Showing posts with label Workplace romance. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Workplace romance. Show all posts

Sunday, July 12, 2026

Book review: GRIZZ, by Sawyer Bennett & Bill Keenan


Vipers #1

Grizz & Daisy

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This story follows Grizz, the explosive star player of the New York Vipers, and Daisy, a rising fashion writer who gets fired for asking the hard questions nobody wants to answer. Both of them are bold, stubborn, and used to being called “difficult,” so when Daisy ends up working for the Vipers and is assigned to keep Grizz in line, the clash is instant.

What I loved is how Daisy sees past Grizz’s rough edges right away. She doesn’t baby him, doesn’t get intimidated, and doesn’t let him skip out on his responsibilities. That earns his respect fast, and the chemistry between them starts building in this push‑pull way that feels natural for two people who don’t trust easily. Their connection turns physical early, and even though they call it casual, it’s obvious they’re becoming each other’s safe place.


The book spends a lot of time inside their heads — their fears, their anger, their pasts — and that gives the romance a heavier, more emotional tone. Grizz’s family situation adds depth, showing why he carries so much bottled‑up pain. Daisy becomes the person who steadies him, even when he tries to shove her away.


There is a breakup, and it hurts, but it fits who they are: two people terrified of repeating old patterns. The reunion is tender and full of longing, though I wished the ending had more closure. I wanted an epilogue or at least clarity about Daisy’s job plans.


What I loved:


• Daisy’s strength — she’s firm, funny, and refuses to shrink herself.

• Grizz’s vulnerability — once he lets you see it, you root for him.

• Elias, the best friend — honestly one of my favorite parts. His support is warm and non‑pushy.

• The writing style feels different from Sawyer Bennett’s solo books: more description, more rumination, less hockey action. I missed the girlfriend group energy from other Vipers stories, but the friendship here was wonderful.


This is a heated, emotional, character‑heavy romance about two abrasive, passionate people learning how to soften for each other. It’s messy, tender, and full of slow healing. The ending needed a bit more wrap‑up, but the journey was strong and satisfying.


Purchase links


https://geni.us/Grizz



About the authors


Meet Sawyer Bennett:

New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling author Sawyer Bennett uses real life experience to create relatable stories that appeal to a wide array of readers. From contemporary romance, fantasy romance, and both women’s and general fiction, Sawyer writes something for just about everyone.

A former trial lawyer from North Carolina, when she is not bringing fiction to life, Sawyer is a chauffeur, stylist, chef, maid, and personal assistant to her very adorable daughter, as well as full-time servant to her wonderfully naughty dogs.

If you’d like to receive a notification when Sawyer releases a new book, sign up for her newsletter (sawyerbennett.com/signup).


Connect with Sawyer Bennett:

https://geni.us/SawyerBennett


Meet Bill Keenan:

Bill Keenan played hockey at Harvard University from 2005 to 2008 and professionally in Europe from 2009 to 2012. After completing his MBA at Columbia Business School, he worked for two years in Deutsche Bank's investment banking division. He currently serves as COO of Graydon Carter's Air Mail.


Connect with Bill Keenan:

https://www.instagram.com/billkeenanwrites/ 




Tuesday, June 16, 2026

Book review: LEAD ME HOME, by Catherine Bybee


Queen Anne Hill #1

Luna & Nate

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This book was everything I love in romance: warm, funny, suspenseful, and full of heart. The author has a gift. Her writing just flows — clean, confident, and so beautifully balanced between dialogue and action that I never once felt pulled out of the story. She lets her characters reveal themselves through what they do and they say, not endless inner monologues - no dragging, no overthinking, just characters who breathe on the page.

Luna, a brilliant forensic accountant with a sharp mind and a soft heart, completely won me over. And Nate, the ex‑FBI fraud guy turned private investigator, is the kind of steady, protective presence that makes you breathe easier just by being in the room. Their meet‑cute at Starbucks had me laughing out loud — the spilled coffee, the mutual blaming, the elevator moment, the “Mr. Venti” nickname. It was perfect.


The fraud case they work on together is engaging, but what truly grabbed me was Luna’s life: the old mansion she inherited, the roof problems, the sweet roommate, the siblings who love her, and the mother who drains her. I recognized that mother. The passive‑aggressive sweetness, the manipulation, the way she always centers herself. Reading Luna’s journey — especially the moment she finally says enough — felt deeply cathartic. I cheered for her. I understood her. I felt her. 


And Nate… of the gray sweatpants. The way he shows up for her, cooks for her, protects her without smothering her, respects her boundaries, and still lets her see his own wounds — it’s tender and grown‑up and so refreshing. Their chemistry builds slowly, naturally, with humor, fear, attraction, and trust all tangled together.


