Reviews

This list is getting quite long, which I love. The newest reviews are at the top of each book's section. Thanks so much to all my wonderful reviewers! I am forever impressed by how hard you work at your blogs and review writing. :)

In case you'd rather not read through this whole page, each book's page has a quote from one of my favorite reviews, to give an overview of what people think of my writing. If you've written or know of a review that I haven't linked here, please drop me a note and I'll add it to the collection.

Good to Myself

I'd So Rather Be Reading: "The choices Lydia makes for her life gave me the motivation to make some better personal choices (like cutting back on sugar) and, like Lydia, inspired me to try hot tea instead of a sugary latte!"

All At Sea

I'd So Rather Be Reading: "There were some surprises along the way, which I loved. But my favorite part was the character growth shown in several of the characters, but especially Melissa. Wardell always manages to grow her characters subtly, so slowly that sometimes I don't pick up on it until the end of the book when they are so much stronger than before. I love that!"
Me, My Books and I: "This was another fantastic read from Heather Wardell, I just couldn't put it down and read it in a day - pure escapism!"
Books Etc.: "I was so invested in Melissa's story and was so worried about how things would turn out. Would she go through with the wedding? Would she be true to herself? It actually felt like I was going through this right along with her. That is how emotionally involved I was."

Finding My Happy Pace

Lost in Literature: "I smiled through most of the novel, and was routing for Megan the entire time. In my opinion, this is another awesome novel from Heather!"
I'd So Rather Be Reading: "I loved the ending, especially how Wardell handles Megan's most draining relationship. I loved reading about Megan's marathon, and how she grows closer with her sister. I really enjoyed Finding My Happy Pace and would recommend it to anyone!"
The Book Chick said of Finding My Happy Pace: "Since I related to Megan so much, I did especially enjoy it when she started coming into her own and she began performing the very necessary task of saying "no", and I loved it when she realized the importance of surrounding herself with people who cared as much about her as she did about them."
Chick Lit Plus: "Sometimes it got difficult to read about Megan constantly being treated like nothing by her friend Amanda (and James -ugh- what a character!) and it could almost cross the line into her being too whiny. But this is where Wardell's superb writing skills come in, and she helps readers understand why Megan lets herself be treated bad. I highly enjoyed watching Megan grow as a person, and this is another 5 star referral for Heather Wardell from me!"
Me, My Books, and I: "I found I could relate to Megan really well as, like me, she found it hard to say no to people and constantly tried to make everyone happy (except herself!). The whole running idea seemed to be a real learning curve for her as she began to change her way of life to suit herself instead of everyone else. I found this really inspiring as it made me think of changes I could make in my own life."

