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Stranded Hearts
Fate intervenes on behalf of love when characters are unexpectedly stuck together. With too much time and an irresistible attraction anything could happen.
In EF5 by Kris Bryant, wedding photographer Alyssa Bates is running late to a job she desperately needs when officer Katy Emerson pulls her over for speeding. She gets a warning from the sexy woman in uniform and the sirens alerting them to an approaching tornado. Their only option is to shelter in an abandoned diner where they must resist temptation and fight for their lives.
In Trapped Tycoon by Amanda Radley, trainee investor Clara Foster spends her weekend at the office catching up on paperwork when the ice queen owner Francesca Burford arrives. Francesca doesn’t know who the shy employee is, and she doesn’t much care, until they attempt to leave the office at the same time and get trapped in an elevator.
In Wings Over Boston by Emily Smith, flight paramedic Ryland Matthews and pilot Tess Goodwin have an uncomplicated past that included a no-strings tryst before they went their separate ways and never looked back. That is, until a medical emergency and an unlikely coincidence leaves them grounded together in the middle of nowhere with nothing to do but relive history and ignite the passion neither can forget.
In EF5 by Kris Bryant, wedding photographer Alyssa Bates is running late to a job she desperately needs when officer Katy Emerson pulls her over for speeding. She gets a warning from the sexy woman in uniform and the sirens alerting them to an approaching tornado. Their only option is to shelter in an abandoned diner where they must resist temptation and fight for their lives.
In Trapped Tycoon by Amanda Radley, trainee investor Clara Foster spends her weekend at the office catching up on paperwork when the ice queen owner Francesca Burford arrives. Francesca doesn’t know who the shy employee is, and she doesn’t much care, until they attempt to leave the office at the same time and get trapped in an elevator.
In Wings Over Boston by Emily Smith, flight paramedic Ryland Matthews and pilot Tess Goodwin have an uncomplicated past that included a no-strings tryst before they went their separate ways and never looked back. That is, until a medical emergency and an unlikely coincidence leaves them grounded together in the middle of nowhere with nothing to do but relive history and ignite the passion neither can forget.
220 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 12, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
July 15, 2022
Stranded Hearts is a collection of romantic novellas by three very popular BSB authors. The main theme of each story (besides romance of course) is that the main characters have to be stranded or stuck together as they get to know each other.
The first novella is EF5 by Kris Bryant. In this tale photographer Alyssa Bates gets pulled over by police officer Katy Emerson for speeding. Things go from bad to horrible, though when sirens signal a powerful tornado coming. The two women are forced to take shelter in a nearby abandoned diner where they end up fighting for their lives.
Trapped Tycoon by Amanda Radley combines close quarters with a workplace and age gap romance when trainee Clara Foster becomes trapped in an elevator with the owner of the company, Francesca Burford who has just fired Clara a short time before. To make matters worse, it’s Saturday and they may be stuck there until Monday morning when the office opens back up for work.
Wings Over Boston by Emily Smith unites flight paramedic Ryland Matthews and pilot Tess Goodwin when Tess is asked to be a substitute pilot on Ryland’s team. These two women know each other from the past and even had a brief relationship that ended a while back. Now a medical emergency and an unexpected mechanical problem leave the two grounded together.
All three novellas are well written as I would expect from these accomplished authors. The characters are well-developed, and the stories are easy and interesting to read. I have to admit I have a favorite novella, and that would be EF5 by Kris Bryant. The setting of the story and the disaster related plotline had me riveted to the pages, and I totally fell for both Alyssa and Katy. I can easily see this couple having a HEA. I also enjoyed Ms. Radley’s Trapped Tycoon. Francesca makes a very good ice queen to Clara’s youthful outlook on life and love. I had a little more trouble connecting with Ryland and Tess in the third novella, but I can at least see a Happy for Now ending with them.
I’m very glad I got the chance to read these novellas. If you like stories with characters falling in love when they are stranded together, then you should try Stranded Hearts.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
The first novella is EF5 by Kris Bryant. In this tale photographer Alyssa Bates gets pulled over by police officer Katy Emerson for speeding. Things go from bad to horrible, though when sirens signal a powerful tornado coming. The two women are forced to take shelter in a nearby abandoned diner where they end up fighting for their lives.
Trapped Tycoon by Amanda Radley combines close quarters with a workplace and age gap romance when trainee Clara Foster becomes trapped in an elevator with the owner of the company, Francesca Burford who has just fired Clara a short time before. To make matters worse, it’s Saturday and they may be stuck there until Monday morning when the office opens back up for work.
Wings Over Boston by Emily Smith unites flight paramedic Ryland Matthews and pilot Tess Goodwin when Tess is asked to be a substitute pilot on Ryland’s team. These two women know each other from the past and even had a brief relationship that ended a while back. Now a medical emergency and an unexpected mechanical problem leave the two grounded together.
All three novellas are well written as I would expect from these accomplished authors. The characters are well-developed, and the stories are easy and interesting to read. I have to admit I have a favorite novella, and that would be EF5 by Kris Bryant. The setting of the story and the disaster related plotline had me riveted to the pages, and I totally fell for both Alyssa and Katy. I can easily see this couple having a HEA. I also enjoyed Ms. Radley’s Trapped Tycoon. Francesca makes a very good ice queen to Clara’s youthful outlook on life and love. I had a little more trouble connecting with Ryland and Tess in the third novella, but I can at least see a Happy for Now ending with them.
I’m very glad I got the chance to read these novellas. If you like stories with characters falling in love when they are stranded together, then you should try Stranded Hearts.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
July 29, 2022
Short stories are not my normal ‘go-to’ reads, but the 3 authors of these stories all piqued my interest. I'm a fan of all 3. The stories are about been stranded together somewhere, whether in a lift, a town or during a tornado. I enjoyed Trapped Tycoon the most, but did enjoy the other 2 stories. Let's face it, some of us just can't get enough of the ice queen storylines.
In the first story, E45, two young women find themselves trapped during an approaching tornado, and the second ( my favourite) trainee investor and the ice queen boss find themselves trapped in an elevator. And the third story in the book is called Wings over Boston about a paramedic and pilot who have been left ground in the middle of nowhere.
All 3 stories are great reads and all very different. Stranded hearts I've given a 3.4 out of 5. It's a very good read.
In the first story, E45, two young women find themselves trapped during an approaching tornado, and the second ( my favourite) trainee investor and the ice queen boss find themselves trapped in an elevator. And the third story in the book is called Wings over Boston about a paramedic and pilot who have been left ground in the middle of nowhere.
All 3 stories are great reads and all very different. Stranded hearts I've given a 3.4 out of 5. It's a very good read.
June 29, 2022
In Stranded Hearts we find 3 romance novellas by three different authors. Kris Bryant and Amanda Radley are well known authors for me and the reason why I picked this up. Emily Smith is new to me.
