Cover Designer: Lori Jackson Designs | Illustration: Sarah Jane, Illustrious Jane
•••
— BLURB —
He’s the hot, tattooed bad boy that I traded insults with…and now he wants my help?
Knox Holland is in a jam. After an incredible first year on the pro motocross circuit, he should be on top of the world. Instead, his bad reputation has landed him without a team. He’s untouchable and desperate to turn it around.
Which is how he ends up at my gym asking me to train him. As a college gymnast with two Olympic medals to my name, I know a thing or two about the pressure to succeed. Last season I choked and then injured myself before I could show the world that I’m not a twenty-year-old has-been.
Focused on the future, I can’t afford to get distracted. But I recognize the desperation in Knox’s eyes, and I can’t say no to him, either.
It should have been an easy task, but nothing about Knox is easy. One minute we’re arguing, and the next I’m enjoying his shirtless handstands a little too much.
Falling for him would be a mistake…
Burnout is a sports romance with a cocky bad boy, spice, banter, and a happily ever after.
Rebecca Jenshak is a USA Today bestselling author of new adult and sports romance. She writes sexy, feel-good stories with lots of swoon-worthy moments.
Rebecca lives in Arizona. When she isn’t writing, you can find her cheering on local sports teams, hanging out with friends and family, or curled up with a good book.
He’s the hot, tattooed bad boy that I traded insults with…and now he wants my help?
Knox Holland is in a jam. After an incredible first year on the pro motocross circuit, he should be on top of the world. Instead, his bad reputation has landed him without a team. He’s untouchable and desperate to turn it around.
Which is how he ends up at my gym asking me to train him. As a college gymnast with two Olympic medals to my name, I know a thing or two about the pressure to succeed. Last season I choked and then injured myself before I could show the world that I’m not a twenty-year-old has-been.
Focused on the future, I can’t afford to get distracted. But I recognize the desperation in Knox’s eyes, and I can’t say no to him, either.
It should have been an easy task, but nothing about Knox is easy. One minute we’re arguing, and the next I’m enjoying his shirtless handstands a little too much.
Falling for him would be a mistake…
Burnout is a sports romance with a cocky bad boy, spice, banter, and a happily ever after.
•••
• MY REVIEW •
“He looks like an advertisement for bad boys, and everything inside of me screams, sign me the hell up.”
🤘 Landed a “double nac four sixty!” Hehe.
For the entire duration of this book, I was in cinnamon roll HEAVEN!! 😍🤭 I, too was right beside Avery swooning over Knox, and motorbikes, and everything BURNOUT related! This book is… *singsong voice* incredible!
It’s one of those romance books that was just easy reading. I was instantaneously pulled into a world of motocross, and gymnastics, and college parties. I hadn’t even finished the first chapter yet and I already knew that it would become an all-time favourite of mine.
This story is one part romance, one part athleticism, and one part family. It’s really well-paced and displays amazing world-building. There are various backdrops— from the race tracks, to the gymnasium, to old local haunts, to even the Holland household. They helped create a cohesive, flowing storytelling, and effortlessly transported me into each scene. They’re all vivid in their own way and I loved that Knox and Avery took me into their respective worlds.
Those who’ve read the Campus Wallflowers series would already be familiar with Knox Holland. He, along with his brothers were first introduced in their oldest brother Hendrick’s story; Tempting The Player. Burnout is the first spin-off (of sorts) centred on the Holland brothers. I recommend reading Hendrick’s bookif you haven’t. You’ll get your first peep into the Holland household, their complex but highly intriguing brotherly dynamics, and an insight into their diverse personalities. Both stories are set in the same world, and trust me when I say, once you get a taste of Valley U, you’ll be hooked.
I love sports romances, and this one had two for the price of one. Motocross and Gymnastics. Two types of sports I’ve actually never encountered in my romance reads, so it was a refreshing story. Knox and Avery are such loveable characters who are from completely different worlds, yet as their relationship gradually develops from platonic to romantic, their lives begin to interconnect. I love the appreciation and admiration they have for one another’s respective sport. Seeing these MCs become the biggest advocates of each other, not only made their friendship feel genuine, but it made their romantic relationship that much more extensive.
There’s a sweet build-up to their relationship that lingers slow-burn territory without the torture of wondering when they’ll get-together already because the banter and spicy flirting is constant. They’re simmering, marinating, cooking… whatever you wanna call it. But make no mistakes, once the sexual tension bubbles over, it’s ON! 🔥
Besides Knox’s and Avery’s relationship, I quickly became obsessed with the secondary cast of characters. Jenshak writes the most warm, authentic friendships, and Avery and Quinn’s close-knit one is just as engaging and heartwarming to see. True sisterhood right there!
There are a few secondary storylines occurring in the background that added a ton of layers to the overall narrative, and each one is just as in-depth as the next. I quickly became equally obsessed with Quinn and her boyfriend Colter’s relationship that I’m now in desperate need to see more of them. The Holland brothers are a dynamic group and bring about comic relief and relatable sibling interactions whenever dealing with realistic family matters.
