Nostalgic Book Review: It Had to Be You by Susan Elizabeth Phillips
Phoebe is one of my favorite heroines ever, and It Had to Be You by Susan Elizabeth Phillips is a funny, smart, sexy 1994 sports romance I already want to reread. Here’s my honest review, rating, tropes, and spoiler-free thoughts.
Nostalgic Book Review: Amanda by Kay Hooper
Amanda by Kay Hooper is a 1996 gothic romantic suspense that kept me guessing until the very end. Here’s my honest review, rating, tropes, and whether it holds up in 2026.
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.
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.