Dandelion Meadows by Jen Spencer {Book Review}

 

Dandelion Meadows by Jen Spencer

The last thing Emma Dustin wants is to come crawling back to Dandelion Meadows with her tail between her legs, but a misunderstanding at her financial planning firm has left her without a job and without another option. Uncle Harvey, may he rest in peace, left Emma his house plus the little piece of land he used to farm, and there is nowhere else for her to go. Despite her humiliation at coming home unemployed, Emma is determined to fulfill Uncle Harvey’s last wish, even though she isn’t quite sure what it is. Is it possible for Emma to make a life in Dandelion Meadows? And will the mayor put her in charge of Sandpaper Awareness Week?

One-time cowboy and full-time geologist Matt Matthews is not the bad guy, even if Emma Dustin thinks he is. He’s only trying to restore his father’s money, the money that Emma’s uncle Harvey cheated his father out of. Harvey must have had some remorse because he left Matt the house in his will, but Emma Dustin has the nerve to show up and claim the house is hers. Well, possession is nine-tenths of the law, and Matt isn’t about to move out. Unfortunately, neither is Emma. Emma is cute and irresistibly feisty, but she’s in Matt’s way, and he’ll do whatever it takes to get her out of his house and away from Dandelion Meadows. Can he get rid of his unwelcome housemate before he falls in love with her?

My Review: 3 Stars

Small town romances are always a lot of fun, especially when they involve a slew of quirky characters and amusing situations. An added enemies-to-love trope made this story full of entertaining friction.

A bonus lesson found within these pages is the reminder that things aren't always as they seem.

Content: mild romance

*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*

Campfires and Kisses (Harvest Ranch Romance #13) by MK Dymock {Review}

Campfires and Kisses (Harvest Ranch Romance #13) by MK Dymock

ebook, 189 pages

Published April 19, 2021

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given

 

 

A fake engagement, two sworn enemies—what could go wrong?

Rielle rarely saw her parents, but she found a surrogate father in John, the owner of a nearby children’s camp. Now he’s left half of it to her. A dream come true—except she has to share her inheritance with John’s neglectful son who abandoned his father years ago.



Sutton wants nothing more than to sell the rundown camp and its bitter memories—his dad was the perfect dad to every kid except his own son. 



The camp has fallen on hard times, and Rielle doesn’t have the money to buy out Sutton. With their last dollar, they plan a singles camp—promising adventure and love. Someone starts the rumor the old enemies are engaged, and suddenly the camp sells out.



All Sutton and Rielle need to do is fake the engagement for a week. Then they can finally disappear from each other’s lives . . . if that’s what they still want.

 

My Review: 4.5 Stars

Rielle and Sutton have a deep hatred for one another, yet they are bound together in a risky business attempt to cut ties once and for all. An entrancing enemies-to-love with characters thrust into a fake engagement was just the thing for a weekend of reading.

Rielle and Sutton each have thick layers of hurt to unravel and I loved how these coverings were slowly peeled away through the course of the story. Honestly, Sutton wasn't very likable at first. He came across as cold and unfeeling, while Rielle was a bucket full of sunshine--until it came to dealing with him and his exasperating ways.

The premise of a week-long love-finding adventure in the hills around the glorious small town of Harvest Ranch was an exciting escapade, especially when trouble arises, bringing these opponents together. This is my first Dymock book and it won't be my last. I really enjoyed the way this author blended growth and entertainment. My only wish was for a few more sparks earlier on.

Content: mild romance; mild scene of danger/peril 

River's Song (Harvest Ranch Romance #12) by Stephanie Fowers {Review}

River's Song (Harvest Ranch Romance #12) by Stephanie Fowers

ebook, 212 pages

Publication: April 12th 2021  

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given

 

 

A country singer rediscovers his passion for music when he meets a spunky small town girl who lives her life to the fullest. Too bad she's his best friend's ex.

Now he'd better forget his racing pulse so he can get a photograph back from her that could ruin his career.

The trouble is that spending time with her feels like a good old fashioned love song, and he can't get that stupid tune out of his head... or out of his heart.

  

My Review: 5 Stars

This series set in a small town in Virginia has firmly planted itself deep in my heart and soul. I loved this story about country singer, River, and photographer, Liv. With past relationship complications and past mistakes haunting their instant attraction, River and Liv have to dig deep to discover what matters and what's worth fighting for.  

