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Checking Out Love #3
Bookmarked for Love
Not yet published
Expected 21 Jul 26When children's librarian Martha Aldridge learns about budget cuts that will not only put her out of a job but also shut down the library's children's programs, she's determined to raise the funds needed to save both. The good news is, she knows just who to ask for a large donation on the library's behalf. The bad news? She swore she'd never step foot in his office again.
Julien King has been groomed to one day run his family's publishing empire, and now he must prove he's ready to take the helm by turning around the company's languishing children's imprint. That wouldn't be a problem, except he doesn't know the first thing about children's literature. But when Martha waltzes into his office, he sees an opportunity and makes her an offer she can't refuse. He'll give her the money she needs for the library in exchange for her help in acquiring a best-selling manuscript that will resurrect the dying imprint. The longer they're forced to work together, however, the more they come to realize their jobs may not be the only thing on the line.
In her charming rom-com style, Sarah Monzon presents a story that will delight fans of bookish-themed reads and forced-proximity romance.
Julien King has been groomed to one day run his family's publishing empire, and now he must prove he's ready to take the helm by turning around the company's languishing children's imprint. That wouldn't be a problem, except he doesn't know the first thing about children's literature. But when Martha waltzes into his office, he sees an opportunity and makes her an offer she can't refuse. He'll give her the money she needs for the library in exchange for her help in acquiring a best-selling manuscript that will resurrect the dying imprint. The longer they're forced to work together, however, the more they come to realize their jobs may not be the only thing on the line.
In her charming rom-com style, Sarah Monzon presents a story that will delight fans of bookish-themed reads and forced-proximity romance.
320 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2026
About the author
Sarah Monzon
27 books838 followersA Carol award finalist and Selah award winner, Sarah Monzon is a stay-at-home mom who makes up imaginary friends to have adult conversations with (otherwise known as writing novels). As a navy chaplain's wife, she resides wherever the military happens to station her family and enjoys exploring the beauty of the world around her.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Bookmarked for Love by Sarah Monzon is the third book in the Checking Out Love series, and it was my absolute favourite. Although I think I felt the same way about the other two books!
I love how the author chooses her characters to help the reader consider something that is a difficult challenge or subject for someone else. She has that ability to help her readers step into someone else’s shoes. In book one, An Overdue Match, her character suffered from alopecia, in book two, Hearts in Circulation, the main character suffered from a sensory processing disorder, and in this book, her main character is obese and lacks self-esteem believing that no man could love her.
Having the same problem, I can say for a fact, being so encumbered by extra flesh, does gives one low self-esteem, but like Martha I was equally surprised that someone found my enormous bottom, (and these are my husband of 44 years words): “One of my best features besides my face.” And that is something Martha Aldridge struggles with when Julien King expresses his interest in her.
She had all kinds of excuses why someone would not be interested in her: he could not be interested in her because of her looks, but also because he is rich, handsome, they grew up together, and his father destroyed her dreams. Martha had lots of excuses. There is a lot to unpack in this story. Martha has always had a crush on Julien, but her perception of her attractiveness to others, combined with all the other reasons she has, amounts to a lack of self-esteem.
The author was brilliant in how these two characters came together, and I loved hearing Julien’s inner thoughts as he struggled with his desire to take his relationship further with Martha. But, he was her boss, and that was a big no-no. I loved how imaginative Martha was and how creative regarding her time in the library, something she doesn’t seem to recognize.
I will probably read this book again. I enjoyed it that much. It had some tender moments and provided some giggles for me too. If you enjoy books where the lead characters are drawn to each other but do everything in their power to resist, you will love this book!
I was given a complimentary copy of this book courtesy of Bethany House Publishers via NetGalley for my honest opinion.
I love how the author chooses her characters to help the reader consider something that is a difficult challenge or subject for someone else. She has that ability to help her readers step into someone else’s shoes. In book one, An Overdue Match, her character suffered from alopecia, in book two, Hearts in Circulation, the main character suffered from a sensory processing disorder, and in this book, her main character is obese and lacks self-esteem believing that no man could love her.