My favourite is Bryant’s story, it feels the most fleshed out and I wanted more, but was also satisfied with what I got. That, to me, is everything a good novella should be.
Radley’s novella is fine, it’s enjoyable enough. It’s just a standard age gap by Radley and a workplace one at that, I’m not the biggest fan of that trope.
Smith’s story is well written and way steamer than the other two. It’s a sort of second chance novella and I feel like I’m missing just little things here and there to make this story really click for me.
I enjoyed all these stories, but as always I would have preferred my favourite to be the last one on the collection just to go out with the best feeling of the book. As it stands I’m giving it 4 stars rounded up.
*ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
My favourite is Bryant’s story, it feels the most fleshed out and I wanted more, but was also satisfied with what I got. That, to me, is everything a good novella should be.
Radley’s novella is fine, it’s enjoyable enough. It’s just a standard age gap by Radley and a workplace one at that, I’m not the biggest fan of that trope.
Smith’s story is well written and way steamer than the other two. It’s a sort of second chance novella and I feel like I’m missing just little things here and there to make this story really click for me.
I enjoyed all these stories, but as always I would have preferred my favourite to be the last one on the collection just to go out with the best feeling of the book. As it stands I’m giving it 4 stars rounded up.
*ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
June 29, 2022
This anthology features three sapphic novellas where the two MCs are stuck together.
EF5: DNF
Not really for me, I’m not a fan of dual first-person POV, especially when the story backtracks when the POV switches and I have to re-read the previous scene but from the other POV only so I can understand MC2 also considers MC1 attractive.
Also in light of certain current events, I’m just not mentally in a good place to read a disaster story so I decided to pull the plug and bail on this one.
No rating
Trapped Tycoon: five stars
Themes: age-gap, ice Queen, femme-femme
Radley hits it out of the park with this one! The MCs are stuck in an elevator for the majority of the story and it just sparkles with sarcasm, witty dialogue that blooms into vulnerability and finally honesty. Bits of humor are sprinkled throughout, and the ending is sweet and hopeful.
Wings Over Boston: ummm…what comes after five? Can I give like six stars? Is that a thing?
Themes: butch-femme, second chances, medical, only one bed
Emily Smith is a new author to me but OMG if she writes other stuff like this? I’m a total fan!! Ryland is the perfect butch, cocky and swaggering on the outside, sweet and just the tiniest bit gooey on the inside. Tess is her perfect match, feminine but strong and a badass helicopter pilot who is not going to put up with any games or bullshit.
The story weaves the present with the shared past, the second chance that comes when mechanical trouble strands the two, along with Ryland’s partner Mitch (who is hilarious in his own way). The evening they share is fun, irreverent, and frankly sparking with sexual tension that ramps up to a truly explosive climax (ahem).
It’s interesting to see how the two MCs have changed in their time apart, how they see each other and also themselves through new eyes. I didn’t expect to get teary-eyed during this, but I did (and I’m reading this at work so that was something).
So, two out of three ain’t bad.
Overall rating: 3.75 stars
ARC received courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
EF5: DNF
Not really for me, I’m not a fan of dual first-person POV, especially when the story backtracks when the POV switches and I have to re-read the previous scene but from the other POV only so I can understand MC2 also considers MC1 attractive.
Also in light of certain current events, I’m just not mentally in a good place to read a disaster story so I decided to pull the plug and bail on this one.
No rating
Trapped Tycoon: five stars
Themes: age-gap, ice Queen, femme-femme
Radley hits it out of the park with this one! The MCs are stuck in an elevator for the majority of the story and it just sparkles with sarcasm, witty dialogue that blooms into vulnerability and finally honesty. Bits of humor are sprinkled throughout, and the ending is sweet and hopeful.
Wings Over Boston: ummm…what comes after five? Can I give like six stars? Is that a thing?
Themes: butch-femme, second chances, medical, only one bed
Emily Smith is a new author to me but OMG if she writes other stuff like this? I’m a total fan!! Ryland is the perfect butch, cocky and swaggering on the outside, sweet and just the tiniest bit gooey on the inside. Tess is her perfect match, feminine but strong and a badass helicopter pilot who is not going to put up with any games or bullshit.
The story weaves the present with the shared past, the second chance that comes when mechanical trouble strands the two, along with Ryland’s partner Mitch (who is hilarious in his own way). The evening they share is fun, irreverent, and frankly sparking with sexual tension that ramps up to a truly explosive climax (ahem).
It’s interesting to see how the two MCs have changed in their time apart, how they see each other and also themselves through new eyes. I didn’t expect to get teary-eyed during this, but I did (and I’m reading this at work so that was something).
So, two out of three ain’t bad.
Overall rating: 3.75 stars
ARC received courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
June 26, 2022
Novellas are an under appreciated platform that are often passed over in favor of full length novels. However, the shortened length of novella’s also give the advantage of not a word wasted just to draw out an exceptional story line. Kris Bryant anchors this short story collection with an action packed survival of a tornado and the immediate aftermath. The award winning author masterfully balances the adrenaline of survival and the developing attraction between Alyssa and Katy. This story is not to be missed, and it ranks as one of my favorites of this author. The other two novellas rounding this perfect summer read offer bonus content to the first and together this book is a perfect collection of summer reading in one package. I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 26, 2022
An anthology of three novella’s with the theme of being stranded together. I enjoy novellas and having some from favorite authors is a treat.
In EF5, Kris Bryant writes an action packed story of surviving a tornado. A photographer helps the town sheriff in the immediate aftermath a natural disaster.
Trapped Tycoon give Amanda Radley a chance to shine at writing dialogue. Two women are trapped in an elevator for hours. There isn’t much to do but talk. But how do you talk to your life long crush and work hero who just fired you? So much background and information is shared in the conversations between these two. It is a big age-gap romance, which the author often writes, and it is done very well.
Wings Over Boston is a second chance romance. Two women who went out briefly three years ago reconnecting while working on a medical flight. They end up stranded for an evening on Martha’s Vineyard. This is the only story that gets steamy, which fits because they knew each other previously. One wasn’t ready for anything serious before so the question becomes is she now? Emily Smith is the only author I haven’t read previously.
If I had to rate personal preferences between the books I’d give the nod to the first and last. Both were good and I could easily read longer stories about their characters. I missed the heat Bryant usually brings but it fits the short time-frame for her book. I appreciate NetGalley, Bold Strokes Inc., and the authors for allowing me to read an ARC in exchange for a review.
In EF5, Kris Bryant writes an action packed story of surviving a tornado. A photographer helps the town sheriff in the immediate aftermath a natural disaster.
Trapped Tycoon give Amanda Radley a chance to shine at writing dialogue. Two women are trapped in an elevator for hours. There isn’t much to do but talk. But how do you talk to your life long crush and work hero who just fired you? So much background and information is shared in the conversations between these two. It is a big age-gap romance, which the author often writes, and it is done very well.