Although it’s an overall lighthearted romance story, these characters also deal with tough situations, some of which are sensitive and can be triggering for some readers. It deals with parental abandonment and death, and shows the effects caused on those who’ve experienced it firsthand. These characters have insecurities, fears, and hang-ups that many (including myself) can relate to. But it also showcases their determination to overcome, to adapt, and to grow.
It’s well-thought-out and well-executed. The quality of writing is up there that I was able to connect with the characters immediately. It had the perfect balance of light and shade and self-assurance and raw vulnerability. When I wasn’t smiling like crazy, my heart was in my throat feeling for these fictional people.
Knox the broody, emotionally armoured hero and the “wear your heart on your sleeve” heroine Avery took me on an emotional ride of epic proportions!
This has gone straight to my pile of all-time comfort reads. It’s definitely one I will come back to whenever mood strikes or when I need a pick-me-up. It’s one of those books that leaves you in happy contentment, yet excited for what’s to come next.
As far as full-length novels go, this one is a fairly decent-sized read. Told from dual POVs, there’s plenty of backstory, and steady developments that the overall story neither felt rushed through or dragged out. You can expect a lively college atmosphere, plenty of hot riders racers, suspenseful tournaments, entertaining parties, hilarious inner monologues, and drool-worthy hook-ups. I really, REAAAALLY recommend it.
RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you Rebecca Jenshak and Valentine PR for the opportunity to read an advance copy! 💗
🔔 Interested in reading Burnout? Grab your copy here: Universal Link
Cover Designer: Lori Jackson Designs | Illustration: Sarah Jane, Illustrious Jane
•••
— BLURB —
He’s the hot, tattooed bad boy that I traded insults with…and now he wants my help?
Knox Holland is in a jam. After an incredible first year on the pro motocross circuit, he should be on top of the world. Instead, his bad reputation has landed him without a team. He’s untouchable and desperate to turn it around.
Which is how he ends up at my gym asking me to train him. As a college gymnast with two Olympic medals to my name, I know a thing or two about the pressure to succeed. Last season I choked and then injured myself before I could show the world that I’m not a twenty-year-old has-been.
Focused on the future, I can’t afford to get distracted. But I recognize the desperation in Knox’s eyes, and I can’t say no to him, either.
It should have been an easy task, but nothing about Knox is easy. One minute we’re arguing, and the next I’m enjoying his shirtless handstands a little too much.
Falling for him would be a mistake…
Burnout is a sports romance with a cocky bad boy, spice, banter, and a happily ever after.
Rebecca Jenshak is a USA Today bestselling author of new adult and sports romance. She writes sexy, feel-good stories with lots of swoon-worthy moments. Rebecca lives in Arizona. When she isn’t writing, you can find her cheering on local sports teams, hanging out with friends and family, or curled up with a good book.
Rebecca Jenshak is a USA Today bestselling author of new adult and sports romance. She writes sexy, feel-good stories with lots of swoon-worthy moments.
Rebecca lives in Arizona. When she isn’t writing, you can find her cheering on local sports teams, hanging out with friends and family, or curled up with a good book.
The tradition is still going strong. My favourite reads of the year is here! 2023 Edition! 😊
Besides a shitty December, I actually had a pretty good year overall. I’m determined for December to not dampened the months prior. But isn’t it amazing how a negative can easily overshadow everything positive?!
This is why I read! This is why I find books as an escape. It’s why I can’t imagine ever stopping my love of books and reading, and discovering new worlds and magically delicious (and oh-so comforting) new characters.
I exceeded my reading goal this year! 👏👏👏 And just like last year (and the years before that), I had trouble picking only 12 books out of a total of 129 I read to be featured. So please, don’t be surprised if I add some honorary mentions. But I really did try. 🤭
This year I discovered a couple of new-to-me authors, but for the most part, the books I read this year are from auto-read authors whom I knew would never fail in giving me an exciting adventure. And once again, if you’re wondering if I’d recommend any… HELL YES! HELL YES YES YES!!
(FYI: organised by romance sub-genre)
So here we go!
