Book Review for TAKE THE BRIDE by Carly Phillips

TAKE THE BRIDE by Carly Phillips

• File Size: 255 KB
• Print Length: 125 pages
• Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited
• Publisher: Evil Eye Concepts, Incorporated (May 28, 2019)
• Publication Date: May 28, 2019
• Sold by: Amazon Digital Services LLC
• Language: English
• ASIN: B07K6ZTNKZ
• Reviewed by Angels With Attitude Book Reviews
• 
  
• 5 stars from us

Purchase your copy of TAKE THE BRIDE today!

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon AU

About TAKE THE BRIDE:

From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Carly Phillips comes a new story in her Knight Brothers series… She used to be his. Now she’s about to marry another man. Will he let her go … or will he stand up and take the bride? Ryder Hammond and Sierra Knight were high school sweethearts. Despite him being her brother's best friend, their relationship burned hot and fast…and ended with heartbreak and regrets. Years later, she’s at the altar, about to marry another man. He’s only there for closure, to finally put the past behind him. But when the preacher asks if anyone has a reason the couple shouldn’t wed, she turns around and her gaze locks on his. Suddenly he’s out of his seat. Objecting. Claiming. And ultimately stealing the very pissed off bride and taking her to a secluded cabin. He wants one week to convince her they’re meant to be, to remind her of the fiery passion still burning between them. When their time together is up, will she walk away and break his heart this time, or will he finally have the woman he's wanted all along? **Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you'll enjoy each one as much as we do.**  

Add TAKE THE BRIDE to your Goodreads TBR here!

Purchase your copy of TAKE THE BRIDE today!

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon AU

This novella bursts onto the scene with an irresistible blend of heat, heart, and hope. Centered around Ryder and Sierra, two lovers torn apart by time but reunited by undeniable chemistry and unfinished business, the story thrives on themes of redemption and the pursuit of that elusive happily ever after we all dreamed about as teenagers. It’s a lighthearted yet emotionally charged romance that deftly combines flirtation and fiery passion, making it a memorable first encounter with this author’s work.

What truly makes this novella stand out is the palpable connection between the protagonists. Ryder and Sierra feel like a perfectly matched puzzle—an intense, magnetic pair whose love, despite years of separation, never waned. Their interactions are crackling with tension; just one heated look reignites the flames, showcasing an intoxicating mix of longing and familiarity. This dynamic plays out effortlessly, drawing readers into their journey with authenticity and sizzling moments that never feel forced.

The author excels at packing depth and warmth into a compact format. Although the story is a novella, it doesn’t skimp on character development or emotional payoff. Each major character brings something unique to the table, adding layers to what could easily have been a straightforward romance. The prose flows smoothly, with a tone that’s playful yet sincere, perfect for readers looking for a feel-good story with plenty of steam and heart.

Overall, this is a captivating, enjoyable read for anyone who loves their romance with a generous dose of heat and the promise of second chances. If you appreciate stories that brim with passion, forgiveness, and that perfect “just right” mix of fun and emotional depth, this novella will not disappoint. It’s a stellar introduction to an author whose future works are definitely worth keeping an eye on.

Excerpt:

Ryder Hammond stared into the eyes of his best friend, who appeared ready to murder him. Next to Sebastian were his two brothers, looking equally furious, and Ryder knew he was in deep shit.

Had he really just objected at Sierra’s wedding?

He began to sweat beneath his suit. But he’d done it, the words had spilled forth, and now he had to dissect why. Ignoring the swearing men beside him, Ryder thought about the moment the big wooden double doors had opened and he’d seen Sierra in her wedding gown.

Her long light brown hair tumbled over her shoulders in perfect curls, her curves showing in her fitted dress, her cleavage just appropriately peeking out from the dipped neckline. Her gorgeous face had glowed as she walked down the aisle to another man.