Wings Over Boston is a second chance romance. Two women who went out briefly three years ago reconnecting while working on a medical flight. They end up stranded for an evening on Martha’s Vineyard. This is the only story that gets steamy, which fits because they knew each other previously. One wasn’t ready for anything serious before so the question becomes is she now? Emily Smith is the only author I haven’t read previously.
If I had to rate personal preferences between the books I’d give the nod to the first and last. Both were good and I could easily read longer stories about their characters. I missed the heat Bryant usually brings but it fits the short time-frame for her book. I appreciate NetGalley, Bold Strokes Inc., and the authors for allowing me to read an ARC in exchange for a review.
June 13, 2022
The novellas in this collection each has an interesting plotline and likable characters. However, that’s where the similarities end. It is clear that the more talented writer is Kris Bryant and that Emily Smith is a debut novelist. It is difficult to pinpoint the differences, but by the end of the book, the reader will clearly feel the unevenness of the collection.
Emily Smith’s two characters are fairly unique in that they are part of a team which transports trauma victims to hospitals and patients from one hospital to another. What sets this plotline apart from others is that the two characters have a romantic history, and it didn’t end well. When their helicopter is grounded, they must begin to resolve their issues. Smith’s writing is good, and she has the potential to be much better in the future.
Amanda Radley’s investor trainee is well-drawn, but the ice queen seems underdeveloped. While the author isn’t the first to do the stuck-in-an-elevator story, she does an adequate job of helping the reader feel the initial panic and the boredom that quickly overwhelms the fear.
Bryant’s characters and setting are unique to the genre, the reader will be able to feel the characters’ terror when, after the tornado passes over them, they realize they are trapped in the cooler of the diner in which they sheltered. Bryant is able to have her readers see the devastation and feel the emotional toll it takes on the town’s survivors, including the two main characters.
My thanks to Bold Strokes Books for an eARC.
Emily Smith’s two characters are fairly unique in that they are part of a team which transports trauma victims to hospitals and patients from one hospital to another. What sets this plotline apart from others is that the two characters have a romantic history, and it didn’t end well. When their helicopter is grounded, they must begin to resolve their issues. Smith’s writing is good, and she has the potential to be much better in the future.
Amanda Radley’s investor trainee is well-drawn, but the ice queen seems underdeveloped. While the author isn’t the first to do the stuck-in-an-elevator story, she does an adequate job of helping the reader feel the initial panic and the boredom that quickly overwhelms the fear.
Bryant’s characters and setting are unique to the genre, the reader will be able to feel the characters’ terror when, after the tornado passes over them, they realize they are trapped in the cooler of the diner in which they sheltered. Bryant is able to have her readers see the devastation and feel the emotional toll it takes on the town’s survivors, including the two main characters.
My thanks to Bold Strokes Books for an eARC.
August 31, 2022
Fantastic Collection!
EF5 by Kris Bryant, Trapped Tycoon by Amanda Radley, and Wings Over Boston by Emily Smith make up this collection love stories that happen when two women unexpectedly find themselves stuck with one another!
Each short story in this collection was absolutely amazing and each a bit different despite having similar set ups, so real variety and bit of something for everyone.
In EF5 there is destruction and chaos but I adored it because I can’t resist anything with a tornado in it. They fascinate me, and the way Alyssa and Emerson work together, even though Alyssa has no obligation to do so, means they have a life changing experience that only strengthens the instant attraction they shared.
Trapped Tycoon was perfect in every way, age-gap, ice queen, and all the things I love about Amanda Radley’s stories. I enjoyed every second of it and just knew Clara and Francesca were perfect for one another! That little bit of humour in the tension surrounding their situation made the story irresistible.
For Wings Over Boston, there was action, a little adventure, and some indulgence in second chances taken between Tess and Ryland when they find themselves sharing a hotel room after being grounded during a medical emergency. I loved their chemistry and how they just were meant to be.
All stories I will definitely read again and again, and a must read collection!
EF5 by Kris Bryant, Trapped Tycoon by Amanda Radley, and Wings Over Boston by Emily Smith make up this collection love stories that happen when two women unexpectedly find themselves stuck with one another!
Each short story in this collection was absolutely amazing and each a bit different despite having similar set ups, so real variety and bit of something for everyone.
In EF5 there is destruction and chaos but I adored it because I can’t resist anything with a tornado in it. They fascinate me, and the way Alyssa and Emerson work together, even though Alyssa has no obligation to do so, means they have a life changing experience that only strengthens the instant attraction they shared.
Trapped Tycoon was perfect in every way, age-gap, ice queen, and all the things I love about Amanda Radley’s stories. I enjoyed every second of it and just knew Clara and Francesca were perfect for one another! That little bit of humour in the tension surrounding their situation made the story irresistible.
For Wings Over Boston, there was action, a little adventure, and some indulgence in second chances taken between Tess and Ryland when they find themselves sharing a hotel room after being grounded during a medical emergency. I loved their chemistry and how they just were meant to be.
All stories I will definitely read again and again, and a must read collection!
July 6, 2022
Three Novella in which three couples are stranded
Alyssa and Katy gets stranded when a approaching tornado hits when the dust is settled they both help the town rebuild all the while falling for each other.
Clara gets fired for something she didn’t do by her boss Francesca makes matter worst they both gets stuck in the elevator without nowhere to go they start to bond.
Ryland and Tess had brief affair and went their separate ways they both are in for a surprise when they both working on a medical flight and windup being stranded. Can they be together this time when one wasn’t ready before.
I enjoy all three even though I love ice queen age gap one the most I just felt that story could’ve been a little longer but other then that I love all three authors and can’t wait to read their next book.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
Alyssa and Katy gets stranded when a approaching tornado hits when the dust is settled they both help the town rebuild all the while falling for each other.
Clara gets fired for something she didn’t do by her boss Francesca makes matter worst they both gets stuck in the elevator without nowhere to go they start to bond.
Ryland and Tess had brief affair and went their separate ways they both are in for a surprise when they both working on a medical flight and windup being stranded. Can they be together this time when one wasn’t ready before.
I enjoy all three even though I love ice queen age gap one the most I just felt that story could’ve been a little longer but other then that I love all three authors and can’t wait to read their next book.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
July 12, 2022
Tornado, elevator, and helicopter trouble. These short stories all had stranded and romance in common. I enjoyed all of the stories. They all left me wanting more which in my opinion is a good thing. Of the three, I enjoyed the ice queen/age gap story the best. Francesca was a bit over over top but I enjoyed how she came around.
ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via NetGalley
ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via NetGalley
October 11, 2022
2.8 ⭐️ Normally love some of the authors work but this one didn’t meet expectations.
Let’s start by saying normally I really enjoy Amanda Radley’s works. They’re sweet and warm and normally leave you smiling.
I really loved the premise for all three, and whilst some parts made me smile it was fairly meh.
