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The Packing List: A Later in Life Romance Anthology
THE PACKING LIST is a romance anthology featuring TWELVE original, never-before-seen stories from bestselling authors. One hundred percent of net proceeds will be donated to sexual and reproductive health care organizations. THE PACKING LIST is only available for a limited time so grab your copy before it's gone for good!
This exclusive collection brings you sizzling, later-in-life love stories where seasoned characters tumble into red-hot temptation, unexpected passion, and daring new beginnings that redefine desire. Every tale tempts you into wanting more and these happily ever afters smolder right off the page.
Authors
Karen Booth
J. Calamy
Kate Canterbary
Michelle Donn
Sarah T. Dubb
L.B. Dunbar
Jess K. Hardy
Mia Hopkins
Cindy Kehagiaras
Angelina M. Lopez
Melanie Moreland
Maria Vale
100% of net proceeds from THE PACKING LIST will be donated to sexual and reproductive health care organizations. This anthology is not being conducted on behalf of these organizations nor do these organizations endorse this anthology or collective effort. They have, however, graciously agreed to accept the funds.
This exclusive collection brings you sizzling, later-in-life love stories where seasoned characters tumble into red-hot temptation, unexpected passion, and daring new beginnings that redefine desire. Every tale tempts you into wanting more and these happily ever afters smolder right off the page.
Authors
Karen Booth
J. Calamy
Kate Canterbary
Michelle Donn
Sarah T. Dubb
L.B. Dunbar
Jess K. Hardy
Mia Hopkins
Cindy Kehagiaras
Angelina M. Lopez
Melanie Moreland
Maria Vale
100% of net proceeds from THE PACKING LIST will be donated to sexual and reproductive health care organizations. This anthology is not being conducted on behalf of these organizations nor do these organizations endorse this anthology or collective effort. They have, however, graciously agreed to accept the funds.
684 pages, Paperback
First published December 30, 2025
About the author
Karen Booth
326 books527 followersKaren Booth is a Midwestern girl transplanted in the South, raised on 80s music and repeated readings of Forever by Judy Blume. She writes steamy contemporary romance and women's fiction. When she isn't creating fictional hunky men and the women who test them, she's listening to music with her kids, honing her Southern cooking skills or sweet-talking her astoundingly supportive husband into whipping up a batch of cocktails.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
January 28, 2026
Read the Mia Hopkins (delicious, sexy roller skating at its finest) and Kate Canterbary's stories. Worth it for these two alone.
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March 14, 2026An anthology focused on seasoned romance, featuring 12 original short stories. Sarah T. Dubb's offering was the standout and my favorite by far. I also really enjoyed the stories from Mia Hopkins, Karen Booth, and Jess K. Hardy.
The Rules of Flipping - Karen Booth: 4 stars
Neighbors-to-lovers who are rival house flippers. I hope Booth expands this into a full-length book because I wanted more!
Characters: Jodie is a 50 year old white real estate agent. Zach is a 53 year old white house flipper. His daughter Brooke is a college freshman. This is set in Oak Island, North Carolina.
Content notes: past divorces, past infidelity (FMC's ex-husband cheated), diet culture, on page sex, alcohol, "lady parts" as euphemism, gendered pejoratives, gender essentialism, ableist language
No Going Back - J. Calamy: DNF
Science fiction MM romance: too much of an info dump.
Characters: Marcus is a 43 year old man. Leo is a Fleet Admiral. This is set in future San Francisco.
Content notes: twin swap, ageism, past earthquakes, poverty, secondary character with one eye, hangover
Fine Lines - Kate Canterbary: 3 stars
One-sided rivals to lovers that didn't make logistical sense at all but I liked them together in the end.
Characters: Beth is a 42 year old white dermatologic surgeon. Jay is a 50 year old white dermatologic surgeon, reality TV doctor, and triathlon competitor. This is set in Boston and Bermuda.
Content notes: skin cancer conference (FMC is presenting on the relationship between melanoma and breast cancer), FMC's fiancé ends their engagement, ageism, student loan debt, past death of FMC's father (lymphoma), on page sex, anal play, alcohol, inebriation
Just Solemates - Michelle Donn: 1 star
Neighbors-to-lovers, anonymous texters, and Cinderella retelling: all things I love but this didn't come together for me at all.
Characters: Henry is a 47 year old white accountant and HOA treasurer. Cindy is a white veterinarian in her 40s. She has a mastiff named Bruno and cat named Midnight. This is set in Chicago and Elmer, Texas.
Content notes: past sexual harassment by octogenarian neighbor (not treated as such), toxic stepmother and stepsisters, plastic surgery stigma, fatphobia, COVID-19/past quarantine, past death of FMC's father, on page sex, alcohol, gender essentialist language, ableist language
Community Property - Sarah T. Dubb: 5 stars
I've really enjoyed Dubb's longer work but this is the best thing she's ever written. Jack and Tessa divorced twenty years ago but they get a second chance when they're accidentally snowed in together at their shared cabin. Fantastic character work and super hot sex scenes. Love, love, love!
Note: there are a couple of continuity errors, like how long they were together and whether Jack teaches science or civics and government.
Characters: Jack is a Mexican-Irish American high school teacher in his 40s. Tessa is a 44 year old white political science professor and cable TV political commentator. They divorced twenty years ago. This is set in New Mexico near Gila Wilderness.
Content notes: FMC is on an anti-depressant, perimenopuase, weight gain, FMC is working through internalized fatphobia, past divorce, past vasectomy, MCs don't want kids, long-distance relationship, on page sex, mutual masturbation, past alleyway sex, ableist language, hyperbolic language around addiction
Confidence BOOSTER - L.B. Dunbar: 2 stars
Interesting premise but the writing style isn't for me so the relationship felt flat. I did enjoy their trip to Glacier National Park, however.
Characters: Kali is a 47 year old white graphic designer. She has three children. Craven "Booster" is a 52 year old white retired major league baseball coach with a mustache. This is set in Whitefish, Montana.
