Nostalgic Book Review: The Flame and the Flower by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss
The Flame and the Flower by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss changed romance forever when it was published in 1972, helping establish the modern bodice ripper and transforming historical romance. But how does a book this influential hold up more than 50 years later? I’m breaking down the story, tropes, historical significance, problematic elements, and everything I loved (and didn’t love) about this controversial romance classic.
Nostalgic Book Review: Dream a Little Dream by Susan Elizabeth Phillips
Can a great heroine save a romance with a problematic hero? Dream a Little Dream wasn't one of my favorite Susan Elizabeth Phillips books, but I absolutely loved Rachael. Her journey from down-on-her-luck single mom to a woman slowly rebuilding her confidence was easily the best part of the book. I also loved the suspense and mystery, but Gabe and Rachael's romance was much harder for me to get on board with. It's one of those nostalgic romances where the “Does this hold up?” conversation is complex.
Hidden Gem Romance of the Week: For the Record, I Hate You
A hidden gem for second-chance romance lovers! For the Record, I Hate You by indie author Amanda Gambill is packed with angst, tension, banter, revenge, and all the unresolved feelings that make a second-chance romance impossible to put down. I gave this underhyped romance 4.5 stars—and I'm still wondering why more people aren't talking about it.
Book Review: Kiss an Angel by Susan Elizabeth Phillips
A five-star review of Kiss an Angel by Susan Elizabeth Phillips, a nostalgic marriage-of-convenience romance featuring an emotionally unavailable hero, a traveling circus, unforgettable character growth, and two very lovable animals.
Book Review: The Simple Wild by K.A. Tucker
A cozy Alaskan romance filled with slow-burn tension, family drama, and one seriously grumpy bush pilot. The Simple Wild completely consumed me—I stayed up all night reading, couldn’t put it down, and somehow fell completely in love with a low-spice romance. The yearning? Immaculate. The character arcs? Beautiful. Jonah? Exactly my kind of hero.