Now in My Bookbag: 1986 - Why Can't This Be Love, (a Love in the 80's New Adult Mix), by RK Ryals

I didn’t get title significance at first, probably because my memory of these songs is shrouded in the cloak of time. So, I looked up lyrics and listened to the title song, by Van Halen. I realize now that the title is damn near perfect. (see video below)


Ryals does a phenomenal job delivering that feeling of finding first love. The characters are relatable, and developed well within the space of an 83 page novella. Tori’s new experiences help her find her own voice. Dylan Black is an interesting character. No one sees him for who he really is… until Tori finds him.

I  have always known that there are perfect songs for emotions, feelings, and experiences. I have made a mix tape, or two, in my life. I have never thought of the concept that these songs are soundtracks, background music, within the script that is life. The song references are spot on and nostalgic, for me… things forgotten in the 30 years since high school. I absolutely love the a-ha reference, (view video below).

I find this book an enjoyable read. It is lighthearted, but there is no fluff. There are many, many song references, which I love. This is another great addition to the Love in the 80’s series. 4 stars

Why Can't This Be Love - Van Halen

a-ha - Take On Me

Now in My Bookbag: Love is Come, by Heather B. Moore

I am lucky to have received an advance copy of this book, and was asked only for an honest review in return. The opinions expressed here are my own.

I am absolutely captivated by this historical romance from the Power of the Matchmaker Series. Author Heather B. Moore does an impressive job creating a world that is complete with the attitudes and social norms of the time.

Moore also does a fantastic job making me feel Nelle’s story, which is heartrendingly sad, more so because of the treatment she receives from the family on whom she needs to lean. Her only consolations are the time spent with either Mathew or Pearl. She also finds solace in her music. This is totally relatable for almost every reader, even if they are not musicians. Music is universal in its ability to provide a release for what ails the heart.

Pearl’s efforts to unite Nelle with her match are hard fought, giving the story that much more interest. Her existence is of great import to Nelle, and I find that Pearl is written to provide humor and heart to the book. Moore makes me believe that the deep friendship between the two is as important to Pearl as it is to Nelle.

Finally, Moore gives Nelle a huge capacity for love and compassion, which is like a balm to the pettiness and disdain that Nelle must face throughout the story. I believe that she will become one of my favorite heroines from my plethora of books. 5 stars

Now in My Bookbag: The Hazards of Sex on the Beach, by Alyssa Rose Ivy

The Hazards Series is written for readers 18 years of age and up. *New Adult* genre. This is Book 3 of 5. As with the rest of the series, this book is written about friends/sorority sisters at Harrison College in Charleston, SC.

“One broken heart, one drink too many, one steamy night in the sand…” Cara is devastated and humiliated by the end of her relationship with Aaron. After one completely reckless night, she feels more empowered, and a little less devastated. Chase is slightly obsessed with finding Cara. He felt a spark between them that night on the beach. Would finding her mend both broken hearts, or would being together mean facing one too many obstacles?

One of the things I really like about this book is the thought and detail put into the character, and personality, of Aaron the Betrayer (this is the name I have given him). Author Alyssa Rose Ivy does a pretty good job characterizing narcissism and obsessive behavior. I wish she had gone a bit further though, thus recognizing the way that those types of people tend to escalate the actions surrounding the obsession and the steps necessary to ensure the safety of that obsession.

So far, this is my favorite Hazards book.I like Cara and Chase. I love the writing style and plot devices. I enjoy learning more about the sisters of Delta Mu. This is a great read. 4.75 stars

Now in My Bookbag: Maybe Someday by Colleen Hoover

This is a great book for many different reasons. The characters really come to life through the words of author Colleen Hoover. She also has a wonderful way of building a story layer by layer, making it complex enough to draw me into the world of Sydney and Ridge.

It starts as a story about strangers and their shared love of music. This is all it takes for Hoover to develop an intimacy through songwriting that has nothing to do with the physical… only the emotional.

There is much more I can not say without giving the plot away… and I do not do spoilers. I am thrilled to have read Maybe Someday. Hoover evokes a lot of emotions through it, and I enjoy every one of them. 4 3/4 stars