This December, I had the pleasure to read books from Indie Authors, to-be released books and holiday themed books. Amongst the books I have finished reading are When Angel Falls First by April Moon & Harley Hunt, Home for the Holidays by Allie Lasky, Pucked Over by Beth Anderson, True North and The Off-Chance of Me and You by by Filipino Indie Authors Carina Gaskell and Anj Miranda respectively.
Sharing to you my short reviews of these books. Definitely enjoyed reading them while drinking coffee. You may also find these reviews on my Goodreads.
April Moon's When the Angel Falls First is a second chance romance story centered to Josie and Caleb who met 7 years ago.
As I was reading and came across the name Caleb (an angel's name), my mind immediately drifted back to 2005, when I was watching the Supernatural series—filled with paranormal creatures, angels, wolves, and more. It's fascinating to have stumbled upon a book that encompasses so many of these elements.
Throughout much of the book, I felt like I was reading I am reading a lot of "I can't be with her, we can't be together" scenes. The relationship between the characters wasn't fully developed, which made it feel somewhat lacking. Or maybe it was just because their past, how their love evolved was not fully told. However, the redeeming moments were definitely the sweet and spicy scenes, which brought a much-needed spark to the story.
Rating: 2/5
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Home of the Holidays is a story about a hockey heartthrob and a confident, intelligent woman in a size 26—what more could I ask for to break my reading slump?
Rachel has just gone into a breakup with her long time LIP and now needs a new space to live in. Her mom suggested Jake’s, his high school ex-boyfriend’s younger brother.
I really appreciated how Jake, despite his youthful charm, is so deeply in love with Rachel. He’s patient and knows exactly how to show his feelings, making him a lovable character.
I understand Rachel’s inhibition at first since she has just been heartbroken.
The spicy scenes in the book are perfectly balanced—not too overwhelming, just enough to keep things interesting, which I loved.
All in all, I love this story. My only reason for rating this 4 is because I am uncomfortable that Jake’s brother is Rachel’s ex.
Rating: 4/5
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Stephen Sloan and Olivia Murray are the two protagonists who meet at a time when both have just recently ended relationships.
Stephen is the hot, famous hockey player who unexpectedly catches Olivia's eye when she sees his advertisement. Cupid clearly had a hand in their meeting, and with a little help from Stephen's mischievous grandmother and sister, the two quickly become "friends."
When I saw the title that this is a Sweet and Spicy Hockey Romance , I fret. But there was something in the book cover that enticed me. So, picking up this book was a good idea.
I expected lots of spicy scenes but there's actually just one and some playful teasing. That was not disappointing at all. I truly enjoyed how the author, Beth Anderson wrote the storyline of Pucked Over and brought the characters to life.
Rating: 4/5
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We follow the story of Sophie and Archie about their second shots at love. I liked Sophie's character. I really connected with Sophie’s character—she’s independent and strong, yet tender and loving toward those close to her. Archie, on the other hand, is determined and persistent, which makes him an interesting match for a strong Sophie
The addition of Layla and Narra added a Filipino touch of Filipino family dynamics, especially the extended families living in one home. I enjoy the idea about setting up a coffee shop business as it’s a dream I share! Plus, after reading about Sophie's Ube with Pinipig drink, I couldn’t help but crave an Ube Frappe from Zus.
Archie is loveable! I can totally picture his type—an environmentalist foreigner—in the small towns of the Philippines, where he’d fit right in! Yay! There was one scene I am confused of about him. How is Archie able to have feelings for Sophie from afar while he’s undergoing therapy? I’m curious how that piece fits into his journey.
Rating: 4/5
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The Off-Chance of Me and You follows the story of Jason Meyer, now a famouse NBA player and Tala Reyes, an influencer and caregiver. Both of them have met during their college years and have unfinished businesses with each other.
Tala, as we might imagine is a hardworking OFW who prioritizes her family over herself. Anj did an excellent job on illustrating how many Filipino workers, like Tala, long for the company of their families back home. Yet, they remain separated, driven by an "unwritten" promise to provide a better life for those they love.
Jason is the kind of guy who's been given a second chance with his TOTGA and is determined not to let this slip away. I love his persistence and he somehow made me hate Tala for being so stubborn.
While the book suggests they stayed together, the story was more relatable and believable as it highlights how they were still navigating their dynamics while managing a long-distance relationship.
If you want to read a short story with a Filipina FMC, a charming MMC and written by a Filipina author, please do not forget to grab this book.
Rating: 4/5
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