•••
📷 booksofthemuggleborn
•••
• Contemporary Romance •
📖 The Choice by A. Jade
(New Adult, Love Triangle, Friends-to-Lovers, Hate-to-Love, Rockstar Romance, Part of a Duet) *Trigger Warnings*
📖 Dayton Series by Stevie J. Cole & L.P. Lovell
No Prince
No Good
No Romeo (pictured)
(New Adult, High School, Friends-to-Lovers, Enemies-to-Lovers, Instant Attraction, Opposites Attract, Second Chance, Close Proximity, Standalones in an Interconnected Series) *Trigger Warnings*
📖 Scoring The Player by Rebecca Jenshak
(New Adult, College Sports Romance, Opposites Attract, Fake Dating, Close Proximity, Friends-to-Lovers, Standalone in an Interconnected Series)
📖 Unforgettable by Tayla Louise & Michelle Heard
(Adult Romance, Fake Dating, Close Proximity, Opposites Attract, Instant Attraction, Found Family, Standalone)
📖 It Should Have Bee Us by Anna B. Doe
(Small Town Romance, Sports Romance, Best Friends-to-Lovers, Hate-to-Love, Second Chance, Secrecy, Standalone in an Interconnected Series) *Trigger Warnings*
— ♥ —
Honorary Mention:
📖 Ruthless Knight by A. Jade
(New Adult, High School Romance, Opposites Attract, Plus-Sized Heroine, Secret Crush, Close Proximity, Friends-to-Lovers, Standalone in an Interconnected Series) *Trigger Warnings*
📖 Tempting The Player by Rebecca Jenshak
(New Adult, College Romance, Bodyguard Romance, Age-Gap, Close Proximity, Secret Crush, Standalone in an Interconnected Series) *Trigger Warnings*
📖 Kiss Me Tenderly by Anna B. Doe
(New Adult, College Rockstar Romance, Next-Door Neighbours, Slow-Burn, Visually Impaired Heroine, Standalone in an Interconnected Series) *Trigger Warnings*
📖 Icebreaker by Hannah Grace
(New Adult, College Sports Romance, Close Proximity, Instant Attraction, Standalone in an Interconnected Series) *Trigger Warnings*
📖 My Neighbor’s Secret by Lauren Rowe
(Adult Rom-Com, Next-Door Neighbours, Enemies-to-Lovers, Close Proximity, Workplace Romance, Friends with Benefits, Friends-to-Lovers, Instant Attraction, Standalone)
•••
• MC Romance •
— ♥ —
Honorary Mention:
📖 Sins of the Father: Billy by Nicole James
(New Adult, Second Gen MC Romance, Secret Crush, Forbidden Romance, Childhood Friends-to-Lovers, Standalone in an Interconnected Series) *Trigger Warnings*
•••
• Mafia Romance •
📖 Dangerous Innocence by Cora Reilly
(Adult Romance, Irish Mafia, Arranged Marriage, Age-Gap, Enemies-to-Lovers, Forced Proximity, Standalone in an Interconnected Series) *Trigger Warnings*
📖 Thorns of Omertà Series by Eva Winners
Thorns of Lust & Thorns of Love Duet
Thorns of Death
Thorns of Silence (pictured)
(Adult Romance, New Adult Romance, Age-Gap Romance, Opposites Attract, Close Proximity, Second Chances, Instant Attraction, Secret Romance, Diverse Characters, Standalones in an Interconnected Series) *Trigger Warnings*
📖 Kings of Mafia Series by Michelle Heard
Tempted by the Devil
Craving Danger (pictured)
(Adult Romance, Italian Mafia, Suspense, Age-Gap, Instant Attraction, Close Proximity, Opposites Attract, Standalones in an Interconnected Series) *Trigger Warnings*
— ♥ —
Honorary Mention:
📖 Corrupted Royals Series by Michelle Heard
Destroy Me
Control Me
Brutalize Me
Restrain Me
Possess Me
(Dark Mafia, Training Academy, Suspense, Forbidden Romance, Arranged Marriage, Enemies-to-Lovers, Hate-To-Love, Age-Gap, Opposites Attract, Standalones in an Interconnected Series) *Trigger Warnings*
📖 Devious Kingpin by Eva Winners
(New Adult, Suspense, Instant Attraction, Enemies-to-Lovers, Arranged Marriage, Forced Proximity, Secret Crush, Standalone in an Interconnected Series) *Trigger Warnings*
📖 The Augustine Brothers Duet by Natasha Knight
Forgive Me My Sins
Deliver Me From Evil
(Adult Romance, Dark and Suspenseful, Age-Gap, Arranged Marriage, Enemies-to-Lovers, Forced Proximity, Secrecy) *Trigger Warnings*
•••
• Dark Romance & Suspense •
📖 Billionaire Kings Series by Eva Winners
Contract of a Billionaire (pictured)
Misdeeds of a Billionaire
(Adult Romance, Dark and Suspenseful, Instant Attraction, Age-Gap, Second Chances, Secrecy, Forced Proximity, Standalones in an Interconnected Series) *Trigger Warnings*
📖 The Mindf*ck Series by ST Abby
(Dark and Suspenseful, Strong Violence, Revenge, Opposites Attract, Forbidden Romance, Secrecy, Close Proximity) *Trigger Warnings*
(New Adult, Romantic Fantasy, Training Academy, Enemies-to-Lovers, Survival of the Fittest, Secrecy, Supernatural Abilities, Diverse Characters, Continuous Series) *Trigger Warnings*
•••
There you have it! Phew. I know there were a lot! 😅 I really don’t know how others can keep it strictly top 12 reads. It’s just so cutthroat and there were so many unbelievable reads that have stayed with me.