Content notes: past divorce and infidelity (FMC's ex-husband cheated with MMC's girlfriend), misogyny ("ball bunnies"), internalized fatphobia, past hysterectomy (still has ovaries), menopause, FMC's ex-husband stole from her, MMC is estranged from his stepfamily, past death of MMC's father, on page sex, outdoor sex, alcohol, gendered pejoratives, gender essentialist language, ableist language
Double Booked - Jess K. Hardy: 4 stars
Would that I had such luck as Hannah to get accidentally double-booked at an isolated cabin with a hot, emotionally mature man like Darryn! A fun tie-in to Come As You Are, as Darryn is Madigan's brother.
Characters: Hannah is a 45 year old white high school counselor. Her son William is a college freshman. Darryn is a 49 year old white disabled veteran advocate and a veteran. He has a rescue dog named Joey and 28 year old son Jeremiah. This is set in Balsam Ridge, Montana.
Content notes: nightmare, past deployment to Afghanistan, past divorce for both MCs, past infidelity (FMC's ex-husband cheated), unsafe sex practices (MMC rips condom wrapper open with his teeth), on page sex, outdoor sex, alcohol, ableist language
Auntie - Mia Hopkins: 4 stars
This was a sexy treat! Everything felt organic between Jo and Hiroki from the moment they meet at her sister Rowena's house. There was so much about Rowena and her daughters that I wonder if she'll get her own romance.
Characters: Jo is a Filipino American vintage clothing store owner. Hiroki is a 49 year old Japanese mosaic artist. This is set in Los Angeles.
Content notes: toxic brother-in-law, MMC's mother has Alzheimer's, head injury, secondary character is getting a divorce, financial stress, MMC immigrated to the US at age 13, past death of MMC's father, past parental divorce, past unstable childhood, on page sex, mutual masturbation, alcohol, reference to COVID-19 (treated as if it's in the past)
The Winds of Tinos - Cindy Kehagiaras: DNF
Turns out Maggie is worried her cancer is back and that's not something I can read about right now.
Characters: Maggie is an American woman visiting her son James and his fiancée in Tinos, Greece.
Content notes: recent biopsy and concern about cancer returning, past divorce, ableist language
The Sun in Her Eyes - Angelina M. Lopez: DNF
A sapphic historical romance is an interesting direction for Lopez! Unfortunately, I'm not comfortable with MaryAnn lusting over her sister-in-law, since she hasn't talked to her new husband Brody about what kind of marriage they'll have and whether she would be free to have another relationship. Even if that was in place, his sister is a very complicated choice! I'm all for lavender marriages but I'm not sure I could buy it in this case.
Characters: MaryAnne is a Mexican newlywed. Her sister-in-law Roslynn is a whiter farmer who has a dog Tucker and cat Cat. This is set in Kansas.
Content notes: potential infidelity, menopause, dislocated shoulder, past death of husband's three wives in childbirth, past death of family members (Great Flu)
The Cottage - Melanie Moreland: DNF
I love a good accidentally snowed in premise but I'm puzzled by the choice to not tell this chronologically. Chapter 1 is from Sully's perspective and ends with him arriving at the cabin and finding Autumn, who faints. Then chapter 2 starts with Autumn deciding to go to the cottage instead. What on earth?! I tried to keep going but Autumn also has a fear that someone has found her. I don't know who or the circumstances but I doubt I'm going to like how it's handled.
Characters: Sully is a Scottish or Irish solicitor. Autumn is a Canadian HR worker. This is set in Lachlan, Scotland.
Content notes: fainting, gender essentialist language, ableist language
Wistful - Maria Vale: 2 stars
As much as I adore Maria Vale's Legend of All Wolves series, her more recent efforts haven't worked for me. This was weird and it might have been okay if I hadn't found Wich to be such a sexist jerk.
Characters: Wich is a scriptwriter. Helen is a 54 year old actress. This is set in Los Angeles.
Content notes: ageism, sexism, past meniscus tear in knee, past divorce, past parental divorce, past paternal abandonment, past death of father, alcohol, ableist language, references to 9/11
The Rules of Flipping - Karen Booth: 4 stars
Neighbors-to-lovers who are rival house flippers. I hope Booth expands this into a full-length book because I wanted more!
Characters: Jodie is a 50 year old white real estate agent. Zach is a 53 year old white house flipper. His daughter Brooke is a college freshman. This is set in Oak Island, North Carolina.
Content notes: past divorces, past infidelity (FMC's ex-husband cheated), diet culture, on page sex, alcohol, "lady parts" as euphemism, gendered pejoratives, gender essentialism, ableist language
No Going Back - J. Calamy: DNF
Science fiction MM romance: too much of an info dump.
Characters: Marcus is a 43 year old man. Leo is a Fleet Admiral. This is set in future San Francisco.
Content notes: twin swap, ageism, past earthquakes, poverty, secondary character with one eye, hangover
Fine Lines - Kate Canterbary: 3 stars
One-sided rivals to lovers that didn't make logistical sense at all but I liked them together in the end.
Characters: Beth is a 42 year old white dermatologic surgeon. Jay is a 50 year old white dermatologic surgeon, reality TV doctor, and triathlon competitor. This is set in Boston and Bermuda.
Content notes: skin cancer conference (FMC is presenting on the relationship between melanoma and breast cancer), FMC's fiancé ends their engagement, ageism, student loan debt, past death of FMC's father (lymphoma), on page sex, anal play, alcohol, inebriation
Just Solemates - Michelle Donn: 1 star
Neighbors-to-lovers, anonymous texters, and Cinderella retelling: all things I love but this didn't come together for me at all.
Characters: Henry is a 47 year old white accountant and HOA treasurer. Cindy is a white veterinarian in her 40s. She has a mastiff named Bruno and cat named Midnight. This is set in Chicago and Elmer, Texas.
Content notes: past sexual harassment by octogenarian neighbor (not treated as such), toxic stepmother and stepsisters, plastic surgery stigma, fatphobia, COVID-19/past quarantine, past death of FMC's father, on page sex, alcohol, gender essentialist language, ableist language
Community Property - Sarah T. Dubb: 5 stars
I've really enjoyed Dubb's longer work but this is the best thing she's ever written. Jack and Tessa divorced twenty years ago but they get a second chance when they're accidentally snowed in together at their shared cabin. Fantastic character work and super hot sex scenes. Love, love, love!