Blank Slate Kate

Chick Lit Central: "The whole story was suspenseful and also written in such a comfortable way that it was easy to get lost in the pages and forget about everything else going on. I was sad when I reached the last page and realized it was over. It was like having to part from a new friend."
Bitch Lit: "Wardell often writes about women trying to re/discover themselves and the use of memory loss illustrates this theme beautifully. Blank Slate Kate is engaging because Kate’s memory loss allowed me to identify with her journey to discover herself. "
The Book Fetish: "Wardell's trademark is to give us likeable heroines with whom we identify. They are women we either wouldn't mind being, or would want to be friends with. With Kate, Heather strikes just the right balance of Kate wanting to discover the things that comprised her pre-amnesia life with the desire to be true to herself as Kate, whomever she might be."
Tracy for The Book Binge: "I honestly wasn't sure what to expect when I started reading this book but after reading an excerpt of it I had to keep reading. I'm such a sucker for amnesia stories! The story ended up being compelling and interesting and you just root for Kate the entire time you're reading."
Me, My Books and I: "As I always do when I'm reading I made predictions about how things would turn out, usually I am pretty good at it but this book well and truly beat me - it ended up completely different to how I thought it would, I actually gasped out loud at one of the revelations towards the end of the story and my husband thought something had really happened (when will he learn??)
Chick Lit Plus : "Again, another five star review for a Wardell book. Once I started this book, I just could not put it down. I loved figuring out Kate's life with the little clues that would come to us throughout the chapters. It was such a mystery, and a very well thought-out and written one at that. Twists and turns surfaced at so many points, but instead of being overwhelming, it just kept making the book better and better."
A Chick Who Reads : "First let me say, I have read several of Heather's books and I've been impressed by them all. This book was no different. Heather's books all have strong heroines. Kate could have been a weepy, emotional wreck. If you loose 15 years of your life, I think you are entitled to a few meltdowns, but Kate really handles things well, even if she is going through a host of feelings and emotions as she relearns who she is."
Chick Lit = The New Black : "Kate is just trying to piece together who she was and who she is or wants to be now. How did she get to where she is now? Where does she belong? Would you embrace the here and now and start over or go back to your old life? And that's what I loved about this story- the mystery of it all. I's one of those books where you just can't predict the ending. I know that may be frustrating for some, but let me tell you, it's worth it in the end. Blank Slate Kate definitely had me on the edge of my seat quickly turning pages."
Booksessed : "Heather Wardell may be the master of book dealing with serious issues. I was hooked by first couple pages. It is so intense. I cannot imagine going through this. The scenes with Kate learning about technology and the internet very early on were quite humorous. But there were some very sad scenes as she caught herself up on the world tragedies that had happened during the time she had forgotten."
From the TBR Pile : "I was drawn right into the story as I struggled to figure out what had happened to Kate right along with her. The story is so well written that the reader finds out the solution to the mysteries right along with Kate. I say mysteries, because there is more than one thing that Kate needs to discover about herself. The story is heart wrenching at times, yet is also a story of the power of love and forgiveness. To say much more, would give too much away. I definitely recommend this one. It is definitely going into the keeper pile!"
Lost in Literature : "Blank Slate Kate kicks amnesia butt!! In my opinion, amnesia novels can be hard to relate to, appearing unrealistic and hard to believe... but this one was amazing!! Heather has a wonderful way of developing a story in a way that is completely realistic and hits close to home. The characters are totally relatable and seem to be people you would know in your everyday lives. The concept of losing a memory in your mind, but not always in your heart, is a strong one."
Turning the Pages : "Heather Wardell did an amazing job of keeping the story straight. As things begin to work themselves out, it would have been very easy to lose the readers as there were so many elements at play but she didn't. Instead, I found that I was anxiously awaiting the next development."
The Chick Lit Bee : "There are a lot of unanswered questions throughout the story, so the reader will want answers just like Kate wants them. The main question Kate wonders is, 'Who am I?' The story and characters develop gradually, but there are surprising moments that will keep the reader engaged. Blank Slate Kate is a worthwhile read about second chances."
change the word : "It's hard to say much about this book without giving what I consider key plot elements. Every word from beginning to end drove the story forward. The story kept me guessing, and I truly did not know until the end how it would turn out. I can't remember the last time I read a book and had so many audible gasps or "Oh my Gods.""
The Book Chick : "As Kate manages to piece together a few things about her past we find out a little more about her and I loved the slow reveal. I especially enjoyed waiting to find out the mystery behind "Bubbly Words". Kate has an iPhone and the locked area in her "Bubbly Words" game remains stubbornly closed to her as she can't remember how she set up the security in the first place. As Kate comes closer and closer to being able to unlock that area I was at the edge of my seat in anticipation. I couldn't wait to see what information the locked area contained!"