As usual, if you want to see ALL of my reads for the year, check out my Monthly Wrap-Ups. Just note, I’m lazy lol, and I don’t have reviews up for all them but hopefully my star ratings will be enough.
Check out my December wrap-up that I just posted earlier too! It was a great month of reads.
I hope you’re all enjoying the holiday season! My thoughts go out to those who find this time of year difficult. This month hasn’t been easy on my mental health, so reading has been my sanctuary more than ever. I hope you guys find some peace and relaxation.
Stay safe and wishing all a beautiful New Year! ❤
Thank you for sticking with me, for the support you’ve all given me for my reviews and my book blog in general! I’m thankful for all the amazingly supportive people I’ve connected with through our bookish community, and the new batch of authors and books I’ve discovered over time. The friendships I’ve made, as well as the opportunities I’ve been fortunate enough to be a part of will always be the cherries on top!
I’m praying for 2024 to be a year of happiness, love, good health, and good fortune for us all!
Happy reading, and as always catch you in my next one! Xo
My high school sweetheart, the boy who shattered my heart, is back in our small town, and there will be no avoiding him for the next two weeks…
Only there is nothing boyish about Miguel Fernandez. The NFL’s best rookie defensive end is even more wickedly handsome than he was four years ago—tall, with abs for days, all that unruly hair, and eyes so dark they swallow you whole.
And that’s exactly what he’s doing every time our paths cross.
I shouldn’t let it affect me. After all, there was a good reason why we broke up in the first place. But no matter how much I try to put some distance between us, it’s impossible to stay away when our childhood friends are getting married.
Not only is he attending the wedding. He is in the wedding—the best man to my maid of honor. There will be no escaping the boy who destroyed me completely with his betrayal or stopping the secrets I kept from coming out…
NOTE: It Should Have Been Us contains dark and mature themes appropriate for readers 18+. For the full list of trigger warnings please visit author’s website.
•••
• MY REVIEW •
“It should have been us, but the truth is, it can still be us.”
👏 Well. 👏 Worth. 👏 The. 👏 Wait. Becky and Miguel are back… and coming in hot!
What started out as a couple of fun, lovable secondary characters in Kiss Me First from the Blairwood University series, are now full-fledged leading characters in this highly emotional, second chance love story. It pulls you right in— from the quaint small-town of Bluebonnet Creek, to its nosy but tight-knit community, to the genuine lifelong friendships whom are all like second family to Rebecca and Miguel.
I liked the pacing. Its steady development really assisted in soaking in the ambience and settling into the world-building. Whilst totally unnecessary, I do think reading Kiss Me First is advantageous in getting to know Rebecca and Miguel’s complex relationship in its entirety and their overall character growth. From my personal reading experience, it also felt as if I was returning to a place that I had easily fallen in love with when it was first introduced. It’s my kind of small-town backdrop with its homey charm and eclectic personalities. The character crossovers from Blairwood University to this all-new series just added the cherry on top. It’s an epic reunion not to be missed!
I couldn’t help but be on the fence about Rebecca and Miguel’s situation. I instantaneously sympathised with their predicament, but at the same time I just wanted it all to fade out giving them the opportunity they so desperately need in order to be together again. For what felt like the longest time I couldn’t see how their journey could end happily. But after reading this book, it became evident that what Rebecca and Miguel had between them could and would never really end.
It could easily have been a much more intense, more angst-ridden narrative if it wasn’t for the heart-warming moments and comic relief injected here and there. But in saying that, this story delves into some serious matters that can be difficult or triggering for some readers to cope with. It broaches on deteriorating mental health, trauma/ PTSD stemming from warfare, and death.
However, Doe has clearly placed care and attention to detail in regards to the sensitive subject matters at hand. The struggles are palpable, the raw vulnerability is at times heart-breaking to witness, but all in all, many can connect with what these characters are going through, whether it be concerning familial relationships, friendships, or romantic.
I couldn’t fault the storytelling. Doe has a way with words and she writes some of the most intricately formed, perfectly imperfect characters within a realistic environment. Her books are weighty, vivid, and thought-provoking, and this book is the epitome of said elements.
I cannot not love Rebecca and Miguel. They have undeniable chemistry, but even more so, a deep-rooted history between them. Their story is filled with memories—both good and bad, and it only made this book (and my reading experience) that much more heightened. Rebecca and Miguel constantly bicker, banter, and bonk the ever-loving sense out of one another, and yes, I was hooked on every page. 🤭
There’s plenty of unpredictability and “crossroad” types of situations, but there are also tons of possibilities which I adored. This is the introduction to the series and the cast of characters that will be appearing in the next books to come. Doe teases at potential pairings with each new character and sub-plot development, that by the end my level of excitement had amped up significantly.