Note: there are a couple of continuity errors, like how long they were together and whether Jack teaches science or civics and government.
Characters: Jack is a Mexican-Irish American high school teacher in his 40s. Tessa is a 44 year old white political science professor and cable TV political commentator. They divorced twenty years ago. This is set in New Mexico near Gila Wilderness.
Content notes: FMC is on an anti-depressant, perimenopuase, weight gain, FMC is working through internalized fatphobia, past divorce, past vasectomy, MCs don't want kids, long-distance relationship, on page sex, mutual masturbation, past alleyway sex, ableist language, hyperbolic language around addiction
Confidence BOOSTER - L.B. Dunbar: 2 stars
Interesting premise but the writing style isn't for me so the relationship felt flat. I did enjoy their trip to Glacier National Park, however.
Characters: Kali is a 47 year old white graphic designer. She has three children. Craven "Booster" is a 52 year old white retired major league baseball coach with a mustache. This is set in Whitefish, Montana.
Content notes: past divorce and infidelity (FMC's ex-husband cheated with MMC's girlfriend), misogyny ("ball bunnies"), internalized fatphobia, past hysterectomy (still has ovaries), menopause, FMC's ex-husband stole from her, MMC is estranged from his stepfamily, past death of MMC's father, on page sex, outdoor sex, alcohol, gendered pejoratives, gender essentialist language, ableist language
Double Booked - Jess K. Hardy: 4 stars
Would that I had such luck as Hannah to get accidentally double-booked at an isolated cabin with a hot, emotionally mature man like Darryn! A fun tie-in to Come As You Are, as Darryn is Madigan's brother.
Characters: Hannah is a 45 year old white high school counselor. Her son William is a college freshman. Darryn is a 49 year old white disabled veteran advocate and a veteran. He has a rescue dog named Joey and 28 year old son Jeremiah. This is set in Balsam Ridge, Montana.
Content notes: nightmare, past deployment to Afghanistan, past divorce for both MCs, past infidelity (FMC's ex-husband cheated), unsafe sex practices (MMC rips condom wrapper open with his teeth), on page sex, outdoor sex, alcohol, ableist language
Auntie - Mia Hopkins: 4 stars
This was a sexy treat! Everything felt organic between Jo and Hiroki from the moment they meet at her sister Rowena's house. There was so much about Rowena and her daughters that I wonder if she'll get her own romance.
Characters: Jo is a Filipino American vintage clothing store owner. Hiroki is a 49 year old Japanese mosaic artist. This is set in Los Angeles.
Content notes: toxic brother-in-law, MMC's mother has Alzheimer's, head injury, secondary character is getting a divorce, financial stress, MMC immigrated to the US at age 13, past death of MMC's father, past parental divorce, past unstable childhood, on page sex, mutual masturbation, alcohol, reference to COVID-19 (treated as if it's in the past)
The Winds of Tinos - Cindy Kehagiaras: DNF
Turns out Maggie is worried her cancer is back and that's not something I can read about right now.
Characters: Maggie is an American woman visiting her son James and his fiancée in Tinos, Greece.
Content notes: recent biopsy and concern about cancer returning, past divorce, ableist language
The Sun in Her Eyes - Angelina M. Lopez: DNF
A sapphic historical romance is an interesting direction for Lopez! Unfortunately, I'm not comfortable with MaryAnn lusting over her sister-in-law, since she hasn't talked to her new husband Brody about what kind of marriage they'll have and whether she would be free to have another relationship. Even if that was in place, his sister is a very complicated choice! I'm all for lavender marriages but I'm not sure I could buy it in this case.
Characters: MaryAnne is a Mexican newlywed. Her sister-in-law Roslynn is a whiter farmer who has a dog Tucker and cat Cat. This is set in Kansas.
Content notes: potential infidelity, menopause, dislocated shoulder, past death of husband's three wives in childbirth, past death of family members (Great Flu)
The Cottage - Melanie Moreland: DNF
I love a good accidentally snowed in premise but I'm puzzled by the choice to not tell this chronologically. Chapter 1 is from Sully's perspective and ends with him arriving at the cabin and finding Autumn, who faints. Then chapter 2 starts with Autumn deciding to go to the cottage instead. What on earth?! I tried to keep going but Autumn also has a fear that someone has found her. I don't know who or the circumstances but I doubt I'm going to like how it's handled.
Characters: Sully is a Scottish or Irish solicitor. Autumn is a Canadian HR worker. This is set in Lachlan, Scotland.
Content notes: fainting, gender essentialist language, ableist language
Wistful - Maria Vale: 2 stars
As much as I adore Maria Vale's Legend of All Wolves series, her more recent efforts haven't worked for me. This was weird and it might have been okay if I hadn't found Wich to be such a sexist jerk.
Characters: Wich is a scriptwriter. Helen is a 54 year old actress. This is set in Los Angeles.
Content notes: ageism, sexism, past meniscus tear in knee, past divorce, past parental divorce, past paternal abandonment, past death of father, alcohol, ableist language, references to 9/11
January 6, 2026
A mixed bag, as it always is with an anthology, but there are enough favorite authors with a story in here that I gave it a whirl.
March 27, 2026
Excellent novellas of a certain age
Would recommend this series to anyone who’s fed up with 18-year-old protagonists.
Karen Booth’s “The Rules of Flipping” was spectacular. I could almost feel the sea air.
J. Calamy’s “No Going Back” was a DNF for me. I cannot read about AI right now.
Kate Canterbary’s “Fine Lines” was surprisingly hot.
Michelle Dunn’s “Just Solemates” was a Texas-set novella that gave readers a glimpse into her wider universe.
Sarah T. Dubb’s “Community Property” was excellent and reminded me to pick up her backlist.
L.B. Dubar’s “Confidence Booster,” Jess K. Hardy’s “Double Booked,” and Melanie Moreland’s “The Cottage” all featured vacation getaways gone right.