Storm Goddess Book Reviews and More : "This is my first time reading a Heather Wardell book, but after how enjoyable I found Blank Slate Kate to be, it won't be my last. In fact, I already told a friend about this book and she bought it instantly."
Workaday Reads : "I thought Kate was an interesting character. She doesn't remember anything after age 17, but she doesn't seem like a teenager. She seems exactly like what she is: an adult woman with missing memories. Her whole persona, and the book in general, had a grown-up feeling that was still very refreshing."
Amie Louellen : "Blank Slate Kate is a fabulous book, filled with unexpected turns, not in a shocking, over the top, Hollywood way, but in an 'oh my that could really happen' sort of way that leaves the reader wondering, 'How would I feel if I suddenly didn't remember?'"
Books Etc : "I honestly had no idea what was going to happen with Kate in the end. She had so many options and so much to work through that I couldn't predict where she'd end up. I absolutely loved that."
I'd So Rather Be Reading : "I really thought I knew how this book was going to end, but I was wrong. I was so wrong, and I love being surprised like that! Heather took the book in a direction I was not expecting at all. It was an unexpected ending and I enjoyed it more than the ending I had prepared myself for."
Kindle Obsessed : While this reviewer didn't think this was my best book, she said, "There was Heather's ever present 'love' aspect, but at the same time there was intrigue, (in the form of a mysterious iPhone app) gobs and gobs of heartache, (bound to happen when you are basically clueless) and enough wit to fill a garbage bag."
Kritters Ramblings : "With twists and turns, this book ended up being much more than I thought it would be and I enjoyed the deeper story that was beyond her losing her memories."
Life is Short. Read Fast : "The premise of this story is fascinating - a woman wakes up to find out she doesn't remember who she is. I loved investigating along side Kate as she discovers who she [is]... or at least who she isn't."
The East Village : "I also enjoyed this book because of it's references to my home country, Canada. There aren't a ton of chick lit type books set here so every time I randomly stumble upon one, I am quite pleased."
Tiffany's Bookshelf : "How can Kate's character be fully developed when she herself has no clue who she is? We learn snippits of information about her, because that is all she is learning as well. In some ways, this is confusing and frustrating, but really, that is what draws us to Kate as a character; we are feeling the same confusion she is."
TCM Reviews : "Blank Slate Kate has an engrossing story plot that keeps you glued to its pages from beginning to end. Author Heather Wardell has a unique and very entertaining 'voice'. The dialogue sparkles and her characters are vividly drawn. Blank Slate Kate is a well-written and compelling story."
Cat's Thoughts : "Blank Slate Kate does an amazing job of describing this unusual situation, and follows Kate as she tries to figure out who she was, and what is really best for her. I loved the romantic aspects of the story, as well as the creative and unusual discovery process that Kate experienced while she was trying to recover her memories. This story is funny, heartwarming, and will keep you guessing to the very end! Definitely check it out, sooner than later!"
Reading With Monie : "There are so many things I want to say and describe about this book but I can't without giving away any spoilers. All I can really say is that I was on the edge of my seat the whole time and stayed up late more than once anxious to find out what and why Kate forgot about her past. This is my first Wardell book and I will definitely be reading more by this author. This is a must read for all romance lovers."
Books to Remember: "What I loved the most about it is the fact I couldn't really predict where the story will lead me! It's a perfect chick lit book, intelligently written with characters you will definitely love!"
Books in the Burbs: "I highly recommend this book to those who love a good chick-lit book and who like mysteries weaved with a little romance."
Reading in the Mountains: "While I was reading this book, I had no idea how it was going to end up. That's what I love about Heather's books. I think I have it all figured out and then I discover that I don't. I could really feel Kate emotions and what she was going through."
Bookishly Attentive: "Much in the same vein as Goodnight Tweetheart by Teresa Medeiros, Blank Slate Kate is an unexpectedly uplifting, surprisingly unconventional and deeply touching story. It's definitely worth the emotional investment. A must read."
Lisa's Word of Books: "I have read many of Heather Wardell's books and she consistently brings unique stories with characters you wish that you could meet in real life. Blank Slate Kate was a bit like trying to put together a puzzle without being able to see what the picture looks like, which was fun interesting and made for a lot of fun surprises along the way."
The Autumn Review: "In Blank Slate Kate, there are many twist and turns that make it exciting. You almost feel like you're playing a game of Clue! It makes you wonder what you would do if something like this happened to you. Would you keep your old life or would you look at it as an opportunity to start anew? There certainly were reasons and circumstances that ultimately helped Kate make that decision. If you are looking for a fresh, exciting, and thoroughly enjoyable read, get this book!"