Overall, a perfect contemporary romance read to temporarily escape the daily grind. There’s a good mixture of angst, anticipation, love and lust. The sexual content has just the right amount of spice included. It’s told from dual POV so you really get an insight into each MCs perspective on the same matter. I think it’s a strong start to the Bluebonnet Creek series. Intrigue has already set in for me, and I can only presume the world-building is only going to get more extensive as the series continues. I already have a few secondary characters I’m keen to see again and hopefully have their own stories told. It’s effortless to follow and just straight-up heartfelt.
If you enjoy reading sports romances, small town romances, and/or second chance romances with a friends-to-lovers trope, add this one to your immediate TBR list. There’s a bit of a slow-burn in the first half but totally manageable as their interactions are lively regardless.
RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you Anna B. Doe for the opportunity to read an advance copy! 💗
Anastasia Allen has worked her entire life for a shot at Team USA.
A competitive figure skater since she was five years old, a full college scholarship thanks to her place on the Maple Hills skating team, and a schedule that would make even the most driven person weep, Stassie comes to win.
No exceptions.
Nathan Hawkins has never had a problem he couldn’t solve. As captain of the Maple Hills Titans, he knows the responsibility of keeping the hockey team on the ice rests on his shoulders.
When a misunderstanding results in the two teams sharing a rink, and Anastasia’s partner gets hurt in the aftermath, Nate finds himself swapping his stick for tights, and one scary coach for an even scarier one.
The pair find themselves stuck together in more ways than one, but it’s fine, because Anastasia doesn’t even like hockey players…right?
•••
• MY REVIEW •
“I’m not going to act like I hate you, Anastasia.”
“Why?”
“Because I could never hate you.”
NEW OBSESSION ALERT!! I need more books from Maple Hills! 😍😍
Don’t let the cutesy illustrated cover fool you. This book is *singsong voice* spiiiiicy! Well… for a contemporary new adult romance, that is. It’ll leave you all jelloid and in a happy daze.
Ahh. A book that (in my opinion) lives up to the hype! It has, and still IS going around socials as one hot-ass sports romance, and hand-to-heart, it’s true. So true.
This book pulled me out of a savage, months-long reading slump, so when I say it’s worth a read, I damn well mean it. It had everything I enjoy in a romance read: An intriguing premise, solid storytelling, ambience, a diverse and eclectic cast of personalities, gradual character growth, relationship goals, relatability, and a great balance of light and shade. Pretty basic elements, right?
It was well-paced and constantly developing. There wasn’t a single moment I wasn’t gripped by. It’s so vivid to picture in your mind that it almost seemed like I was watching it all play-out right in front of me. It’s one of those stories that’s ideal for the screens! This book only grew from strength to strength as Anastasia and Nate’s relationship evolved.
I don’t handle slow-burn romances well. I’m impatient, and the teasing can get me all huffy and grouchy if the MCs don’t step up their game. This one was tolerable… only because Anastasia and Nate continually keep their attraction to one another in the forefront so it doesn’t always feel like it’s a slow-burn.
Putting the romance aside, I was quite taken with the serious issues these characters deal with. Grace has taken real-life matters that many may resonate with, whether it be familial dynamics, toxic relationships and work environments, coping with mental health, personal insecurities, and more importantly, self-worth, and tackled it in a healthy, sensible, and manageable way. Some of the content that this book touches on are sensitive matters and can be triggering, but addressed with thought and care. I could relate with certain struggles so I found myself connecting with these characters almost instantaneously. I love that they’re raw and flawed, and Anastasia’s attitude is definitely an acquired taste, but it’s evident Grace has put some time and research into ensuring there’s a genuineness to her and Nate’s emotions and a reasoning behind their mindset.
The cast of secondary characters— the friends and teammates were not only one amazing support system throughout, but they added so much lightness in so many ways, from their hilarious banter, to their thoughtful consideration, to little efforts here and there in ensuring Anastasia (and even her bestie) always felt comfortable, appreciated, and protected.
It’s a banger of a start to the Maple Hills series. There are so many minor storylines developing in the background with the majority of the secondary characters that I hoping and wishing they all get a book of their own. If I had it my way, it may very well end up becoming a super long series, but with how much I adore the array of characters, I wouldn’t be complaining in the slightest.
Grace is a new-to-me-author and this book was a phenomenal introduction to her writing. I knew from the very first chapter that her writing style was just my vibe! This college, sports romance world-building has hustle-and-bustle atmosphere where life events are always flowing. It’s the quintessential fun, serendipitous college life that always seem to be depicted in the majority of young contemporary rom-coms. The buzz is addictive. I had the best time reading it. I cannot wait to get stuck into Wildfire!
Sports Romance? Check. College backdrop? Check. Close proximity? Yep, check. Opposites attract? Check. A little enemies-to-lovers? Check. Sexy hook-ups? Mm-hmm, check!