He’d come today because, as a close family friend, he’d been invited. Because he thought he’d made his peace with the way things had ended between them. And for closure. Once she was married, she’d be lost to him forever. And that was the thought that had run through his head at the moment the priest asked if anyone objected.

He hadn’t planned to open his mouth.

He hadn’t meant to ruin her wedding.

He had intended to watch her be given away to another man and, dammit, be okay with it.

But he wasn’t.

So here they were.

He glanced at her brothers, Sebastian, his closest friend, and Parker, because Ethan had gone after his sister. “I have to talk to her.”

“No f*cking way,” Sebastian said, one palm on his chest, blocking him from moving forward.

“If I knew you’d planned this sh*t, I never would have let you in the door,” said Parker.

Ryder held up both hands. “It wasn’t planned. The words just came out of my mouth. But now that I said them, I need to speak with your sister.” He shoved past the brothers and headed directly for Sierra, who stood talking to the man she was supposed to marry.

His gaze locked with hers but Jason wasn’t having it.

“It’s him.” He pointed, shoving his finger into Ryder’s chest. “It’s always been f*cking him. At every family function, always around.” Jason turned to Sierra. “You wanted him to interrupt the wedding.” He was clearly furious.

"Carly Phillips is one of my favorite authors for steamy, contemporary romance!" -- Jennifer Probst, New York Times Bestselling Author

"Curling up with a heart-pounding, sexy, wonderfully crafted Carly Phillips novel is always a treat!" - Kristen Proby, New York Times Bestselling Author "Read Carly Phillips for a guaranteed hot, sexy, sizzling chemistry, a book full of emotional impact and characters you'll love." -- Jill Shalvis, New York Times Bestselling Author

"Carly Phillips is synonymous with red-hot romance and passionate love." Lauren Blakely, #1 NY Times Bestselling Author

"Carly Phillips can take you to romantic places you haven't yet dreamed of!" Robyn Carr, # 1 NY TimesBestselling Author "Hot heroes, serious passion and characters with emotional depth." Bella Andre, NY Times Bestselling Author "An incredibly sexy contemporary romance that's impossible to put down!" Rachel Van Dyken #1 NYT Bestselling Author

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About CARLY PHILLIPS:

Carly Phillips is the New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author of over 50 sexy contemporary romance novels, including the indie-published Dare to Love Series. She is happily married to her college sweetheart, the mother of two nearly adult daughters and three crazy dogs. Carly loves social media and is always around to interact with her readers. Connect With Her: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads | Reader Group | Twitter | Bookbub

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Review for Daring Destiny by Kaylene Winter

Daring Destiny

Kaylene Winter

(Charming Irish, #2)

Publication date: January 13th, 2025

Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

Daring Destiny is a sweltering saga of billionaire intrigue, opposites-attract, slow-burn, friends-to-lovers with an unexpected life-changing twist.

Before I founded my AI tech company, I spent my high school years silently pining over Astrid Gustafsson, the unattainable ice-blonde beauty. Fast forward a decade and I’m shocked when she asks to collaborate on a secret project. The opportunity is too enticing to pass up.

Our newfound friendship quickly ignites into a wildfire of desire, and my passion for Astrid intensifies, leaving me eager to risk everything for our future. The challenge is, relentless demands of my high-stakes empire threaten to smother the flames of our burgeoning romance.

When fate dramatically intervenes, will a life-changing twist dare us to embrace our destiny?

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks

EXCERPT:

“So…” she says quietly. “Can we talk?”

“Yeah.” I brace myself for what’s coming next.

The end. This is probably the last time I’ll ever see Astrid. My heart is breaking into a million pieces and I’m not sure how to stop her from…

Without thinking, I reach out and take her hand, comforted by how natural it feels. She doesn’t pull away, just flicks her eyes up to me and blinks rapidly. As if she’s trying to stop from crying. My heart thunders in my chest. She moves in closer.

Thu-thump.

Suddenly, her lips are on mine.

