Some months are about quantity, and others — well, they’re about quality. September was definitely the latter. I read 10 books this month, pushing my Goodreads challenge to a grand total of 127 books out of my original 100 (safe to say, I might need to rethink that goal next year). But despite all that reading, there was one book — just one — that truly stood out and stayed with me even after I turned the last page.

And yes, it’s from one of my absolute favourite authors — Susan Elizabeth Phillips. (Honestly, does she ever disappoint? Nope. Never.)

If you’ve read SEP before, you know her signature style — sharp humor, strong characters, and a love story that sneaks up on you. First Star I See Tonight is all that and more. It’s part of the beloved Chicago Stars series, but you can easily dive into it as a standalone if you’re new to her world.

The story follows Piper Dove, a determined private investigator with a knack for getting into complicated situations, and Cooper Graham, a retired football star turned nightclub owner who’s just trying to keep his life uncomplicated. Of course, fate (and Piper’s job) has other plans. What unfolds is a mix of romantic tension, laugh-out-loud moments, and genuine emotional depth — the kind of reading experience that makes you want to cancel plans and finish the book in one sitting.

What I loved most was the chemistry between Piper and Cooper. Their relationship builds slowly but surely, and the banter between them is top-tier. There’s also a beautiful underlying theme of ambition, trust, and self-discovery — all wrapped in SEP’s trademark storytelling style.

Even though I read 10 books this month, First Star I See Tonight was the clear winner — the kind of romance novel that reminds you why you love the genre in the first place. It’s funny, it’s heartfelt, and it leaves you with that warm, satisfied feeling when you close the last chapter.

If you’re looking for book recommendations for romance lovers, or if you’re in the mood for a story with strong characters, sparkling chemistry, and a guaranteed happy ending, this one deserves a top spot on your reading list.

Here’s to more great reads in October!

Happy reading,
Pratibha

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