My favourite was the Amanda Radley story by far, it was the only one here I somewhat enjoyed making my way through, finding some interest in the characters.
However overall it was just very bland, there was nothing wildly captivating about a single character across all three stories.
In the first story (EF5) I found it hard not to laugh because the story seemed so implausible (like the sudden appearance of the tornado out of no where in like three seconds), also the fact a cop would be out giving traffic violations in a storm (if it was bad enough to cause said tornado,) and then everything else in between. I’m not sure if it was because these stories needed room to breathe and the plot didn’t work as novellas but either way, I couldn’t take it seriously.
I’m Trapped Tycoon, I was more interested. This is an age gap romance though even this one felt like something I had read maybe twenty times prior. It’s a trapped elevator trope but that’s the most interesting thing about it, whilst the writing was good the characters lacked depth.
Wings Over Boston had a tiny dash of spice and masc rep, but it was so slow and I hated the characters that they could have fallen out of said helicopter and I wouldn’t have bat so much as an eye at such.
TW’s listed below, pls skip if you don’t want vague spoilers.
Tw// death, storm, injured child, alcohol, injury, age gap in story two (26,53), trapped in a confined space (elevator), sex, stalking (in past.)
Let’s start by saying normally I really enjoy Amanda Radley’s works. They’re sweet and warm and normally leave you smiling.
I really loved the premise for all three, and whilst some parts made me smile it was fairly meh.
My favourite was the Amanda Radley story by far, it was the only one here I somewhat enjoyed making my way through, finding some interest in the characters.
However overall it was just very bland, there was nothing wildly captivating about a single character across all three stories.
In the first story (EF5) I found it hard not to laugh because the story seemed so implausible (like the sudden appearance of the tornado out of no where in like three seconds), also the fact a cop would be out giving traffic violations in a storm (if it was bad enough to cause said tornado,) and then everything else in between. I’m not sure if it was because these stories needed room to breathe and the plot didn’t work as novellas but either way, I couldn’t take it seriously.
I’m Trapped Tycoon, I was more interested. This is an age gap romance though even this one felt like something I had read maybe twenty times prior. It’s a trapped elevator trope but that’s the most interesting thing about it, whilst the writing was good the characters lacked depth.
Wings Over Boston had a tiny dash of spice and masc rep, but it was so slow and I hated the characters that they could have fallen out of said helicopter and I wouldn’t have bat so much as an eye at such.
TW’s listed below, pls skip if you don’t want vague spoilers.
Tw// death, storm, injured child, alcohol, injury, age gap in story two (26,53), trapped in a confined space (elevator), sex, stalking (in past.)
July 30, 2022
I totally enjoyed all 3 novellas! Having been through a minor tornado and knowing how scary and powerful that was, Kris Bryant really brought that storm to life and the aftermath. I love the dynamic between the 2 MCs.
I also loved the dynamics between the 2 MCs in Amanda Radley's story. Everyone has a hero(ine) to look up to and dreams of finally meeting them. I absolutely enjoyed this story.
The third story is fantastic! This one is a second chances story. Emily Smith created two wonderful characters, the smooth butch and the strong yet dainty femme.
I enjoyed all 3 stories knowing I'll buy and read more from all 3 authors!
I also loved the dynamics between the 2 MCs in Amanda Radley's story. Everyone has a hero(ine) to look up to and dreams of finally meeting them. I absolutely enjoyed this story.
The third story is fantastic! This one is a second chances story. Emily Smith created two wonderful characters, the smooth butch and the strong yet dainty femme.
I enjoyed all 3 stories knowing I'll buy and read more from all 3 authors!
June 23, 2022
A collection of 3 novellas with a common theme of being stranded together. When the story needs to wrap up so fast it’s difficult to develop the characters and the story but the 3 authors did a good job.
Kris Bryant's story depicts long-term devastation as a tornado rips through and our MC are first stranded as they take shelter and then work together to help the people affected. It was quite gripping, I almost forgot there’s a romance brewing.
Amanda Radley wrote an age gap full of wit and banter. The 2 MCs are in a lift that gets stuck and go through multiple layers of emotions.
Emily Smith's story brings chemistry between the two main characters.
Kris Bryant's story depicts long-term devastation as a tornado rips through and our MC are first stranded as they take shelter and then work together to help the people affected. It was quite gripping, I almost forgot there’s a romance brewing.
Amanda Radley wrote an age gap full of wit and banter. The 2 MCs are in a lift that gets stuck and go through multiple layers of emotions.
Emily Smith's story brings chemistry between the two main characters.
August 5, 2022
Stranded Hearts is three novellas with the common theme of being stranded together.
EF5 by Kris Bryant
Alyssa Bars is a wedding photographer trying to make it to a bridezillas wedding shoot before the weather turns. She's pulled over for speeding by Sheriff Katy Emerson and none too soon as the tornado turns towards them. They have to think on their feet and find shelter. Once the chaos is past the reality of what's left behind brings them closer together.
Trapped Tycoon by Amanda Radley
Clara Foster is not having a good day. She's usually the only one in the quiet office on the weekend. Her surpise at seeing the owner Francesca Burford quickly turns to horror when she's accused of something she didn't do. And to add insult to injury they get trapped in the elevator when they are just trying to leave.
It's hard to get connected when it's such a short storyline. Didn't really care for the hero worship/boss trope.
Wings Over Boston by Emily Smith
Loving your job is the best feeling in the work and flight paramedic Ryland Matthews had that in spades. She's ready for an amazing day when in walks in blast from the past, pilot Tess Goodwin. When an unexpected malfunction causes them to be grounded for the night there is no way they can fight the inevitable. That attraction is sizzling and its time to light the match.
Of the three stories this is the only one with explicit scenes. It also seems to have the most developed of the characters.
EF5 by Kris Bryant
Alyssa Bars is a wedding photographer trying to make it to a bridezillas wedding shoot before the weather turns. She's pulled over for speeding by Sheriff Katy Emerson and none too soon as the tornado turns towards them. They have to think on their feet and find shelter. Once the chaos is past the reality of what's left behind brings them closer together.
Trapped Tycoon by Amanda Radley
Clara Foster is not having a good day. She's usually the only one in the quiet office on the weekend. Her surpise at seeing the owner Francesca Burford quickly turns to horror when she's accused of something she didn't do. And to add insult to injury they get trapped in the elevator when they are just trying to leave.
It's hard to get connected when it's such a short storyline. Didn't really care for the hero worship/boss trope.
Wings Over Boston by Emily Smith
Loving your job is the best feeling in the work and flight paramedic Ryland Matthews had that in spades. She's ready for an amazing day when in walks in blast from the past, pilot Tess Goodwin. When an unexpected malfunction causes them to be grounded for the night there is no way they can fight the inevitable. That attraction is sizzling and its time to light the match.
Of the three stories this is the only one with explicit scenes. It also seems to have the most developed of the characters.
