I've never done one of these end-of-year things before so I'm a little nervous. Writing reviews isn't easy! I'm in awe of everyone who does write them. I salute your talent at describing why you loved a book and generating enthusiasm for other readers. 

So even though my natural habitat--where I'm most comfortable--is writing my own books, I really wanted to talk about these stories, so I'm going to give this a try.

Two of these stories reflect my current trope binge: wrong texts/phone numbers. I can't seem to get enough of stories where characters meet because of texts going to the wrong person, or someone getting a phone number wrong. 

I love stories with a lot of texting, actually, even if there aren't any mix-ups. It's such a great way for characters to get to know each other, and when they weren't the intended recipient, it adds even more fun.

Okay, let's jump in before I talk myself out of this!

Text Chain by C.I. DeMann

I read this last summer and I still think about it. The heroine has a tough life that she's determined to rise above with a college experience. I rooted so hard for her to succeed and I'm sure that's what kept her going. LOL 

She's accidentally included in a group text with two guys her age—they think she's another guy friend they typically text with. She doesn't tell them about the mistake because she enjoys their banter and their undeniable friendship. Along the way it becomes a friendship for her, too. Once in a while she answers as the "friend", because she doesn't want this connection to end.

You know what? I would have done the same thing! I love those two guys. They're hilarious, and their bond shines through even though they are in different locations in their current lives. They are so vividly real and it's all through the texts they send each other. I loved every time they were on the page, and truly hated for the book to be over. The HEA comes together beautifully, too.

The Typo by Emily Kerr

This is a variation on the wrong text/phone number. The heroine gets an email that is very similar to hers but it's meant for a man who is being considered for an upcoming art gallery show. She searches online and finds what she thinks is the correct email address then forwards the original message to the hero so he won't miss out on this opportunity.

I love how this book is almost completely in texts and emails and rare phone calls (he's on an Antarctic expedition so phone service is iffy). They fall in love by learning about each other's daily life, although each of them has kept back a secret they're worried might wreck their developing relationship. Their meetup isn't until much later but it's perfect the way it happens. It's such a wonderful story. I keep thinking about these characters, and their HEA makes my heart happy.

Love and Other Conspiracies by Mallory Marlowe

This one has nothing to do with texting, but I can't stop thinking about it so I'm adding it here because I want everyone to read it. 

The hero and heroine are perfect for each other, even though he believes in cryptid creatures and she doesn't. They have a podcast together and go in search of these creatures and their banter during these trips is hilarious.

The hero is already so endearing—but it's hard not to lose your heart even more during the poignant moments when he's dealing with grief over his late father and selflessly being his caretaker. The heroine says she doesn't believe in these mythical creatures but she believes in him. Awww! If they really had a podcast I'd be listening to it every day because I love this couple. 

In fact, I saw the paperback at the library today and felt like waving and saying, "How you guys doing? Miss you!" Yeah, I'm totally a dork.

I'm also really wordy! I actually had to cut several items but maybe I'll do another one on the wrong text/phone number topic. Unless my nervousness makes me change my mind.

Let me know if you've read any of these stories and want to squee along with me. Or tell me about YOUR fave texting/wrong number stories. I'm always looking for more!