I love the way the characters of this town watch out for one another and the way the magic of romance sprinkles around like floating cherry or apple blossoms. Although River and Liv have some complications, I adored them and their story. The connections between other books in the series brought a feeling of familiarity, but most of all, I loved the music, the inspiration, and the hope. Fowers breathes life into this book, allowing the reader to escape into this charming town for a time. 

Learning about history or facts about different things is always more enjoyable to me when they're embedded in fiction. It was fascinating to learn about film development, but that's not all that developed through the lens of a camera. Such an enjoyable addition to this series!

Content: mild romance; vague talk of drinking, drugs, women; mild religion 

While You Were Speaking (Harvest Ranch Romance Book 10) by Maria Hoagland {Review}

While You Were Speaking (Harvest Ranch Romance Book 10) by Maria Hoagland

ebook, 215 pages

Publication: March 29th 2021 by Red Leaves Press 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given

 

 

 

He wasn’t supposed to fall in love with his brother’s fiancée.

She wasn’t supposed to fall in love at all. ♥ ♥

Lucy Morrowitz has two dreams. First, to reopen the Starlight Drive-In Theater left to her by her parents. And second, to marry her celebrity crush—renowned motivational speaker Carter Hughes. Neither goal is remotely attainable, and she’s fine with that—they’d never been more than a lark—until her co-worker, WHHR’s morning drive DJ Crew Keller, convinces the Harvest Ranch community to rally around Lucy in saving the small-town landmark. Then, when Carter Hughes accepts her Hail Mary of an invitation to give the kickoff speech at the Harvest Ranch spring cleanup, suddenly, neither of her dreams feels quite as far out of reach.

Zachary Hughes, on the other hand, has never been much of a dreamer. He doesn’t have glamorous a job as his brother, but it’s steady and reliable, even if he doesn’t love it. He’s not as well-known, either, but he’s never been one to seek attention. In fact, there’s nothing Carter has that Zach envies—until he meets his fiancée. Because of her, Zach finds himself reaching for more: A job he looks forward to every day, rather than settling for the family business. A town where he’s known, and not just as Carter’s little brother. And the perfect person to spend his life with—someone who laughs with him, challenges him, accepts him, loves him. Someone like Lucy.

And yet, are these the kind of dreams that will bring either one of them happiness? Perhaps the motivational speakers are right—Lucy and Zach can reach your dreams. They just have to make sure they’re reaching for the right ones.

♥ ♥ Enjoy this fresh take on a classic '80s rom-com. A small-town, sweet forbidden romance that has you dreaming of an evening spent at the drive-in with your sweetheart. ♥ ♥

 

   

My Review: 5 Stars 

 

Harvest Ranch strikes again! I love this charming town and I love meeting more of its citizens. Lucy is trying to get the old drive-in movie theater up and running again and when Zach and his family descend upon the town to support his brother, Carter, who is a big-time motivational speaker helping with an event, all the sparks break loose.

 

The mid-90s film that this story pays tribute to was one of my favorites and I loved the modern take with the small town twist. There were a few scenes that were very reminiscent of the movie and had me smiling and laughing as they played out in my mind. Hoagland does a great job of incorporating the familiar with the original, and the events tied in nicely with the rest of the series, showing a different angle to the big events. 

 

I loved Lucy and Zach! From their interesting occupations to their sweet interactions to the undeniable chemistry, they slipped right into my heart. Obviously, the supporting cast of characters was as zany and quirky as I hoped they would be and I just couldn't get enough. 

 

This was another great addition to the Harvest Ranch series. Now...would someone grab me a Dr. Pepper and surprise me with a mix-in?

 

Content: mild romance 

A Kiss to Build a Dream On by Holly Stevenson {Review}

A Kiss to Build a Dream On (Harvest Ranch Romance #9) by Holly Stevenson

Kindle Edition, 178 pages

Publication: March 22nd 2021 by Olive Leaf Press 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given 

She’s determined to save her orchard … even if it means dealing with an imposing film producer for a while.

Meg Atwood loves the orchard she grew up on and would do anything to keep it afloat, including allowing it to be used as the filming location for the next Fletcher Forsyth movie. Meg isn’t excited about having her beloved land overrun with actors and film crews, but she can’t turn down the money they’re offering—even if she has to put up with the arrogant film producer for a little while.

The moment Fletcher laid eyes on the rural Virginia farmhouse and surrounding orchards he knew it would be an ideal filming location. What he didn’t expect was the cute orchard owner to prove to be such a distraction. Meg is completely different from the women Fletcher has known, and he finds himself falling fast for the hard-working country girl. But Meg seems just as protective of her heart as she is of her property.