Live Out Loud

Chick Lit Plus said of Live Out Loud: "I loved the pop culture twist in the book - how to become an overnight sensation with just an uploaded video, the pressures celebrities have on them when their considered to be role models, and the great content that gets delivered in each book from Wardell."
Queen of Reading: "Initially, I was not sure I would like this book because it was very stereotypical to rumors about famous starlets. The further I read the more I realized that was not actually the case. This books shows the strength it takes live your dreams, even if it means possibly hurting someone from the past. I highly recommend you read this book. And remember Live Your Life the way you want!"
Beck's Book Picks: "Like I mentioned above, this book is going to suck you in. When you lay your e-reader down, your thoughts are going to be drifting back to this one. So before you start it, make sure you have to time to devote to it."
The Book Chick: "My favorite part had to be the underlying message that clearly comes across: live your dreams with no apologies. All too often we feel pressured to do something with our lives that will make others happy, but it's easy to lose sight of what will make us truly happy."
Cat's Thoughts: "I loved that the characters were all really normal people - some could handle the celebrity lifestyle, some thought it was odd. Some were jerks, and some were really awesome people. And it's especially fun to watch Amy grow as she deals with the challenges she faces both personally and professionally."
Tiffany of Tiffany's Bookshelf: "Once again Heather Wardell gives us a winner. Wardell has a way of creating characters and situations to which her readers can relate wholeheartedly."
Kritters Ramblings: "I fell in love with Amy/Misty our main character from the beginning and from chapter to chapter I became even more intrigued as to where she was going to go next."
Literary Marie: "I recommend it for light reading, music industry lovers and those who seek a dream. Amy's determination in reaching her ultimate goal and working for her dream is inspiring."
Life is Short. Read Fast: "Each scene that surrounded songwriting, whether it was Amy or one of the professional songwriters, was fascinating. I have always heard that songwriting can be so emotional and these scenes conveyed that emotion excellently. I could feel the depths in which these characters reached while searching for the right words."
Kelli of I'd So Rather Be Reading: "Like Wardell's other books, the process of reconciling dreams and the real world is the bulk of the book. I just love that about Wardell's writing. I always feel like I can really identify with her characters, and Amy was no exception."

A Life That Fits

Book'd Out: "I admired Andrea taking chances, facing her fear and trying different activities. I liked that she learnt to listen to her 'gut' and made mistakes but didn't let them hold her back, essentially Andrea grew up."
Queen of Reading: "Ms. Wardell has a unique way of making her books entertaining and realistic at the same time. I highly recommend you read this book."
The Autumn Review: "It was fun to watch Andrea learn about herself. I was so proud of her when she realized that she really needed to be comfortable in her own skin before she could truly let someone else into her life. This book will make you feel good, because it's real."
Socrates' Book Reviews: "There were many LOL moments as well as a few tears in Andrea's journey of discovering her true inner self. This is a fast-paced read that will have readers cheering for Andrea to get the life she wants and deserves."
Chick Lit Plus: "I just love the plot twists that are in there! Wardell shows off her writing and character development skills yet again, especially with her heroine."
Chicklit Club: "This may well inspire you to make changes in your life and learn to accept change so you are not stuck in a rut."
A Chick Who Reads: "Heather's characters are remarkably real, with normal problems and normal existences. When you read one of Heather's books you feel like the characters are your friends, and Andrea is no different in A Life That Fits."
The Chick Lit Bee: "The story delves into romantic relationships, friendships, and workplace issues as Andrea figures out who really belongs in her life."
The Nerd in Heels: "When I read the synopsis, I knew there can only be one scenarios when I finish. I would love it or hate it. I am thrilled to say it's the former. I love it."
For the Love of Lit: "The characters were written as normal everyday people… nothing glamorous or fancy, but people like who you may personally know. Those are the kinds of characters I really like and can totally relate to."
Writer's Corner: "I found myself interested in what Andrea would do next in the reversal project. I also loved how Andrea's character evolved and what she learned from her experiences."
The Book Chick: "Combine entertaining characters, an interesting plot, and a fantastic ending and you have A Life That Fits. This is a great choice for women's fiction lovers who are looking for a book that refuses to let you go until the very last page. And with the e-version priced at only $0.99, it won't break the bank!"
Bitch Lit: "I recommend A Life that Fits to everyone. It is wonderfully written, taking the reader on an emotional journey of a woman’s self discovery and empowerment that you won't be able to put down!"
Lisa's World of Books: "My favorite part of this book is that it is so real, a situation that women face every day. Heather Wardell has an outstanding ability to take situations that as women we are face with yet find very uncomfortable to deal with and write about them then in a way that allows each woman to feel empowered about herself and her life."
I'd So Rather Be Reading: "My favorite thing about Wardell's work is her characterization. I relate so well to her heroines, I feel like I'm reading about myself or someone who could be my friend."
Beck's Book Picks: "The author weaves in a lot of different characters. This is a very good book and I think any of my readers who enjoy chick-lit are going to love this."
The Book Fetish: "I don't know if Heather intended Andrea to be such an inspiration to readers, but all I kept thinking while I was reading was 'Live with no regrets' and 'You can sit there and let life pass you by, or you can LIVE it'. It almost became irrelevant whether or not Andrea and Alex got back together. Except that Wardell didn't take that path and let the resolution become irrelevant."
Judith for Book Binge: "I was absolutely enthralled as I read about Andrea's evolving life, about the way she began to re-discover the heart and soul of herself, the courage to act and think differently..."
Life is Short. Read Fast: "A story of romance, of self-discovery and of new beginnings, this is a wonderful book full of hope."
Reabookreview: "Because the book is told from Andrea's point of view we get to see and feel all of the emotions she is going through from heartbroken and depressed, to pure determination which is something which is usually skipped over in most chick lit style books which is what gives this book more depth to the story. We start to see her journey of trying to find out who she really is after years of being moulded into the woman Alex wanted."
It's Not All Vanity, Darling: "I liked the way in which Andrea went about rebuilding herself, even if it was initially for her scum-bag ex. I enjoyed following her as she discovered all the things that she had missed in the time she was with Alex and how she finally learned that she didn't need his permission or acceptance to try something new."
Pensive Bookeaters: "I loved her transformation, it made me proud to see that she grew up. I loved the "new" Andrea, I felt she was a powerful strong woman who could take care of herself. GIRL POWER."
Books in the Burbs: "I liked how Heather Wardell challenged me to think beyond the storyline, created characters and situations that stirred anger and brought joy. In the end, Andrea certainly finds what and who fits best in her life as the reader cheers her on."
The Book Worm's Library: "I loved the liberating feel of this story. The challenges faced by Andrea in this one is something that has taken me a lifetime to figure out. The concept that unless you are happy with yourself, no one else will ever make you happy."