Auntie by Mia Hopkins was fantastic — I’m going to come back to this author.
The Winds of Tinos by Cindy Kehagiaras was not a standalone novella.
Angelina M. Lopez’s “The Sun in Her Eyes” was a historical FF novella that was really unique and bittersweet.
Wistful by Maria Vale was a sci-fi/romance crossover novella with an interesting plot and less compelling romance.
Would recommend this series to anyone who’s fed up with 18-year-old protagonists.
Karen Booth’s “The Rules of Flipping” was spectacular. I could almost feel the sea air.
J. Calamy’s “No Going Back” was a DNF for me. I cannot read about AI right now.
Kate Canterbary’s “Fine Lines” was surprisingly hot.
Michelle Dunn’s “Just Solemates” was a Texas-set novella that gave readers a glimpse into her wider universe.
Sarah T. Dubb’s “Community Property” was excellent and reminded me to pick up her backlist.
L.B. Dubar’s “Confidence Booster,” Jess K. Hardy’s “Double Booked,” and Melanie Moreland’s “The Cottage” all featured vacation getaways gone right.
Auntie by Mia Hopkins was fantastic — I’m going to come back to this author.
The Winds of Tinos by Cindy Kehagiaras was not a standalone novella.
Angelina M. Lopez’s “The Sun in Her Eyes” was a historical FF novella that was really unique and bittersweet.
Wistful by Maria Vale was a sci-fi/romance crossover novella with an interesting plot and less compelling romance.
December 20, 2025
Karen Booth, L.B. Dunbar, Jess K. Hardy, Cindy Kehagiaras … need I go on?
The QUEENS of OVER 40 Romance have come together to SLAY any nay-sayers that hot romance in middle age doesn’t exist!
Every story is very different but scratches the itch deliciously!
The QUEENS of OVER 40 Romance have come together to SLAY any nay-sayers that hot romance in middle age doesn’t exist!
Every story is very different but scratches the itch deliciously!
January 1, 2026
Fine Lines by Kate Canterbary -3 ⭐️
It was kinda weird and way too short for what it was trying to accomplish
Double Booked by Jess K Hardy - 5 ⭐️
Super hot and super sweet!
It was kinda weird and way too short for what it was trying to accomplish
Double Booked by Jess K Hardy - 5 ⭐️
Super hot and super sweet!
February 12, 2026
Honestly a pretty underwhelming anthology :(
January 8, 2026
There are twelve short stories in The Packing List and most of them range from ok to fantastic. The anthology is filled with romances between people over 40 and the proceeds go to reproductive health groups. Access to good reproductive healthcare is a sign of a healthy society and we are losing it. I’m so happy to see some of my favorite authors involved with this. I was impressed with the variety of romances – historical, queer, second chance, sci fi, and contemporary.
Rather than review every story, I’m going to focus on the ones that were standouts to me.
“Auntie” by Mia Hopkins. This was such a joy to read. Hopkins packs so much into “Auntie” while also giving us a feeling of openness and possibility. Jo has come to visit her sister and nieces for the weekend, leaving behind her worries about money and the continuing viability of her business. While there, her sister introduces her to Hiroki who is an artist hired to create a mosaic. The two strike sparks and leave the story with a sense of possibility for a future relationship.
“The Sun in Her Eyes” by Angelina M. Lopez. I think this is both Lopez first historical romance and sapphic romance. It is not her first “yes, Mexican Americans live in Kansas” story. MaryAnn Callahan, neé Gonzalez has agreed to marry a farmer who isn’t looking for more children, just a wife to keep his home. When MaryAnn arrives at her new home, she’s resigned to her future, hopeful that it will be more secure than the future she was facing. And then she meets her husband’s sister, Roslynn. Cue pining and soft glances. Yes, they get a happy ending.
“Community Property” by Sarah T. Dubb. Dubb is a new favorite, so I was very happy to get a short story from her. Tessa and Jack divorced 20 years ago, but they have retained co-ownership of a cabin in New Mexico. Rather than communicate about who will be at the cabin when, they divide usage by the calendar. They overlap when Jack tries to get ahead of a big storm and takes a chance that Tessa won’t be there. The exes are snowed in together and have time to revisit the circumstances of their divorce. Other than the fact that I am well over 40 years old, I love later in life romances like “Community Property” because they give us a chance to think about the way our priorities change with experience.
“No Going Back” by J. Calamy. There was a lot of good in this queer scifi romance, it’s one of the few stories that I think would have worked better in a longer format. There was a lot going on and a lot worth exploring. It was definitely worth reading.
This anthology is available for a limited time, so go get it now.
Rather than review every story, I’m going to focus on the ones that were standouts to me.
“Auntie” by Mia Hopkins. This was such a joy to read. Hopkins packs so much into “Auntie” while also giving us a feeling of openness and possibility. Jo has come to visit her sister and nieces for the weekend, leaving behind her worries about money and the continuing viability of her business. While there, her sister introduces her to Hiroki who is an artist hired to create a mosaic. The two strike sparks and leave the story with a sense of possibility for a future relationship.
“The Sun in Her Eyes” by Angelina M. Lopez. I think this is both Lopez first historical romance and sapphic romance. It is not her first “yes, Mexican Americans live in Kansas” story. MaryAnn Callahan, neé Gonzalez has agreed to marry a farmer who isn’t looking for more children, just a wife to keep his home. When MaryAnn arrives at her new home, she’s resigned to her future, hopeful that it will be more secure than the future she was facing. And then she meets her husband’s sister, Roslynn. Cue pining and soft glances. Yes, they get a happy ending.
“Community Property” by Sarah T. Dubb. Dubb is a new favorite, so I was very happy to get a short story from her. Tessa and Jack divorced 20 years ago, but they have retained co-ownership of a cabin in New Mexico. Rather than communicate about who will be at the cabin when, they divide usage by the calendar. They overlap when Jack tries to get ahead of a big storm and takes a chance that Tessa won’t be there. The exes are snowed in together and have time to revisit the circumstances of their divorce. Other than the fact that I am well over 40 years old, I love later in life romances like “Community Property” because they give us a chance to think about the way our priorities change with experience.