In the beginning, it’s a soft kiss. Tentative, as if she’s testing the waters. Then, it quickly deepens and I find myself pulling her flush against my chest. Instinctively, my arms wrap around her as I lose myself in the moment. She tastes like peaches and heaven.

When our lips finally part, our foreheads remain pressed together as we try to catch our breath.

“I didn’t mean to…” She clutches at my waist.

“Neither did I,” I mutter, though it’s a lie. If I could kiss Astrid forever, I would.

I planned to.

We stand there for a moment, holding each other. Neither of us willing to let go. The air between us is charged. Electric.

She gazes up at me, her eyes soft but guarded. “Thank you.”

“For what?” I’m genuinely confused.

“For being here tonight. I truly didn’t think you’d come” She takes in a huge breath and lets it out, like she’s nervous.

Considering the situation, I’m unsure how to respond. “Why wouldn’t I be here? It was important to you. To us.”

She smiles wistfully and tilts her head. “Brennan.”

“I… Uh…” I don’t know how to respond.

Astrid shoots me a look as if to say, shut the fuck up.

So, I don’t bother finishing the sentence. It’s pointless to bullshit her. I’m not capable of giving her what she needs and we both know it.

I’m utter crap at relationships. I don’t know how to nurture them. Prioritize them. Communicate properly. I never have. Probably never will.

Astrid should have been different. She’s everything I ever dreamed about. My ultimate fantasy. And I had her. Until I fucked up.

Ruined us.

Astrid sucks in a breath. “So…turns out I’m pregnant.”

Wait, what?

Reality crashes down, unforgiving. Like a hundred million buckets of ice water.

If I can’t manage a romantic relationship with someone as perfect as Astrid…

How in the fuck can I be a good father?

Reality crashes down, unforgiving. Like a hundred million buckets of ice water.

If I can’t manage a romantic relationship with someone as perfect as Astrid…

How in the fuck can I be a good father?

Book #2

Brennan and Astrid emerged as another remarkable couple in this ongoing series. It appears that the men in this series choose smart, strong, successful women who come with complexities- not necessarily negative, but their busy lives and other priorities lead them in different directions, making forming and sustaining a relationship with them challenging. 

Witnessing Brennan and Astrid together was heartwarming. Astrid was everything Brennan needed, perfect for him in every way. She showed Brennan that there was more to life than just work. Astrid was a vibrant character, outspoken and protective of what was hers, yet carrying emotional scars.

 

We enjoyed her witty banter with Brennan; their conversations brought lightness and carefreeness to both of them. Their explosive chemistry was captivating, and we rooted for them as a couple despite the challenges they faced, including obstacles, distance, and setbacks. Brennan's family played a significant role in his journey, offering unconditional love and support without judgment. In contrast, Astrid's family dynamics were different. 

This story was filled with emotion, heartbreak, and challenges, as the couple navigated through a learning curve together. The obstacles they encountered tested their relationship, but their love was resilient. Brennan, while not as swoonworthy as his brothers, was a sexy, lovable man with expertise in the bedroom. Grins...

Buy- https://amzn.to/45LQuZM

Also available in Kindle Unlimited

Author Bio:

When she was only 15, Kaylene Winter wrote her first rocker romance novel starring a fictionalized version of herself, her friends and their gorgeous rocker boyfriends. After living her own rockstar life as a band manager, music promoter and mover and shaker in Seattle during the early 1990’s, Kaylene became a digital media legal strategist helping bring movies, television and music online. Throughout her busy career, Kaylene lost herself in romance novels across all genres inspiring her to realize her life-long dream to be a published author. She lives in Seattle with her amazing husband and dog. She loves to travel, throw lavish dinner parties and support charitable causes supporting arts and animals.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Instagram / X / TikTok

 

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Book Review for The Deal by Elle Kennedy

Blurb

New York Times bestseller and TikTok sensation Elle Kennedy brings you the first in the sexy Off-Campus series that everyone is talking about.

