She’s also developing feelings for Flynn—her sister’s ex. But just as Gia begins to embrace happiness, her sister publishes a tell-all book exposing long-buried family secrets. The resurfacing of old wounds and familiar faces threatens to shatter the peace Gia has fought to reclaim.

This story weaves together family dynamics, romance, laughter, tears, passion, and a touch of mystery—all the beautiful chaos that makes up life’s sweetest moments. It’s a heartwarming family saga with romantic elements that creates a comforting, deeply satisfying read. Now I need to track down the earlier books in the series and catch up on all the drama I’ve missed.

9/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

THE SWEET LIFE by Debbie Mason. Forever. (June 10, 2025). ISBN: 978-1538768792. 336p.

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THE BLONDE IDENTITY by Ally Carter

August 29, 2025

From the publisher:

A Fast-Paced Spy Adventure of Amnesia, Identical Twins, and Unraveling Deadly Secrets in Europe—The Perfect Romantic Addition to Your … List

The New York Times bestselling YA author of the beloved Gallagher Girls series bursts onto the adult scene with a fast-paced, hilarious road trip rom-com about a woman with amnesia who discovers she’s the identical twin sister of a rogue spy… and must team up with a rugged, grumpy operative to stay alive.

It’s the middle of the night in the middle of Paris and a woman just woke up with no memory.

She only knows three things for certain:

1. She has a splitting headache.

2. The hottest guy she has (probably) ever seen is standing over her, telling her to run.

And oh yeah…

3. People keep trying to kill her.

She doesn’t know who. Or why. But when she sees footage of herself fighting off a dozen men there’s only one explanation: obviously. . . she’s a spy!

Except, according to Mr. Hot Guy, she’s not. She’s a spy’s identical twin sister.

Too bad the only person who knows she’s not the woman they’re looking for is this very grouchy, very sexy, very secret agent who (reluctantly) agrees to help her disappear. Which is easier said than done when a criminal organization wants you dead and every intelligence service in the world wants you caught.

Luckily, no one is looking for a pair of lovesick newlyweds on their honeymoon. And soon they’re lying their way across Europe—dodging bullets and faking kisses as they race to unravel a deadly conspiracy and clear her sister’s name.

But with every secret they uncover, the truth shifts, until she no longer knows who to trust: the twin she can’t remember or the mysterious man she can’t let herself forget…

“Carter serves up an irresistible cocktail of danger and passion in her un-put-downable adult debut . . . This snappy and suspenseful romance fires on all cylinders.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“This hilarious romantic comedy is unputdownable. The characters have instant chemistry, and their well-written dialogue is peppered with witty banter. Readers will be riveted through all of the twists and turns as the protagonists race across Europe with the bad guys hot on their heels. Those who grew up reading Carter’s Gallagher Girls teen series will tear through her adult romance debut and clamor for more.” — Library Journal

https://amzn.to/4oUnfLq

This book is an absolute blast! With its perfect blend of humor, spice, and non-stop action, it delivers a genre-bending experience that keeps the adrenaline pumping from start to finish. I hadn’t read the author’s Gallagher Girls YA series, so I came in fresh—not yet part of the Carter cult. But after this adult debut? Consider me converted by its smart writing, engaging plot, and truly unputdownable narrative.

The story kicks off with a gender-flipped Bourne Identity twist: a woman wakes up injured on the streets of Paris, with no memory of who she is or why she’s there. Before she can process anything, the hottest guy she’s ever seen is shouting at her to run—because a pack of motorcycles is barreling toward them, and the riders look deadly serious. She bolts, only to see her own face splashed across TV screens.

Her mysterious, brooding, and undeniably charming companion explains the chaos: she’s not the infamous spy everyone is hunting. That would be her identical twin sister—the one she doesn’t remember having. In fact, she can’t even recall her own name. But now, thanks to their shared face, she’s caught in the crosshairs of multiple intelligence agencies and a ruthless Russian gang.

With no other choice, she throws her trust—and her fate—into the hands of her reluctant protector. Together, they embark on a wild, high-stakes journey across Europe, dodging danger at every turn. Their enemy? One of the most powerful and merciless figures in global crime. Her mission? Stay alive long enough to uncover the truth and clear her sister’s name.

From motorcycles to trains to boats to ski lifts, the European tour is exhilarating, and the action is perfectly balanced by laugh-out-loud moments and witty banter. A total joy to read—highly recommended for anyone looking for a smart, high-octane adventure with heart, heat, and humor.

8/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

THE BLONDE IDENTITY by Ally Carter. Avon. (August 8, 2023). ISBN: 978-0063276642. 304p.