As Meg and Fletcher spend time together, the attraction between them blossoms like the first buds of spring and they’ll have to decide whether to let the frost of fear and doubt harden their hearts, or whether they can let love bloom where its planted.

 

 

    

My Review: 4 Stars

 

One of my favorite things about this series is to see the same events and characters from other stories make appearances from a slightly different perspective. I love this small community of Harvest Ranch and I'm enjoying the many facets and people. This story showcases an orchard and the hardworking brother and sister who run it. In order to bring in more money, Dillon allows it to be used for a film and Meg is against all things Hollywood, but steps in to help out when a family emergency arises.

 

The director, Fletcher, formed an insta-attraction with Meg, but there are obstacles to climb. This author does a good job of blending Hollywood and farm life with two fantastic characters who each possess some depth and stubbornness. Although Meg is fiercely independent and headstrong, she is also loyal and feels things deeply, which made her easy for me to relate to.

 

Most of this book took place within a day or two, so it felt like things happened quite quickly for my taste, but when you know, you know. It was heartwarming to watch these individuals come together for a common cause and I look forward to seeing these new friends again.

 

Content: mild romance

Springtime Love at the Homestead Inn (the Haven Hills Homestead Inn #1) by Kimberly Krey {Review}

Springtime Love at the Homestead Inn (The Haven Hills Homestead Inn #1) by Kimberly Krey

Kindle Edition

Expected publication: March 18th 2021 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given

 

 

 

She's a billionaire thrust into hiding. He's a wealthy cowboy seeking solitude. When the two are roped into running his granddad's inn, they're captured by an unforeseen romance. But will the secrets of her past destroy their blooming love?


--------------------------


Five billionaire siblings are sent into hiding when their mafia-linked granddad makes a plea bargain that puts them at risk. Through a relocation program, they're sent to help run The Homestead Inn.

Now each must hide their secret past, adapt to their unexpected future, and learn how to answer the call when love comes knocking.

 

   

 

My Review: 4 Stars

 

What an intriguing premise! Krey has a way of captivating a reader with her elements of swoon and danger, and this series is no exception to her style. Homestead Inn is a solid place to settle down in with a fresh start, and although Andie and her brothers come across as being superior and impersonal, especially towards each other, a little digging uncovers some pretty great characters.

 

I enjoyed watching Andie evolve and thrive in her new role, while simultaneously finding love. The chemistry is palpable from the very first meeting with cowboy Trenton, who has secrets of his own. I love a story with themes of loyalty and family, and this book had them in spades. The hints of danger looming over the pages was very compelling.

 

The setting is like a warm, cozy hug--perfect for those seeking safety--and I'm eagerly anticipating the other books in the series. I can't wait to get to know these brothers better!  

 

Content: mild romance; brief mention of past violence

Second First Kiss: A Romantic Comedy by Jennifer Griffith {Review}

Second First Kiss: A Romantic Comedy by Jennifer Griffith

Kindle Edition, 191 pages

Publication: March 17th 2021 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given 

A torching kiss on a long-ago high school dare just might flare up again.

Back in high school, Jasher Hotchkiss and Sage Everton shared one perfect kiss at a kissing booth.

Now, they've both returned to their hometown of Mendon. Bachelor Jasher is there against his will as the reluctant new general surgeon. Widowed Sage is the hospital’s underappreciated nurse anesthetist.

They see each other daily.

Neither has forgotten that mind-blowing kiss.

However, if Jasher is universally loathed by the town's citizens and Sage carries a potentially lethal dating curse, is there any chance at a second first kiss?

Laugh and swoon as these two medical professionals get coerced into dating each other in Kissing Dr. Hotchkiss. Read this fun, sassy romantic comedy set in a small town hospital with quirky characters and hilarious dialogue and situations.

Jennifer Griffith is the Swoony Award-winning author of hilarious romances that are like cotton candy for your soul.

Kissing Dr. Hotchkiss is set in the same world as Jennifer’s Forever Home Romances and her Christmas House Romances series. Grab them all for sweet escapes!

 

   

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

I can always count on this author to deliver a sweet, funny, and utterly swoony story and it totally hit the spot! And one little hidden gem is that the setting has the same name as my hometown. Although it's different in many ways, I feel like I spent a little time back at home and it was so tender.

Jasher is back and the town has a grudge against him, but the silver lining is working with his former teenage crush, Sage. I adored these characters so much! The medical scene was intriguing and fun--it was almost like watching an edited version of a popular medical TV show unfold in my mind. 

