Every year, I participate in the 52 Book Challenge, and love having the opportunity to explore genres out of my comfort zone. However, there a number of go-to books I fall back to as regularly as clockwork, that have long been my favorites, as well as others that continue to inspire me to write what I do.
I’ll share them under this tab, as well as new releases from fellow Romance Writers of New Zealand and Romance Writers of Australia. I’ll update from time to time, as this list is a little long!
- Maid for Love by Marie Force
Marie Force was keynote speaker at my first RWNZ conference, and while there I couldn’t resist buying the first of her Gansett Island series. Maid for Love is the first in the series, and led to me buying each and everyone that followed, and beyond that, her ‘Fatal’ and ‘Green Mountain’ series.
Summary:
In “Maid for Love,” the first book of Marie Force’s Gansett Island series, we meet Maddie Chester, a hardworking single mother who juggles multiple jobs to provide for her young son. Living on Gansett Island, Maddie is determined to stay away from the wealthy, entitled residents of the island, especially the McCarthys, whose reputation and lifestyle starkly contrast with her own. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she has an accident while cleaning a rental property, and is rescued by Mac McCarthy, the gorgeous eldest son of the island’s most influential family.
Mac McCarthy, back on Gansett Island to recover from a car accident and reevaluate his life, is immediately drawn to Maddie. Despite her initial resistance and the many obstacles they face, including Maddie’s mistrust and the island’s rampant gossip mill, Mac is determined to help her and get to know her better. As he spends more time with Maddie and her son, Mac realizes that his initial attraction is deepening into something more profound. He becomes committed to winning her trust and showing her that he’s different from the other men she’s known.
As their relationship grows, Maddie struggles with her feelings for Mac, torn between her need to protect herself and her son and the undeniable connection she feels with him. Their journey is filled with heartwarming moments, challenges, and the blossoming of true love. In the end, Maddie must decide whether to let down her guard and embrace the possibility of a future with Mac, who is ready to prove that he is indeed “maid for love.” The story beautifully captures the themes of healing, trust, and the transformative power of love.
This without doubt was one of the more inspirational series, and its small town feel let me with the need to create my own fictitious world in which to celebrate love, family and home.
2. Slave to Sensation by Nalini Singh
I didn’t tend to read paranormal romances, until I was recommended this series, and it didn’t let down. It was another I’d end up reading voraciously, and hanging out until the next was released. Singh’s writing style is captivating, and leaves you so wrapped up in the story, you feel you know the characters personally.
Summary:
Slave to Sensation is the first of the Psy-changling series, and while the first was my favorite, my second favorite was Heart of Obsidian, .
In Nalini Singh’s “Slave to Sensation,” the first book in her Psy-Changeling series, readers are introduced to a futuristic world where three distinct races exist: the emotionless Psy, the shape-shifting Changelings, and the ordinary humans. The Psy, who have eradicated all emotions to maintain control and power, are ruled by a council that enforces strict mental disciplines. Sascha Duncan, a Psy who secretly feels emotions, fears her dangerous secret will be discovered. Her world is upended when she meets Lucas Hunter, the alpha of the DarkRiver leopard pack, who hires her for a business venture.
Lucas Hunter is on a mission to find the Psy responsible for the brutal murder of a Changeling female, and he suspects that Sascha might be the key to unlocking the secrets of the PsyNet, the psychic network that connects all Psy. Despite their inherent mistrust and the vast differences between their worlds, Lucas and Sascha find themselves inexplicably drawn to each other. As they work together, Sascha’s emotional barriers begin to crumble, and she starts to experience feelings she’s been conditioned to believe are wrong. Lucas, sensing her struggle, offers her support and protection, igniting a passionate and forbidden romance.
As the murder investigation intensifies, Sascha must confront the rigid Psy Council and the darkness within the PsyNet, risking her life to help Lucas uncover the truth. Their growing bond not only challenges the Psy’s strictures but also has the potential to change the balance of power between the Psy and the Changelings. In a world where emotions are a dangerous liability, Sascha and Lucas must navigate treacherous political landscapes and their own fears to forge a new path together. “Slave to Sensation” is a gripping tale of love, sacrifice, and the transformative power of emotion in a world determined to suppress it.
As well as this series, I equally enjoyed her Guildhunter, and Rock series.
3. Look of Love by Bella Andre
There’s a theme here. I love series. I love being able to follow the lives of characters as they pop up in later books, keeping uptodate with them as they perhaps marry, or have children, get new jobs, or simply pop in to say hi!
