From New York Times Bestselling authors Penelope Ward and Vi Keeland comes a new, sexy standalone novel.
My planned trip for two unexpectedly turned into a trip for one. Rather than let my breakup get me down, I packed my bags and decided a week at a luxury resort was just what I needed.
But one calamity after the next, and suddenly I was stuck without a hotel room, along with a few hundred … room, along with a few hundred other people.
It looked like my fancy vacation was about to turn into me sleeping on the hotel lobby floor.
Until I overheard a gorgeous man pretending to be someone he wasn’t in order to steal a reservation from a guest who hadn’t shown up yet.
When I realized there were two rooms, instead of calling him out, I pretended to be his sister. That’s how the story of “Milo and Maddie Hooker” began.
We were the Hookers.
My depressing trip quickly made a U-turn into an adventure.
My fake brother spent the next few days showing me around his hometown. When it was time to leave, neither of us really wanted to go yet.
So, instead of flying back to our respective homes, we ventured on a road trip.
At every stop, we’d pick up souvenirs.
But as hot as our chemistry was, we never crossed the line.
Milo knew I’d just come out of a tough relationship and didn’t want to mess with a vulnerable woman.
So instead, at the end of our trip, we made a pact to meet again in three months.
It was always my intention to meet him.
But when I got back home, reality hit in a big way.
And I worried I may have lost my handsome stranger forever.
Was there a place for him in my future?
Or had the memory of him just become my favorite souvenir?
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MY FAVORITE SOUVENIR co-authors by Vi Keeland and Penelope Ward is a contemporary, adult, romance story line focusing on high school music teacher Duncan aka Milo, and Hazel aka Maddie.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Milo and Maddie) MY FAVORITE SOUVENIR follows the cross country adventure of Milo and Maddie aka Duncan and Hazel. In the aftermath of her fiancé’s announcement he wasn’t ready for marriage, Hazel took advantage of their already planned honeymoon but found herself snowbound in Vail, Colorado where she will meet her future in the guise of Milo Hooker. With no rooms available, our couple assume the identity of Milo and Maddie Hooker to take advantage of an available room. Over the next several days and weeks, Milo and Maddie will discover who they are and what they want. What ensues is the building plus platonic relationship between Milo and Maddie, and the potential fall-out when their true identities reveal a common connection.
Duncan Matteo had lost the love of his life, and his journey to Vail brought back memories of a time long ago. Meeting Hazel gave Duncan thoughts of a future with a woman he only knew as Maddie, a woman that would call to his heart. A promise to meet for Valentines Day, three months later, would be derailed when Maddie broke our hero’s heart.
The relationship between Maddie and Milo begins as a circumstantial convenience but a convenience that was fraught with palpable sexual attraction, that continued to grow as our couple journeyed together. Maddie and Milo were both aware that each had suffered a loss of love but Maddie struggled to move on from the past, a past that was hoping for a second chance. The $ex scenes are limited and mostly implied.
We are introduced to Hazel’s ex-fiancé Brady, and her friend Felicity, as well as several different eclectic characters our couple meet along the way including an eccentric B&B owner who has an odd collection of taxidermy focusing on children’s nursery rhymes and fairy tales.
MY FAVORITE SOUVENIR is a story of love, life, experiences and journeys; a story of second chances and happily ever after. The slow building premise is heart warming and engaging; the romance is passionate and captivating; the characters are colorful and charismatic. MY FAVORITE SOUVENIR is a wonderfully, impassioned story of falling in love.
My Favorite Souvenir by Penelope Ward & Vi Keeland is their brand new standalone contemporary romance that borders on a love triangle without ever actually being twisted up in one. Told in dual POV between Hazel/Maddie and Matteo/Milo, this book is equal parts hilarious, heartbreaking and heartwarming. Maddie & Milos beginning is fun, adventurous and totally carefree. The interaction with Zara in Nola left me with chills. The conflict with Brady was exhausting. As a reader on both sides of the story, I just knew he HAD to GO, but watching Hazel work through her emotions was exactly why I read romance and love these authors so much. Milo/Matteo – swoon! Sweet and thoughtful but also possessive and slightly alpha – yes please. With outrageously awkward moments for each of these characters and some super steamy times too, this was another spectacular romance from one of my favorite co-author teams! Enjoy!