 

The chemistry was flammable and watching it slowly ignite as Jasher and Sage participated in the wonderful experiences that Mendon had to offer was the icing on this delightfully sweet story. All I can say is, Hot Kisses from Dr. Hot Kiss...

 

Content: mild romance; mild violence/medical descriptions

Hometown Heart Beat by Amberlee Day {Review}

Hometown Heart Beat by Amberlee Day

Kindle Edition, 187 pages

Publication: March 15th 2021 by Appletree Cove Publishing 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given

 

 

 

City girl finds love with a country boy?

That only happens in the movies.

Or at least that’s what single mom Ronnie tells herself when she sees the hunky cowboy on her aunt’s farm. It's fine to take the occasional peek at his broad shoulders and irresistible grin, but no way is she interested in getting to know him. Why bother? She’s only in town for a couple of months, and with one giant heartbreak already hanging over her head, she has no desire to open herself up for another one.

Noah is in complete agreement. Love doesn’t have a place in his life, not after his disastrous relationship history. Even if it did, he wouldn’t choose Ronnie, who clearly thinks she’s too good for small-town life.

But something about Harvest Ranch puts Ronnie off her game, and she can’t seem to stop making a fool of herself around Noah—who is turning out to be a nice guy, darn it!

Will Harvest Ranch work its magic and help these two opposites find love? Or will Ronnie leave her heart behind in this small town?

 

 

  

 

My Review: 5 Stars 

Have you ever had a first meet that didn't go exactly as planned...even if it really wasn't planned? Noah and Ronnie do not get off on the right foot when Ronnie comes to town to check in on the elderly aunt that Noah works for. Although the tension was high with these complete opposites, I couldn't help but laugh at the sticky mess they found themselves in. This charming book read like a Hallmark movie and I loved the references to that channel. 

Day did a great job of smashing two opposite worlds into a divinely sweet romance, swirling in references to added viewpoints of events in other books in this series, which left me in a sentimental pile of goo. I love Harvest Ranch and each story adds a new dimension to my level of like.

Aunt Doe, Ellie, the newspaper, definitely the chickens, and more, were lively, humorous additions to this pleasant romance and I just couldn't get enough.

Content: mild romance

Falling For My Sister's Ex by Catelyn Meadows {Review}

Falling For My Sister's Ex (Harvest Ranch Romance Book 7) by Catelyn Meadows

ebook, 186 pages

Published: March 8, 2021

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given

 

 

If you love the first flowers of spring, the sunlight dancing off rain drops, and a warm breeze brushing across your skin, then you'll love Harvest Ranch in the springtime.

Come for a visit or stay for a while, you're always welcome in this small town.

She's had to force her feelings for him away.
Now that he's no longer with her sister, does she dare take a chance?

Jeremy was the boy next door.
Blaire's first love.
Her first kiss.

After he graduated from college and moved back to Harvest Ranch, his attention shifted to Blaire's twin sister, Savannah, instead. Blaire has been forced to suppress her feelings and watch their relationship grow faster than the tulips in the field her family owns.

But right in the middle of their engagement, they break up.

Savannah claims he cheated.

Jeremy's brother says she did.

Blaire isn't sure who is telling the truth, so she goes right to the source. She meant to remain an impartial seeker of the truth, but talking to Jeremy has always had the ability to scramble her senses. When she finds out what really happened, she's left with a painful decision--

Following her heart means turning against her family's wishes and her own resolve. Can she trust the man she's always loved or is she better off without him?

   

My Review: 3.5 Stars  

Relationships are sometimes very complicated. Twins Savannah and Blaire both fell for the same guy at one time or another--their long-time neighbor, Jeremy. Although he went back and forth between the two, Jeremy is a very reasonable and smart man, and I kept wondering how in the world he ended up engaged to Savannah. Don't worry--the puzzle pieces fall into place, just as with any good story, but I still had to question him. But...cheating isn't my favorite trope.

I already fell in love with Harvest Ranch and it was really fun to see it from a different perspective. The tulip fields and festival that Blaire's family runs was so intriguing and I loved visualizing it and smelling it in my mind. I loved the descriptions of the events and the work that went into preparing things. And although complex, I really enjoyed the intricacies of the many different relationships. I adored Blaire and the way she and Jeremy first connected as teens.