The series that inspired Amazon Prime’s Off-Campus – Now Streaming!

She’s about to make a deal with the college bad boy...

Hannah Wells has finally found someone who turns her on. But while she might be confident in every other area of her life, she’s carting around a full set of baggage when it comes to sex and seduction. If she wants to get her crush’s attention, she’ll have to step out of her comfort zone and make him take notice...even if it means tutoring the annoying, childish, cocky captain of the hockey team in exchange for a pretend date.

...and it’s going to be oh so good

All Garrett Graham has ever wanted is to play professional hockey after graduation, but his plummeting GPA is threatening everything he’s worked so hard for. If helping a sarcastic brunette make another guy jealous will help him secure his position on the team, he’s all for it. But when one unexpected kiss leads to the wildest sex of both their lives, it doesn’t take long for Garrett to realize that pretend isn’t going to cut it. Now he just has to convince Hannah that the man she wants looks a lot like him

Review of Wellsy and Garrett’s Story: A Heartfelt Journey of Healing and Love

Wellsy (Hannah) and Garrett’s story is a deeply moving romance that navigates the complex terrains of emotional wounds, trust, and redemption. Rooted in contemporary romance, this plot explores how two seemingly opposite people find solace and strength in each other’s presence. This review delves into what makes their journey so compelling—a blend of humor, raw vulnerability, and emotional growth that resonates long after the last page is turned.

From the outset, the book hooks the reader with its engaging plot and lively banter between Garrett and Wellsy. Garrett’s relentless determination is both endearing and amusing, often sparking laughter through his comical interactions with Hannah. Their chemistry breathes life into the story, balancing lightheartedness with the profound need for healing. The vivid personalities of the characters and the contrast between Garrett’s cheerful tenacity and Hannah’s guarded wariness create a dynamic that feels authentic and relatable.

The characters stand out as one of the plot's greatest strengths. Garrett’s evolution is particularly notable; initially perceived by some as a carefree playboy, he reveals layers of emotional depth and unwavering commitment throughout the story. His patience and unconditional love not only nurture Hannah’s fragile trust but also add a swoon-worthy charm that fans of romance will appreciate. Meanwhile, Hannah’s journey from trauma to tentative hope is portrayed with sensitivity. Her guarded nature and wit make her both lovable and realistic.

Complementing the leads is a well-crafted supporting cast, especially Garrett’s father, whose storyline introduces a poignant subplot that adds complexity and weight to the broader narrative. The emotional stakes are high, but the story is never bogged down by sorrow; instead, moments of humor—such as a particularly hilarious team locker room scene—offer priceless.

The pacing is skillfully managed, allowing readers to experience the full spectrum of emotions: laughter, heartbreak, and ultimately, hope. The way the author handles themes of pain and healing without letting them define the characters’ futures is refreshing and inspiring. It’s a celebration of resilience and the transformative power of love, anchored in thoughtful character development rather than plot contrivances.

In summary, this book is an enthralling romance that blends heartfelt emotion with genuine humor and relatable characters. Readers seeking a story that balances depth with entertainment will find themselves captivated. Fans of character-driven love stories complicated by past traumas and personal growth will particularly appreciate Garrett and Wellsy’s narrative. While it might not suit those looking for purely light or escapist reads, anyone open to a poignant yet uplifting love story will find this a rewarding experience.

As the story closes with anticipation for the next installment, focusing on Garrett’s teammates, one can’t help but wonder: how will these newly introduced characters further enrich this beautifully woven world of friendship, love, and healing? This promising continuation is sure to keep readers coming back for more.

Universal Purchase Link- https://books2read.com/u/bPYjwz

Audiobook -  https://amzn.to/3VeWFSQ

Paperback- https://amzn.to/3VeWFSQ

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New Release & Review for Rage by Kat Mizera

RAGE

Kat Mizera

Release Date: September 3

AVAILABLE IN KINDLE UNLIMITED

The first time I lay eyes on our new cybersecurity expert, I know I’m in trouble.