Summary:
Bella Andre was another speaker at RWNZ, and prior to the conference I’d not actually heard of her. So, in the lead up to it, I purchased the first of her Sullivan series. She didn’t disappoint, and very soon I found myself not only following the San Francisco Sullivan’s but also the Seattle, the New York, and the Maine! That’s a fair bit of reading, and kept me busy for more than a few months. I loved the way she created such confident characters. They had their flaws, but in the same breath, they were exactly what I’m all about. Family.
Bella Andre’s “The Look of Love,” the first book in the Sullivan series, introduces readers to the charismatic and tight-knit Sullivan family. When renowned photographer Chase Sullivan rescues Chloe Peterson from her car wreck during a stormy night, he is immediately captivated by her beauty and vulnerability. Chloe, fleeing from a troubled past and a recent abusive relationship, is wary of trusting anyone, especially a man as handsome and charming as Chase. Despite her reservations, she accepts his offer of help and a place to stay at his family’s vineyard in Napa Valley.
As they spend time together, Chase’s protective and caring nature begins to break down Chloe’s defenses. He is determined to show her that not all men are like those from her past and that she deserves to be loved and cherished. Chloe, on the other hand, struggles with her growing feelings for Chase, torn between her desire to protect her heart and the undeniable attraction she feels towards him. The vineyard, with its picturesque landscapes and the warm Sullivan family atmosphere, becomes a sanctuary for her healing and a backdrop for their blossoming romance.
Their journey is not without obstacles, as Chloe’s fears and insecurities threaten to sabotage their relationship. Chase’s patience and unwavering support play a crucial role in helping her confront her past and embrace a future filled with love and trust. “The Look of Love” is a heartfelt story of two individuals finding solace and love in each other, overcoming their personal struggles, and discovering that true love can be a powerful force for healing and happiness. Bella Andre crafts a compelling and tender romance that sets the stage for the rest of the beloved Sullivan family series.
4. Devils Bride by Stephanie Laurens
This is the first of the historical romances I read in a long while. As a teenager, I love Phillippa Carr, Jean Plaidy and Georgette Heyer. Stephanie Laurens took me back to that era, but packed with significantly more heat. I loved the arrogance of Devil, and the banter between Honoria and him. Not to mention once again, it paved the way for a read-a-thon, which I continue reading to this day.
Summary:
In Stephanie Laurens’ “Devil’s Bride,” the first book in the Cynster series, readers are introduced to Sylvester “Devil” Cynster, the Duke of St. Ives, a powerful and commanding figure in Regency England. When Devil unexpectedly encounters Honoria Wetherby, a strong-willed and independent governess, amidst a murder scene on his family’s estate, their lives become inextricably linked. Despite Honoria’s determination to avoid entanglements with the aristocracy, she finds herself drawn to Devil’s magnetic presence and fierce protectiveness.
As Devil and Honoria work together to uncover the mystery behind the murder, their mutual attraction becomes impossible to ignore. Honoria, who values her independence and dreams of traveling the world, resists the notion of marriage, especially to a man as domineering as Devil. However, Devil is equally determined to make Honoria his duchess, recognizing in her a rare spirit and intelligence that matches his own. Their passionate clashes and tender moments create a sizzling dynamic as they navigate their evolving relationship.
The backdrop of intrigue and danger only heightens the stakes, pushing Honoria and Devil closer together as they uncover secrets and face peril. Honoria’s courage and Devil’s unwavering resolve are tested, leading to a deeper understanding and mutual respect between them. In the end, Honoria must confront her fears of losing her autonomy while Devil learns to balance his protective instincts with genuine partnership. “Devil’s Bride” is a captivating tale of romance, mystery, and the transformative power of love, setting the stage for the subsequent adventures of the Cynster family.
5. Haunting Danielle by Bobbi Holmes
A few years ago I started working nights. Alone on my own, I’d find the shifts went faster if I was listening to a book, and so, I started investigating series that I hadn’t heard of before. This was my first foray into cozy mysteries in the a long while, and with a romantic sub-plot, not just one book, but now up to thirty two continue to keep me company when I’m doing the house work, or out in the car. I love this series, and the chemistry between Danielle and Walt. It’s become a regular go to, and I still find myself eagerly awaiting the latest releases in the series.
Summary:
In “The Ghost of Marlow House,” the first book in the Haunting Danielle series by Bobbi Holmes, Danielle Boatman inherits the historic Marlow House from her late aunt. Seeking a fresh start after a personal tragedy, Danielle moves to the quaint coastal town of Frederickport to turn the grand old home into a bed and breakfast. However, she quickly discovers that the house comes with an unexpected inhabitant: the ghost of Walt Marlow, the home’s original owner, who died under mysterious circumstances nearly a century ago.