Content: mild romance (lots of cheating in marriage, engagements, relationships)

Her Athlete's Wedding Secret by Cindy Ray Hale {Review}

Her Athlete's Wedding Secret (A Maple Creek Brides Sweet Romance) by Cindy Ray Hale

Kindle Edition, 160 pages

Publication: January 30th 2021 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given 

Can a fake marriage save their careers? Or will their feelings turn everything real?

Small Town newspaper reporter, Tessa Randall, dreams of scoring a job with a big city newspaper. An interview with Benson Patrick, quarterback for the New York Giants, might be the opportunity she’s been looking for. When he comes home to Maple Creek for their mutual friends’ wedding, Tessa hopes it’s the perfect chance to interview him. Only Benson isn’t being as cooperative as she’d wanted, and before she knows it, he’s proposing to her. A marriage, even a fake one, might be the edge she needs to land her dream job.

New York Giants quarterback Benson Patrick has never backed down from a dare. When the police catch him doing donuts in Central Park with his beloved truck, Ol’ Bessie, he’s afraid his career is over. After being put on suspension, his coach tells him to settle down and get married or get kicked off the team. When he goes to his buddy’s wedding at his hometown, the beautiful Tessa Randall catches his eye. If he can convince her to marry him, she might be the solution to all his problems. As long as their feelings don’t get involved.

If you enjoy fake marriages, sports romance, and small town sweet romance, then you'll love this book.

 

   

 

My Review: 4 Stars

 

Hale has found her stride with this Maple Creek series. The combination of small town shenanigans and quirky characters makes this series a hit. But when a fake marriage with mutual benefits between former high school classmates, a pro athlete and a newspaper reporter, and lots of swoon in a tropical location is thrown into the mix, well...it encompasses almost everything that I love about a sweet story.

Benson and Tessa aren't a match on paper per say, but they're both willing to give this fake marriage a shot to boost both of their careers, and it proves hard to hold their feelings close to their hearts. Honestly at first, Benson was kind of a selfish jerk, but when life happens, he became much more likable. Tessa is the sweetest--almost too sweet for her own good, as she's had a hard life with a mentally ill mother. Together, they are a very complementary opposites attract concoction. 

Jetting off on a romantic Caribbean honeymoon was just what I needed and watching their lives mash together was a treat. I'm already looking forward to more Maple Creek.

Content: mild romance

Kiss Me, Baby, One More Time (Maple Creek Romantic Comedy Book 2) by Cindy Ray Hale {Review}

Kiss Me, Baby, One More Time (Maple Creek Romantic Comedy Book 2) by Cindy Ray Hale

Kindle Edition, 139 pages

Published December 30th 2020 

Source: Kindle Unlimited

 

 

 

Fake dating is easy until opposites attract!

Eccentric hippie, Onyx Sharp, is the maid of honor in her best friend’s wedding. But she's not happy about having to spend so much time with the best man, Taylor. Not only does she distrust men, but being around him annoys her. The last thing she expects is for him to kiss her impulsively at a party before the wedding. And the main problem is, she wants him to kiss her one more time, but she’s not sure she can let her heart trust again.

Straight-laced surgeon Taylor Roberts is tired of being teased about being eternally single by the other groomsmen. He makes a bet that he can get the beautiful maid of honor to date him before the wedding is over. The problem is, she can’t stand him! He promises he’ll give up his booth in the Maple Creek Fall Festival to her mom’s crystal shop if she’ll pretend to date him, an offer he knows she can’t pass up.

The longer Onyx is around Taylor the more she feels drawn to him, despite being his polar opposite. Can she continue the facade of dating him when her heart gets involved?

 

  

 

My Review: 3 Stars

 

I really a good opposites attract story and Onyx and Taylor are about at the most extreme ends as possible. An impulsive kiss leads to a fake relationship that was entertaining and sweet, and I'm a sucker for a relationship of convenience.

 

I loved the premise and idea of this story, but I didn't completely emotionally connect, and I think it's because I wanted it to be longer and more developed. That aside, there were some funny (albeit embarrassing) moments and some glimpses of swoon that left me wanting more.

 

I do enjoy the Maple Creek setting and it was fun to get a sight of familiar characters in this charming small town.

 

Content: mild romance; some potty-related humor 

Christmas in Love by Karen Thornell {Review}

Christmas in Love by Karen Thornell

Kindle Edition

Published December 5th 2020 

Source: Kindle Unlimited

 

 

 

A basement flood, a winter storm, and a little holiday magic (okay, maybe a lot) might be just what the doctor prescribed for Natalie and Cade.