What a cute, sweet read! My Favorite Souvenir was light and funny and was absolutely what I needed to read right now. With everything going on in the world today, it was a perfect escape from reality. I loved the premise of this story. Matteo and Hazel were adorable and so relatable. I enjoyed joining them on their adventure of self discovery and inner healing. It was fun to watch them become friends first and then, fall in love. The slow burn was perfect and just made their connection even more special. If you are looking for a light-hearted read with little drama, but with lots of wit, I highly recommend My Favorite Souvenir. It will leave you with a smile on your face:)
Review by Lys
I loved this book so much!! Maddie and Milo aka Mateo and Hazel are everything! This was such a fun, easy read. It was funny, sexy, and all around great! I couldn’t put it down!
* A review copy was provided by the authors *
As I always start my reviews after reading a book by my favorite writing duo….they did it again!!! They gave us a story that was entertaining, filled with emotion and left us with a HUGE smile on my face.
My Favorite Souvenir is the latest standalone novel by Penelope Ward and Vi Keeland. This book reminded my of their other novel Cocky Bastard, but was still it’s own story. I love a great road trip romance!!! I also love when a chance encounter can become something even more 😉
This book is a complete standalone novel that is told in Dual POV. As I said it is fun and entertaining, but it is also a slow burn. I thought the way they created Matteo and Hazel’s story worked perfect. It was so much fun going on this journey with these characters. I also loved that even though this story is fairly predictable, they were able to spring some surprises and twists into the story to keep you guessing and turning the pages. Although I have to say….I never have trouble turning the pages when it comes to a book by these authors.
In this story we meet Matteo and Hazel….or should I say Milo and Maddie Hooker. Both are in Vail, CO for different reasons, but the way they meet was adorable. I love how Hazel took charge of the situation. That will make more sense once you read the story. I don’t want to say a whole lot about the storyline, because this is one I think should unfold for itself. I absolutely LOVED both main characters. There was a part in the story that I didn’t really like Hazel, but I was glad to see that part get worked through quickly and we got the good Hazel back….LOL 🙂
As always Penelope and Vi work seamlessly together and I would 100% recommend this book to all romance readers. If you haven’t read a book by these authors…..what are you waiting for. My favorite Souvenir is the perfect place to start on their romance journey!!!
Absolutely loved Hazel and Matteo’s story from how they met, the adventures they went on after they met, and all of the events that took place after. I loved how Hazel truly set out to find out what she really wanted instead of falling back into what had been comfortable. Matteo was just an absolute gentleman all around and just wanted Hazel to be happy with the life she was choosing. The adventures were the best and the souvenirs they picked up were awesome.
Well this is one adventure that you want to take. Maddie and Milo are so funny the story is full of angst, emotions, love and again i couldn’t put this down at all.
The thing i liked about the book was not only were we learning about the characters but so were they, and taking this ride with them was so good, i never thought i would fall in love with a rabbit named Abbott and who especially made me Cry, an old man with some weird things, pineapples and road trip.
I loved Milo he sounded smoking hot and how anyone could resist him, he was such an awesome character and wish there were more men on the world like him, he was caring and loving and god my heart broke for at so many stages of this book his heart was all over the pages.
Maddie oh how you can relate to Maddie in every sense of her character and how lost she feels in life and this chance meeting with Milo is exactly what she needed she did do my head in, in certain parts but that’s what makes me love this book because i was getting so involved with the story.
Absolutely loved this book the story line was fantastic, i had a good laugh and really got into this story, there were secrets and a little twist that i actually didn’t see coming or i did it i couldn’t work out how it would fit but again that’s what i live about certain stories when they have me guessing and reading so quickly and not wanting to put the book down so that i can find out.
Loved loved loved this book and it makes me want to go on a road trip find a hotel and wait for a Milo to turn up lol
My Favorite Souvenir by Vi Keeland and Penelope Ward is another entertaining story by these two. Any time I get an opportunity to read their books I know I will love it. I was not disappointed. Hazel was dumped by her fiance but decides to go on the honeymoon in Vail. Due to unforeseen circumstances she finds herself playing sister to a good looking guy. They have such a great connection with each other they decide to go on a road trip together. Each is at a crossroads in their life and their road trip is one of fun, adventure, self discovery and a heaping dose of sexual tension. I dont want to give to much away regarding this story. All I can say is hold on to your hats. A wild ride of a story that has twist and turns. You will be laughing as well as being mad. A rollercoaster ride of many emotions. I couldn’t put this book down. Loved the ending. All around enjoyable story. 5 stars
This is such a unique story. I absolutely loved My Favorite Souvenir by Penelope Ward and Vi Keeland. From the very start I was caught hook line and sinker with the Hookers. What could come in a story that had two people meeting by chance and having to have that as their pseudonym? Boy did Maddie and Milo have an adventure.