Lush curves, full lips, big blue eyes--exactly the type of woman who makes me do stupid things.

Good thing casual hookups are frowned upon at Shadow Security, and I don’t do serious.

Until I hear her plans to get pregnant.

The last thing I need is a kid but the only person putting a baby in her is going to me.

So we make a deal: No emotions, no promises, just lots of sex and eventually uncomplicated co-parenting.

But the first time I touch her, I know I’ve grossly underestimated her allure.

 And when an old enemy comes looking for revenge, I’ll do anything to protect what’s mine.

Grab your copy!

https://geni.us/RageKM

This is the second book installment in the Shadow Security series featuring Rage and Luna, co-workers who quickly become friends. Luna has a time-sensitive problem, and Rage steps in to help. Rage has had a crush on Luna since their first meeting. Rage now sees an opening to get his girl. This plot takes us on a thrilling ride full of mystery and suspense, fast-paced and action-driven with deep character development between its main characters. Rage is a standout character who is kind and compassionate, loving, protective, and possessive in a good way, but early on you see a lot of head-banging about their future—swoon-worthy character for sure. Luna is a woman burdened with secrets who has a quirky, lovable, and eclectic personality, a superior hacker in a different life whom some liken to a Robin Hood kind of character. These characters wrestle with their past and their own vulnerabilities. It was awesome to see a softer, vulnerable side to these characters who have very strong personalities, but felt safe enough to expose and trust one another regardless. This couple's chemistry is palpable, but more importantly, they belong together; it was refreshingly beautiful and even made me envious of them. The author skillfully weaves in the secrets held by its characters while slowly trying to unravel the mystery of its plot and its complex characters, while keeping us on edge to see what will transpire next. The plot moves at a brisk pace, but it doesn't feel rushed. The author plants clues along the way to help us solve the mystery and determine if Luna's past has caught up to her or if something entirely different is going on. The characters were awesome, especially the crew at Shadow Security. Grim always has Rage's back, besties and all that jazz. Danill, the non-working prince as he is referred to, is the problem solver. Luna's friends are the bomb; they make you laugh out loud time and time again. We welcomed the plot twists with their intriguing characters in a plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat that was layered with mysteries needing to be solved, all the while finding out all the hidden secrets this plot held within it. A thoroughly enjoyable read where you will find yourselves grinning and smiling throughout. As much as this was an enjoyable read, you have to ask yourself why Luna and Rage ignored their gut feelings and never questioned the odd things happening around them. Why the brush-off? Why not look deeper? Both had a lot to lose. Was it because they were blinded by love and afraid of losing one another? This series leaves you eager to see what comes next, not just its characters but as a whole, as we are really loving this series up to this point, especially when your partners are a prince and princess and your friends happen to be a King and Queen. This plot was full of surprises you won't see coming.

Meet Kat Mizera:

USA TODAY Bestselling Author Kat Mizera was born in Miami Beach with a healthy dose of Wanderlust. She's lived from coast to coast, and everywhere in between, but home is wherever her family is. A devoted mom and wife to her wonderful and supportive husband (Kevin) and two amazing boys (Nick and Max), Kat loves to travel the globe with her adventurous, hockey loving family. Greece is at the top of that list. She hopes to one day retire there, spending her days writing books on the beach.

Kat is former freelance sports writer who now writes steamy hockey romance about her favorite fictional teams, the Las Vegas Sidewinders and the Lauderdale Knights. The library of novels she's penned also include sexy contemporary stories about baseball stars, alpha sex club owners, bodyguards, rock stars, and royalty. Regardless of genre, her books about bad boys with hearts of gold will steal your breath, rock your world and melt your heart.

To find out about Kat Mizera’s upcoming releases and giveaways, sign up for her newsletter here

For more information on Kat Mizera and her books visit: https://katmizera.com/

Connect with Kat Mizera:

https://katmizera.com/pages/contact-kat

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