Cade hasn't been home for the holidays for three years. Not since the Christmas he planned to propose to Natalie... before she dumped him. This year's Christmas gift? Having to see her again. Surprise!

Natalie is finally settling into a new town. Her bed and breakfast is up and running, she's in charge of the Christmas parade, and she has absolutely zero plans of cozying up to someone special this holiday season. They wouldn't want her anyway. Not with her baggage.

But when Cade shows up at Natalie's B&B, needing a place to stay, the pain of their past begs to be dealt with. Can her secret stay secret? And, more importantly, can her heart stay under lock and key?

Probably not.

 

   

 

My Review: 4 Stars

 

What are the chances of staying in your ex-girlfriend's B&B in a new, small town? It must be fate that brings Cade and Natalie together again after a series of unfortunate events, but this time, they (or I should say, she) might be ready to seal the deal. 

 

There's something so sweet about a second chance in a small town that warms my heart. Having grown up in a small town myself, I adored the traditions in this place. It felt like coming home to celebrate with these new friends and to watch a romance unfold before my very eyes.

Both Cade and Natalie are very likable characters and I was cheering them on, especially with the hiccups of their pasts. These are the types of characters who feel like friends and it was a treat to read it by the light of my Christmas tree.

Content: mild romance

Her Country Christmas Date by Ranee S. Clark {Review}

Her Country Christmas Date by Ranee S. Clark

Kindle Edition, 98 pages

Published December 1st 2019 by Sweetly Us 

Source: Kindle Freebie

 

    

 

Is ten days, twelve dates, and a little Christmas magic enough for happily ever after?

Dru North has far more substance than the party-boy reputation given to him by the media, which is why a quiet Christmas in Little is just what he needs. From the moment he meets Amber Miller, who’s staying across the hall, sparks fly, and a magical Christmas party leads to an impulsive kiss.

While Dru is eager to get to know Amber during the quiet vacation, she’s wary of his reputation and his riches. She challenges him to take her on twelve dates before she’ll consider their relationship anything more than a holiday fling—a feat given the fact that she’s only in town for ten days.

Amidst the big family holiday Dru has always dreamed of having, Amber finds herself trusting with every “date” that Dru isn’t the bad-boy she thought him to be. But his insistence that this can be more than a holiday fling has Amber worried about the future. Dru’s a famous country star with money to burn, and she’s just a teacher. Are their worlds too far apart for a happily ever after when the Christmas magic is over?

 

My Review: 4 Stars

 

Christmas magic is definitely in the air when country star, Dru, falls hard and fast for Amber, a girl with major trust issues. I get that people have challenges to overcome, but when a guy like Dru lands in your lap, I want those issues to suddenly disappear--just give the guy a chance! This is a guy who bends over backwards to win her over, but she's a hard sell. Amber, I'll take him if you don't want him, hah. I really wanted her to get over herself and let him in.

 

There's something so cozy and warm about a small town romance, especially set during the holiday season. I love how each date unwraps another layer to Dru's character and how he charms the reader, along with Amber. Obviously, Dru is my favorite and I want him to find true love and happiness. 

 

The characters and this setting bundled my heart right up, tight and snug. This is a fun little story for the Christmas season.

 

Content: mild romance 

Home Sweet Holiday (Holiday Harbor #2) by Michele Paige Holmes {Review}

Home Sweet Holiday (Holiday Harbor #2) by Michele Paige Holmes

Kindle Edition, 425 pages

Published September 22nd 2020 by Mirror Press 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given

 

 

Nearly four years have passed since Anna Lawrence fled her hometown the same day her best friends broke her heart and she was left at the altar. She’s hardly looked back since, while forging a new and solitary life in Seattle. When duty calls her home, she reluctantly returns to take care of the family store while her parents are away.

Eli Steiner is visiting his late great-grandfather’s estate in Holiday, Alabama, for the first and last time—to see the place he’s inherited and meet the other benefactor of his great-grandfather’s will before turning everything over to her. When the woman he meets is both the same, and very different, from the one in his grandfather’s letters, Eli’s intrigue leads him to stay longer, to uncover the mystery of Anna Lawrence and possibly heal her heart. 

 

  

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

This book isn't fluff. It's full of real-life problems, gut-wrenching heartache, and a journey to forgiveness, but this path is anything but easy. However, with as much as I love fluff, I enjoy a story with meat to it and this one delivered that full-course meaty meal, along with a side dish of a very sweet romance.