December 19, 2022
As in many books with short stories, the evaluation can be uneven, since they do not have much more in common than the main theme. Authors with different styles, more or less interesting stories.
In this case, the only one that has caught my attention has been the first, the one that has the tornado as the triggering circumstance. The other two have not been very interesting for me. The second one about two women locked in an elevator, with a previous not very pleasant clash between them, has reminded me a lot of Thirteen Hours by Meghan O'Brien, which is unbeatable in that regard. And the third one, the second chance for two women who have changed their priorities since they broke up, has not been very interesting for me either.
Perhaps it was because in a short story everything cannot be developed adequately. In other cases, short stories have left me wanting more but not this time.
Publisher Bold Strokes Books was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via Netgalley for my honest review
In this case, the only one that has caught my attention has been the first, the one that has the tornado as the triggering circumstance. The other two have not been very interesting for me. The second one about two women locked in an elevator, with a previous not very pleasant clash between them, has reminded me a lot of Thirteen Hours by Meghan O'Brien, which is unbeatable in that regard. And the third one, the second chance for two women who have changed their priorities since they broke up, has not been very interesting for me either.
Perhaps it was because in a short story everything cannot be developed adequately. In other cases, short stories have left me wanting more but not this time.
Publisher Bold Strokes Books was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via Netgalley for my honest review
August 15, 2024
Enjoyable, comfortable read. Three stories by three authors. No second base but enjoyably all the same
August 10, 2022
3.5 stars rounded up to 4 for GR
Read this if you like: short novellas📖, LGBTQIA+ reads🏳️🌈, pilots and sheriffs✈️👮🏼, romances with less steam😇
Thank you NetGalley and Bold Stroke Books for this ARC copy of Stranded Hearts!
Stranded Hearts consisted of 3 short novellas all with female MC’s who are unexpectedly stuck together. I found all three books enjoyable to read and loved the little background stories that accompanied them.
The first two stories, EF5 and Trapped Tycoon were very tame in their spiciness which I quite enjoyed after having read a few pretty steamy books last month! For me they were just slightly outside the realm of a YA romance book. That being said, the third story, Wings Over Boston, did have a great scene in it for those who like a little more punch to their romances😆
Overall, I think these stories were fun and it was nice to read some shorter stories as I have been in a slight reading rut this month! 📚 Stranded Hearts is available now for anyone interested in purchasing🥰
Read this if you like: short novellas📖, LGBTQIA+ reads🏳️🌈, pilots and sheriffs✈️👮🏼, romances with less steam😇
Thank you NetGalley and Bold Stroke Books for this ARC copy of Stranded Hearts!
Stranded Hearts consisted of 3 short novellas all with female MC’s who are unexpectedly stuck together. I found all three books enjoyable to read and loved the little background stories that accompanied them.
The first two stories, EF5 and Trapped Tycoon were very tame in their spiciness which I quite enjoyed after having read a few pretty steamy books last month! For me they were just slightly outside the realm of a YA romance book. That being said, the third story, Wings Over Boston, did have a great scene in it for those who like a little more punch to their romances😆
Overall, I think these stories were fun and it was nice to read some shorter stories as I have been in a slight reading rut this month! 📚 Stranded Hearts is available now for anyone interested in purchasing🥰
July 4, 2022
*I received an ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinions*
EF5 - This was the first book I've read by Kris Bryant so I didn't really know what to expect from it, but it turned out to have a lot more substance than I was expecting. Based on the description of the story I was expecting the entire thing to occur within the room in which they took refuge during the storm. I was so glad it turned out to be more than that. Although the attraction started there, their relationship really starts once the storm is over and the rescue/recovery efforts starts. Having the story end with them going on their first actual date was perfect.
Trapped Tycoon - I have read a few Amanda Radley books in the past and love her stuff, this was no different. She does such a great job of creating characters that have some insecurities but are not weak. The premise is one that's been done before, but this did not feel like a cliche. I loved Clara and Francesca's banter regarding the missing pen. Their conversations while trapped in the lift were well crafted and paced so it never got boring. I liked that this story continued after they got out of the lift but also ended on a "there's more to come" note. I would gladly read another story with these two characters.
Wings Over Boston - This was probably my least favorite of the three stories. It's not poorly written or anything like that, there's just not much to it. The theme of "right woman, wrong time" was good, but I wish Rylan and Tess had spent more time talking about the people they had become. Also, the "trapped" scenario was the least interesting of the three.
EF5 - This was the first book I've read by Kris Bryant so I didn't really know what to expect from it, but it turned out to have a lot more substance than I was expecting. Based on the description of the story I was expecting the entire thing to occur within the room in which they took refuge during the storm. I was so glad it turned out to be more than that. Although the attraction started there, their relationship really starts once the storm is over and the rescue/recovery efforts starts. Having the story end with them going on their first actual date was perfect.
Trapped Tycoon - I have read a few Amanda Radley books in the past and love her stuff, this was no different. She does such a great job of creating characters that have some insecurities but are not weak. The premise is one that's been done before, but this did not feel like a cliche. I loved Clara and Francesca's banter regarding the missing pen. Their conversations while trapped in the lift were well crafted and paced so it never got boring. I liked that this story continued after they got out of the lift but also ended on a "there's more to come" note. I would gladly read another story with these two characters.
Wings Over Boston - This was probably my least favorite of the three stories. It's not poorly written or anything like that, there's just not much to it. The theme of "right woman, wrong time" was good, but I wish Rylan and Tess had spent more time talking about the people they had become. Also, the "trapped" scenario was the least interesting of the three.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 23, 2022
Thank you to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for the ARC. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
I decided to pick this up because A) it's pride month and I haven't read a damn thing even remotely queer in ages, and B) I wanted to give novellas a shot again. I have to say, I love this format! It was so refreshing to enjoy the "falling in love" or "falling back in love" stage of each romance and then leave the rest to the imagination. Each took about 45-ish minutes for me to read too a.k.a. the perfect "before bed" treat! My favorite thing about these novellas was learning about the industries of the characters; I know absolutely nothing about disaster protocols, stock trading, or air ambulances, so being dropped into those professions was fascinating!
Here are my thoughts on the individual stories:
EF5 -- Like I said, I've been privileged enough to never live through and thus know nothing about natural disasters and the protocols that follow, so I found all that just as entertaining as the romance. And both Katy and Alyssa were very endearing to me. Their their forced proximity was so. satisfying. I love a good "we're about to die, so let's try not to focus on how hot the other is" moment haha. Overall, this was definitely my favorite out of the novellas; there was something so genuine and precious about it.
Trapped Tycoon -- I don't really like age gap romances, so while I didn't jive with that part of the story, I found the characters, Clara and Francesca, to be dynamic and funny. The banter was pretty good! Please note that there is a lot of internal ageism in this story (i.e., Francesca emphasizing how OLD and past her peak she is at 53 years old...), which was kind of depressing. Thankfully (and strangely, I guess) that didn't hinder the getting together. Out of the three, this was my least favorite and the most... unrealistic? It was well-written and I'd love to pick up something else by the author though, something that I'm more likely to enjoy.