“No Going Back” by J. Calamy. There was a lot of good in this queer scifi romance, it’s one of the few stories that I think would have worked better in a longer format. There was a lot going on and a lot worth exploring. It was definitely worth reading.
This anthology is available for a limited time, so go get it now.
January 8, 2026
3.5 stars.
A couple of these short stories were really good, but I didn't like most of them very much. It takes a lot to write a really good short story. Too many of them felt like abridged regular length stories, or they just ended extremely abruptly.
- "The Rules of Flipping" by Karen Booth - 4 stars - very nice, I liked the couples dynamic.
- "No Going Back" by J Calamy - 3.75 stars - sometimes I didn't like the writing and it took me out of the story; I don't like hidden identity stories. Overall a lovely story, but too much attempted world building for such a short story.
- "Fine Lines" by Kate Canterbury - 3 stars - this relationship dynamic wasn't for me. I do love Canterbury's writing though.
- "Just Solemates" by Michelle Donn - 3 stars - a perfectly fine Cinderella retelling
- "Community Property" by Sarah T Dubb - 4 stars - well written; worked well at fleshing out the characters and giving a fairly believable second chance romance.
- "Confidence Booster" by L B Dunbar - 3 stars - fine, but it didn't really develop anything all that much.
- "Double Booked" by Jess K Hardy - 4 stars - this was really good! Sexy, sweet, and definitely more believable than some of the other stories. Hardy was the reason why I picked this book up.
- "Auntie" by Mia Hopkins - 4 stars - it was good, but felt like the start of a longer story.
- "The Winds of Tinos" by Cindy Kehagiaras - 2.5 star - what even was this? Not a short story, it literally ends and says the story continues in a book.
- "The Sun in Her Eyes" by Angelina M Lopez - 5 stars - an excellent short story! I loved it and it was so well written. A historical, sapphic romance. Easily my fave of the collection.
- "The Cottage" by Melanie Moreland - 3.5 stars - fun but ended super abruptly. Felt like there was supposed to be more to it.
- "Wistful" by Maria Vale - 3.5 stars - an interesting concept that I didn't feel worked for this length of story.
A couple of these short stories were really good, but I didn't like most of them very much. It takes a lot to write a really good short story. Too many of them felt like abridged regular length stories, or they just ended extremely abruptly.
- "The Rules of Flipping" by Karen Booth - 4 stars - very nice, I liked the couples dynamic.
- "No Going Back" by J Calamy - 3.75 stars - sometimes I didn't like the writing and it took me out of the story; I don't like hidden identity stories. Overall a lovely story, but too much attempted world building for such a short story.
- "Fine Lines" by Kate Canterbury - 3 stars - this relationship dynamic wasn't for me. I do love Canterbury's writing though.
- "Just Solemates" by Michelle Donn - 3 stars - a perfectly fine Cinderella retelling
- "Community Property" by Sarah T Dubb - 4 stars - well written; worked well at fleshing out the characters and giving a fairly believable second chance romance.
- "Confidence Booster" by L B Dunbar - 3 stars - fine, but it didn't really develop anything all that much.
- "Double Booked" by Jess K Hardy - 4 stars - this was really good! Sexy, sweet, and definitely more believable than some of the other stories. Hardy was the reason why I picked this book up.
- "Auntie" by Mia Hopkins - 4 stars - it was good, but felt like the start of a longer story.
- "The Winds of Tinos" by Cindy Kehagiaras - 2.5 star - what even was this? Not a short story, it literally ends and says the story continues in a book.
- "The Sun in Her Eyes" by Angelina M Lopez - 5 stars - an excellent short story! I loved it and it was so well written. A historical, sapphic romance. Easily my fave of the collection.
- "The Cottage" by Melanie Moreland - 3.5 stars - fun but ended super abruptly. Felt like there was supposed to be more to it.
- "Wistful" by Maria Vale - 3.5 stars - an interesting concept that I didn't feel worked for this length of story.
Read
January 11, 2026Mini reviews:
THE SUN IN HER EYES by Angelina M. Lopez
The best of the collection. A sapphic historical set in (I think) early 20th-century Texas. Wonderful writing, a light touch on the period detail, a tender and sensual love story. I am gagging for a full-length historical from Lopez... or, really, any other full-length book.
DOUBLE BOOKED by Jess K Hardy
Pure, unadulterated fantasy featuring Madigan's brother, who seems to have gone to the same School for Emotional Intelligence and Sex Skills. Features an excellent dry hump.
WISTFUL by Maria Vale
Vale is one of my favorite writers. She has a truly amazing brain. This story, featuring a starlet and a scriptwriter, was great, but I really wanted it to be much longer.
THE RULES OF FLIPPING by Karen Booth
When I learned the two main characters were both house flippers, I felt physically ill and had to stop reading it.
FINE LINES by Kate Canterbury
The MMC is incredibly unappealing and slick. Apparently we are supposed to swoon when we learn he's wearing a suit jacket with dark jeans? :/ Also please stop calling this accomplished woman "my darling girl"; in fact, Canterbary infantilizes her throughout. There is an incredibly hot sex scene, but one of my notes said, "This is the stupidest fucking story. XD"
JUST SOLEMATES by Michelle Donn
This was fine. Verrrrrrry Cinderella, down to the obnoxious stepsisters. The sex was pretty hot.
NO GOING BACK by J. Calamy
This one reeeeallllly needed an editor. Intriguing concept and spots where the writing is brilliant, but it is ROUGH.
Reviews/notes to come for:
COMMUNITY PROPERTY by Sarah T. Dubb
CONFIDENCE BOOSTER by L.T. Dunbar
AUNTIE by Mia Hopkins
THE WINDS OF TINOS by Cindy Kehagiaras
THE COTTAGE by Melanie Moreland
THE SUN IN HER EYES by Angelina M. Lopez
The best of the collection. A sapphic historical set in (I think) early 20th-century Texas. Wonderful writing, a light touch on the period detail, a tender and sensual love story. I am gagging for a full-length historical from Lopez... or, really, any other full-length book.