Valley U’s hottest QB has heard in detail how I want to climb him like a tree.
One viral video and my life as a wallflower is over.
Felix Walters knows exactly how I feel about him—so does everyone else on campus.
It was supposed to be a private conversation between friends.
Now I’m the butt of every joke and everywhere I turn all eyes are on me.
It’s every shy girl’s nightmare.
Except now the hottest guy on campus wants to be my fake boyfriend.
Six weeks. Just pretend.
I’m a wallflower fake dating Valley U’s hottest player.
•••
• MY REVIEW •
“He has charm for days and that smile…damn that smile makes me forget my own name.”
I am obsessed! This series gets more and more addictive with each new book. Just when I thought Gavin and Violet had cemented themselves as my favourite couple from the Campus Wallflowers series, Felix and Dahlia do a sneaky-sneak and steal the throne right from under them!
Amazing. Swoon-worthy. Un-frigging-putdownable. So many adjectives pop into my head when I think about this book and what it evoked out of me. But the one that probably sums it all up best for me is: PERFECT. (Yes, caps needed!)
It’s one of those romance books I wished lasted a little longer. It has world-building I easily pictured in my head and would totally watch on screen if it was ever made into a tv show or movie. It was vivid, constantly evolving, and with a college backdrop I’m lowkey jelly of as my university was never hustling and bustling with as much curricular activities as Valley U. 😅
Jenshak has taken the opposites-attract trope— which, in this case is the popular jock/ shy heroine and the fake dating relationship trope and created a magically delicious narrative. Felix and Dahlia are two fictional characters who I couldn’t fault. I love them to bits! Did they have hiccups, and mishaps, and tons of embarrassing moments between them? Yes. But you know what? It was a rom-com lover’s dream seeing these two interact, and getting insight into their internal monologues. I belly-laughed, I ooh-ed and ahh-ed, and dammit even the waterworks started up. There was a steady build-up to the developing relationship that really amped up the anticipation of their HEA. Although they intended it to be a fake-dating relationship, Felix and Dahlia develop a friendship that’s just as noteworthy and substantial as those already existing in their respective circle of friends.
I am certain this book will end up in my top reads of 2023. It’s well-paced storytelling and told from interchanging POVs. It can be read as a standalone, as is with the other books in the series but I recommend for a fuller reading experience to read in publishing order. Certain secondary characters that make an appearance in this book are already established couples and certain parts would make a lot more sense if you already know their backstory.
I rarely read NA romance books anymore, but this series called to me like a siren song right from the very first premise of the very first book. Now onto this third and I am floating on a cloud. I am all-in with these cool, fun girlfriends, and the charming young men they’re each crushing on.
It’s not hard to see why Dahlia had eyes only for Felix. He is the quintessential popular guy that stands out from the crowd. Not only because of his drool-worthy good looks and athletic prowess, but because of his caring, protective, and outgoing nature that gradually eases Dahlia out of her cocoon.
Dahlia toes the line between shy “nerd” and athlete; being a golfer. But this heroine has plenty more talents, and getting to know her personality was both highly entertaining and heart-warming. She’s thoughtful, down-to-earth, and I found to be such a genuinely relatable character.
I adored the friendships present in this book too. Both Dahlia’s close-knit friendship with her roommates, and from Felix’s banter-fueled friends and teammates. Not that this story needed any more comic-relief with the number of funny scenes included, but the group dynamics definitely added more amusement to the overall reading experience.
It’s an overall feel-good, comfort read that I can (and will) go back to time and time again and never tire of seeing Felix and Dahlia’s adorable relationship evolve.
With storytelling that was effortless to follow, intriguing characters that immediately hooked me in, and copious amounts of college-focused events, this book was buzzing with excitement from start to finish.
If you’re looking for a contemporary college romance, look no more! There’s a good balance of sporting elements, overall school setting, and personal growth. I can’t say enough positive things about this one. The characters are well-developed, the plot well-written and fleshed-out, and the romance department isn’t lacking either. Be prepared for some LOL moments, second-hand embarrassment, and heart-palpitating dialogue.
This book is dedicated to the sporty ones, but I also think it’s for those, like me, who may have been the shy girl in school, the invisible girl, the girl who got teased, the girl who never got chosen for anything, the girl who wasn’t in the “clique”. Because Dahlia gets you. And Daisy, and Violet, and Jane.
Jenshak has a knack for writing unbelievably sweet, light-hearted romances that still deal with real-life struggles that plenty of readers may resonate with. This is book is love, family, and friendship. It’s wholehearted, and filled with positivity and solid pillars of support. Felix, Dahlia, and their story has left an imprint of happiness on me. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you Rebecca Jenshak and Valentine PR for the opportunity to read an advance copy! ❤
🔔 Interested in reading Scoring The Player? Grab your copy here: Amazon | Apple Books | Nook | Kobo Coming Soon!