Stir Until Thoroughly Confused

Jonita the Book Chick: "Stir is a compelling and enjoyable story with fun cameos from previous stories as well as new characters to root for and get to know. Fans of women's fiction should definitely pick this one up."
Books Etc.: "There are twists and turns that I don't expect and, to me, that's what makes a great novel. The twist in this novel comes from a fairly classic problem facing many women - should Mary choose her dream career or her dream man? I don't think you'll be disappointed with how Wardell handles this conflict and how she resolves it - I sure wasn't."
Queen of Reading: "I truly enjoyed this book. The characters are extremely relateable. You can almost feel the chemistry between Mary and Kegan, and the tension that comes between them as the struggle to balance personal life and career."
The Book Worm's Library: "[The author] allows the story to develop, and draw the reader in, rather than relying on the skin to define the story. Also, it is fun to watch the strong personalities of two individuals come together, without one having to compromise themselves so completely in order to build any kind of lasting relationship."
ChickLitPlus.com: "Wardell keeps her story fresh and fast-paced, engaging readers in the world she creates so well."
Socrates' Book Reviews: "The chemistry between Mary and Kegan sizzles, add a dash of mystery to the recipe and you have a fun story with an excellent cast of characters. Even the secondary ones make their presence known."
Judith at Book Binge: "This is one of those books that exercises the brain vigorously while telling a warm and engaging love story. Mary is a strong woman who knows her own skills and capacity for loving; Kegan can be an understanding and warm human being--he does some truly romantic things to demonstrate the depth of his caring for Mary. So I recommend this book as a delightful and informative read. "
The Bookish Snob: "This is an amazing story filled with deep sighs, intense moments and an emotional level that keeps you glued to the book. Once I began, I didn't want to stop because the author had me so involved in what was happening."
Life is Short. Read Fast: "The underlying theme of self-confidence and self-worth was intertwined into the story, connecting the reader to the characters to the point that I actually cheered out loud during a scene towards the end of the story."
From the TBR Pile: "I really enjoyed watching Mary change and grow into a more confident person. I think many women will identify with her struggle to make a new life for herself and figure out who she wants to be."
Beck's Book Picks: "The story had a soft spot in my heart."
Kelli of I'd So Rather Be Reading: "[Main character Mary]'s forced into a major decision at the end of the book, and that conflict resolution left me guessing the entire time. I loved the way Wardell develops her characters, especially the way they grow throughout the story."
Lisa's World of Books: "Another great story line! The diversity that Heather Wardell writes in is amazing."
Long Live the Lit: "There is something so real about the fictional worlds Heather Wardell draws her readers into. While her stories have humor, sass, and tons of romantic energy and chemistry, she always manages to tug at the heartstrings and create stomach-clenching moments."