Having the same problem, I can say for a fact, being so encumbered by extra flesh, does gives one low self-esteem, but like Martha I was equally surprised that someone found my enormous bottom, (and these are my husband of 44 years words): “One of my best features besides my face.” And that is something Martha Aldridge struggles with when Julien King expresses his interest in her.
She had all kinds of excuses why someone would not be interested in her: he could not be interested in her because of her looks, but also because he is rich, handsome, they grew up together, and his father destroyed her dreams. Martha had lots of excuses. There is a lot to unpack in this story. Martha has always had a crush on Julien, but her perception of her attractiveness to others, combined with all the other reasons she has, amounts to a lack of self-esteem.
The author was brilliant in how these two characters came together, and I loved hearing Julien’s inner thoughts as he struggled with his desire to take his relationship further with Martha. But, he was her boss, and that was a big no-no. I loved how imaginative Martha was and how creative regarding her time in the library, something she doesn’t seem to recognize.
I will probably read this book again. I enjoyed it that much. It had some tender moments and provided some giggles for me too. If you enjoy books where the lead characters are drawn to each other but do everything in their power to resist, you will love this book!
I was given a complimentary copy of this book courtesy of Bethany House Publishers via NetGalley for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
“Happily ever after isn’t the destination. It’s the journey.” - Bookmarked for Love
I believe that sums up this book perfectly.
Martha Aldridge is not quite forty and still single, but she is content as Little Creek’s librarian in charge of the children’s programs, working alongside her fellow librarians, Haley and Evangeline. That contentment is shaken when her boss tells her her job is in jeopardy unless they secure outside funding. Martha comes up with a plan to ask the one person she knows who could help: Mr. King, her parents’ employer and the owner of a publishing house, even though he once crushed her dreams of becoming a writer.
But when she steps into his office, she is surprised to find not Mr. King Sr., but his son, Julien King, her childhood crush, now all grown up and in charge. Julien makes her an offer she can’t refuse. If she helps him find the next up-and-coming children's author, he will give her the money the library so desperately needs to keep its children’s program running.
This book was fun to read. Generally, stories about older main characters don’t always pull me in, but Sarah Monzon did a wonderful job creating characters who were relatable, experienced, and yet still falling in love for the first time. Martha is charming and dedicated to her young readers. Julien is kind and connects with his employees in an encouraging way.
Martha’s childhood crush grows into a deeper admiration for Julien as a grown man as they work together. She sees the good in him and helps him deal with the crushing stress of his father’s expectations. Julien notices and admires the mature Martha not just for her kindness and beauty, but for her knowledge and compassion. Their reconnecting sparks not only romance but a supportive friendship. It was also fun to catch up with Evangeline and Tai, and Haley and Levi along the way.
While you can read Bookmarked for Love as a standalone, I think it is most rewarding to read it after the first two books.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Sarah Monzon and Bethany House. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
I believe that sums up this book perfectly.
Martha Aldridge is not quite forty and still single, but she is content as Little Creek’s librarian in charge of the children’s programs, working alongside her fellow librarians, Haley and Evangeline. That contentment is shaken when her boss tells her her job is in jeopardy unless they secure outside funding. Martha comes up with a plan to ask the one person she knows who could help: Mr. King, her parents’ employer and the owner of a publishing house, even though he once crushed her dreams of becoming a writer.
But when she steps into his office, she is surprised to find not Mr. King Sr., but his son, Julien King, her childhood crush, now all grown up and in charge. Julien makes her an offer she can’t refuse. If she helps him find the next up-and-coming children's author, he will give her the money the library so desperately needs to keep its children’s program running.
This book was fun to read. Generally, stories about older main characters don’t always pull me in, but Sarah Monzon did a wonderful job creating characters who were relatable, experienced, and yet still falling in love for the first time. Martha is charming and dedicated to her young readers. Julien is kind and connects with his employees in an encouraging way.