I would say to definitely read The Holiday Affair first. Anna was hurt deeply and badly and has let the bitterness fester for the last four years. With her dad's health on the line, she returns home and is slapped in the face with all kinds of memories and people, which forces her to take a big look inward and step onto a path she's not sure she's ready to take. Eli is a man whom she encounters before she even begins the process and while he's attractive, he's so opposite her and almost a thorn in her side at times, yet she just can't toss him aside. This man has had a very difficult past! But I absolutely adored the reason they were brought together when they were.

I love, love, loved this small, eccentric town and all the people who live there. Holmes does a great job of encompassing the ups and downs, successes and hardships, of such a life. She also writes these characters in ways that bring their personalities, struggles, and progresses to life, allowing the reader to feel like a secondary character, while feeling all the feels. 

The book did feel a tad bit long, but I thought it did a great job of bringing Anna full circle--in all the ways--and I loved it. 

Content: mild+ romance (kissing, talk of infidelity)

Taste of Memory (Spellbound in Hawthorne #1) by Maria Hoagland {Review}

Taste of Memory (Spellbound in Hawthorne #1) by Maria Hoagland

Kindle Edition

Published November 2020 by Red Leaves Press 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

 

 

 

A baker, a pyrotechnician, and a truly magical romance.
Sweet contemporary romance with a hint of magic.

Steeped in colonial history and small-town charm, Hawthorne, Massachusetts hides its secrets right out in the open. A town where Halloween has more witches than Disney princesses, no one actually believes the Covington family has magic, and yet certain things have community members wondering—like the scone flavored by memories.

Expert baker Keira Covington could use some of that family magic. If only it could be acquired like following the steps of a recipe: Take 1 great-great grandma with mystical powers, add 1 ceremony under a full moon, let simmer for 13 years, and kaboom, you’ve got special powers. If it were that easy, she wouldn’t have to stress that she’ll never get the chance to take over the café when her aunt retires. But burning half the customers’ orders and mixing up the other half seems like a terrible recipe for a successful business.

Riding his motorcycle on his bucket-list vacation, pyrotechnician Brant Whitbeck can’t seem to leave the charming small town of Hawthorne, Massachusetts. No, literally—the town won’t let him go. Not until he remembers what is truly important in life. The problem is he doesn’t have a single memory from his childhood.

When Keira stumbles upon an ancestor’s scone recipe, they start to recognize the chemistry between them, but when someone double-crosses Keira, their burgeoning romance explodes like a firecracker.

 

  

My Review: 5 Stars

 

I loved the combination of a pyrotechnician striking up a relationship with a baker. Brant and Keira are an unlikely match, yet their connection is electrifying and magical...and so much fun. The literal magic was what really made this story stand out. Keira finds an old family recipe for some pretty basic and bland scones, but what happens when she mixes up batch after batch is out of this world.

 

Memories are treasures in my life and it was fun to watch Brant remember his and open a connection to his past. I think having these memories strengthened his relationships. He's a smart and interesting character, while Keira is a joy. She's not perfect, which makes her relatable, and it was fun to laugh at her antics and mishaps.

 

This charming small town is the home of many quirky characters and I loved being a part of the holiday traditions that were rooted in their lives. It was enjoyable to experience Halloween, Thanksgiving, and the Christmas season with these residents, as well as dabble in magic and mystery, with a healthy dose of sweet romance. Hoagland has written a definite winner with this opening book in what is sure to be an exceptional series!

 

Content: mild romance 

Love, Lies and Mistletoe by D.E. Malone {Review}

  

Love, Lies and Mistletoe by D.E. Malone

Kindle Edition

Expected publication: October 30th 2020 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given 

   

One stolen kiss. A little Christmas magic. And the snowy inn where love stands a chance.

Interior designer Layla Dean can’t believe her good fortune at snagging the holiday decorating gig at Blueberry Point Lodge. And even though her fledgling business has a growing list of happy clients, her personal life isn’t filled with the same Christmas magic. She needs a man in her life like she does coal in her stocking. But tell that to Brant Johnsson.

Brant is known as the Twin Cities’ Master of Lights and Luminaria for good reason. His company oversees most of the downtown’s outdoor displays every season. But when a professional snag sends him reeling, he’s ready to quit the business. Until he runs into Layla again. Forgetting their awkward mistletoe kiss last year just isn’t possible, but she doesn’t share the pleasant memory. Now that they’re decking the halls together for the newly opened inn’s first Christmas, Brant hopes for a replay of their first encounter. And something more.