Yep, I’m doing another round-up of my favourite reads,. This will be my third year posting and it’s looking like it’ll be a yearly tradition. Wooo!
I had another rollercoaster year. I remember the first few months of 2022 wishing the year would roll by quick, and now that it’s finally time to ring in the new year, I have such a bittersweet feeling because the last two-to-three months elevated the year.
I say this every year because it really is true in my life… reading has and always will be my form of sanctuary and escapism from the daily grind. I’m your stereotypical introvert who prefers books to company. The older I get the more I’ve preferred a cosy night in with a swoon-worthy book, a favourite movie playing in the background, and tons of comfort food, and I don’t really see my preferences changing back to my younger years when I spent over an hour getting ready to go out and dance the night away (although on a rare occasion I might brush off the party dress and put on a friendly smile hehe).
Now! 👏 Are you ready to see the books I ended up loving the most from all the 100+ books I read this year? Even I surprised myself when I went back to compilate this list. 😲
Here is my compilation of favourite reads of 2022. Ooh man, it was hard! Like last year, I ideally wanted to pluck out one favourite book from each month but damn it was hard! Some months had multiple stellar reads, so I tried had to do a little bit of finessing… *cough* cheating *cough* 😜😁
But I will say this, I have a bunch of different authors in this list, some are new-to-me authors that have quickly been added to my auto-buy authors list. So if you’re wondering if I’d recommend any… HELL YES!
(Nanny/ Single Dad, Opposites Attract, Grumpy-Sunshine, Standalone in an Interconnected Series)
Hating The Player by Rebecca Jenshak
(Hate-to-Love, Second Chances, Next-Door Neighbours, College Sports Romance, Standalone in an Interconnected Series)
📖 Shattered And Salvaged Duet by Anna B. Doe
Kiss To Shatter & Kiss To Salvage
(Brother’s Best Friend, Secret Romance, College Sports Romance, New Adult Romance, Standalone in an Interconnected Series) *Trigger Warnings*
— ♥ —
Honorary Mention:
📖 Kiss To Belong by Anna B. Doe
(Best Friends-to-Lovers, Secret Crush, Close Proximity, Surprise Pregnancy, College Romance) *Trigger Warnings*
•••
• MC Romance •
Keeping The Throne by Nicole James
(MC Romance, Whirlwind Romance, Age-Gap Romance, Standalone in an Interconnected Series) *Trigger Warnings*
•••
• Mafia Romance •
Sinners Series by Michelle Heard
Taken By A Sinner (pictured)
Owned By A Sinner
Stolen By A Sinner
Chosen By A Sinner
Captured By A Sinner
(Dark Mafia, Suspense, Arranged Marriage, Enemies-to-Lovers, Hate-To-Love, Age-Gap, Standalones in an Interconnected Series) *Trigger Warnings*
Sins Of The Orchid by Eva Winners
(Age-Gap, Forbidden Romance, Best Friend’s Brother, Suspense, Standalone, Italian Mafia) *Trigger Warnings*
By Fate I Conquer by Cora Reilly
(Enemies-to-Lovers, Close Proximity, Forbidden Romance, Secret Romance, Suspense, Dark Romance, Standalone in an Interconnected Series) *Trigger Warnings*
•••
• Dark Romance •
The Devil’s Pawn Duet by Natasha Knight
Devil’s Pawn & Devil’s Redemption
(Dark, Beauty & The Beast Inspired, Suspense, Enemies-to-Lovers, Arranged Marriage, Close Proximity) *Trigger Warnings*
📖 The Rite Trilogy by A. Zavarelli & Natasha Knight
(Paranormal, Sci-Fi, Crime Thriller, Superhuman Abilities, Suspense, Small Town, New Adult Romance, Interconnected Series) *Trigger Warnings*
📖 Cruelest Oblivion Duet by M.A. Heard
Cruelest Oblivion & Sweetest Awareness
(Dystopian Romance, Survival of the Fittest, Suspense, Close Proximity, New Adult Romance) *Trigger Warnings*
•••
There you have it! 😊 As you can see I’ve added a handful of books not pictured, but they were either part of a series or duet and needed mentioning.
And as usual, if you want to see ALL my reads for the year, check out my Monthly Wrap-Ups with links to my reviews. Just note, I’m lazy lol, and I don’t have reviews up for all them but hopefully my star ratings will be enough.
Check out my December wrap-up that I just posted earlier too! It was my biggest month of reads— hey, what did I tell ya? This year really has ended on a positive.
I hope you’re all enjoying the Christmas/ End of year holidays! My thoughts go out to those who are working over this crazy, hectic time— don’t overwork and make sure you take time for yourself. Hope everyone is staying safe and wishing a beautiful New Year’s Eve/ Day! 😘🎉
Thank you for the support you’ve all given me for my reviews and my book blog in general! I’m in awe of the amazing people I’ve met through this complex bookish community, and the copious amounts of books I’ve discovered over time. I’m truly thankful for the friendships I’ve made, as well as the opportunities I’ve been fortunate enough to be a part of.