Walt Marlow’s ghost has been bound to Marlow House, unable to move on due to unresolved issues from his past. Initially skeptical and frightened, Danielle soon realizes that Walt is not only harmless but also a charming and helpful presence. As she renovates the house and prepares to welcome guests, Danielle and Walt form an unlikely friendship. Together, they begin to uncover the truth behind Walt’s death, delving into old town records, letters, and secrets buried in the house.
As Danielle and Walt piece together the events leading to his demise, they confront long-hidden scandals and uncover the true culprit behind Walt’s murder. Along the way, Danielle grapples with her own grief and finds solace in her growing bond with Walt. Their journey to solve the mystery brings them closer, hinting at a deeper connection that transcends the boundaries of life and death. “The Ghost of Marlow House” sets the stage for a series filled with heartwarming moments, thrilling mysteries, and the enchanting interplay between the living and the spectral.
6. Reckless (Benson Security Bk 1) by Janet Elizabeth Henderson
There are certain authors who can leave you chuckling out loud. Janet Evanovich was one such author, and so was Janet Elizabeth Henderson. This series had me laughing at the antics of the characters, while completely engaging with the entire cast. It led me to read this series, and Henderson’s Invertary and Sinclair Sisters series too!
Summary:
In “Reckless,” the first book in Janet Elizabeth Henderson’s Benson Security series, the story kicks off with Megan “Meg” Smart, a British tech genius who unexpectedly finds herself in deep trouble. Meg is targeted by a dangerous international criminal due to her groundbreaking security software. To keep her safe, Meg is placed under the protection of Benson Security, a firm known for handling high-risk situations. Enter Callum “Cal” MacLean, a former Special Forces soldier with a gruff demeanor and a no-nonsense attitude. Cal is assigned to guard Meg, and despite their initial clash of personalities, he is determined to protect her at all costs.
As Meg and Cal navigate the high-stakes world of international crime, their forced proximity leads to undeniable chemistry. Meg, used to working behind a computer screen, struggles with the adrenaline-fueled reality of being a target, while Cal, accustomed to the battlefield, finds himself drawn to Meg’s intelligence and spirit. Despite the danger lurking around every corner, the pair manage to unravel a complex web of deceit, uncovering a plot that threatens not only Meg but countless others. Their investigation takes them across Europe, pushing their skills and their budding relationship to the limit.
Throughout their journey, Meg and Cal’s relationship evolves from mutual annoyance to a deep, romantic connection. Meg’s quick thinking and Cal’s tactical prowess prove to be a formidable combination, helping them to stay one step ahead of their enemies. By the end of the book, not only do they successfully thwart the villain’s plans, but they also acknowledge their feelings for each other, setting the stage for more thrilling and romantic adventures in the Benson Security series. “Reckless” combines heart-pounding action, sharp wit, and a sizzling romance, making it a compelling start to a promising series.
7. Southern Spirits by Angie Fox
Another fun cozy mystery, with a sub-plot of romance, and I found myself kinda wishing I had my own Frankie. The fun and chaos he causes had be chuckling away, and really enjoying the chemistry between the characters.
Summary:
In Angie Fox’s “Southern Spirits,” we’re introduced to Verity Long, a struggling graphic designer who unwittingly finds herself in the midst of a supernatural mystery. After accidentally setting her grandmother’s old house on fire, Verity discovers that she can communicate with the ghost of a 1920s gangster named Frankie. Desperate to clear her name and pay off her debts, Verity agrees to help Frankie solve his murder in exchange for his cooperation in haunting her ex-fiancé.
As Verity delves deeper into the investigation, she finds herself drawn into a world filled with eccentric characters, including a handsome deputy sheriff named Ellis Wydell. Despite their initial animosity, Verity and Ellis form an unlikely partnership as they uncover secrets buried in the small town of Sugarland, Tennessee. Along the way, they encounter vengeful spirits, mischievous demons, and a mysterious force that threatens to tear the town apart.
With Frankie’s guidance and Ellis’s support, Verity navigates the supernatural underbelly of Sugarland while grappling with her own romantic feelings and personal growth. As the stakes rise and the danger escalates, Verity must confront her fears and embrace her newfound abilities to protect herself and those she cares about. “Southern Spirits” is a charming blend of mystery, humor, and romance, set against the backdrop of a quirky Southern town where the living and the dead coexist in unexpected ways.