Books like Imprinted on the Heart

I discovered Sheila Roberts' Life in Icicle Falls series last spring, courtesy of my local library. I adore the whole series--seriously, if you like small town romances, you'll want to move there! This story is so much fun because it's told from the point of view of some of the gentlemen residing in Icicle Falls, rather than the ladies. See, these fellows are having girlfriend/wife troubles, so they decide to read up on romance novels to discover what women really want from a relationship. It's so much fubn, with a really cute plot twist.

The Ballad of Smallhope and Pennyroyal is about the characters. It felt slow for the first half of the book, and I had to tell myself to sit back and enjoy the process. Next thing I knew I was immersed. Loved this book. Can't wait to read it again. Butler Pennyroyal (and I say that with a bit of caginess ~ butler?) and Lady Amelia Smallhope (lady?) are nothing but trouble for the right people.

I loved that this book’s inciting incident is the toppling of a many-tiered wedding cake of a British royal couple. The cause? The immature tussling of a prince and the U.S. president’s son? (Adults, mind you. They’re adults) And because of that, they have to pretend to be friends, pals, buddies.

And as with most fake-relationship-themed books, the fake friendship soon turns into real love. Even though both Alex and Henry are outrageously advantaged individuals, I saw them as people—people in love—and not as a representation of their class.

Perhaps the thing I love most about McQuiston’s writing is the idealism and hopefulness she brings to the story. The obstacles Alex and Henry must overcome are literally international and yet, she can boil their love down to the simplest of gestures—and make it seem realistic.

This was the first book by Alexis Hall I’ve read, and I fell in love with his writing. It’s witty and charming and perhaps a bit ridiculous at times. But that’s what makes it charming. Luc’s job is in danger unless he begins to get his life together. What job? He works for a nonprofit charity whose goal is to save the dung beetle—Coleoptera Research or Protection Project, or CRAPP. The solution? A fake boyfriend.

I love the large supporting cast this book has, each quirky enough to get their own story one day. Hall is a master of comedic writing, but more than that, I love that he can also write poignant moments. This book is one of my all-time favorites.

This fun story not only showcases a strong female lead navigating grief, but a smart, driven one.

Ali herself is a neuroscientist and her books often feature women in STEM. In this case, Olive (our fmc) is working towards her PHD. Olive’s mum died of pancreatic cancer and the development of this storyline and how it ties into the plot is beautiful and poignant. 

The story follows a fake dating trope as Olive becomes involved with her professor, giving you all the ingredients for a feet-kicking romance, with the character depth all whilst in a fascinating setting.

I loved how funny the story was. Heavy topics were discussed but it didn't weigh you down.

A great summertime escape. Abby Jimenez is a great writer, too. I would say Emily Henry esque, but maybe better! I devoured these books (all 3) in about a week.