Planning to Live

Books Etc.: "Rhiannon's story was both uplifting and devastating. She struggled with many things - her weight and the death of her fiancé being the main ones - but she never wanted to give up on life. It was interesting to read about her issues and see how the people closest to her tried to help."
TCM Reviews: "After reading this novel I was amazed to see the change it has brought in my lifestyle. I have become more lively and trying to live every moment of my life to its fullest."
Lisa's World of Books: "This book touched me right down to my soul. It has a powerful message and is written in a format that really makes you think."
Proud Book Nerd: She gave the book five stars and said: "Suffice it to say, this book will get you thinking about the important things in life. It'll also tug (hard, at times) at your heartstrings."
Books in the Burbs: "Planning to Live is the kind of story that truly made me reflect on my own life and is a wonderful example of someone focusing on what one can control, as opposed to focusing on the 'why me?'"
Jenn L. with Luxury Reading: "An incredible look at what's really important in life, Planning to Live combines a powerful message into a negative series of events without coming off as melodramatic or unrealistic. The book is filled with realistic dialog, fluid transitions between flashbacks and present day, and is very well written. Wardell's novel is one to keep nearby at all times, for the moments when we all feel our lives have become stagnant."
Tina's Book Reviews: "This was a intense, fast read- one that gave me glimpses of happiness, family and love, but also took me into the mistakes one can make with being overly focused, passing up relationships and enjoying life because self-doubt and worry invade those places. "
KindleObsessed.com: "I think it is absolutely IMPERATIVE that EVERY woman I know, read this book immediately. If it doesn't change your life it will at least leave one hell of a dent."
Reading Without Restraint: "This book really made me think. I know there have been plenty of times that I have passed on something enjoyable simply because I am trying to stay "focused". Honestly, who hasn't? This story helps you realize how you prioritize the important things and/or people in your life." (warning: the full review contains a strong hint as to how the book ends.)
Pensive Bookeaters: "Definitely an emotional ride, and I pretty much loved every second."
Books4Betty at Night Owl Reviews: "To conclude, Planning to Live is absolutely worth the read. Wardell wrote a very heartfelt story that I could not put down. From beginning to end I was completely enraptured."
Chick Lit Plus: "Even with a simple plot, girl stuck in car, this novel is powerful. ... And while the entire novel takes place in one night, with a few flashbacks along the way, I felt that I knew Rhiannon for years."
Jennifer at Crazy-For-Books.com: "The character development of Rhiannon was spot on and flowed seamlessly from one chapter to the next. The reader could truly grasp how Rhiannon was changing and developing over the course of the novel. I really felt that I got a good picture of Rhiannon as a character, with her good qualities - and her faults. "
Coffee and a Book Chick: "It's a sad story, yet uplifting, and it did keep my interest. While it still may not be the type of book I normally pick up in the future, I enjoyed the story, and felt a bit better for it."
I'd So Rather Be Reading: "The best thing about Planning to Live is the positive message. You'll feel better about yourself and will appreciate your life more after reading this book. How many books can you honestly say that about?"
The Word Zombie: "'Planning to Live' is a book well worth reading. As Heather's website promised, it dealt with issues from a woman's perspective, had a large dose of humor, and took aim squarely at the heart. "
Reading on a Rainy Day: While this reviewer didn't like the romantic elements of the book, she also said, "Planning to Live is definitely way out of my usual genre. But I still got pulled into it because the themes explored and Rhiannon's character sketch had a more personal connection to me. "
From the TBR Pile: "[Rhiannon] felt very real to me. The book does have serious, emotional moments, but it is balanced nicely with funny and witty scenes."
The Book Chick: "I especially appreciated the authenticity of Rhiannon's voice. Wardell truly captured the ongoing internal dialogue of a woman who has let a few extra pounds come between her and living life to the fullest."
Long Live The Lit: "This novel is not your typical girl-suddenly-discovers-herself novel. It’s down-t0-earth, real and sensitively written."
Life is Short. Read Fast: "I found myself identifying with Rhiannon from the first page. This book was full of heart break but combined with hope and love."
Beck's Book Picks: "This book will draw you in immediately. You find yourself in the car with Rhiannon almost. The author does a great job describing what the character is going through."
Fitness: A Journey Not a Destination (could there be a more perfect blog title?): This is more an interview with me than a review, although blogger Karen does note, "Anyone who has struggled with weight loss will identify with [Rhiannon] and the thoughts that she has during the hours that follow her car accident."
Simply Stacie: "There is a powerful message throughout this book. I would recommend this book to other women especially those who are living for tomorrow instead of today."
Teresa's Reading Corner: She didn't really connect with the book, but did say, "I found Planning to Live to be an entertaining read"
Tiffany's Bookshelf: "Never so much have I wanted a character to get her happy ending, because never so much has a character deserved it as Rhiannon."