When a misdirected text message pairs them together for a fundraising event, Brant and Layla find they have more in common than just a flare for holiday decorating and one mistaken kiss. If Layla can overcome her sour first impression, Brant might get his very merry second chance.

My Review: 5 Stars

Can you imagine kissing the wrong person under the mistletoe? I would seriously wish for the floor to open up and swallow me whole. And that's not the only case of mistaken identity between Layla and Brant. Although Layla is quite frosty towards Brant, his warm charisma melts the ice...somewhat...and I adored this Hallmark-type of Christmas romance. 

Malone creates a darling story set during the holidays in Minnesota, but the warmth is better than a mug of steaming, sweet hot chocolate. I loved the small town feel, uncomfortable misunderstandings, and the oozing chemistry. The complementing businesses was the marshmallows on the mug, as Brant decorates with lights on the exterior, while Layla spruces things up on the interior. With the quirky, lovable side character Marybelle, awkward encounters, and the magical atmosphere of Christmastime, this one was a winner for me. 

Content: mild romance

Her Movie Star's Secret Plan {Maple Creek Brides #2) by Cindy Ray Hale

  

Her Movie Star's Secret Plan (Maple Creek Brides Sweet Romance #2) by Cindy Ray Hale

Kindle Edition

Publication: October 30th 2020 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given 

 

  

 

He has enough charm for Hollywood, but she’s not impressed. Can he win this baker’s heart?

Bakery owner Alexis Remington has had a crush on Owen Hadley since before he was a world-famous actor. When she finds out he’s going to be the best man in the wedding where she’s the maid of honor, she feels incredibly nervous. But her anxiety quickly turns to anger when she realizes her old crush is cutting into her bakery’s much-needed revenue with the competition he’s created by opening a restaurant with a pastry chef.

When movie star Owen Hadley returns to Maple Creek to be in his best friend’s high-profile celebrity wedding, he decides it time to fulfill his lifelong dream of opening a restaurant. And where better than in his hometown? What he wasn’t counting on was the beautiful maid of honor blaming him for her bakery’s demise. When he realizes he can’t charm himself out of this situation, he learns that the only way to thaw her heart is to take the mask off. But is it too late?

If you enjoy sweet romance set in a small town with swoony moments, then you’ll love this book!

My Review: 4 Stars

I love Maple Creek and I'm enjoying getting to know the different characters better through their individual stories. Alexis and Owen have known each other forever, but since he's become a big shot actor, there hasn't been much interaction. I love how the starstruck wonder wore off quickly as Alexis realized that deep down, Owen is still Owen. I also enjoyed the common goal these two shared with their dreams of running food-related businesses. And honestly, I was quite hungry after reading about a lot of their creations and offerings.

I always wanted a protective older brother and loved the way Chase was so over-the-top with his baby sister and best friend. Owen is the sweetest man alive and Alexis drove me batty with her waffling between allowing herself to feel and her determination to doom the relationship. There wasn't a lot of compromise and the tug-of-war between "I love you" and "I hate you" was strong, but the attraction was undeniable and ultimately, this sweet story won a well-deserved spot in my heart.

Content: mild romance

The Billionaire's (Not So) Fake Engagement by Kimberly Krey {Review}

 

The Billionaire's (Not So) Fake Engagement (Benton Brothers #5) by Kimberly Krey

Kindle Edition

Publication: October 15th 2020

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given

   

One little nod.

Just one simple nod under pressure and Burke found himself fake-engaged to a gorgeous country girl who needed a lift.

She cries about cats dying that aren't even hers.
She turns old furniture into beautiful pieces of art.
And she tells her aging grandpa that she's engaged so he'll stop hooking her up with odd guys who come through town.

The crazy thing is, Burke might actually be falling in love with her. 

My Review: 5 Stars

The cap on the Benton Brothers series has been placed and it's perfection! Burke is the half brother of the famous family and their acceptance of him is heartening, but what really grasped my heart was unique Justine and the way she lives in the moment and seizes the day, which was apparent from their very first encounter. This meet-cute had me laughing out loud, and things only got better from there. 

This fake engagement story set in a small town settled right into my heart--I laughed, I swooned, and even teared up. Both of these characters just want to find their place in life, and to love and be loved. Although their relationship was build on lies, omissions, and half-truths, the intent was pure and I couldn't get enough of the humor and swoon as this sweet story developed.

Ms. Krey does a great job of finalizing this series, tying it all together, while allowing this installment to stand alone. I love her ability to write a romance that's "clean without losing the steam" as these are my favorite kinds of love stories. I loved everything about this one!

Content: mild romance