Martha’s childhood crush grows into a deeper admiration for Julien as a grown man as they work together. She sees the good in him and helps him deal with the crushing stress of his father’s expectations. Julien notices and admires the mature Martha not just for her kindness and beauty, but for her knowledge and compassion. Their reconnecting sparks not only romance but a supportive friendship. It was also fun to catch up with Evangeline and Tai, and Haley and Levi along the way.
While you can read Bookmarked for Love as a standalone, I think it is most rewarding to read it after the first two books.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Sarah Monzon and Bethany House. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Bethany House Publishers and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Sarah Monzon brings the reader the third novel in the Checking Out Love series with 'Bookmarked for Love'. While part of a series, this novel can be read as a stand-alone. Children's librarian, Martha Aldridge learns that budget cuts are coming and that will put her job will be cut as well as the children's programming budget will be cut to use for the library to replace the library roof. In order to keep her job and the program, she will have to raise the money through donations. She is determined to get a large donation from a publishing house that resides close at hand. The problem as a budding author, she was humiliated by the owner when she presented her book to him.
Enter Julien King who has been learning the family business and will be taking over the helm if his controlling father will ever step down as the president. Julien has been working non-stop to convince his father to retire. When Martha comes to his office on the premise of looking for a donation, Julien offers her the job of helping him find a children's author whose novel will turn their languishing children's imprint into a money maker.. They are forced to work together at a book publishing conference in the hopes of finding the perfect manuscript.
This christian fiction romance novel had a wonderful cast of characters. Both the main characters were relatable and they had a wonderful witty exchanges that were laugh out loud funny. For those who work in the library world or publishing, the nature of the work that goes into them was factual. If you are looking for mature characters in the real world, this novel is an enjoyable way to spend an afternoon. I will be sure to go back and pick up the first two.
Sarah Monzon brings the reader the third novel in the Checking Out Love series with 'Bookmarked for Love'. While part of a series, this novel can be read as a stand-alone. Children's librarian, Martha Aldridge learns that budget cuts are coming and that will put her job will be cut as well as the children's programming budget will be cut to use for the library to replace the library roof. In order to keep her job and the program, she will have to raise the money through donations. She is determined to get a large donation from a publishing house that resides close at hand. The problem as a budding author, she was humiliated by the owner when she presented her book to him.
Enter Julien King who has been learning the family business and will be taking over the helm if his controlling father will ever step down as the president. Julien has been working non-stop to convince his father to retire. When Martha comes to his office on the premise of looking for a donation, Julien offers her the job of helping him find a children's author whose novel will turn their languishing children's imprint into a money maker.. They are forced to work together at a book publishing conference in the hopes of finding the perfect manuscript.
This christian fiction romance novel had a wonderful cast of characters. Both the main characters were relatable and they had a wonderful witty exchanges that were laugh out loud funny. For those who work in the library world or publishing, the nature of the work that goes into them was factual. If you are looking for mature characters in the real world, this novel is an enjoyable way to spend an afternoon. I will be sure to go back and pick up the first two.
Read
May 24, 2026Bookmarked for Love is a charming and emotionally uplifting contemporary romance that blends humor, heartfelt emotion, and bookish charm into a thoroughly enjoyable reading experience. Sarah Monzon creates a story filled with warmth, chemistry, and engaging character dynamics, delivering a romance that feels both comforting and emotionally rewarding.
What makes the novel especially compelling is the natural development between Martha and Julien. Their forced proximity dynamic creates both tension and humor, while their shared passion for books and dedication to their careers give the relationship genuine emotional depth. The interactions feel authentic and engaging, allowing the romance to unfold in a way that feels heartfelt and believable.
The story also shines through its themes of purpose, community, and personal growth. The library setting and publishing world add an extra layer of charm that book lovers will especially appreciate, while the emotional stakes surrounding both characters’ careers create meaningful tension throughout the narrative. Sarah Monzon balances romance, humor, and emotional sincerity with confidence and warmth.