Wings Over Boston -- Out of the three, this was definitely the hottest! The chemistry between Ryland and Tess was palpable the entire story and, well, I'm a sucker for a good second chance romance. Despite the passion coming to a head, the author managed to really emphasize how both characters have matured in their time apart, so when they come together, not only is it fiery, but it's also healthy—I love that! I would definitely consider picking up something else from this author too.
So, in summary, I had fun reading this! Nothing too serious (minus the almost drowning and the prevalence of western beauty standards) and satisfactorily queer! Solid 3 out of 5 stars, ★★★☆☆
I decided to pick this up because A) it's pride month and I haven't read a damn thing even remotely queer in ages, and B) I wanted to give novellas a shot again. I have to say, I love this format! It was so refreshing to enjoy the "falling in love" or "falling back in love" stage of each romance and then leave the rest to the imagination. Each took about 45-ish minutes for me to read too a.k.a. the perfect "before bed" treat! My favorite thing about these novellas was learning about the industries of the characters; I know absolutely nothing about disaster protocols, stock trading, or air ambulances, so being dropped into those professions was fascinating!
Here are my thoughts on the individual stories:
EF5 -- Like I said, I've been privileged enough to never live through and thus know nothing about natural disasters and the protocols that follow, so I found all that just as entertaining as the romance. And both Katy and Alyssa were very endearing to me. Their their forced proximity was so. satisfying. I love a good "we're about to die, so let's try not to focus on how hot the other is" moment haha. Overall, this was definitely my favorite out of the novellas; there was something so genuine and precious about it.
Trapped Tycoon -- I don't really like age gap romances, so while I didn't jive with that part of the story, I found the characters, Clara and Francesca, to be dynamic and funny. The banter was pretty good! Please note that there is a lot of internal ageism in this story (i.e., Francesca emphasizing how OLD and past her peak she is at 53 years old...), which was kind of depressing. Thankfully (and strangely, I guess) that didn't hinder the getting together. Out of the three, this was my least favorite and the most... unrealistic? It was well-written and I'd love to pick up something else by the author though, something that I'm more likely to enjoy.
Wings Over Boston -- Out of the three, this was definitely the hottest! The chemistry between Ryland and Tess was palpable the entire story and, well, I'm a sucker for a good second chance romance. Despite the passion coming to a head, the author managed to really emphasize how both characters have matured in their time apart, so when they come together, not only is it fiery, but it's also healthy—I love that! I would definitely consider picking up something else from this author too.
So, in summary, I had fun reading this! Nothing too serious (minus the almost drowning and the prevalence of western beauty standards) and satisfactorily queer! Solid 3 out of 5 stars, ★★★☆☆
June 22, 2022
EF5: 3/5. This one was by far my least favorite of the novellas, though I wasn’t particularly into any of them. One of the mains felt almost too altruistic in my opinion - there was just something in how she seemingly was shocked at how good her pictures sold for but then immediately turning it into a beneficial thing for the entire town, while also being judgmental about a news reporter being there to report the news before thinking to herself that she…wanted to talk to the news and doing an interview? It just felt a little bit too perfect and I found myself getting irritated at the character in what’s meant to be a sweet story.
Trapped Tycoon: 3.75/5. I’m a sucker for a locked room scenario. The characters could have been developed a bit better and I think if I were the boss I’d personally turn and run the other way but the characters had a fun dynamic and back and forth.
Wings Over Boston: 3.25/5 A cute enough story, even if I don’t think the characters would actually stay together. I’d be interested in reading this author’s stuff in the future - while I wasn’t drawn in with this story, I felt like her writing style is something I could vibe with in other pieces potentially.
Overall - I’m not quite sure how to rate this but it’s in a 3 star range. The races of the characters were never stated so I guess they can be whatever we want, but the stories felt overwhelmingly white regardless. I didn’t knock the stories any points for that, it’s just something I felt while reading. It also felt a bit like I was reading fanfiction at times - which is great when you’re reading characters you know, not so much for new characters.
I don’t want to be overly negative though - they’re cute fun queer stories and I’m sure a lot of people will have fun with them! It just personally wasn’t really for me.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Trapped Tycoon: 3.75/5. I’m a sucker for a locked room scenario. The characters could have been developed a bit better and I think if I were the boss I’d personally turn and run the other way but the characters had a fun dynamic and back and forth.
Wings Over Boston: 3.25/5 A cute enough story, even if I don’t think the characters would actually stay together. I’d be interested in reading this author’s stuff in the future - while I wasn’t drawn in with this story, I felt like her writing style is something I could vibe with in other pieces potentially.
Overall - I’m not quite sure how to rate this but it’s in a 3 star range. The races of the characters were never stated so I guess they can be whatever we want, but the stories felt overwhelmingly white regardless. I didn’t knock the stories any points for that, it’s just something I felt while reading. It also felt a bit like I was reading fanfiction at times - which is great when you’re reading characters you know, not so much for new characters.
I don’t want to be overly negative though - they’re cute fun queer stories and I’m sure a lot of people will have fun with them! It just personally wasn’t really for me.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 28, 2022
ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is a compilation of short stories featuring very different couples.
EF1 by Kris Bryant features Alyssa, a photographer on her way to photograph a wedding and Katy a cop that pulls her over for speeding during a tornado. They take shelter together and then spend time together during the aftermath, helping people recover. The story is obviously short, but there was still enough time to lay the groundwork and I really liked both characters, and the way their relationship was depicted. I also really enjoyed the setting and how it made it easy for them to open up to each other. I wish this one had been a full length book.
Trapped Tycoon by Amanda Radley features Clara and Francesca who get trapped in a elevator together. Clara has just been fired by Francesca for stealing an expensive pen, so being trapped together is awkward at best. Clara has also been crushing on Francesca since she was a child (age-gap romance) and is disappointed to discover her idol has feet of clay. I found this one ok but couldn’t really get into it. Clara’s feelings for Francesca seemed obsessive and a bit stalkery. I’m usually a sucker for age gaps, but I think this was too short to be able to overcome the set up.
Wings Over Boston by Emily Smith features Tess and Ryland who had a one month relationship 3 years prior that ended because Ry, though older, wasn’t ready to settle down. They meet up again when Tess is asked to fill in as pilot for the MedFlight organisation Ry is an EMT for. The two are immediately re-smitten with each other, and thanks to a few different tropes are given the means to hook up again. This was an ok read, both characters are likeable and I bought that they’d each missed the other.
This is an easy read with enjoyable stories, fans of these authors should enjoy this, and anyone who hasn’t read anything by these authors would find this a good way to sample them. 4 stars.
This is a compilation of short stories featuring very different couples.