DOUBLE BOOKED by Jess K Hardy
Pure, unadulterated fantasy featuring Madigan's brother, who seems to have gone to the same School for Emotional Intelligence and Sex Skills. Features an excellent dry hump.
WISTFUL by Maria Vale
Vale is one of my favorite writers. She has a truly amazing brain. This story, featuring a starlet and a scriptwriter, was great, but I really wanted it to be much longer.
THE RULES OF FLIPPING by Karen Booth
When I learned the two main characters were both house flippers, I felt physically ill and had to stop reading it.
FINE LINES by Kate Canterbury
The MMC is incredibly unappealing and slick. Apparently we are supposed to swoon when we learn he's wearing a suit jacket with dark jeans? :/ Also please stop calling this accomplished woman "my darling girl"; in fact, Canterbary infantilizes her throughout. There is an incredibly hot sex scene, but one of my notes said, "This is the stupidest fucking story. XD"
JUST SOLEMATES by Michelle Donn
This was fine. Verrrrrrry Cinderella, down to the obnoxious stepsisters. The sex was pretty hot.
NO GOING BACK by J. Calamy
This one reeeeallllly needed an editor. Intriguing concept and spots where the writing is brilliant, but it is ROUGH.
Reviews/notes to come for:
COMMUNITY PROPERTY by Sarah T. Dubb
CONFIDENCE BOOSTER by L.T. Dunbar
AUNTIE by Mia Hopkins
THE WINDS OF TINOS by Cindy Kehagiaras
THE COTTAGE by Melanie Moreland
March 17, 2026
THE PACKING LIST
THE RULES OF FLIPPING by Karen Booth ////
Newly divorced real estate guru Jodie Draper is ready for her fresh start, moving to a beachside rental with her heart set on a charming property with the potential to be flipped. Less newly divorced property flipper Zach Draper is also new to town, with his eyes on the prize of rebuilding his relationship with his daughter. May the best flipper win?
NO GOING BACK by J Calamy ////
Fleet Admiral Leonus Augustus Ares is heading up a mission of colonists. The Lion of Mars doesn't really expect to find love, but the onboard computer pairs him with Captain Cassius Ahmet Sutherland, who in reality is not entirely who he seems. Marcus Ali Sutherland needed off Earth; his twin needed to stay. Perhaps in this case, the computer might be on to something...
FINE LINES by Kate Canterbary ///.
Dr Elizabeth Spivey and Dr Jay Acosta end up sharing a villa when they both attend a conference that Beth is speaking at. Too bad they are essentially mortal enemies, given the scathing rejection she overheard him give to her partnership application. Unfortunate that he continues to be disgustingly charming and attractive…
JUST SOLEMATES: An Elmer, Texas Short Story by Michelle Donn ///.
Accountant Henry Phipps returns emergency vet Cindy Ash’s wedding shoe purchase after mistakenly opening the package. Fortunately for them, sparks are flying…
COMMUNITY PROPERTY by Sarah T Dubb
Jack and Tessa
THE RULES OF FLIPPING by Karen Booth ////
Newly divorced real estate guru Jodie Draper is ready for her fresh start, moving to a beachside rental with her heart set on a charming property with the potential to be flipped. Less newly divorced property flipper Zach Draper is also new to town, with his eyes on the prize of rebuilding his relationship with his daughter. May the best flipper win?
NO GOING BACK by J Calamy ////
Fleet Admiral Leonus Augustus Ares is heading up a mission of colonists. The Lion of Mars doesn't really expect to find love, but the onboard computer pairs him with Captain Cassius Ahmet Sutherland, who in reality is not entirely who he seems. Marcus Ali Sutherland needed off Earth; his twin needed to stay. Perhaps in this case, the computer might be on to something...
FINE LINES by Kate Canterbary ///.
Dr Elizabeth Spivey and Dr Jay Acosta end up sharing a villa when they both attend a conference that Beth is speaking at. Too bad they are essentially mortal enemies, given the scathing rejection she overheard him give to her partnership application. Unfortunate that he continues to be disgustingly charming and attractive…
JUST SOLEMATES: An Elmer, Texas Short Story by Michelle Donn ///.
Accountant Henry Phipps returns emergency vet Cindy Ash’s wedding shoe purchase after mistakenly opening the package. Fortunately for them, sparks are flying…
COMMUNITY PROPERTY by Sarah T Dubb
Jack and Tessa
February 1, 2026
Average rating is 3.4 but I'll round up for the good ones.
The Rules of Flipping by Karen Booth - 3 stars. It's very cute. MF romance.
No Going Back by J. Calamy - 3 stars. This is a much more sober, science fiction story about a ship sailing away from Earth to start a new colony, staffed with many of the losing members of the recent war. Each person is matched with a mate and have to decide whether to look forwards, or back. MM romance.
Fine Lines by Kate Canterbary - 5 stars. Practically perfect in every way, as per usual. MF romance.
Just Solemates by Michelle Donn - 3 stars for good banter. It's a loose interpretation of Cinderella with some actual magic. MF romance.
Community Property by Sarah T. Dubb - 4 stars. A delightful reconnection of two people 20 after their hasty divorce. Sweet and meaningful. MF romance.
Confidence BOOSTER by L.B. Dunbar - 2 stars. It's OK. MF romance.
Double Booked by Jess K. Hardy - 3 stars. Fun and very sexy. MF romance.
Auntie by Mia Hopkins - 4 stars. Luscious. MF Romance.
The Winds of Tinos by Cindy Kehagiaras - 2 stars. The plot was all over the place and then I find out it's merely the prologue to a longer story?! Not cool, man. Not cool. MF romance.
The Sun in Her Eyes by Angelina M. Lopez - 5 stars. Absolutely beautiful. FF romance.
The Cottage by Melanie Moreland - 4 stars. Utterly charming. MF romance.
Wistful by Maria Vale - 3 stars. I liked it but I felt it was missing some scenes. Then there was the magic part that mostly worked. I wanted a longer story. MF romance.