Seven Exes Are Eight Too Many

Chick Lit Central: "a quick, highly enjoyable read. The ride it takes you on is somewhat predictable, but so is a roller coaster. Just because you know when you'll be going downhill doesn't mean you won't be screaming when it happens."
The Bookworm's Lair: "Once again Heather Wardell has created a female lead who is struggling in her relationships with men and she has avoided the trap of making her character completely neurotic. I really liked MC, I felt I could identify with her and her need for privacy, but she was fun too and she would be the sort of friend I would like to have. As a result this was a quick read as I rushed to find out how things would end for her."
Tiffany's Bookshelf: "You might think that this sounds like too many exes to keep track of, but Wardell does a fantastic job of really developing the characters, and making sure you are able to keep them all straight."
Sara is Reading What?: "I loved the premises of the book and the question of what if you were trapped with 7 of your exes and everything you did or said was filmed."
Chick Lit Club: "This book is an interesting take on reality TV, with a slight twist at the end."
The Book Chick: "Heather Wardell has written a book that is fast-paced, creative and fun, and it does the women's fiction genre proud. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and recommend it to anyone looking for a fun read that will keep you smiling."
I'd So Rather Be Reading: "Wardell writes in a way that I feel everything her characters are feeling. I feel like I'm living in the book right along with them, and I love that. That feeling is why I love reading."
Pensive Bookeaters: "I liked MC, a lot. I felt like she was a pretty normal girl who a lot of the same regrets that most girls do."
Danielle G. of The Romance Reviews: "From the first page, the book hooks its readers in and makes it impossible to stop reading. It does this with strong and funny dialogue, a humorous plot and realistic and likable characters."
Chick Lit Plus: "The behind the scene look of a craze that has swept society is an interesting concept for a novel, and with Wardell’s excellently placed humor and knack for bringing characters to life, it works."
Teresa's Reading Corner: "The pace is perfect, the story grabs you and keeps you moving along to see what could possibly happen next."

Go Small or Go Home

Bookishly Attentive: "I loved everything about this book, including the ending. Especially the ending. Don't hesitate to spend the buck, if you're lucky enough to get it for that price. But, even at ten times the price, it would still be a bargain."
Books Etc: "I loved Forrest. He was a real guys-guy - athlete, manly, and so on, but he had an amazing emotional depth to him as well, one that you don't see in many fictional athletes. He had obviously suffered more than just a physical injury and the way we find out about it is great, in my opinion."
Sara is Reading What?: "I ADORED this book which is shocking considering that I usually don't like contemporary romance novels very well. Something about the summary hooked me and I couldn't say no. Then once I began to read HOLY MOLEY I was hooked."
Lisa's World of Books: "I love that Heather took the time to develop each character individually as well as how they worked together. Plus we got to know the people in each person's life and why they were important. This is a step that I see missed so often in books.
The Book Chick: "Heather Wardell is the queen of believable dialogue. One of my biggest bookish pet peeves is when dialogue is choppy or awkward, but the voices of Tess and Forrest and all of the secondary characters were realistic. While I was reading I could almost hear their voices in my head."
Socrates' Book Reviews: "I absolutely loved Heather Wardell’s writing style. Her words flow so beautifully and her story has so many layers to it. It’s filled with emotion, romance and even a little mystery sprinkled throughout the story. It’s a fast-paced read that has you hooked from page 1."
KindleObsessed.com: "The 2 main characters (though painfully damaged) were so like-able I found myself wanting to reach through the pages and give them hugs."
ChickLitPlus.com: "Not only is Go Small or Go Home a fantastic love story, but there is another layer about self-discovery." "Another gem from Heather Wardell!"