Fingers crossed 2023 will be a year of happy bliss, love, good health, and good fortune for us all!
Happy reading, and as always catch you in my next one! Xo
Prescott Wentworth is my brother’s best friend and teammate.
We hate each other.
But we also can’t keep our hands off each other.
The day I met the star wide receiver, he was acting like a grumpy ass, and I was so over big, bulky men messing with my life. He was gorgeous, with wide shoulders, a chiseled jaw hidden behind a week’s worth of scruff, and the meanest glare I’ve seen in my life. So what if he was injured during a game? At least he’s alive, not that he appreciates it.
Now it’s a new school year, but some things never change.
Like the sizzling tension between Prescott and me every time we’re in the same room. But the more we fight, the more I want to shut him up. With my mouth.
Then he sees me on a date with someone else, and something in him snaps.
The deal is simple: it’s just sex, and nobody can ever find out. Especially not my brother.
But then the demons from my past come back to haunt me. The darker they become, the more I need Prescott. And I’m beginning to feel like he needs me too.
NOTE: Kiss To Salvage is book two in Shattered & Salvaged Duet. You need to read Kiss To Shatter in order to understand this book. Shattered & Salvaged Duet contains dark and mature themes appropriate for readers 18+. For the full list of trigger warnings please visit http://www.annabdoe.com/trigger-warnings.
•••
• MY REVIEW •
“You make me want to be better. Only you.”
I don’t know how else to describe reading Jade and Prescott’s story other than its therapeutic. It puts you through the wringer but by the end it leaves you feeling emotionally lighter. If there’s one story that fits the meaning of “emotional rollercoaster” to a T, then it’s this one without a doubt. I went from crying, to smiling, and back again with each chapter I’d read. All the push-and-pull and all the ups and downs between them definitely took an emotional, mental, and even physical toll on me, but man, was it worth it.
Doe stepped it up and killed it with this one. It’s another epic addition to the Blairwood University series that I will go back to over and over again. I can’t fault the writing— it’s well-written, well-developed, and totally encompasses you in its world-building. The premise caught my curiosity, the narrative sucked me in, and the characters took hold off me until it was time to part ways.
Not only has Doe written something thought-provoking, inspiring, and truly heartfelt, but she’s brought to life characters who’ve managed to make those who read it a part of their journey. I came away from this book feeling as if Jade and Prescott were real people who I knew and absolutely cared for.
I found this duet to be one of the rare exceptions where both books had solid storytelling from start to finish. It’s rich, vivid, with constantly evolving characters. The dual POVs gave so much insight into both Jade’s and Prescott’s mentality, their emotional state, and most importantly showed how far and how deep they’ve grown as individuals.
It’s well-paced, with tons of twists and turns that had me in suspense for the entirety of the time. I wish I could experience reading their story for the first time again. Jade and Prescott are a pair of all-consuming characters that deserved (and rightly received) my undivided attention. Their stories are full of genuine, relatable experiences, some of which I could completely relate to and sympathise with. These characters are flawed but there’s nothing about them I didn’t love.
“You were there when it mattered. When I was at my lowest, you were there, and you helped me cling to reality. Cling to life.”
This is one of Doe’s best work and reading it, it’s evident how much time and effort, heart and soul she’s put in ensuring Jade and Prescott’s story was a worthy one. And it is. From the grittiness to the fragility, I was blown away by the multitude of layers it contained and how well-balanced all the elements were within. Whilst the intense romance is undoubtedly an element I was gripped by, the entire cast of secondary characters came a close second in elevating Jade and Prescott’s world. The contrast and group dynamics in itself was a powerful presence and helped cast the atmosphere.
One of my favourite reads of the year. It’s the type of contemporary romance read that I effortlessly got invested in. It may fall under the New Adult umbrella but make no mistake these college students are well beyond their years. The friendships are goals just as much as the romantic relationships. It can be read as a standalone but this series is interconnected through its characters, and I highly recommend reading them all. Whilst each book has some form of angst, drama, and personal struggles, this story in particular deals with another level of heaviness and heartbreak. It contains sensitive subject matters that may be triggering or disturbing for some readers to deal with. Please proceed with caution.
As it is a continuous storyline, Kiss To Shatter needs to be read first before starting this one. But all in all, I recommend the hell out of this duet. It’s a reading experience that has surprisingly taught me a lot about self-worth, love, and sacrifice. If you’re in need of a good cry and in the mood to hunker down with a hearty romance story, then add this one to your immediate TBR. It delivers. If I could rate it higher, I would.
RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you Anna B. Doe for the opportunity to read an advance copy! 💗
🔔 Interested in reading the Shattered and Salvaged Duet? Grab the books here:
booksofthemuggleborn 
You must be logged in to post a comment.