But what really stole my heart is when the adventure ended and reality crashed down for Hazel and Matteo. Vi and Penelope had my heart on a string and just kept pulling until the very end. I felt all the feels with this book. I laughed, I cried, I felt like my heart was ripped in two, but most of all I fell in love with this beautifully written story. I truly never wanted it to end.
Well done Vi and Penelope. I can’t wait to see what you have in store for us next.
Talk about an intense slow burn…
Vi and Penelope know how to pen a epic story. The pair meet in the most unfortunate of circumstances and go on an amazing adventure, collecting “souvenirs“ from each part of their journey. They learn things about one another and have these intense and interesting moments that eventually come to an end until you hit the ultimate twist. Such a fun storyline that makes you envious of the freedom. Definitely one to add to the shelf if you love a fun loving, quirky couple.
And just like that I soaked it ALL in and once again I’m left speechless, begging for more and falling hard! That is the power of a dynamic duo collaboration with authors Penelope Ward and Vi Keeland! Their words will make you get lost within the pages. I’m not going to lie, their blurbs, covers and teasers ALWAYS pull me as they grab me with full force and take me on an amazing ride!
This book will undoubtedly become a favorite and a go to re-read it’s just that good. It’s classic Penelope Ward & Vi Keeland in that the writing is exemplary the characters are so well developed you feel like you’ve known them for years and the details given create a story that won’t be forgotten. The beginning of the story is brilliant and plays like comedy on TV as the Hooker siblings maneuver their way into the scarcely available rooms left in the area. Milo has no option but to play along as Maddie is hip to his ploy and it’s a great start to the Hooker’s grand adventures. It’s interesting to see how naturally their relationship builds as they get to know each other, learn to trust and respect what is important and all without the complication of adding the physical component at this point. Milo is by far the sweetest and most compassionate man. The things he says melts me to a puddle. There are some oh my gosh twists that clearly change the course of things but ultimately Matteo and Hazel have experienced something unique and special. You will definitely want to make this you next 1 click!!!
The story was a little slow going in the beginning but by part 2 it really started to get more interesting.
Hazel & Matteo’s unconventional love story was sweet, adventurous and gut-wrenching at times. And having read almost all of the authors’ co-written stories, I knew a twist was coming and I wasn’t disappointed. After the big twist was reveal I felt all the emotions that both characters were experiencing and I was just as confused about what should happen next. One of my favorite parts of the story was when they visited the mystic in New Orleans. That was fun! I think at that point I truly believe Hazel & Matteo was meant to be even though I couldn’t guess how they were going to get to their HEA. I was satisfied how everything came together in the end. Overall it was an enjoyable read.
My Favorite Souvenir by Penelope Ward and Vi Keeland is soooooooo good!! It’s sweet, smart, charming, sexy, full of feels and chemistry. This story has everything to keep the reader entertained during these difficult moments.
This is Matteo and Hazel aka Milo and Maddie’s story. And what a story it is. It’s a chance encounter at a luxury hotel resort Vail, CO. Their encounter is entertaining and enthralling. They have quite the witty and sexy banter between them. I enjoyed this story because of the chance encounter that leads to more…you just have to read to find out, what more happens. Do they get their HEA or were they like ships in the night. You will love them , their friends to lovers story and the twists/turns this story took .
My Rating: 4.5 stars *******
It’s no surprise really but Penelope and Vi have done it again with this AMAZING book! I love all of their books that they write (together or separately) but there is something about this book that just did it for me. I absolutely loved “My Favorite Souvenir” and loved the story line from beginning to end.
I fell instantly in love with the plot and with the Milo & Maddie Hooker (aka Matteo & Hazel). I loved how carefree they both were and how they just both came up with all of the little things in the beginning like the Hooker’s. I loved watching them go on the road trip, watching their time ad interactions together and getting souvenirs from all of their stops. I was not expecting the twist that came but it made the book even better.