Life, Love, and a Polar Bear Tattoo

Me, My Books, and I: "The love triangle is complex and intriguing, as I was reading I repeatedly changed my opinion as to who Candice should choose and this made it very difficult to put the book down, I was too keen to find out who she would end up with!"
The Bookworm: "Heather Wardell has created a lovely bittersweet novel (someone had to lose and I felt bad for them), Candice has to choose between her husband Ian and her first love Kegan, and when Ian stumbles out of her life and Kegan waltzes back in she's left in a right old pickle."
Angella Gailey: "*Warning!* Do NOT start reading this book if you have any other commitments (i.e., cleaning, work, children, eating, sleeping), once you start you will not be able to be able to put it down for trivial things like food and sleep."
Book Babe: "Really, really, really enjoyed this. Candice is real. She has everyday thoughts and problems and desires that all women have. She's not perfect and she makes mistakes. She also adds bits of humor to her narrative."
Books Etc.: "Each [character] was well developed and three dimensional. I really felt like I knew them and I wanted to be friends with all of them!"
Stone Cottage on a Hill: "Not only were the characters believable, fun, and easy to relate to, but the e-book itself was top notch. For an Indie author who does her own editing, there were few (if any that I can remember) grammatical or spelling errors. I’m astonished she offers it (still!) for free at bn.com - it’s worth so much more than that."
The Nerd in Heels: "I was very happy with the ending and how strong each character came out afterwards. Recommended to all who loves women's fiction!"
A Chick Who Reads: "The things Candice went through were everyday, real life feelings. From a cancer scare to her insecurities about her looks to her feelings about Kegan. That's why this book is such an engaging read. It is like reading a story about people you know, or want to know."
Michelle of Coastal Conversations: "This is an entertaining, heart driven journey about one woman's struggle to make decisions, her own decisions. At times I couldn't put the book down.. I NEEDED to know what was going to happen next. "
Books in the Burbs: "I loved the character of Candice and how she uses this alone time to rediscover herself and gets that darn cute polar bear tattoo!"
Chick Lit Plus: "so beautifully written, so touching and relatable that I could feel the characters jump out of the pages while reading, and skyrocketed Wardell to the top of my Favorite Authors list."
The Book Worm's Library: "Candice is a great character for demonstrating the challenges that women have when it comes to balancing friendships, relationships, a professional career, and a private life, all while still trying to fit into everyone else's opinion of what they should be.
Lisa's World of Books: "I am very impressed with Heather Wardell's writing style. Everything about this book could truly happen in real life and that is what I loved about it. I am going to be checking out more of her books. 5/5 stars for this book."
I'd So Rather Be Reading: "Wardell kept me guessing until the end as to what Candice would do. I love being surprised, and I was definitely surprised at the ending here."
WebFictionGuide.com: "The story is very character-driven, and relationship-based. The conversations 'sound' real and believable. The main characters come across as real people. "
Discussion on KindleBoards.com: "I started "Life, Love and a Polar Bear Tattoo" at around 11 pm in order to help me fall asleep. At 4 am this morning, I finished the book and now can add a new author to my list of "wanted"."
ReviewStream.com: "it pulled on the heart strings and had me turning the pages for more."
Life is Short. Read Fast.: While this reviewer had issues with Candice's husband Ian, the review also notes: "I became very connected with Candice and became very pro-Candice to the point of just wanting her to have some happy times, regardless of the consequences."