Review: An Unlikely Proposal

An Unlikely Proposal by Toni Shiloh
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

When her best friend, Omar Davis, proposes a marriage of convenience, Trinity Davis is more than shocked. But soon, she begins to think about the pluses of marrying her BFF. Forever. For one thing, his young daughters, Faith and Hope would have a mom. And for another, she would get much-needed health insurance for her illness. But, will their friendship survive the shift to marriage?

This is my first Toni Shiloh read  that I purchased so long ago, just sitting on my kindle. I finished in hours. The rapport and banter between the friends drew me in from the beginning. Their friendship and humor was solid and it helped them navigate some pretty big situations. I loved Faith and Joy--they were heartwarming and absolutely adorable.

The side characters--her family, his former father-in-law, their friends added great perspectives which made this read easy and enjoyable. Both Trinity and Omar had a strong relationship with God and their faith is evident through this read. Both were constantly seeking God and in prayer. Strong faith elements.

Overall, I loved their journey to HEA and found this a sweet, clean romance.

Memory line: "We have to put tomorrow in God's hands. We can't live in fear."

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Review: By Design: The Story of Ann Lowe, Society's Best-Kept Secret

By Design: The Story of Ann Lowe, Society's Best-Kept Secret by Piper Huguley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The story of the best kept secret in high society. By Her Own Design is the story of Ann Lowe, a black designer and granddaughter of slaves in Alabama, who designed the iconic wedding dress of Jacqueline Kennedy, First Lady of the United States.
The story begins a few days before Jacqueline Bouvier will marry John F. Kennedy Jr and a pipe has destroyed the wedding dress. We see Ann and her church sisters scrambling to recreate the dresses. Then we are taken back to learn more about Ann's early life in Alabama and her auspicious beginnings to fulfilling her dream in Tampa and then to New York City.
Whew! I finished this in hours. I started in the evening and finished up the next morning. I love historical fiction but I know that its success is based on the research of the writer and talent with which the author is able to weave the story together. Piper Huguley gave me a story that had my eyes glued, I became caught up in this remarkable woman's life. Ann Lowe had the raw talent and creativity but also the tenacity to overcome despite the challenges of her race during that time.
It is uplifting to read about African-Americans who rise above their circumstances and who were able to create a lasting legacy. Ann had so much sadness in her life but that didn't stop her from moving forward. Piper Huguley made me feel as if I were in that time--I felt every scene. Particularly when Ann went to Design School. How my heart ached and yet warmed at how Ann was determined to bloom wherever she was planted.
I absolutely loved this story and I can't wait to read more works like this from Piper Huguley. The author's note just showcased Piper's research and originality--where she added creative pieces that made this read wonderful. Well-written, easy flow and captivating descriptions. I believe readers will get many takeaways and will be lined up waiting for her next historical fiction work. And to think this all began with a tweet.
Thank you #Netgalley for this ARC.

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Review: Her Hidden Genius

Her Hidden Genius by Marie Benedict
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Hidden Genius tells the story of Dr. Rosalind Franklin--don't call her Rosy! She has spent years working on DNA using X-ray constellations to unlock its meaning. Though she has colleagues who conspire instead of collaborating, Rosalind is determined not to let anything interfere with her investigation. After painstaking years of study, she sees the double helix structure in DNA. But will she receive the right credit for her contribution?

First of all, let me start with the title and the cover. What a beautiful cover and fitting title. I know this is a work of fiction, but I praise Marie Benedict's skill in bringing a character to life. I found myself amazed, amazed at Rosalind's dedication and patience to get the science right during her study. I learned so much about this remarkable woman who sacrificed so much on her journey with the DNA.

I love Marie Benedict's work and all I can say is, I hope she keeps them coming. Rosalind was a hidden genius who wasn't given the credit she deserved for the work that she put in. Marie Benedict gave her depth and built Rosalind's world so I felt as if I were experiencing everything as it happened. I really enjoyed this read.

Thank you #Netgalley for the ARC.

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Review: The True Cowboy of Sunset Ridge

The True Cowboy of Sunset Ridge by Maisey Yates
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Mallory Chance moves to her brother's town in Gold Valley to be close to him but also to get a fresh start. Her first encounter is with a cowboy who she engages in a one-night-stand. Little did she know that Colt Daniels would turn out to be her landlord!

Colt is struggling with a lot of guilt from the past, which is why he likes temporary encounters. Nothing permanent. However, all that is about to change when he has to care for his god-daughter.

This was a hot, steamy read. It was good to get Colt's story in this series. Colt and Mallory's chemistry was intense. There were some good takeaways as well.

Thank you #Netgalley for the ARC.

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Review: The Perfect Fake Date

The Perfect Fake Date by Naima Simone
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Kenan and Eve have been best friends ever since her mom started working for his father, but he has always felt more. Too bad Eve only has eyes for his older brother, Gavin. But then Kenan makes a pact with Eve--if she helps him saves a business, he will help her snag his brother's attention.

Whew! What a steamy friends-to-lovers romance. When you read Naima Simone, you know you will get a scorcher. Kenan and Eve's story was that and more. I also loved her storyline with her mom--that warmed my heart. So many themes that I think will leave a warm place in many readers hearts. I enjoyed this read and as usual, the book cover is simply stunning!

Thank you #Netgalley and #Harlequin for the ARC!

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Review: The Personal Librarian

The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

"One day, Belle, we will be able to reach back through the decades and claim you as one of our own."

The Personal Librarian tells the story of Belle da Costa Greene who is hired by J.P. Morgan to oversee his personal collection of books, manuscripts and artwork. She is only in her twenties but quickly becomes known for her ruthless and shrewd tactics that earns her world-wide respect among her male peers. But this remarkable woman has a secret that defines all aspect of her life: she is a black woman. A black woman who lives as white. She must hold onto that secret if she wants to keep her job and her family safe.

I bought both the kindle and hardcover copies when this was released, but I didn't read it until now. I must say that I became engrossed really quickly in this read. I have read both authors works and I am familiar with their styles but this read presented as a seamless read, so the cohesion between the women is apparent in the writing.

As I read, I fell in love with Belle's spunk and her moments of rebellion. I was especially touched by how much fear she lived in, a constant fear of being discovered. That fear encompassed all areas of her life which was sad to see. But to know a woman of color helped to shape such a magnificent public institution, I felt so much pride (thus the quote above). I plan on visiting the library after reading this book. The descriptions provided gave me an image of grandeur and opulence that I must see for myself soon.

I definitely recommend this read and look forward to reading more by both of these authors. More like this, please (that's why I read Marie Benedict's historical fiction). More books celebrating our women, especially women of color.

Another Memorable Quote:
"Let’s focus on what we have in common and not on the differences that have pulled us apart.” When I read this, all I could think was, we have a long way to go for this wish to come true. Belle's father was a part of this movement and here we are decades later, still in the same fight. But, I do remain hopeful.

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