Romance Roundup: August Edition

Welcome to “Romance Roundup” where I share mini reviews of  3-4 romance novels that I’ve read recently. This month’s edition includes stories of woman who’s idol is “The Rock”, a witch on a quest to retrieve family heirlooms, and woman who is falling in love with her ex’s brother.

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“Dear Dwayne, With Love” by Eliza Gordon (2018)

Synopsis: Wannabe actress Dani Steele’s résumé resembles a cautionary tale on how not to be famous. She’s pushing thirty and stuck in a dead-end insurance job, and her relationship status is holding at uncommitted. With unbearably perfect sisters and a mother who won’t let her forget it, Dani has two go-tos for consolation: maple scones and a blog in which she pours her heart out to her celebrity idol. He’s the man her father never was, no boyfriend will ever be—and not so impossible a dream as one might think. When Dani learns that he’s planning a fund-raising event where the winning amateur athlete gets a walk-on in his new film, she decides to trade pastries and self-doubt for running shoes and a sexy British trainer with adorable knees.

But when Dani’s plot takes an unexpected twist, she realizes that her happy ending might have to be improvised—and that proving herself to her idol isn’t half as important as proving something to herself.

This novel follows a woman named Dani who’s obsession with The Rock and all thing related to him propels her on a journey to athletic obstacle course and to re-boost her career since moving to Seattle.

While there is the obvious romance between the trainer, Marcus, and Dani the novel has a stronger focus on self-love. When readers meet Dani she is unhappy with multiple aspects of her life and feels unloved. Over the course of the story we see her transformation in a healthier (body and mind) version of herself while also seeking her own potential and gaining some new friends along the way (acts as a support group).

The humor along with the story made this such an entertaining read. The the dairy and blog entries within the text were relatable, vulnerable, and funny. I loved how Marcus is so supportive of her and doesn’t rush Dani into a relationship and it so obvious that they have feelings for each other.

Final Verdict:

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“Now That It’s You” by Tawna Fenske (2016)

Synopsis: Talented chef Meg Delaney hasn’t spoken to her cheating ex-fiancé, Matt Midland, for two years. Ditching him at the altar after blurting out “I can’t” instead of “I do” would sour any relationship. But now, just as Meg is finally ready to bury the hatchet, she learns closure is permanently off the menu. And the kicker? Matt’s brother, Kyle, is back in her life, stirring up feelings that are equal parts guilt and lust.

Meg was the best thing that never happened to Kyle. He couldn’t make a move on his brother’s girlfriend—even if Matt didn’t value her nearly enough. The situation is even more complicated now that Meg’s bestselling aphrodisiac cookbook has spawned a legal battle with the Midlands. Maybe he should stay away. But love, like family, plays by its own rules. And the one woman he shouldn’t want might be the only one who’s perfect for him.

This is a romance novel that is complex and has deeper themes while still managing to keep the story light for most of the story. It was interesting to see how the author explored death, grief, and infidelity in the midst of a rom-com plot. At times, I didn’t agree with some of the characters decisions, but at least all of the “dirty laundry” is aired out in the end.

It was very humorous despite the heavy themes and I enjoyed how spunky the main character, Meg was. She’s a talented culinary cook on a journey to move forward in her life. Even though it’s taboo that Meg and Kyle are falling in love, most of the time they help each other to grieve in their own way by having deep conversations. The book was messy and sad, but heartwarming at the same time.

Final Verdict:

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“A Witch’s Handbook of Kisses and Curses” by Molly Harper (2013) *Romanceopoly-Magic Row*

Synopsis: Nola Leary would have been content to stay in Kilcairy, Ireland, healing villagers at her family’s clinic with a mix of magic and modern medicine. But a series of ill-timed omens and a deathbed promise to her grandmother have sent her on a quest to Half-Moon Hollow, Kentucky, to secure her family’s magical potency for the next generation. Her supernatural task? To unearth four artifacts hidden by her grandfather before a rival magical family beats her to it.

Complication One: Her grandfather was Mr. Wainwright and the artifacts are lost somewhere in what is now Jane Jameson’s book shop.

Complication Two: her new neighbor, Jed Trudeau, who keeps turning up half naked at the strangest times, a distraction Nola doesn’t need. And teaming up with a real-life Adonis is as dangerous as it sounds, especially when he’s got the face of an angel and the abs of a washboard—can Nola complete her mission before falling completely under his spell?

I have wanted to read the Molly Harper paranormal book series’ for a long while and I’m glad I picked this book up as my Romanceopoly read. Nola, the main character, travels from Ireland to the US to retrieve a special item that belongs to her family. It’s a fish out of water tale with magic, wit, romance and mystery. She has a huge does of culture shock, but feels at home with the help of friends and newfound family that make her feel welcome.

Nola is a strong main character who is sassy and confident. Though she goes through many obstacles on her quest she shows that she can hold her own.Nola and her hunky neighbor, Jed, are too cute with their flirty banter and steamy encounters. I loved the dialogue between them. Will be reading more of this series in the future I want to see more of these loveable characters!

Final Verdict:

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What romance novels have you read lately? Share your thoughts in the comment section below. If you have any recommendations feel free (particularly #ownvoices novels) to share those as well.