There is definitely a lot of angst but I absolutely loved that. It’s a while before the Hooker’s even kiss and then even longer before they get together and that literally made me so happy because it felt more like a realistic way. When they finally did get together, the chemistry was so HOT!
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Omg! I freaking LOVED this book! It hit hard in the feels! Matteo sings, he does mic nights and karaoke.
My husband always used to sing to me on karaoke nights so I really fell hard for Matteo reading this! I mean I would have anyways cause he’s sexy, sweet, a music teacher, sings AND plays guitar *sigh*.
I loved the idea of this adventure. They had such great chemistry and intense attraction that they didn’t want their time to end. Ugh’ it’s like the ultimate love story.
New Orleans was one of my favorite stops! I’d love to visit there one day! I love reading books about the mystery and fun of New Orleans! Plus, something really epic happens there for our characters
Penelope and Vi put out another spectacular story! It draws you in, makes you swoon and you hate when it’s over! I’m already wanting another book by my favorite duo writing team!
This book is a wild adventure for two strangers going on a road trip together. Hazel went on her honeymoon by herself just to get away after her ex-boyfriend broke things off. She thought a week away from everything would be good for her but she decides to leave early and doesn’t get far because of a snow storm. Now she is stuck in a hotel with no chance of a room along with a lot of other people. When she hears a man pretending to be someone else to take their reservations because they haven’t checked in yet. She decides to pretend to be his sister and take the second room. That is how she became Maddie Hooker and the stranger became her brother Milo Hooker.
Matteo is trying to get a room but everything is booked, so he decides to pretend to be someone else. When a beautiful redhead walks up, he thinks she is going to call him out on not being Milo Hooker. But instead, she pretends to be his sister Maddie.
Milo and Maddie begin an adventure from Hazel/Maddie learning to ski, to buying cowboy boots, to getting their fortune told on Borburn Street, and visiting Atlanta before they have to separate. They grow close and the sparks fly but nothing happens until she is about to leave, it is the kiss to top all kisses.
Will they ever see each other again? What will happen with Hazel and her ex when she gets home? Will she choose the right man to have her happily ever after?
This story is filled with pain, heartache, love, laughter, and tears. You will be laughing one minute and crying the next but it is worth every tear and then some. I love this author duo and can not wait for more from them.
**I voluntarily reviewed an advance complimentary copy of this book.**
Hazel Appleton is snowed in in Vail without a hotel room on what was supposed to have been her honeymoon. She finds an opportunity to snag a room through the creation of an alter ego, jumping in with a stranger doing the same. Though the two have never met, they get to know each other at the hotel bar after securing rooms. They may be perfect strangers playing siblings, but they soon find they enjoy each other’s company and are both doing a little soul searching.
I loved the road trip portion of this book. The adventures they found using their alter egos were off the wall in some cases, and sweet in others. Their adventures showed little pieces of who they were trying to be, and made them face the things they had allowed to change in their lives. It was a great opportunity to get comfortable with each other and give Hazel more to think about when she returns home.
As much as I loved the middle of the book, there were some parts that had me scratching my head or feeling flat out frustrated with the main characters. Living close enough to Vail to know the climate and a little about the town and ski resort, I found some of the scenes a little far fetched. And then my mixed feeling came back again after the road trip was over. The characters made some moves that felt out of character for them and had me wondering why they felt they were entitled to those actions and feelings. By that point I was feeling like the story had become a love triangle just for the sake of adding drama.
But overall, I enjoyed the escape provided by the story. Hazel and Matteo take on personas to deal with the parts of their lives they are trying to sort through. Maddie and Milo Hooker are carefree, have no agendas, and can go wherever the road takes them. Hazel and Matteo have more to deal with in their real lives and their own escape gives them a different perspective on their hangups. It was a slow-burn, but I loved the friendship that developed during the roadtrip (while the sparks built along with it).
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 Milo and Maddie stars! I absolutely adored this book, loved the quirky storyline. There was fantastic banter, scorching hot chemistry and some twists and turns along the way. And you may need some tissues! A great read.
This writing duo does it again! Absolutely fantastic, I couldn’t put it down. I started it as soon as I could and was engrossed immediately. I fell so hard for the Hookers! Milo and Maddie are adventurous fun and adorable! Matteo and Hazel are superb, they are my new favorite couple!