The Rules of Flipping by Karen Booth - 3 stars. It's very cute. MF romance.
No Going Back by J. Calamy - 3 stars. This is a much more sober, science fiction story about a ship sailing away from Earth to start a new colony, staffed with many of the losing members of the recent war. Each person is matched with a mate and have to decide whether to look forwards, or back. MM romance.
Fine Lines by Kate Canterbary - 5 stars. Practically perfect in every way, as per usual. MF romance.
Just Solemates by Michelle Donn - 3 stars for good banter. It's a loose interpretation of Cinderella with some actual magic. MF romance.
Community Property by Sarah T. Dubb - 4 stars. A delightful reconnection of two people 20 after their hasty divorce. Sweet and meaningful. MF romance.
Confidence BOOSTER by L.B. Dunbar - 2 stars. It's OK. MF romance.
Double Booked by Jess K. Hardy - 3 stars. Fun and very sexy. MF romance.
Auntie by Mia Hopkins - 4 stars. Luscious. MF Romance.
The Winds of Tinos by Cindy Kehagiaras - 2 stars. The plot was all over the place and then I find out it's merely the prologue to a longer story?! Not cool, man. Not cool. MF romance.
The Sun in Her Eyes by Angelina M. Lopez - 5 stars. Absolutely beautiful. FF romance.
The Cottage by Melanie Moreland - 4 stars. Utterly charming. MF romance.
Wistful by Maria Vale - 3 stars. I liked it but I felt it was missing some scenes. Then there was the magic part that mostly worked. I wanted a longer story. MF romance.
January 24, 2026
I would rate this book a 3.5. I bought it because of Melanie Moreland. Once I started reading, I knew who Sully was, and I was excited for his story. I really hope it continues so I know what happens with him and Autumn and I hope they have a baby. I would recommend that someone do a read through and fix all the proofreading errors.
I skipped over the gay and lesbian books as they are not my go to for romance, and both books are written in the third-party point of view, which I hate. I also skipped the last book because it’s also written in the third-party point of view. The book that took place in Greece, I stopped after chapter 2. I could not get into it and I’m surprised I even made it that far.
A lot of the books I wanted the stories to continue and was not ready for them to end. The one thing I didn’t like is in two of the books, the authors made a point to get their political points of view across. I don’t need to see that in a romance book.
I skipped over the gay and lesbian books as they are not my go to for romance, and both books are written in the third-party point of view, which I hate. I also skipped the last book because it’s also written in the third-party point of view. The book that took place in Greece, I stopped after chapter 2. I could not get into it and I’m surprised I even made it that far.
A lot of the books I wanted the stories to continue and was not ready for them to end. The one thing I didn’t like is in two of the books, the authors made a point to get their political points of view across. I don’t need to see that in a romance book.
January 11, 2026
- The Rules of Flipping by Karen Booth ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- No Going Back by J. Calamy ⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Fine Lines by Kate Canterbary ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Just Solemates by Michelle Donn ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Community Property by Sarah T. Dubb⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Confidence Booster by L.B. Dunbar ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Double Booked by Jess K. Hardy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Auntie by Mia Hopkins ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- The Winds of Tinos by Cindy Kehagiaras DNF
- The Sun In Her Eyes by Angelina M. Lopez ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
- The Cottage by Melanie Moreland ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Wistful by Maria Vale ⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’ve read books from quite a few of these authors so knew what to expect from their stories. I will definitely be checking out more by Michelle Donn since that story was one of my favorites. The two I gave 3 stars to I didn’t understand what was happening for most of the story. And the one I DNF’d didn’t grab me so there was no point in finishing it.
- No Going Back by J. Calamy ⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Fine Lines by Kate Canterbary ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Just Solemates by Michelle Donn ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Community Property by Sarah T. Dubb⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Confidence Booster by L.B. Dunbar ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Double Booked by Jess K. Hardy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Auntie by Mia Hopkins ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- The Winds of Tinos by Cindy Kehagiaras DNF
- The Sun In Her Eyes by Angelina M. Lopez ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
- The Cottage by Melanie Moreland ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Wistful by Maria Vale ⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’ve read books from quite a few of these authors so knew what to expect from their stories. I will definitely be checking out more by Michelle Donn since that story was one of my favorites. The two I gave 3 stars to I didn’t understand what was happening for most of the story. And the one I DNF’d didn’t grab me so there was no point in finishing it.
January 9, 2026
I LOVED this anthology (all but two of the stories, 10 out of 12 is amazing) with stories by some of my absolute favorite authors. As a GenXer, reading romance where the characters are in their 40s and 50s is my sweetspot, and it's so hard to find them. The characters in these stories are all so vibrant, interesting, and ready (for the most part) to jump into some fun. They're quick, spicy, memorable, and fun. Enjoy!
Favorite: Double Booked has to be the winner, mostly because it has a Madigan brother in it and if you haven't read Come As You Are by Jess K. Hardy, go get it RIGHT NOW!
But honestly they were almost all perfection and require minimal commitment. The best part? Proceeds are being donated to reproductive healthcare organizations.
Favorite: Double Booked has to be the winner, mostly because it has a Madigan brother in it and if you haven't read Come As You Are by Jess K. Hardy, go get it RIGHT NOW!
But honestly they were almost all perfection and require minimal commitment. The best part? Proceeds are being donated to reproductive healthcare organizations.
March 5, 2026
The Packing List: A Later in Life Romance Anthology
The Authors: Karen Booth, J. Calamy, Kate Canterbury
Michelle Donn, Sarah T. Dubb, L.B. Dunbar, Jess K. Hardy,
Mia Hopkins, Cindy Kehagiaras, Angelina M. Lopez,
Melanie Moreland, Maria Vale
When three of my favorite authors are part of any anthology you are going to see
me reading it.
I read this anthology in the weirdest way…started with Kate Canterbary, next was L.B. Dunbar and onto Melanie Moreland’s story. Then I moved onto a few others.
What I loved the best about this was having the chance to read some new to me authors as well as getting to read some wonderful stories, all of them leaving me with a smile on my face.
With twelve different authors your bound to enjoy this Anthology.
The Authors: Karen Booth, J. Calamy, Kate Canterbury
Michelle Donn, Sarah T. Dubb, L.B. Dunbar, Jess K. Hardy,
Mia Hopkins, Cindy Kehagiaras, Angelina M. Lopez,
Melanie Moreland, Maria Vale
When three of my favorite authors are part of any anthology you are going to see
me reading it.
I read this anthology in the weirdest way…started with Kate Canterbary, next was L.B. Dunbar and onto Melanie Moreland’s story. Then I moved onto a few others.
What I loved the best about this was having the chance to read some new to me authors as well as getting to read some wonderful stories, all of them leaving me with a smile on my face.
With twelve different authors your bound to enjoy this Anthology.
January 6, 2026
There's something for everyone in this anthology, including historical, MM, FM, sci-fi, and contemporary romances, all centered around older MCs who are traveling for some reason. Each story starts with a packing list of what each character has brought on their trip, which is a cute addition.
This was a great way to read some short stories from authors I already love (Jess K. Hardy proves a Madigan man will always get it, Kate Canterbary confirms I have a thing for men who say darling) and new to me authors (I must read all of LB Dunbar's backlist now) all while supporting a great cause!
This was a great way to read some short stories from authors I already love (Jess K. Hardy proves a Madigan man will always get it, Kate Canterbary confirms I have a thing for men who say darling) and new to me authors (I must read all of LB Dunbar's backlist now) all while supporting a great cause!
January 4, 2026
To be honest, the only novella I read in this book was from Kate Canterbary. I enjoyed it a lot. It was a fun taste of the characters, Bath and Jay. I do wish it had been a full length novel so that I could experience them getting to know each other and I would have liked more time with them in general.
January 8, 2026
This was a mixed bag for me--but it's an anthology, so that's kind of the point, right?
This book had everything--contemporary, historical, sci-fi, paranormal, M/M and sapphic.
I don't know if it was intentional, but there were at least three stories about accidental double-bookings at vacation/get-away homes and quite honestly, those were some of my favorite ones.
This book had everything--contemporary, historical, sci-fi, paranormal, M/M and sapphic.
I don't know if it was intentional, but there were at least three stories about accidental double-bookings at vacation/get-away homes and quite honestly, those were some of my favorite ones.
January 21, 2026
DNF
I mainly wanted to read this for the Jess K Hardy story
No electricity and no running water do not make for a good "fuck cabin"
Washing in the creek. Going for a jog rather than having sex what kind of book is this.
I get that this anthology is for reproductive rights but so glad to know that their common interest is voting democrat and donating to NPR 🙄
I mainly wanted to read this for the Jess K Hardy story
No electricity and no running water do not make for a good "fuck cabin"
Washing in the creek. Going for a jog rather than having sex what kind of book is this.
I get that this anthology is for reproductive rights but so glad to know that their common interest is voting democrat and donating to NPR 🙄
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 31, 2026
I read The Cottage by Melanie Moreland in this anthology.
Do I want more of Sully and Autumn? What kind of question is that? Of course I do. It’s nice to see more of Sully who we met in Finn and Niall. This family sure does fall hard and fast for their women. I cannot wait to see more of Sully and Autumn.
Do I want more of Sully and Autumn? What kind of question is that? Of course I do. It’s nice to see more of Sully who we met in Finn and Niall. This family sure does fall hard and fast for their women. I cannot wait to see more of Sully and Autumn.
February 9, 2026
These all fell into one of three categories for me: 3 stars, 2 stars, or DNF. None of them really stood out. Kate Canterbury’s was for sure the sexiest but I also didn’t like the dynamic very much, like the MMC was a bit mean. 🤷♀️
I do always appreciate an anthology with blurbs so points for that. And it filled in some reading gaps so that was good too. lol
I do always appreciate an anthology with blurbs so points for that. And it filled in some reading gaps so that was good too. lol
February 21, 2026
Enjoyable Anthology
I'd only read a few of these authors before and always enjoy discovering new ones. I liked the Later in Life theme and the variety. There were several bad weather/one bed scenarios, but I like this trope anyway, but also historical, fantasy/sci-fi stories too. A good read.
I'd only read a few of these authors before and always enjoy discovering new ones. I liked the Later in Life theme and the variety. There were several bad weather/one bed scenarios, but I like this trope anyway, but also historical, fantasy/sci-fi stories too. A good read.
Read
March 16, 2026Read for “double booked” by Jess K Hardy. She writes it, I read it.
There are ways I’m similar to Hannah, and ways I am not. I too have travelled alone to an off the grid place for a getaway from the world vacation. I was not as fortunate as Hannah to encounter a hot man already staying at my cabin. But I don’t begrudge Hannah her luck.
There are ways I’m similar to Hannah, and ways I am not. I too have travelled alone to an off the grid place for a getaway from the world vacation. I was not as fortunate as Hannah to encounter a hot man already staying at my cabin. But I don’t begrudge Hannah her luck.
January 6, 2026
I'm sad to say that most of the stories weren't really that great (even Jess Hardy's and I usually love her work). I was so looking forward to this and it wasn't as good as I hoped it would be. I've rounded up my 2.5 stars bc I'm feeling nice today
January 12, 2026
I really enjoyed most of these stories! The best for me were by Mia Hopkins and Angelina M Lopez, with Jess K Hardy, Maria Vale, and Sarah T Dubb next. I think LB Dunbar is not for me based on writing style, and I DNF J Calamy and Cindy Kehagiaras.
December 31, 2025
Review to follow
December 31, 2025
I've only read Fine Lines by Kate Canterbary (~54 pages), which was enjoyable but way too short.
December 31, 2025
Kate Canterbary is an autobuy author for me, with Melanie Moreland a close second. I devoured both of their stories and am looking forward to discovering the rest of the authors soon!
January 3, 2026
Great collection of short stories by authors I love (LB Dunbar, Kate Canterbary, Jess Hardy) and an introduction to so many others. Loved almost all the stories included.
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