EF1 by Kris Bryant features Alyssa, a photographer on her way to photograph a wedding and Katy a cop that pulls her over for speeding during a tornado. They take shelter together and then spend time together during the aftermath, helping people recover. The story is obviously short, but there was still enough time to lay the groundwork and I really liked both characters, and the way their relationship was depicted. I also really enjoyed the setting and how it made it easy for them to open up to each other. I wish this one had been a full length book.
Trapped Tycoon by Amanda Radley features Clara and Francesca who get trapped in a elevator together. Clara has just been fired by Francesca for stealing an expensive pen, so being trapped together is awkward at best. Clara has also been crushing on Francesca since she was a child (age-gap romance) and is disappointed to discover her idol has feet of clay. I found this one ok but couldn’t really get into it. Clara’s feelings for Francesca seemed obsessive and a bit stalkery. I’m usually a sucker for age gaps, but I think this was too short to be able to overcome the set up.
Wings Over Boston by Emily Smith features Tess and Ryland who had a one month relationship 3 years prior that ended because Ry, though older, wasn’t ready to settle down. They meet up again when Tess is asked to fill in as pilot for the MedFlight organisation Ry is an EMT for. The two are immediately re-smitten with each other, and thanks to a few different tropes are given the means to hook up again. This was an ok read, both characters are likeable and I bought that they’d each missed the other.
This is an easy read with enjoyable stories, fans of these authors should enjoy this, and anyone who hasn’t read anything by these authors would find this a good way to sample them. 4 stars.
July 18, 2022
Three for the price of one…yeah.
‘Trapped Tycoon’ by Amanda Radley: Clara Foster works weekends whenever she has a chance. It’s the only way she can keep up in this program that takes people interested in becoming a financial investor and shows them all the ins and outs when dealing with other people’s money. Mind you the best is also the owner of this particular operation. Francesca has never met Clara but when she unexpectedly comes to her office to pick up some pap[ers she meets Clara. Clara comes across as shy but when pushed she can certainly push back, even if it’s your boss Francesca. Great little read.
‘Wings Over Boston’ by Emily Smith. Tess Goodwin works piloting helicopters operated by the local health authority. Ryland Matthews works as a flight paramedic and remembers working and dating Tess a few years back. Tess hasn’t forgotten Ryland either if you go by the extreme reaction she has whenever Ryland is around. But this department needs Tess for just a few days, then she goes back to her station. Ryland can’t get Tess out of her mind. How will they manage? Very nice read.
I know there are three stories but I hate to say this but I’m not a big fan of Ms Bryant’s writing. All her stories are done ‘first person’. I can manage some first person books but not…..
ARC via NetGalley/ Bold Stroke Books
‘Trapped Tycoon’ by Amanda Radley: Clara Foster works weekends whenever she has a chance. It’s the only way she can keep up in this program that takes people interested in becoming a financial investor and shows them all the ins and outs when dealing with other people’s money. Mind you the best is also the owner of this particular operation. Francesca has never met Clara but when she unexpectedly comes to her office to pick up some pap[ers she meets Clara. Clara comes across as shy but when pushed she can certainly push back, even if it’s your boss Francesca. Great little read.
‘Wings Over Boston’ by Emily Smith. Tess Goodwin works piloting helicopters operated by the local health authority. Ryland Matthews works as a flight paramedic and remembers working and dating Tess a few years back. Tess hasn’t forgotten Ryland either if you go by the extreme reaction she has whenever Ryland is around. But this department needs Tess for just a few days, then she goes back to her station. Ryland can’t get Tess out of her mind. How will they manage? Very nice read.
I know there are three stories but I hate to say this but I’m not a big fan of Ms Bryant’s writing. All her stories are done ‘first person’. I can manage some first person books but not…..
ARC via NetGalley/ Bold Stroke Books
November 18, 2022
3 stars. This book is three stories about how people who get stuck together. The first story is about Alyssa Bates and a cop who pulls her over and they try to outrun the Hurricane. This story I enjoyed it felt a little forced emergency. Their chemistry was okay. and I thought they were decent characters.
The second story was about two characters who got stuck in the elevator. One of them is a hard worker who came in on the weekend to catch up on her work, and the other is the owner of the company and who everyone considers an ice queen. They are stuck in elevator and they have to start to get to know each other. This was my favorite of the three stories as I enjoyed the chemistry and the story.
The third story is about a paramedic and a pilot who had a tryst a long time ago and have not seen each other since. They get stuck together when they are grounded and get to know each other better than they did before. They had not talked since they slept together. I thought this was a good story and I enjoyed how they had slept together before this story.
My main complaint with a book of three stories is that all the stories feel a little quick and I sometimes feel like they could have been longer. Overall, all three stories were decent. I enjoyed the chemistry in these stories and i wished most of them were a little longer.
The second story was about two characters who got stuck in the elevator. One of them is a hard worker who came in on the weekend to catch up on her work, and the other is the owner of the company and who everyone considers an ice queen. They are stuck in elevator and they have to start to get to know each other. This was my favorite of the three stories as I enjoyed the chemistry and the story.
The third story is about a paramedic and a pilot who had a tryst a long time ago and have not seen each other since. They get stuck together when they are grounded and get to know each other better than they did before. They had not talked since they slept together. I thought this was a good story and I enjoyed how they had slept together before this story.
My main complaint with a book of three stories is that all the stories feel a little quick and I sometimes feel like they could have been longer. Overall, all three stories were decent. I enjoyed the chemistry in these stories and i wished most of them were a little longer.
July 10, 2022
Each story was unique but they all fit together cohesively. I thought the third was the strongest, but they were all spectacular and I had a good time reading them. Excellent vibes!
THINGS I LIKED:
I was not aware that this was sapphic and therefore I started screeching when it was, so thank you for that
The pacing was excellent
Situational humor was executed perfectly, like when Katie's parents found Alyssa sleeping in her bed. I cackled
The second story was a good rivals to lovers romance and I say that as someone who normally doesn't like the trope at all
In the second story, the quips and banter were gold
Loved the whole third story. The vibes were there and I was here for it.
THINGS I DIDN'T LIKE:
I wasn't as big a fan of the Katie's POV in the first story. It seemed more stilted and less relatable than Alyssa's
The dialogue was very hit or miss. Sometimes quirky, sometimes simply odd and unrealistic
I didnt' understand the jump into them being together in the first story- maybe I missed something.
I wish there was a lot more history behind Francesca and Clara's animosity in the second story
The age gap in the second story bothered me a lot- I wish Francesca had been more like 40 instead of 53
THINGS I LIKED:
I was not aware that this was sapphic and therefore I started screeching when it was, so thank you for that
The pacing was excellent
Situational humor was executed perfectly, like when Katie's parents found Alyssa sleeping in her bed. I cackled
The second story was a good rivals to lovers romance and I say that as someone who normally doesn't like the trope at all
In the second story, the quips and banter were gold
Loved the whole third story. The vibes were there and I was here for it.