The author writes secondary characters with the same care: Harper, Ash, Miley — all vivid, all lovable. Even the haunted‑house moment had me grinning (hello, Ethel!).  Midnight the cat was also cute and entertaining, she almost speaks!


This book is riveting, heartfelt, funny, and healing. It gave me a heroine I rooted for, a hero I adored, and a story that felt like a warm hand on my back saying, “You’re allowed to choose peace.”

Five shining stars!


Purchase links


Amazon: https://tinyurl.com/queenannehill1us

Barnes & Noble: https://tinyurl.com/leadmehome-bn

Books-a-Million: https://tinyurl.com/leadmehome-bam

Audible: https://tinyurl.com/leadmehome-aud


Add to your Goodreads TBR
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/242029141-lead-me-home/



About the author


Catherine Bybee is a #1 Wall Street Journal, New York Times, and USA Today bestselling author whose compelling stories have captivated readers worldwide.  With more than 11 million books sold, and her work translated into multiple languages, she has firmly established herself as a powerhouse in contemporary romance and women’s fiction.


Catherine’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and self-belief.  Notably, her career took a remarkable turn with her self-published novel “Wife by Wednesday”.  This initial indie success not only propelled her onto bestseller lists but also showcased her ability to connect directly with readers, a skill that continues to define her career.


Beyond her literary achievements, Catherine is deeply committed to empowering women through her stories.  Her novels feature strong, independent female characters who navigate life’s challenges with resilience and grace.  She crafts narratives that explore themes of self-discovery, personal strength, and the importance of supportive relationships.


Prior to her writing career, Catherine spent many years as a registered nurse in busy urban emergency rooms. This experience provided her with a unique perspective on the challenges and complexities of life, which she skillfully weaves into her storytelling.


Whether discussing her inspiring journey as an independent author, the importance of female narratives, or the art of crafting stories, Catherine Bybee’s engaging presence and heartfelt message resonate with audiences of all backgrounds.  For more information, visit www.catherinebybee.com.


Monday, June 8, 2026

Book review: JUST MY LUCK, by Lena Hendrix


The Kings #2

Abel & Sloane

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This story felt tender and steady, with two people who’ve been through too much finally finding someone who sees them. Sloane is a tired but loving mom doing everything she can for her “chickens,” living in a tiny cabin and holding her world together with grit and heart. Abel is the town grump with a past that weighs on him, but underneath he’s gentle, loyal, and so much kinder than people give him credit for.

Their connection grows in this quiet, everyday way — small moments, real struggles, and the kind of support that feels earned. I didn’t love one early prank (it felt silly and out of place), but the book gets much better after that. What really won me over was how they show up for each other, how the kids soften Abel, and how Sloane’s warmth slowly pulls him out of his shell.


It’s a sweet, emotional romance about second chances, healing, and choosing the people who choose you. A solid, heartfelt four‑star read.


Purchase links


https://www.kensingtonbooks.com/9781496761309/just-my-luck-deluxe-limited-edition/


About the author


Lena Hendrix is a USA Today and Amazon Top 5 Bestselling contemporary romance author living in the Midwest. Her love for romance started with sneaking racy Harlequin paperbacks as a teenager and now she writes her own hot-as-sin small town romance novels. Lena has a soft spot for strong alphas with marshmallow insides, heroines who clap back, and sizzling tension. Her novels pack in small town heart with a whole lotta heat.


When she's not writing or devouring new novels, you can find her hiking, camping, fishing, and sipping a spicy margarita!


Want to hang out? Find Lena on Tiktok or IG!


Connect with Lena Hendrix: 

https://www.instagram.com/authorlenahendrix/ 


Tuesday, May 12, 2026

Book review: CROSBY, by Sawyer Bennett


Portland Wildfire #1

Crosby & Juno

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I don’t know where this author gets her ideas, but she is so creative and never repeats herself. I’ve read all the Cold Fury books, all the Pittsburgh Titans, and now this new Portland team, and every story feels fresh, different, and completely compelling. This one grabbed me from page one.

Juno is such an interesting heroine. She’s a talented documentarist with a reputation for integrity and honesty, and her first documentary, Sanctuary, earned Golden Globe and Oscar nominations. It was based in part on her own past, which makes her strength even more impressive. She escaped a cult at thirteen, saved other kids by speaking up, and then had to rebuild her life with foster parents who finally gave her real love. She’s grounded, smart, intuitive, and she sees people clearly — sometimes more clearly than they want.


Then we have the new expansion team in Portland, and the author’s descriptions of the stadium made me want to walk through it myself. Patrick Rowe built a place that feels like a luxury spaceship for hockey players, and every detail shows how much he cares about his team.


Crosby Hale, the goalie, is fascinating in that quiet, intense way. He avoids the spotlight, keeps to himself, and focuses only on the game. His past engagement ended because his ex wanted fame more than a real relationship, and now she’s back in his orbit in the most uncomfortable way possible, she’s now married to another team player. I was already preparing popcorn for the drama.


