Hopes and Dreams by PJ Trebelhorn
I am extremely conflicted about this book. The overall idea of Hopes and Dreams was great, and both Riley and Vic have believable insecurities and are really relatable. I also root for the pair, but I feel like something was missing in the story and that made it hard for me to feel at ease with their relationship.
Blades of Bluegrass by D. Jackson Leigh
TW: PTSD and off-screen sexual assault.
I am happy to say that Blades of Bluegrass was angst-free for me, and along with some romance-unrelated intrigue, it is naturally my kind of story. This does not mean that the theme of the book is light, however. It is a military drama about the corruption and ugliness of the US Army but with beautiful horses.
Kiss the Girl (Soho Loft #1) by Melissa Brayden
Brooklyn Campbell and Jessica Lennox are rivals in the New York advertising scene, but neither of them knows that when they run into each other at a bar. The attraction is evident, but then they need to work against the odds if they want to stay in the business and together.
This is my first try on Melissa Brayden’s books! I don’t know what took me so long to pick one up, but I am so glad I eventually did. Kiss the Girl is light and cute and everything you need for a mood lift.
The Love Factor by Quinn Ivins
Due to recession and her activist past, Molly Cook decides to pursue a PhD degree in political science. In advanced statistics by Dr. Carmen Vaughn, an aloof professor with incredibly high standards, Molly shows promising performance. When she stumbles upon a scandal of a homophobic faculty member, Molly seeks guidance from Carmen. The two begin to spend more time working together, and their professional boundaries blurs. But Carmen is closeted and would never get involved with a student. Little does she know, Molly is not entirely sure if she would finish her program, either.
Reasons to Heal by Jenn Matthews
Molly Blue has just started her police training when she is assaulted on duty. Sustaining multiple injuries, she has to put her career on hold for several weeks. When physiotherapist Kudzi Mufaro takes on her case, their interactions are awkward but flirty. Yet Kudzi is not ready to come out to her Zimbabwean parents, and Molly is unsure about her own future. What does it take for them to find their way to each other?