Sweet, engaging, and emotionally satisfying, Bookmarked for Love is a delightful contemporary romance that will strongly resonate with readers who enjoy book themed romances, forced proximity dynamics, heartfelt storytelling, and uplifting character driven narratives.
What makes the novel especially compelling is the natural development between Martha and Julien. Their forced proximity dynamic creates both tension and humor, while their shared passion for books and dedication to their careers give the relationship genuine emotional depth. The interactions feel authentic and engaging, allowing the romance to unfold in a way that feels heartfelt and believable.
The story also shines through its themes of purpose, community, and personal growth. The library setting and publishing world add an extra layer of charm that book lovers will especially appreciate, while the emotional stakes surrounding both characters’ careers create meaningful tension throughout the narrative. Sarah Monzon balances romance, humor, and emotional sincerity with confidence and warmth.
Sweet, engaging, and emotionally satisfying, Bookmarked for Love is a delightful contemporary romance that will strongly resonate with readers who enjoy book themed romances, forced proximity dynamics, heartfelt storytelling, and uplifting character driven narratives.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
As a librarian, I really appreciated how Bookmarked for Love portrays the library as a true community space rather than just a backdrop of books. Sarah Monzon avoids the usual clichés and gives the heroine a role that feels authentic, purposeful, and familiar to anyone who has worked behind a service desk. It was refreshing to see librarians represented as real people instead of stereotypes.
I also loved the way the heroine fights for what she believes in. Her determination gives the story real heart, and it made me root for her from the start. The hero matches her well, and for most of the book both characters handle their conflicts with a level of maturity that makes their relationship feel grounded and believable.
I get complimentary books from places like NetGalley, authors, and publishers. There’s no pressure to say something positive, as I’m not paid for my reviews. Everything I share is my opinion.
I also loved the way the heroine fights for what she believes in. Her determination gives the story real heart, and it made me root for her from the start. The hero matches her well, and for most of the book both characters handle their conflicts with a level of maturity that makes their relationship feel grounded and believable.
I get complimentary books from places like NetGalley, authors, and publishers. There’s no pressure to say something positive, as I’m not paid for my reviews. Everything I share is my opinion.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is the third book in Monzon’s Checking Out Love series. If you’re able to read the first two books first, it’s helpful, but not absolutely necessary. I enjoyed all three books. The main characters in this book are great, and I really enjoyed the humorous plot twists that Monzon puts them through. If you’re familiar with children’s books, you’ll get a kick out of all the titles that show up in the book. I liked the relationship that develops between Martha and Julien.
“I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own." #BookmarkedforLove #NetGalley
“I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own." #BookmarkedforLove #NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Really enjoyed this story about Martha and Julien. They had been friends since she was a young girl and he a teenager. Her parents were groundskeepers for his family. His family owned a publishing house which Martha swore she would never go there because Mr. King had told her that the book she had written wasn't good enough to be published. The library she worked at was in need of a large donation to keep the programs going, so she went only to find Julien there instead of his Dad., They made a deal as he needed her and she the same so you must read to see how this all works out. A VERY GOOD READ.
May 26, 2026
This series just got better and better with each new release! Loved the Sabrina influence and nods, loved seeing characters clearly communicate, and loved that while things may not have been solved smoothly, they were solved with the kind of precision and unexpected flair that life often brings!
Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC!
Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is the 3rd installment of Sarah Monzon's Checking Out Love series. And it's just as good as her first two books! Each book focuses on a librarian in little creek and I love Martha and Julien's story! It's a cute romance with a good message and it was funny too! There was one place in particular that I laughed so much! Definitely check this book out ASAP!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Originally unique story that I adored. All the feels - funny, serious, inspirational, romantic and informative. Definitely worth the read. This book was provided through NetGalley. The opinions expressed here are my own thoughts.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews