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Peculiar Hearts Dating Agency #1
Nerd Meets Curvy
It's True Blood meets Sweet Home Alabama, y'all!Coralie dreads starting over, but Mystic River beckons her home like a siren's call. Armed with determination and a toolkit full of DIY magic, Coralie sets out to revive her grandmother's worn-down house. If anyone can breathe new life into the old walls, it's her. And with lifelong friendships awaiting her, she has a support system as sturdy as a bear shifter's embrace.
Little does she know that her homecoming will launch her into the wildest roller coaster ride of midlife dating and a mating bond that makes her head spin faster than a tornado. Coralie certainly hadn't signed up for this level of excitement, but here she was, courtesy of the enigmatic mastermind herself, Mrs. Wilde. The queen of matchmaking and the architect of the notorious Peculiar Hearts Dating Agency promises Coralie a spicy rebound for her upcoming high school reunion.
Enter Jax, a scorching hot bear shifter haunted by a love that's gripped him since high school. Just when he finally has a shot at settling down, a pesky ex-harpy swoops in, flapping her wings and causing more drama than a forest full of squawking birds. Tired of the chaos, this bear is ready to throw in the towel and hibernate for good!
But as they say, fate has a wicked sense of humor.
Beneath the surface of his chance to make things right and rewrite history are secrets that could detonate like a ticking time bomb threatening to shatter their fragile bond. Coralie holds a haunting secret buried deep within her heart. It shapes the choices that molded her into the fierce, curvy woman she is today. As for Jax, his past is a murky labyrinth of pain and darkness. Lives and love swing on a high-stakes pendulum as danger closes in.
Can Coralie and Jax beat the odds, untangle the mystery of the danger stalking them, and build a future that defies the limits of their pasts?
Little does she know that her homecoming will launch her into the wildest roller coaster ride of midlife dating and a mating bond that makes her head spin faster than a tornado. Coralie certainly hadn't signed up for this level of excitement, but here she was, courtesy of the enigmatic mastermind herself, Mrs. Wilde. The queen of matchmaking and the architect of the notorious Peculiar Hearts Dating Agency promises Coralie a spicy rebound for her upcoming high school reunion.
Enter Jax, a scorching hot bear shifter haunted by a love that's gripped him since high school. Just when he finally has a shot at settling down, a pesky ex-harpy swoops in, flapping her wings and causing more drama than a forest full of squawking birds. Tired of the chaos, this bear is ready to throw in the towel and hibernate for good!
But as they say, fate has a wicked sense of humor.
Beneath the surface of his chance to make things right and rewrite history are secrets that could detonate like a ticking time bomb threatening to shatter their fragile bond. Coralie holds a haunting secret buried deep within her heart. It shapes the choices that molded her into the fierce, curvy woman she is today. As for Jax, his past is a murky labyrinth of pain and darkness. Lives and love swing on a high-stakes pendulum as danger closes in.
Can Coralie and Jax beat the odds, untangle the mystery of the danger stalking them, and build a future that defies the limits of their pasts?
316 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 16, 2024
3 people are currently reading
53 people want to read
About the author
A.C. James
41 books321 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author A.C. James writes paranormal romance and erotica, including Eternal Ever After (rebranded as Eternal Lover), featured in the bestselling Spice Box anthology. Her Ever Dark Immortals Series, which begins with Eternal Lover, has been described as “brimming with sensuality” and “romantic and sizzling hot.” The Isle of the Horse Shifters series starts with Ride: Awakening and is “lighthearted,” which is a “joy ride from beginning to end.”
She resides in the Philadelphia suburbs with her adoring husband Ron (aka Mr. A.C. James), who loves her imaginative yarns and punny sense of humor. She’s also a domestic violence advocate and discusses intimate partner violence and addiction to raise awareness on social media and through her writing. Many of her books include themes like alcoholism or addiction. If you love books that feature underdogs and redemption, her stories will capture your heart.
She spends most of her time drinking large vats of coffee while wrangling kids by day and writing by night. Recovering video game beta tester and tech geek who grew up going to cons and watching SmackDown. There’s probably some cosplay pictures around somewhere of her dressed up as Bloodberry from Saber Marionette J. Just don’t tell anyone.
She resides in the Philadelphia suburbs with her adoring husband Ron (aka Mr. A.C. James), who loves her imaginative yarns and punny sense of humor. She’s also a domestic violence advocate and discusses intimate partner violence and addiction to raise awareness on social media and through her writing. Many of her books include themes like alcoholism or addiction. If you love books that feature underdogs and redemption, her stories will capture your heart.
She spends most of her time drinking large vats of coffee while wrangling kids by day and writing by night. Recovering video game beta tester and tech geek who grew up going to cons and watching SmackDown. There’s probably some cosplay pictures around somewhere of her dressed up as Bloodberry from Saber Marionette J. Just don’t tell anyone.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
February 12, 2024
Rounding this up to 4 heartfelt stars.
For a book 'dedicated to all the amazing women who need to hear this: You are worthy of love, respect, and a life free from abuse.'
This first instalment in the Peculiar Hearts Dating Agency series is a Southern flavoured shifter romance with a fierce curvy woman and a rough-edged bear shifter, who happens to be the cuddliest teddy bear at heart. Neither of them is truly eager to jump into a new relationship while still trying to get over past hurts and insecurities, but a well-known matchmaker with an enigmatic reputation determines them both to give it a try.
Taking a leap of faith that seemed to teeter on the edge of being a colossal mistake, Coralie meets Jax and sparks fly, while an old love rekindles. But the past won't stay buried and the new couple will have their paws full trying to fend off an abusive ex and a more or less batshit crazy ex-harpy.
With nicely rounded characters and a solid plot, this book is an empowering tale full of heart. One that not only sets into focus the psychological scars of abused women, but also leaves a strong message: 'If you're in an abusive relationship, it is absolutely ok to seek help. ... Don't be afraid to reach out.'
And I'm going to have to tip my hat to the author for tackling all the above with heartfelt sensitivity.
All in all, this book is a mix of sass and fun, sweet steam and lots of angst, topped with a lot of heart. It is not perfect. The pace falters at times and dialogue could flow better, while threads could be tied up better and the angst needs a bit more light fun for a proper balance. But at the end of the day, it's a lovely heartfelt read that managed to keep me turning pages till the end.
Happy reading everyone
and remember
'Sometimes, all we need is a little push to remind us of what we truly want.'
Thank you BookSirens for the review copy.
For a book 'dedicated to all the amazing women who need to hear this: You are worthy of love, respect, and a life free from abuse.'
This first instalment in the Peculiar Hearts Dating Agency series is a Southern flavoured shifter romance with a fierce curvy woman and a rough-edged bear shifter, who happens to be the cuddliest teddy bear at heart. Neither of them is truly eager to jump into a new relationship while still trying to get over past hurts and insecurities, but a well-known matchmaker with an enigmatic reputation determines them both to give it a try.
Taking a leap of faith that seemed to teeter on the edge of being a colossal mistake, Coralie meets Jax and sparks fly, while an old love rekindles. But the past won't stay buried and the new couple will have their paws full trying to fend off an abusive ex and a more or less batshit crazy ex-harpy.
With nicely rounded characters and a solid plot, this book is an empowering tale full of heart. One that not only sets into focus the psychological scars of abused women, but also leaves a strong message: 'If you're in an abusive relationship, it is absolutely ok to seek help. ... Don't be afraid to reach out.'
And I'm going to have to tip my hat to the author for tackling all the above with heartfelt sensitivity.
All in all, this book is a mix of sass and fun, sweet steam and lots of angst, topped with a lot of heart. It is not perfect. The pace falters at times and dialogue could flow better, while threads could be tied up better and the angst needs a bit more light fun for a proper balance. But at the end of the day, it's a lovely heartfelt read that managed to keep me turning pages till the end.
Happy reading everyone
and remember
'Sometimes, all we need is a little push to remind us of what we truly want.'
Thank you BookSirens for the review copy.
February 9, 2024
I love shifter romances, and I was really excited to read Coralie and Jax's story.
Coralie and Jax were childhood friends, but with time their lives went on different paths and Coralie left town. Years later, she comes back for a high school reunion, and she meets him again. This is their chance of giving all of that build-up attraction from then and now a go. Well, like any other book, this attraction turns into a fated mate's love. But the path to reaching it... I am not going to lie...it is a long way to go.
Both of them struggle with overcoming their past relationships and with what they've been through. Well, it is not only that, but there is someone who threatens their happily ever after.
The love scenes were very hot and full of passion. Sometimes I do need a little bit more on the love side and this is why I enjoyed those scenes.
Overall, I liked reading Coralie and Jax's love story.
***I received an ARC from Booksirens and this is my honest opinion.***
Coralie and Jax were childhood friends, but with time their lives went on different paths and Coralie left town. Years later, she comes back for a high school reunion, and she meets him again. This is their chance of giving all of that build-up attraction from then and now a go. Well, like any other book, this attraction turns into a fated mate's love. But the path to reaching it... I am not going to lie...it is a long way to go.
Both of them struggle with overcoming their past relationships and with what they've been through. Well, it is not only that, but there is someone who threatens their happily ever after.
The love scenes were very hot and full of passion. Sometimes I do need a little bit more on the love side and this is why I enjoyed those scenes.
Overall, I liked reading Coralie and Jax's love story.
***I received an ARC from Booksirens and this is my honest opinion.***
January 26, 2024
Coralie has been goaded to go to a match maker and a match is made. Little does she know she knows the match. As a relationship begins, an old one rears it's head in memories. Will the new one overshadow the old one. What ramifications will occur with each choice she makes?
The story shows how friendship can turn into family. This is a great read with twists that I recommend.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
The story shows how friendship can turn into family. This is a great read with twists that I recommend.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
April 24, 2024
Ik vond het heel grappig, cute en spannen maar ik had meer verwacht van het boek.
January 5, 2024
3.75 stars—NERD MEETS CURVY is the first instalment in AC James’ contemporary, adult TRUE HEARTS DATING AGENCY paranormal, romance series. This is bear shifter Evander ‘Jax’ Jackson, and journalist Coralie’s story line. NERD MEETS CURVY was first released as the novella Finding Her Bearing in Milly Taiden’s Paranormal Dating Agency World 10. Some of the names, events and original premise have been changed.
NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise including domestic violence, there WILL BE triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from omniscient dual third person perspectives (Coralie and Jax) NERD MEETS CURVY follows the second chance (of a sort) relationship between our story line couple. Coralie and Jax were childhood / high school friends but diverging paths sent the couple in different directions. Fast forward to present day wherein Coralie has returned to her home town of Mystic River for her high school reunion, a reunion that will bring together lost loves and hearts. Enter bear shifter Evander ‘Jax’ Jackson, and the man Coralie has always loved but both Coralie and Jax’s past are dirty and dramatic, and Coralie’s past refuses to let go. What ensues is the quick rebuilding romance and relationship between our story line couple, as Coralie is targeted by a ghost from the past.
The world building focuses on past relationships, domestic violence, abuse control and betrayal. Recounting her horrific experiences, we are up close and personal with Coralie’s past, and the drama of Jax’s failed relationship with a vengeful ex.
The relationship between Jax and Coralie is one of rebuilding friendships, and second chances. Jax’s bear has always known Coralie was their mate, and with Coralie’s return, they are given a chance at their own happily ever after but someone is threatening our story line heroine, and the Blackstone Clan must prepare to protect one of their own. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful supernatural and powerful secondary and supporting characters including bear, wolf and feline shifters, vampires, witches, and harpies. We are introduced to Coralie’s best friend and bear shifter Jessie, witch Fiona, Calissa, and True Hearts Dating Agency owner Mrs. Wilde; Jax’s friends and fellow shifters: chief of the Blackstone Clan Mason Blackstone, Theo, Drew, Hopper, and Wolf elder Sheriff Swiftwood; as well as Jax’s ex, harpie Bex, and Coralie’s ex, bear shifter Hunter.
NERD MEETS CURVY is a fast paced, entertaining story line of betrayal and vengeance, power and control, obsession and violence, acceptance and love. The premise is magical and intriguing but I did have to question why Jax and the others were oblivious to the fight going down; the romance is insta-love, seductive and impassioned; the characters are enchanting, powerful and charismatic.
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise including domestic violence, there WILL BE triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from omniscient dual third person perspectives (Coralie and Jax) NERD MEETS CURVY follows the second chance (of a sort) relationship between our story line couple. Coralie and Jax were childhood / high school friends but diverging paths sent the couple in different directions. Fast forward to present day wherein Coralie has returned to her home town of Mystic River for her high school reunion, a reunion that will bring together lost loves and hearts. Enter bear shifter Evander ‘Jax’ Jackson, and the man Coralie has always loved but both Coralie and Jax’s past are dirty and dramatic, and Coralie’s past refuses to let go. What ensues is the quick rebuilding romance and relationship between our story line couple, as Coralie is targeted by a ghost from the past.
The world building focuses on past relationships, domestic violence, abuse control and betrayal. Recounting her horrific experiences, we are up close and personal with Coralie’s past, and the drama of Jax’s failed relationship with a vengeful ex.
The relationship between Jax and Coralie is one of rebuilding friendships, and second chances. Jax’s bear has always known Coralie was their mate, and with Coralie’s return, they are given a chance at their own happily ever after but someone is threatening our story line heroine, and the Blackstone Clan must prepare to protect one of their own. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful supernatural and powerful secondary and supporting characters including bear, wolf and feline shifters, vampires, witches, and harpies. We are introduced to Coralie’s best friend and bear shifter Jessie, witch Fiona, Calissa, and True Hearts Dating Agency owner Mrs. Wilde; Jax’s friends and fellow shifters: chief of the Blackstone Clan Mason Blackstone, Theo, Drew, Hopper, and Wolf elder Sheriff Swiftwood; as well as Jax’s ex, harpie Bex, and Coralie’s ex, bear shifter Hunter.
NERD MEETS CURVY is a fast paced, entertaining story line of betrayal and vengeance, power and control, obsession and violence, acceptance and love. The premise is magical and intriguing but I did have to question why Jax and the others were oblivious to the fight going down; the romance is insta-love, seductive and impassioned; the characters are enchanting, powerful and charismatic.
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
January 27, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I'll be honest here. I rolled the dice to see which ARC I'd request. The cover of this particular one nor the title was not something to draw my attention. It's a paranormal romance, which is another thing I kind of forgot about this book but... let's get to business.
A matchmaking agency. An old pining crush and a bunch of big burly bear shifters combined together in a somewhat chaotic, Southern flavored paranormal romance. Honestly, it would have barely scratched at a 3 rating and that's due to my personal bias which I admit to. Purely because of cultural and characteristic differences that have designed my preferences.
HOWEVER. Here's to the saving grace for this book. Some of which have nothing to do with the book itself.
a) The dedication. I'm horribly biased again but that first page broke my heart just a little. "For my grandmother, Evelyn. Thanks for making me read the newspaper out loud and drink coffee with you when I was four." I did that with my late mother when I was three - me, my coffee cup, and the newspaper on the table. I wish an Evelyn to everyone.
b) The gentle trigger warnings and links providing support and a chance to skip a chapter. This book portrays toxic relationships and domestic abuse and the PTSD it causes in an elegant way but it also portrays the importance of open communication and healing from it. Thank you, A.C. James for being reasonable about it and smart enough to provide an exit.
c) The importance of the family found along the way. The family chosen. Friend groups, close knit partners in crime etc, the book manages to fit all of it in a very tightly bound short few-hundred pages.
So, I conclude... the trigger warnings are in place where it needs them. Pining finds a conclusion, and for those into paranormal shifter romances, here you go - enjoy your read. PLUS for domestic abuse survivors, there are links to VERY NECESSARY RESOURCES at the end of the e-book.
Spread awareness, stop having people look the other way, and have the guts to end the cycle. They are not going to change, and maybe there's a Jax of your own out there.
Bumped from 3 to 5 stars.
I'll be honest here. I rolled the dice to see which ARC I'd request. The cover of this particular one nor the title was not something to draw my attention. It's a paranormal romance, which is another thing I kind of forgot about this book but... let's get to business.
A matchmaking agency. An old pining crush and a bunch of big burly bear shifters combined together in a somewhat chaotic, Southern flavored paranormal romance. Honestly, it would have barely scratched at a 3 rating and that's due to my personal bias which I admit to. Purely because of cultural and characteristic differences that have designed my preferences.
HOWEVER. Here's to the saving grace for this book. Some of which have nothing to do with the book itself.
a) The dedication. I'm horribly biased again but that first page broke my heart just a little. "For my grandmother, Evelyn. Thanks for making me read the newspaper out loud and drink coffee with you when I was four." I did that with my late mother when I was three - me, my coffee cup, and the newspaper on the table. I wish an Evelyn to everyone.
b) The gentle trigger warnings and links providing support and a chance to skip a chapter. This book portrays toxic relationships and domestic abuse and the PTSD it causes in an elegant way but it also portrays the importance of open communication and healing from it. Thank you, A.C. James for being reasonable about it and smart enough to provide an exit.
c) The importance of the family found along the way. The family chosen. Friend groups, close knit partners in crime etc, the book manages to fit all of it in a very tightly bound short few-hundred pages.
So, I conclude... the trigger warnings are in place where it needs them. Pining finds a conclusion, and for those into paranormal shifter romances, here you go - enjoy your read. PLUS for domestic abuse survivors, there are links to VERY NECESSARY RESOURCES at the end of the e-book.
Spread awareness, stop having people look the other way, and have the guts to end the cycle. They are not going to change, and maybe there's a Jax of your own out there.
Bumped from 3 to 5 stars.
January 22, 2024
This is the story of Coralie and Jax. Coralie in the very first chapter is talking to Eleanora, who is a matchmaker. Eleanora is trying to set her up with someone, but Coralie has been burned before in bad relationships. So she isn’t very receptive. Eleanora is trying to find Coralie a date for the upcoming reunion.
Jax is a nerd, a successful 3D artist Nerd though. He is also very attractive and recently turned single. Jessie is his sister and trying to hook Coralie and Jax up. Coralie left a few years ago and Jaz did have a thing for her, also Jax is a Bear/human hybrid shifter. They knew each other in high school. And apparently Eleanora is the known matchmaker for finding everyone dates in their town and also is finding a date for Jax at some point. And Coralie is his mate, he has known it for many years. They just never got together.
Coralie does have some PTSD and she is working hard to get over this but it is a challenge. She finally re-meets Jax as a bear in the woods and recognizes him as her date, but not the kids in high school that hung out with her, but has no idea he is a bear shifter. We also get a flashback of what happened to Coralie and why she has PTSD. There is a past with another shifter, Hunter, a mountain lion that becomes important in this books story too.
In this story there is so much heat and chemistry between Jax and Coralie. The author did a great job of writing the heat/steam, I’d give it a 4 out of 5. And the story is engaging and makes you want to find out do Jax and Coralie get together, and what happens with Hunter? And does Coralie ever find out that Jax is her mate and who he is?
And that ending is a perfect ending to the story of Coralie and Jax and even wraps up Hunters involvement in the book and what happens to him. I would read another book by this author in a heartbeat!
Jax is a nerd, a successful 3D artist Nerd though. He is also very attractive and recently turned single. Jessie is his sister and trying to hook Coralie and Jax up. Coralie left a few years ago and Jaz did have a thing for her, also Jax is a Bear/human hybrid shifter. They knew each other in high school. And apparently Eleanora is the known matchmaker for finding everyone dates in their town and also is finding a date for Jax at some point. And Coralie is his mate, he has known it for many years. They just never got together.
Coralie does have some PTSD and she is working hard to get over this but it is a challenge. She finally re-meets Jax as a bear in the woods and recognizes him as her date, but not the kids in high school that hung out with her, but has no idea he is a bear shifter. We also get a flashback of what happened to Coralie and why she has PTSD. There is a past with another shifter, Hunter, a mountain lion that becomes important in this books story too.
In this story there is so much heat and chemistry between Jax and Coralie. The author did a great job of writing the heat/steam, I’d give it a 4 out of 5. And the story is engaging and makes you want to find out do Jax and Coralie get together, and what happens with Hunter? And does Coralie ever find out that Jax is her mate and who he is?
And that ending is a perfect ending to the story of Coralie and Jax and even wraps up Hunters involvement in the book and what happens to him. I would read another book by this author in a heartbeat!
Read
January 18, 2024This is the first book in the Peculiar Hearts Dating Agency series. It is a wonderful concoction of romance, and humor, with a splash of supernatural charm.
Coralie has returned home a bit worse for wear. She has recently escaped from an abusive relationship that has left her with more than just physical scars.
However, she is determined to begin her life anew, and what better place to do that than in Mystic River?
When the local high school reunion comes around it is decided by helpful besties and a highly eccentric matchmaker- we all know how that goes - that neither will attend alone
Enter Jax
What follows is a whirlwind of misadventures, as Coralie and Jax navigate their (renewed, not spoiling) budding attraction while facing off against unhinged exes, unraveling family secrets and their pasts
This was a blend of heart, humor, self-discovery, and angst all wrapped up in a smexy romance that had all the feels. It wasn't without its flaws. The pacing occasionally falters, and some plot points could be explored further. I enjoyed the vast "assortment" of paranormal citizens and the unique quirks of the cast. The story was easy to follow and I had no problem connecting with Jax and Coralie.
A feel-good read with enough spice and danger to keep me turning the pages.
Looking forward to returning to Mystic River
Coralie has returned home a bit worse for wear. She has recently escaped from an abusive relationship that has left her with more than just physical scars.
However, she is determined to begin her life anew, and what better place to do that than in Mystic River?
When the local high school reunion comes around it is decided by helpful besties and a highly eccentric matchmaker- we all know how that goes - that neither will attend alone
Enter Jax
What follows is a whirlwind of misadventures, as Coralie and Jax navigate their (renewed, not spoiling) budding attraction while facing off against unhinged exes, unraveling family secrets and their pasts
This was a blend of heart, humor, self-discovery, and angst all wrapped up in a smexy romance that had all the feels. It wasn't without its flaws. The pacing occasionally falters, and some plot points could be explored further. I enjoyed the vast "assortment" of paranormal citizens and the unique quirks of the cast. The story was easy to follow and I had no problem connecting with Jax and Coralie.
A feel-good read with enough spice and danger to keep me turning the pages.
Looking forward to returning to Mystic River
January 9, 2024
Book: Nerd Meets Curvy
Author: A.C.James
Genre: Romance
Thankyou BookSirens for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
The story is told from a third person’s perspective about second chances. It is about the relationship between Jax and Coralie, childhood friends, and their meeting together. The book has shifters with a lot of colorful characters one of which is Mrs.Wilde, the ownder of the dating agency, who brings the couple together. Then there is the Blackstone clan, Jax’s ex, Coralie’s ex and Jessie, who is Coralie’s best friend.
There are secondary characters, namely bear, feline shifters, wolf, witches, vampires and harpies.
The buildup between the main characters is quite fast and the story is entertaining. There is intrigue and magic. It has everything you would want in a story – from betrayal to love and acceptance.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily., and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Author: A.C.James
Genre: Romance
Thankyou BookSirens for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
The story is told from a third person’s perspective about second chances. It is about the relationship between Jax and Coralie, childhood friends, and their meeting together. The book has shifters with a lot of colorful characters one of which is Mrs.Wilde, the ownder of the dating agency, who brings the couple together. Then there is the Blackstone clan, Jax’s ex, Coralie’s ex and Jessie, who is Coralie’s best friend.
There are secondary characters, namely bear, feline shifters, wolf, witches, vampires and harpies.
The buildup between the main characters is quite fast and the story is entertaining. There is intrigue and magic. It has everything you would want in a story – from betrayal to love and acceptance.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily., and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 16, 2024
Mix romance and fantasy in a modern alternative paranormal fantasy world with various elements of shifters and soft magic (undefined) system. The leading characters have an upcoming high school reunion and need a date. Add meddling matchmaking to long-standing high school crushes to liven things up.
The storyline is entertaining, with many romance tropes flavoring up the plot almost at every turn. Dialogue and word choice are solid, creating believable scenes. There was difficulty in staying immersed due to the extra unrelated details of side characters and constant flashbacks. Moreover, the trauma of the past weighs heavily on the present, sometimes overpowering the story and slowing down the pace.
There are fun ideas with spice and potential rich world-building, but improvement is needed to stay focused on the main story. 3.2/5-star rating.
This was an ARC from BookSirens for an honest review.
The storyline is entertaining, with many romance tropes flavoring up the plot almost at every turn. Dialogue and word choice are solid, creating believable scenes. There was difficulty in staying immersed due to the extra unrelated details of side characters and constant flashbacks. Moreover, the trauma of the past weighs heavily on the present, sometimes overpowering the story and slowing down the pace.
There are fun ideas with spice and potential rich world-building, but improvement is needed to stay focused on the main story. 3.2/5-star rating.
This was an ARC from BookSirens for an honest review.
February 5, 2024
The plot was good, but a few things really threw me off this story. It's supposed to be "True Blood meets Sweet Home Alabama," and though I've never seen SHA, I am an avid TB fan. Their accents never bothered me as much as these characters, though. Everything is darlin' this, and I reckon that. If I had a dollar for every mention of catfish, I'd be 3$ richer after reading this. That's not much, but it's definitely worth mentioning. As a born and raised New Yorker, I've always found accents intriguing, but apparently, I need to be more selective with my wishes.
The plot was okay enough to keep me reading. The fact that her mmc didn't save the day, though? I'm all for the power of friendship, but Jax was like, "You good?" then moved on. I wanted a love story and got a plot driven whirlwind with romance on the side.
The plot was okay enough to keep me reading. The fact that her mmc didn't save the day, though? I'm all for the power of friendship, but Jax was like, "You good?" then moved on. I wanted a love story and got a plot driven whirlwind with romance on the side.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 26, 2024
This is the first book in the Peculiar Hearts Dating Agency, featuring a curvy female lead and a protective, cinnamon roll bear shifter. A.C. James did a great job crafting her characters and plot while remaining sensitive to the healing scars from a past abusive relationship.
I enjoyed learning about the characters' past, why they were hesitant to jump into a relationship, and watching them come together despite their pasts. There were times I wished the pacing was different and I think that the pacing forced some of the threads to be resolved too early or feeling like they could have had more details. But overall, this book hit a lot of my favorite tropes and was a fun, easy, enjoyable read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
I enjoyed learning about the characters' past, why they were hesitant to jump into a relationship, and watching them come together despite their pasts. There were times I wished the pacing was different and I think that the pacing forced some of the threads to be resolved too early or feeling like they could have had more details. But overall, this book hit a lot of my favorite tropes and was a fun, easy, enjoyable read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
December 31, 2023
Coralie and Jax went to school together but then lost touch when they went to different colleges both had been in bad relationships but got out. Jax didn’t think he would see his mate again was told to go see a matchmaker Mrs. Wilde and she would get him a date for the class reunion coming up and it was Coralie his mate. Coralie escaped from Hunter who was beating her but he found her didn’t realize it at the time. Her best friend told her to go to Mrs. Wilde for a date for the reunion and was matched to Jax but he had used his real name and wasn’t wearing glasses so she didn’t recognize him until she saw his name tag at the reunion but they both knew they were mates and Hunter was taken care of by her two best friends. Good book!
January 10, 2024
Rating: 2.5⭐️ rounded up to 3⭐️
Although I love shifter romances, this one wasn’t my favourite. I felt like the story was paced wrong, I would rather read a hundred more pages so that everything (Jax and Coralie’s history, who everyone is, the pack , …) is clearly explained. I felt like the writing was a bit rushed. Overall I still enjoyed the story :)
Summary: Coralie faces a daunting restart in Mystic River, armed with DIY magic to revive her grandma's house. Unexpectedly, a matchmaking adventure unfolds with Jax, a bear shifter. Secrets and danger challenge their journey, testing if they can defy the odds for a new future.
Thank you to BookSirens for an ARC of this book, all thoughts are my own.
Although I love shifter romances, this one wasn’t my favourite. I felt like the story was paced wrong, I would rather read a hundred more pages so that everything (Jax and Coralie’s history, who everyone is, the pack , …) is clearly explained. I felt like the writing was a bit rushed. Overall I still enjoyed the story :)
Summary: Coralie faces a daunting restart in Mystic River, armed with DIY magic to revive her grandma's house. Unexpectedly, a matchmaking adventure unfolds with Jax, a bear shifter. Secrets and danger challenge their journey, testing if they can defy the odds for a new future.
Thank you to BookSirens for an ARC of this book, all thoughts are my own.
March 25, 2024
I love all PNR books and when it comes to dating agency's they are even better!
Coralie really doesn't want to get into a relationship but extraordinary matchmaker Mrs. Wilde has some doozies up her sleeve and her besties is involved! Love and fate are funny and sometimes you just don't know what is going to happen in life. We meet bear shifter, Jax who had a thing for Coralie back in high school and never got to tell her. Life comes full circle and maybe he gets a 2nd chance at a 1st time love.
I love that this story has a nerd as the MMC and a curvy girl as a FMC. Its a great combination for some spicy fun and love!
You won't regret reading this book and I can't wait to read more in this series.
Coralie really doesn't want to get into a relationship but extraordinary matchmaker Mrs. Wilde has some doozies up her sleeve and her besties is involved! Love and fate are funny and sometimes you just don't know what is going to happen in life. We meet bear shifter, Jax who had a thing for Coralie back in high school and never got to tell her. Life comes full circle and maybe he gets a 2nd chance at a 1st time love.
I love that this story has a nerd as the MMC and a curvy girl as a FMC. Its a great combination for some spicy fun and love!
You won't regret reading this book and I can't wait to read more in this series.
April 20, 2025
Nerd Meets Curvy is the first book in A.C. James' paranormal romance series True Hearts Dating Agency.
This is a second-chance romance for Coralie and Jax. They had known each other in high school but had drifted apart. Now both have escaped abusive relationships and have been matched by the True Hearts Dating Agency.
There is a wide range of characters - from witches, shifters to harpies and vampires. The book does feature domestic violence, stalking, betrayal and steamy scenes, so watch for triggers.
Coralie is a strong woman though and overcomes her past with help from Jax and her friends, but with many twists along the way.
I enjoyed the main characters and story. It was action-filled with adventure and romance.
This is a second-chance romance for Coralie and Jax. They had known each other in high school but had drifted apart. Now both have escaped abusive relationships and have been matched by the True Hearts Dating Agency.
There is a wide range of characters - from witches, shifters to harpies and vampires. The book does feature domestic violence, stalking, betrayal and steamy scenes, so watch for triggers.
Coralie is a strong woman though and overcomes her past with help from Jax and her friends, but with many twists along the way.
I enjoyed the main characters and story. It was action-filled with adventure and romance.
January 2, 2024
Wonderful Read
This is the first time I’ve read from this author and I will be reading more!
The whole storyline was put together quite beautifully and the issues within the story were build in to give an emotional read full of understanding, friendship and a love that can surpass time.
Jax was a Bear shifter who had loved Coralie most of his life, now she’s back in Mystic River, he wasn’t ready to trust again but what’s a shifter to do when his future is in front of him ready to be claimed!
A wonderful emotional uplifting read which will leave you wanting more.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is the first time I’ve read from this author and I will be reading more!
The whole storyline was put together quite beautifully and the issues within the story were build in to give an emotional read full of understanding, friendship and a love that can surpass time.
Jax was a Bear shifter who had loved Coralie most of his life, now she’s back in Mystic River, he wasn’t ready to trust again but what’s a shifter to do when his future is in front of him ready to be claimed!
A wonderful emotional uplifting read which will leave you wanting more.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 6, 2024
Coralie is heartbroken, it’s so sad her ex boyfriend is violent and cruel to her. Hunter left her with PTSD and traumatic brain injuries, so she runs back home to hide.hopefully he won’t find her. It’s very enjoyable to watch Coralie and Jax reconnect, they are funny and entertaining. I was thrilled when they finally accepted their chance of happiness. But terrified when Hunter finds and starts stalking Coralie. Action packed, spellbinding and heartwarming story with a beautiful, happy ending. Great reading. I love this book, great beginning of series, surprising, interesting and entertaining stories.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 7, 2023
What a great story, a romance with shifters (some of my favorites) that empowers women as well!
Coralie and Jax- they get a second chance at love after both going through very difficult times! Yes, there are some sections that are disturbing, but emphasize the strength of Coralie!
I’m going to have to find the other books for the series, I think I have fallen in love with all of the characters!
I received this book from AC James exchange for my very honest opinion. ( the other ones I’m going to have to buy lol)
Coralie and Jax- they get a second chance at love after both going through very difficult times! Yes, there are some sections that are disturbing, but emphasize the strength of Coralie!
I’m going to have to find the other books for the series, I think I have fallen in love with all of the characters!
I received this book from AC James exchange for my very honest opinion. ( the other ones I’m going to have to buy lol)
January 28, 2024
This was a fun romance for Coralie and Jax. These two were friends in the past but lost touch to the point that she didn't even recognize him, now ;) They were set up through a matchmaker and their chemistry was off the charts hot. Sadly, it's not all sunshine and roses for them as they deal with the past. Abuse and violence is a strong theme and the healing required is well shown. I love that the author gave links to skip the tough sections of the book to avoid any triggering situations. With danger, twists, friendship, family and love, this was a page turning read :D
January 11, 2024
This book is about a young woman who escapes an abusive relationship and moves back home in time for her school reunion. She meets up with a male bear shifter she was fond of in high school and they fall in love. However, the boyfriend she fled from comes after her. If he can't have her, then no-one will.
This is a story featuring domestic violence.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is a story featuring domestic violence.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 17, 2024
Coming home, starting a new chapter - sounds like heaven if only those darn secrets and a dangerous threat would just back off. Oh, and not to mention a dreamy hot classmate who stirs up all kinds of sexy times!
Coralie and Jax just have to be in the same room to start a chain of events that take on a life of their own.
A fast frenzy read that will knock your socks off.
A voluntary review of an arc copy.
Coralie and Jax just have to be in the same room to start a chain of events that take on a life of their own.
A fast frenzy read that will knock your socks off.
A voluntary review of an arc copy.
January 20, 2024
Coralie captured my heart as she goes through a rebuilding phase. She has been beaten down and has some disorders I’ve never heard of. Her past and road to recovery could be sad but she chooses to be hopeful. Jax was a high school nerd who had to go his own way after school and bloomed into a hottie. Their reacquaintance could be seen as a little fast and a little slow, sweet and sexy, and a cool story.
February 1, 2024
Running away from an abusive relationship, Coralie returns home to Mystic River to attend her night school reunion. Hoping to reconnect with her crush, Jax. When the matchmaker finds her a date for the reunion, Coralie wasn’t expecting the gorgeous shifter. Jax and Coralie are both are both facing the heartbreak of past relationships.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 8, 2024
Nerd Meets Curvy is part of a new series Peculiar Hearts Dating Agency which was part of Milly Taiden's Paranormal Dating Agency. It's an enjoyable start to a new series but remains to be seen if it can live up to Ms. Taiden's series, I'm cautiously optimistic as I really liked the story and the characters. I look forward to reading the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 10, 2024
I really enjoyed this book it may not be for everyone as it does have some triggers that the author has highlighted so thay can be skipped. The book shows the strength that a survivor has to take charge and live the life they want and deserve. This book is a rewrite from a previous incantation in another authors world so it may seem similar to some readers.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 4, 2024
Fun and easy read loved Coralie and Jax. I would have liked abit more of an aha moment when she realized who he was. The build up between them was very fast. I could understand that from him but with her history I expected more reticence in moving forward. I’m hoping the second book will finish Jess and Fiona’s stories too.
ARC copy with voluntary review.
ARC copy with voluntary review.
January 29, 2024
Loved Coralie and Jax’s story. Their second chance at romance doesn’t run smooth and the past interrupted from the start . Great characters, solid storyline and lots of snarky heat. Well done paranormal romance. 4✨’s I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 17, 2024
I enjoyed reading this book, its filled with action, adventure and intrigue. The characters are well written and entertaining. I can't wait to read more from this author. I received this book as a Free ARC copy to read and I voluntarily leave this review.
January 19, 2024
This was a real page turner.
There’s action drama romance a few twist
and suspense what else would you want in a shifter
romance read.
Well developed plot with plenty of depth and character
that have that something special between them.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
There’s action drama romance a few twist
and suspense what else would you want in a shifter
romance read.
Well developed plot with plenty of depth and character
that have that something special between them.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews