Romance Roundup: November 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 a Christmas Wedding, a royal mix-up, and woman who had dreamed of the perfect fairytale romance.
Her Festive Flirtation by Therese Beharrie (2018)
Synopsis: The bridesmaid, the best man… A Christmas wedding they’ll never forget!A year after being jilted, Ava Keller finds herself forced back up the aisle–as bridesmaid at a beautiful Cape Town wedding. Best man–and Ava’s first crush–Noah Giles is the perfect distraction from her painful memories. But their flirtation turns serious when Ava’s feelings for him resurface! Hurt when Noah left after their kiss years before, will Ava give their chemistry a second chance?
I’ve been reading a lot of Beharrie’s romances lately, and I really enjoyed this holiday themed novel surrounding the plot of ex-best friends and a Christmas wedding. Most of all, I like that her stories reflect where she lives (Cape Town) and has a diverse cast of characters.
Like most of her novels, this one also tackles some complex emotions, has some heartfelt moments, and some slightly heated moments. I like the friends to lovers trope and how the main characters really take the time to work out their issues with each other in their own lives. It’s a mixture of romance, with a contemporary fiction feeling.
Final Verdict:
Christmas at Hollaway Castle (A Sweet Romance #1) by Rimmy London (2018)
Synopsis: Victoria (Tori) is the most sought out event planner at Avalon, but when a new boss tries to control her every move she ends up in another country for a business trip during her favorite week of the year. But Christmas might not be ruined, especially when she ends up at a fairytale castle – and especially when she meets Mr. Kent (Oliver), the company head. Her holiday is beginning to look bright. It’s only when she’s introduced as the wrong person that the mix-ups really begin.
Tori is left trying to find the right time to tell the truth, but the longer she lives a lie, the harder it gets. In the end, Oliver races through airports and down snowy streets to try and catch her before she’s gone for good.
Looking for a cute Christmas themed romance story, I picked up this novel! It’s very short and it’s fast-paced as the main Tori goes on a new adventure overseas and gets swept up in a whirlwind romance with the prince. The plot reminded me of A Christmas Prince (a Netflix movie I recently watched), but it was fun and enjoyable even though it’s very formulaic. It’s a feel good story about mistaken identity, royal life, and the chaos that can come with the holidays.
Final Verdict:
Romancing the Duke (Castles Ever After #1) by Tessa Dare
*Romanceopoly-Austen Row*
Synopsis: As the daughter of a famed author, Isolde Ophelia Goodnight grew up on tales of brave knights and fair maidens. She never doubted romance would be in her future, too. The storybooks offered endless possibilities.
And as she grew older, Izzy crossed them off. One by one by one.
Ugly duckling turned swan?
Abducted by handsome highwayman?
Rescued from drudgery by charming prince?
No, no, and… Heh.
Now Izzy’s given up yearning for romance. She’ll settle for a roof over her head. What fairy tales are left over for an impoverished twenty-six year-old woman who’s never even been kissed?
This one.
The story follows Izzy who is a bit of a romantic she has lost everything, but has managed to inherited a castle where she meets the surly Ransom. Ransom is a recluse and is hurt by the past and is struggling with his disability. Though the two are completely opposites they manage to fall in love despite that their differences while restoring the castle to its former glory.
They help each other see their faults Izzy’s insecurities and motivate each other. This is a fun romance full of many steamy moments and witty humor. Regency romances aren’t usually my jam, but books like this make me want to explore the genre a bit more. This is the first Dare novel I read and I can’t wait to read her other works!
Final Verdict:
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.
I almost borrowed Romancing the Duke from the library a couple days ago. I’ve been reading paranormal, steampunk romance and wanted to continue with the romance part. I might check out a Tessa Dare book in the NEw Year.
Romancing the Duke is fun. I’ve heard Dare writes brazen heroines and the dialogue is really fun. If you have any steampunk romance recs, I need some. I haven’t read much in that sub genre.
Oh I’ve only been reading the Steampunk Proper Romance series by Nancy Allen Campbell. I listened to them on audio and really enjoyed them. The stories are all inspired by a fairytale and a classic novel.
I’ll have to check it out!