Welcome.
An positive open space for book lovers to find reading guidance, reviews, blogs, and connect with other alike.

​

While I've read many of Megan Quinn's books, this is the first to earn a 5-star rating from me. I'm generous with my ratings, but a 5-star rating is special—like an extra cherry on top of an already amazing sundae. And Ms. Quinn truly nailed it with this one!

​

As I discuss in my blog, "What Makes a Book Great, IMO," a gripping start is essential for a 5-star read. Ms. Quinn delivers, diving right into the “heat” by the middle of chapter two, which continues throughout the end of the chapter (and beyond!). 🌶️🔥

​

Gabby (fmc) and her younger brother grew up in foster care. She helped raise him and supported his dream of becoming a baseball player; he's now in the minor leagues. Gabby, a teacher, dreams of being involved in the baseball world. When a position opens in Almond Bay, combining teaching and assistant coaching for the high school team, she's both desperate and excited. After her interview, convinced she won't get the job, Gabby ends up at a local bar. There she spots Ryland (mmc), the head coach who didn't even bother to show up for the interview (so she thought). Not recognizing her, he becomes the target of her frustration, leading to a night of revenge, a one-night stand, and some of the best "heat" either of them has experienced.

​

Ryland, the head baseball coach and a teacher, is raising his niece, Mack, after the death of his sister. They recently moved into a new home with an apartment for rent above the garage.

To Gabby's surprise, she lands the teaching job and the assistant coaching position. She also ends up renting the apartment above Ryland's garage, leading to a series of heartwarming, grouchy, dramatic, tearful, and hilarious moments. The banter among the friends and family had me laughing out loud.

The dynamics and emotions truly brought this book to life. Witty banter, realistic conversations, and raw emotions created relatable characters. I could feel their heartache, compassion, and support for one another.

​

I loved the laugh-out-loud humor, small-town vibes, family drama, single “Uncle Dad” vibes, forced proximity (the shower scene!), grumpy-sunshine romance, and the spice (did I mention the spice?!). I even shed a few tears along the way! Ms. Quinn wrapped everything up perfectly in what I think is an amazing book.

 

Props to Ms. Quinn for the female plumber character!! 💪

​

PS: Did you know this is the 3rd Book in the Almond Bay Series??

​

​