Jul 16, 2025

Blog Blitz: How to Date a Prince by Hayden Stone


How to Date a Prince by Hayden Stone
Publication date: July 15th 2025
Genres: Adult, Comedy, Contemporary, LGBTQ+, Romance

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27405327-pop-manga-coloring-book?from_search=true  https://www.amazon.com/Pop-Manga-Coloring-Book-Beautiful/dp/0399578471?ie=UTF8&SubscriptionId=1MGPYB6YW3HWK55XCGG2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0399578471&linkCode=as2&redirect=true&ref_=x_gr_w_bb&tag=x_gr_w_bb-20 

About the Book: 

What happens when the British Crown Prince falls in love with an American man who opposes the monarchy?

Prince Auggie swears he’s no kind of dashing prince: daydreamer, private—and also secretly very gay. He’s instantly horrified when his father, reality TV addict King James, signs Auggie up for a reality TV show to promote the monarchy, where the man with the most talents wins—and to help find Auggie a bride, the very last thing Auggie wants. But duty calls.

When Auggie finds out his co-star is irritatingly gorgeous Thomas Golden, the charismatic dual American-English heir to the Golden hotel fortune, it’s another step too far. There’s at least one problem: Prince Auggie’s already recently crossed paths with Thomas Golden one disastrous night in a London club. Plus, there’s that whole second not-so-small, not-so-secret problem—the Golden family wants to get rid of the monarchy.

Once Auggie and Thomas arrive on set in the English countryside, it’s already unapologetically hate at first sight. It’s going to be a very long summer of filming…until sparks fly behind the scenes, leading them to make a searing heatwave all their own. But soon, real reality strikes, and Auggie must choose between the life he’s destined for as the future king—or dare risk everything for love.

An enemies-to-lovers, opposites-attract, feel-good gay royal rom-com.

For fans of Red, White & Royal Blue, Boyfriend Material, and The Unlikely Heir.

 



In my next life, I’ll be reborn as Harry Styles. Or maybe as the reincarnation of Taylor Swift. I’ll still be famous if I must, but I’ll be famous due to my talent instead of my chance birth as a royal. I’m quite sure I’m a negative ten on the talent-o-meter.

Everything else is just genetics. And training.

It’s Friday night in London, and Mayfair glitters. When I step out of the black SUV, straightening to my full height, I pause in the drizzle for the cameras on the red carpet at the charity ball. Snapping shutters echo, and a familiar blinding flash dazzles my eyes.

I give my best public smile and stop in a flattering pose, then strike another pose for my best angles like the Danish prince once taught me during a secret fling. Work it, babe, Prince Theodor coached me then as we drank spicy margaritas, which incidentally led to more spice.

More confidence, more sultry. Hand on my hip and a three-quarter turn to the cameras.

The crowd cheers their approval as I’m blinded by the lights. I wave, smile broadly, and carry on, mindful of not tripping over my own feet.

“Prince Auggie! Over here!”

“Prince Auggie—where’s Katie? I’ll be your date!”

“Prince Auggie, come back!”

Tonight, I’m shamelessly selling the image of charming Prince Auggie, future British monarch. I’d like to meet him too, to be honest, because he’s great in the press. Cool guy. From the outside, he has it together. The media and public are fascinated, so somehow, I must be doing something right. Or quite possibly, I’m doing something wrong enough that the media sticks to me waiting for my next mistake.

I’m all kitted up in an edgy mohair tux that an up-and-coming London designer sent over to me. I’m at least looking the part of the dashing prince, even if I can’t get over the idea that the dashing prince is supposed to be me.

To be fair, I do look good enough, taking after my mum—see genetics above—though I wish I loved crowds like she had. The looks balance out the panic, my friend Gav told me. He said it’s heaps of fun not knowing what I might blurt out next. For him, maybe. Meanwhile, I try to keep my mouth shut as a preventative measure in case something messy accidentally spills out.

“Prince Auggie, is it true you’re still single?”

“Prince Auggie, would you take a photo with me? It’s my birthday!”

I pause and go to the young woman at the barrier for a photo taken by her friend. The paparazzi goes wild. We both grin, and for a moment, I pretend I’m carefree. “Happy birthday,” I say, on my best behavior as she gives a small curtsy. “How do you do.”

She blushes, too tongue-tied to speak.

My father, the King, told me not to be too extra tonight, as if he can sniff out rising rebellion like the dawn breaks each day. I’m kind of horrified that he knows what being extra means. And that he’s applied being extra to me, specifically. Nothing good can come of that. Especially when I’ve been on my best behavior the last few months.

Which is why I asked the stylist at the earlier magazine shoot I’m coming from to give me a smoky-eye look for evening, after we bonded over our favorite makeup. She tousled my medium-length, light reddish-brown—blond if you’re generous during the summer—hair with product. Plus, a touch of contouring never hurt anyone. Use those cheekbones for the good of the kingdom, she told me, because it’s your royal duty to the people.



About the Author

More animal than mineral, Hayden Stone is a writer of fun queer fiction, especially with kissing. He currently lives in Victoria, Canada, and has previously lived in Vancouver, Canada and London, UK. He likes strong coffee and is owned by two cats. You can find out his latest news on Twitter or Instagram, or at his website: haydenstonebooks.com

Find the Author 

Website | Goodreads | Twitter | Instagram | TikTok





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Jul 14, 2025

Recent Reads: Deep End by Ali Hazelwood


Deep End by Ali Hazelwood
Publisher: Berkley 
Publication Date: February 4, 2025 



https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27405327-pop-manga-coloring-book?from_search=true  https://www.amazon.com/Pop-Manga-Coloring-Book-Beautiful/dp/0399578471?ie=UTF8&SubscriptionId=1MGPYB6YW3HWK55XCGG2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0399578471&linkCode=as2&redirect=true&ref_=x_gr_w_bb&tag=x_gr_w_bb-20

Format: Paperback
Source: Bought/ Own


Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 
A competitive diver and an ace swimmer jump into forbidden waters in this steamy college romance from the New York Times bestselling author of The Love Hypothesis.

Scarlett Vandermeer is swimming upstream. A Junior at Stanford and a student-athlete who specializes in platform diving, Scarlett prefers to keep her head down, concentrating on getting into med school and on recovering from the injury that almost ended her career. She has no time for relationships—at least, that’s what she tells herself.

Swim captain, world champion, all-around aquatics golden boy, Lukas Blomqvist thrives on discipline. It’s how he wins gold medals and breaks records: complete focus, with every stroke. On the surface, Lukas and Scarlett have nothing in common. Until a well-guarded secret slips out, and everything changes.

So they start an arrangement. And as the pressure leading to the Olympics heats up, so does their relationship. It was supposed to be just a temporary, mutually satisfying fling. But when staying away from Lukas becomes impossible, Scarlett realizes that her heart might be treading into dangerous water...
Review: 
~~TBR Pile Pull~~

In Deep End, competitive diver Scarlett Vandermeer is laser-focused on recovering from an injury, getting into med school, and avoiding any romantic distractions. Lukas Blomqvist, a world-champion swimmer and Stanford’s swim captain, is equally committed to discipline and Olympic dreams. When a shared secret pulls them into each other’s orbit, they agree to a no-strings fling—one that quickly gets complicated as real feelings begin to surface.

I really enjoyed the dynamic between Scarlett and Lukas—Ali Hazelwood knows how to build tension and chemistry, and the banter between these two was spot-on. One of the things I consistently appreciate in Hazelwood’s writing is her sharp, clever dialogue, and this book delivered on that front. While this story leans more into the world of student athletics than STEM, I liked that there were still nods to the academic side, keeping it in line with Hazelwood’s brand.

This book felt a little different from Hazelwood’s typical swoony romances—it had a solid pace, satisfying relationship build-up, and some nice character development. However, there were a few things that pulled me out of the story. Pen, the best friend, was overly involved in the relationship and mentioned far too often; it became distracting and a bit irritating. The kink element, while clearly central to the relationship, felt pretty tame and occasionally veered into cringey territory. I also found myself wanting more emotional depth from both leads. Still, the “he falls first” trope and engaging banter kept me hooked, and overall, I found it to be an enjoyable read.

Jul 13, 2025

Building the Book Pile #945

Welcome to Building the Book Pile!

Happy Sunday!

Back home and while I love the summer, we don't have central AC ...so it is too hot. 🥵🥵 I am constantly tired and wiped out from it, so finding the motivation to do anything has been hard. 

We had a nice few days away, exploring a new place, and I got a stamp at another National Park. We saw a beach but didn't really have a beach day - that is ok though. 

Saturday we worked on some projects - work stuff, home stuff, and some crafty things that have been in my to-do pile. We also popped into Tractor Supply to get Emma a new harness. She grew out of her little strawberry one 😢. She is probably full grown now, but we got her DNA back. She is Boston Terrier (we knew), Miniature American Shepard, and Australian Shepard. She has been herding the chickens so this tracks and she loooooves to run. Here she is in the hole she dug under the picnic table. 




Linking up this week with the Caffeinated Reviewer and her Sunday Post series.

xo steph


Coming up on the Blog


Recent Reads: Deep End by Ali Hazelwood (Adult, Spicy)

Blog Blitz: How to Date a Prince by Hayden Stone (Adult)

Early Reader Review: Fateless by Julie Kagawa (YA)


Books Received Recently...  

 
 

For Review:
Fateless by Julie Kagawa - from the publisher review review.

Leaving the Station by Jake Maia Arlow - from the publisher review review.


From Amazon First Reads:



Have you missed anything lately?
Donating Caffeine is greatly appreciated ... Donate on Ko-fi

What have you been reading?  How was your week? Feel free to leave a comment!

Happy Reading! 

Jul 8, 2025

Blog Tour: Review - The Best Worst Mistake by Lily Parker




The Best Worst Mistake by Lily Parker 
Series: Off-Limits #2
Publisher: Choc Lit Contemporary Romance: A Joffe Books Company
Publication Date:  July 2, 2025



https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27405327-pop-manga-coloring-book?from_search=true  https://www.amazon.com/Pop-Manga-Coloring-Book-Beautiful/dp/0399578471?ie=UTF8&SubscriptionId=1MGPYB6YW3HWK55XCGG2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0399578471&linkCode=as2&redirect=true&ref_=x_gr_w_bb&tag=x_gr_w_bb-20

Format: Ebook


About the Book: 
What if the one that got away came back . . . ?

Abby never thought she’d see Dax Harper again — let alone bump into him in a Manhattan coffee shop.

Dax was her law school fling. The one that got away. The almost-relationship she never could forget.

Now he’s older. Hotter. And in town for just one night.

Dax wants dinner. Abby wants one night of rekindled heat.

It won’t change anything. He’s in L.A. She’s in New York. No strings. No regrets.

Until Abby’s firm is called to L.A. in a deal that will make, or break, her career. She’s ready for anything — except finding Dax on the other side of the boardroom table. All confidence, charm, and those damn hazel eyes still looking at her like she’s the only one in the room.

For the sake of their careers, they must stay professional.

But when the tension sizzles hotter than their last night together, it’s clear some rules are made to be broken . . .

This sizzling second-chance, workplace romance full of sharp banter, heart-melting heat, and the kind of chemistry that doesn’t fade with time, is perfect for fans of Hannah Grace, Susie Tate, Carrie Elks, Emma Lucy, Laurie Gilmore, Emily Henry and Bal Khabra.


❤️ Spicy Romance 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
❤️ Friends-to-lovers
❤️ Cinnamon roll hero
❤️ Forced proximity
❤️ Office romance
❤️ Found-family


Rating: 

Lily Parker delivers another heartfelt, heat-filled win in the Off-Limits series with this second-chance, workplace romance that’s as heartfelt and authentic as it is steamy. While a series, this book can be read as a standalone.

We follow Abby, the fiercely independent bestie from book one, who’s now front and center and all business. She is no nonsense and laser-focused on making partner at her high-powered law firm. She’s stubborn, smart, and burning the candle at both ends in ways that will resonate with a lot of readers, especially those who know what it’s like to chase success at the cost of rest, joy, or relationships.

And then there’s Dax Harper, her law school fling that she never forgot, now hotter, bolder, and clearly still carrying some feelings for her. Yes, he’s your classic “big hot guy” trope, but what makes him work is how unashamedly into Abby he is. He wants more. He shows up. He pushes gently but persistently against the walls she’s built around her heart.

Their chemistry is instant and the will-they/won’t-they tension is so great, especially once fate (and one massive M&A deal) throws them together in LA. Watching Abby wrestle with vulnerability while still fighting to keep her professional edge gave the story real stakes and emotional pull.

As always, Parker’s writing shines with snappy banter, layered characters, and just the right amount of spice (yes, it's open-door!). This story hits that sweet spot of being fun and flirty while also saying something meaningful about ambition, burnout, and the risk it takes to let someone in.

If you love second chances, strong heroines, and cinnamon-roll heroes in tailored suits, this one should be at the top of your TBR. Super cute! 



About the Author
Lily Parker is a full-time romance writer, former professional matchmaker, and an avid seeker of absurd adventures. After years of helping other authors bring their stories to life, she decided it was time to write the kinds of books she’s always wanted to read. With a knack for blending humor, heart, and unforgettable characters, Lily creates stories that pull readers in and leave them believing in love—no matter the odds. When she’s not writing, you can find her planning her next venture with her family or daydreaming about just one more happily-ever-after.

Find the Author




Jul 6, 2025

Building the Book Pile #494

Welcome to Building the Book Pile!

Happy Sunday!

Hi everyone, I hope you are having a great long weekend if in the U.S. We were home on Friday but spent the day doing chores and packing. Saturday we got on a plane to take a trip for a few days. It will be nice to both get away together. All the other travel this summer so far has been separate.  

Hoping to get some reading done while traveling and also hoping to have a lake/beach day in my near future... wish me luck.

Linking up this week with the Caffeinated Reviewer and her Sunday Post series.

xo steph


Coming up on the Blog


Blog Tour: Review - The Best Worst Mistake by Lily Parker (Adult)


Books Received Recently...  

Have you missed anything lately?
What have you been reading?  How was your week? Feel free to leave a comment!

Happy Reading! 

Jul 4, 2025

Reading ReCap: June 2025



Hello Readers, Bloggers, and Awesome people! 

In June, I...

I read 7 books and DNFed A Deception on Cold Hill and Party of Liars

StoryGraph for some Stats help again, I really like this visual 



~~Books I Read in June~~   


DNFs 

 

How was your start of Summer Reading? What books are you excited to read soon? Are you listening to any good audiobooks? Mid year check in - how is that Goodreads challenge going?

Feel free to share in the comments! I would love to know what you are reading! 

Jul 2, 2025

Recent Reads: The Wrong Game by Kandi Steiner

Source: From the publisher and Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review. 

The Wrong Game by Kandi Steiner 
Publisher: Arndell
Publication Date: June 17, 2025 



https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27405327-pop-manga-coloring-book?from_search=true  https://www.amazon.com/Pop-Manga-Coloring-Book-Beautiful/dp/0399578471?ie=UTF8&SubscriptionId=1MGPYB6YW3HWK55XCGG2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0399578471&linkCode=as2&redirect=true&ref_=x_gr_w_bb&tag=x_gr_w_bb-20

Format: Ebook


Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 
Two season tickets.
One genius idea.
Zero interest in a relationship.

The plan is simple: a brand new, hot, preferably funny, definitely single male will fill one of those seats for every Bears game at Soldier Field. And I’ll fill the other.

I can’t think of a better way to use the season passes I’d bought for my ex-husband. I am a woman of plans, and this one’s foolproof.

Until Zach Bowen offers to be my practice round.

He’s infuriating. Presumptuous and overbearing. And absolutely, undeniably gorgeous. Any woman with a heartbeat would be attracted to him, and mine picks up speed every time he speaks.

But as I said, I’m a woman of plans — and I’m not backing down on this one.

One night. One game. And then, his time’s up.

He can try to change the rules, but here’s the truth: he can’t win if he’s playing the wrong game.

The Wrong Game is a stand-alone, angsty, enemies-to-lovers sports romance.
Review: 
The Wrong Game was a thoroughly enjoyable rom-com that hit many of the right notes for me — witty banter, lovable characters, and a satisfying emotional arc, all wrapped up in a standalone package (which I greatly appreciate in all books).

Though marketed as an enemies-to-lovers, it leans more toward a he-falls-first dynamic, which I adored. Zach Bowen is an absolute swoon-fest — romantic, persistent in the best way, and always ready with a grand gesture. Watching him patiently chip away at Gemma’s walls was as heartwarming as it was entertaining.

Gemma, for her part, is wonderfully complex. Her emotional guardedness makes sense as the story unfolds, and while the prologue feels a bit older than the characters’ stated age (early 30s), it ultimately adds depth to her journey. Her friendship with Belle is also hilarious. I found myself laughing out loud more than once at their sharp, snappy exchanges, that are over the top and often graphic.

Told in dual POV, the book does a great job of letting readers fall for both leads. The emotional vulnerability across the cast, not just in the central romance, added depth without bogging the story down. The plot is predictable in a cozy, familiar way, which worked for me. And yes, there are some open-door spicy scenes for those who like a bit of heat with their heart.

All in all, this is a fun, feel-good read with just enough angst to keep things interesting. If you're in the mood for a low-stress romance with humor, heart, and a big dose of charm, The Wrong Game is well worth picking up.

Jul 1, 2025

Early Reader Review: Watch Out for Falling Iguanas by Edwidge Danticat

Source: From the Librarything Early Reviewers program in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review.

Watch Out for Falling Iguanas by Edwidge Danticat, illustrated by Rachel Moss
Publisher: Black Sheep
Publication Date: July 1, 2025 



https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27405327-pop-manga-coloring-book?from_search=true  https://www.amazon.com/Pop-Manga-Coloring-Book-Beautiful/dp/0399578471?ie=UTF8&SubscriptionId=1MGPYB6YW3HWK55XCGG2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0399578471&linkCode=as2&redirect=true&ref_=x_gr_w_bb&tag=x_gr_w_bb-20

Format: Hardback


Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 
Perfect for readers of all ages, this captivating picture book teaches children about iguanas’ unique behaviors while celebrating the bonds between generations and the wonders of the natural world. 

ON A RARE CHILLY DAY IN MIAMI, Florida, young Leila sets off for school bundled up in her bright red jacket. But this isn’t just any cold day—her grandmother, Grandma Issa, gives her an unusual “Watch out for falling iguanas.” 

As Leila navigates her morning, she can’t stop thinking about Grandma’s strange words. From remembering dodging coconuts and seeing her parents’ car being held up by chickens crossing the road to admiring roaming peacocks, Leila’s day is full of curious encounters. But nothing prepares her for the moment she sees an iguana drop from a tree. 

Join Leila, her close friends, and her teacher Ms. Benoit on an unexpected adventure as they discover why these tropical creatures fall from trees during cold snaps. With charming illustrations by acclaimed Jamaican artist Rachel Moss and a truly heartwarming story, Watch Out for Falling Iguanas is a delightful tale about family, friendship, and the surprises nature can bring. 
Review: 
Watch Out for Falling Iguanas is a children’s book about...falling iguanas 🦎. It follows a young girl on her way to school. When her grandma warns her to "watch out for falling iguanas," she’s a bit confused but decides to keep her eyes open, just in case.

Sure enough, when she gets to school, she actually does see an iguana fall! Thankfully, her teacher is there to explain what’s going on, not just to her, but to the whole class. It’s a great intro to animal physiology, especially how cold weather affects iguanas and why they sometimes “freeze” and fall from trees. The book also highlights why it’s important not to touch these seemingly still animals.

The illustrations are really well done and match the story perfectly. I especially appreciate that the book tackles such a quirky and uncommon topic. It’s fun, informative, and a little unexpected. Young readers and animal lovers are sure to enjoy this one!