THINGS I DIDN'T LIKE:
I wasn't as big a fan of the Katie's POV in the first story. It seemed more stilted and less relatable than Alyssa's
The dialogue was very hit or miss. Sometimes quirky, sometimes simply odd and unrealistic
I didnt' understand the jump into them being together in the first story- maybe I missed something.
I wish there was a lot more history behind Francesca and Clara's animosity in the second story
The age gap in the second story bothered me a lot- I wish Francesca had been more like 40 instead of 53
June 25, 2022
Overall 3.75
I like Kris Bryant's story the most. It was emotional and I was intrigued by the plot the whole time. It was new to see what's happening to a town after a natural disaster. There are cute and funny moments to balance out the heaviness of the story. I would rate EF5 a 4.5 by itself.
I had some problems with the age gap in Trapped Tycoon, so I lowkey just imagine Clara being in her late 20s/early 30s while Francesca being in her early 40s. Idk, I feel weird that Clara was a kid and has idolized Francesca for about half of her life. The banters between them are fun to read, but whenever the age or Clara's idolization comes up, it makes the gap obvious. Although Clara wasn't a timid, naive, young intern, which close the power gap, but still. Other than that, I like the cute concept of being trapped in an elevator together that leads to romance. I would rate Trapped Tycoon 3.5.
In Wings Over Boston was straight up a spicy romance. it's short and light, plus I like 2nd-chance-romance. I kinda want a longer version to see how Emily had grown and changed into the "right" person. I would rate this 3.5.
I like Kris Bryant's story the most. It was emotional and I was intrigued by the plot the whole time. It was new to see what's happening to a town after a natural disaster. There are cute and funny moments to balance out the heaviness of the story. I would rate EF5 a 4.5 by itself.
I had some problems with the age gap in Trapped Tycoon, so I lowkey just imagine Clara being in her late 20s/early 30s while Francesca being in her early 40s. Idk, I feel weird that Clara was a kid and has idolized Francesca for about half of her life. The banters between them are fun to read, but whenever the age or Clara's idolization comes up, it makes the gap obvious. Although Clara wasn't a timid, naive, young intern, which close the power gap, but still. Other than that, I like the cute concept of being trapped in an elevator together that leads to romance. I would rate Trapped Tycoon 3.5.
In Wings Over Boston was straight up a spicy romance. it's short and light, plus I like 2nd-chance-romance. I kinda want a longer version to see how Emily had grown and changed into the "right" person. I would rate this 3.5.
June 23, 2022
A fast read for me. This book contains 3 novellas that share a “stranded together” theme. The stories also share the alternating point of views of the protagonists, which I am not the biggest fan of but it did work for these stories.
EF5: I really liked this one up to the point when they weren’t stranded together anymore and then it kind of fizzled out for me and I got a little bored. But overall it was 3 stars.
Trapped Tycoon: This one didn’t seem too realistic (the entire pen issue was a bit strange and I saw another review stating that if they were the boss, they would run, and I agree) plus the age gap was a bit too big for me. 2.5 stars.
Wings over Boston: A reunion story. It was a quick story, the steamiest from this collection but the ending felt a bit abrupt. 2.75 stars.
Big thanks the Net Galley and the publisher from the digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
EF5: I really liked this one up to the point when they weren’t stranded together anymore and then it kind of fizzled out for me and I got a little bored. But overall it was 3 stars.
Trapped Tycoon: This one didn’t seem too realistic (the entire pen issue was a bit strange and I saw another review stating that if they were the boss, they would run, and I agree) plus the age gap was a bit too big for me. 2.5 stars.
Wings over Boston: A reunion story. It was a quick story, the steamiest from this collection but the ending felt a bit abrupt. 2.75 stars.
Big thanks the Net Galley and the publisher from the digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 11, 2022
What's better than a sapphic fiction? Three of them written by awesome sapphic writers in one book. Bryant, Radley, and Smith each bring you strong leading ladies finding a little love for themselves in some hairy predicaments.
Bryant has you bracing yourself and finding shelter during a tornado that levels the playing field. Radley has you cozily stuck 30-stories up in an elevator that practically plays a wingman. And Smith has you flying high then quickly grounded in Martha's Vineyard for some steamy reconnecting. The stories do not overlap, the common thread are hearts finding one another and attempting to bring around a small bit of happiness- and it all just works:) Each are a quick read with lots of happy feels; couldn't ask for anything better!
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Bryant has you bracing yourself and finding shelter during a tornado that levels the playing field. Radley has you cozily stuck 30-stories up in an elevator that practically plays a wingman. And Smith has you flying high then quickly grounded in Martha's Vineyard for some steamy reconnecting. The stories do not overlap, the common thread are hearts finding one another and attempting to bring around a small bit of happiness- and it all just works:) Each are a quick read with lots of happy feels; couldn't ask for anything better!
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
August 16, 2022
Wonderful collection of short stories. I loved Trapped Tycoon and wish it was a full length book so I could spend more time with the characters. All of them are well written and are very good reads. I also like that they have a theme, but the stories center around the theme very differently.
1: EF5 - Kris Bryant 4.5/5
+ Heartwarming chemistry
+ Surviving a natural disaster by working together
+ Everyday jobs
2: Trapped Tycoon - Amanda Radley 5/5
Age gap & Ice Queen
+ Meeting your hero
+ Witty banter
+ Carrie Fisher reference
3: Wings over Boston - Emily Smith 4/5
Second chance
+ Being ready for love
This review is based on NetGalley ARC provided in exchange for an honest, unbiased opinion.
1: EF5 - Kris Bryant 4.5/5
+ Heartwarming chemistry
+ Surviving a natural disaster by working together
+ Everyday jobs
2: Trapped Tycoon - Amanda Radley 5/5
Age gap & Ice Queen
+ Meeting your hero
+ Witty banter
+ Carrie Fisher reference
3: Wings over Boston - Emily Smith 4/5
Second chance
+ Being ready for love
This review is based on NetGalley ARC provided in exchange for an honest, unbiased opinion.
July 13, 2022
Loved this anthology. The first story is the one that I am still thinking about, because it deals with the devastation and destruction that an EF5 tornado can cause and what happens afterwards is as devastating as well. Katy and Alyssa were trapped in a cooler with rising water. I would definitely not be very calm in that situation. The author did a great job writing this short story, because you felt everything the characters felt and then some. I liked the other stories in this book as well, but this one was my favorite. I would definitely recommend this book to my friends and family and I look forward to what these authors write next.
July 20, 2022
There are several short stories by acclaimed authors. The first story is about being trapped in a tornado and the result. The second story is about a fired assistant and her nasty boss being trapped in an elevator. The last story is about medics and pilots being stranded and the ensuing reclaimed love story.
I found all the stories excellent and well written. I would recommend this book to all romance readers.
I found all the stories excellent and well written. I would recommend this book to all romance readers.
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