Juno and her friend Eddie get full access to film the team, and everyone warms up to her except Crosby — which of course makes him the most interesting one. When he finally gives her a few minutes, he’s surprised by how sharp and fun she is. Their connection builds slowly, naturally, with great banter and honest conversations. I loved watching them go from cautious to comfortable to something deeper.


A standout for me was Crosby’s sister, Birdie. Her job as a saturation diver is wild and claustrophobic, but she’s brave, funny, and loyal. She and Crosby have such a strong bond, and she adds so much heart to the story. I’m quietly shipping her with Patrick Rowe.


The romance grows in a steady, believable way — slow, then warm, then intense. And of course, Cherry (the ex) brings chaos the moment she steps into the picture. She wants attention, she wants control, and she wants to get under Crosby’s skin. The tension she creates is delicious, and the fallout is messy in all the right ways.


By the end, I was fully invested in Juno and Crosby, in the team, in the stadium, in the whole world the author is building. And now I’m counting the days until Locke Donovan’s book, because that man is pure chaos on skates and I need to see Patrick deal with Miller and his wife.


A strong start to a new series, full of heart, tension, and characters you want to follow for many books to come.


Purchase links


https://geni.us/SB_Crosby


About the author


New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling author Sawyer Bennett uses real life experience to create relatable stories that appeal to a wide array of readers. From contemporary romance, fantasy romance, and both women’s and general fiction, Sawyer writes something for just about everyone.

A former trial lawyer from North Carolina, when she is not bringing fiction to life, Sawyer is a chauffeur, stylist, chef, maid, and personal assistant to her very adorable daughter, as well as full-time servant to her wonderfully naughty dogs.

If you’d like to receive a notification when Sawyer releases a new book, sign up for her newsletter (sawyerbennett.com/signup).


Connect with Sawyer Bennett:

https://geni.us/SawyerBennett

Monday, February 16, 2026

Book review: FOREVER UNDONE, by J. Saman


Forever Boston #1

Ashton & Skylar

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

A deliciously messy, emotionally rich, slow‑burn‑turned‑wildfire romance, this book grabbed me from page one and never let go. Ashton and Skylar are the perfect storm of unresolved tension, old wounds, and that brand of snark that’s basically foreplay in disguise. Their history is chaotic, their present is complicated, and their chemistry is undeniable. I loved every second of watching them circle each other, clash, retreat, and collide again.

What really sold me is how much heart sits beneath all the banter and snark. Ashton’s journey as a single dad rebuilding his life, Skylar’s healing after an abusive relationship, and the way Zoey fits into both of their worlds—it all feels tender, grounded, and deeply earned. The found family threads, the hospital setting, the forced proximity, the “we’re married but not like that (until we very much are)” dynamic… it’s delicious.


Despite the heavy topics, the story balances humor, vulnerability, and heat beautifully. The emotional payoff is huge, the character growth is satisfying, and the romance is the kind that makes you root for them with your whole chest. And it has just an itty bitty feeling of suspense!


The author takes us again to the Boston Fritz’s world, now joined with the Hughes family, powerful and rich, although not like the Fritz royalty.  I think this new series will include the younger generation of grandkids of Octavia Fritz, the matriarch of the empire, and I’m all for it!


If you love grumpy‑meets‑sunshine energy, protective heroes, resilient heroines, and a slow burn that eventually erupts, this one is a must‑read. I devoured it.


Purchase links


FREE with Kindle Unlimited

http://geni.us/ForeverUndone


Audible: https://bit.ly/3MbCWPW

Narrated by: CJ Bloom and JF Harding


Goodreads: https://bit.ly/43WmxVs



About the author


J. Saman is a USA Today and Amazon top 40 bestselling author who writes sassy, swoony, and scorching contemporary romances. She is addicted to Diet Coke, sour candy, and indie rock. She swears way too much (especially after a glass of wine) and has a penchant for sarcasm (or so her husband and children like to tell her).


J. is an admitted lover of second chance romances, enemies to lovers, and the perfect amount of angst. She is best known for writing funny and emotional romances filled with smart, strong women, and sexy alphas who have a softer side—especially for their women.


Connect with J. Saman

Website: https://www.jsamanbooks.com/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14923699.J_Saman

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/J.-Saman/author/B01FOIUR46

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/jsamanbooks

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/jsamansradtasticreaders

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/jsamanbooks

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jsamanbooks

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/j-saman

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/jsamanbooks/


Book review: STOLEN PRINCESS, by J. Saman

Once Upon Ever After #3 Desta & Ferrin ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A magical, emotional, high‑adventure romance that kept my heart racing! Desta is fi...