Lady Celeste Reads Romance: Second chance at Love

Showing posts with label Second chance at Love. Show all posts

Wednesday, June 22, 2022

Susan's Review of Love Me Sweet by Cindy Kirk--Jackson Hole-- #11

Cinderella and Prince Charming don't only live happily ever after in fairy tales...

Sylvie Thorne doesn't consider herself a runaway fiancée. Okay, she did leave her fiancé, Dr. Andrew O'Shea, behind but logic told her it was for the best. She should have never accepted his ring. She was a struggling baker trying to rise above her humble beginnings and he was a Boston blueblood. It was obvious, at least to his family and friends, that they were an imperfect match.

When Sylvie bolted, she didn't leave a glass slipper for Andrew to find, only a simple text. She never expected him to follow her to Jackson Hole wanting closure.

Twenty-one days with Sylvie is all he asks. Three weeks for him to accept that they were never meant for happily ever after. Instead of proving how little they have in common, all the conversation and togetherness makes for a sweet reunion and has this prince-of-a-guy hoping fairy tales really can come true .

Sylvie Thorne Andrew O’Shea are featured in Cindy Kirk’s Love Me Sweet. I enjoyed this story of second chances and loved the author’s passionate descriptive voice.

Dr. Andrew O’Shea travels from Boston to Jackson Hole to seek out his former fiancé Sylvie Thorne. Andrew is devastated that Sylvie broke up with him via text and vanished into thin air. He can’t move forward until he understands why she ended their relationship. Loved the unusual plot twist—Andrew wants to immerse himself into Sylvie’s life to understand her. He hopes to find out that they are too different so he can move forward. The author does a fabulous job balancing the simmering passion between the couple, their need to be open and honest with each other and their need to belong.

Cindy Kirk is one of my go to authors because she creates captivating characters. Being together 24/7 worked for Sylvie and Andrew. Both of them were at an emotional crossroads –this drew me into their story. It was apparent that they cared deeply for each other—but was that enough to build a future? Loved the honest, often emotional conversations between the couple. Sylvie learned to trust Andrew and opened up to him about her childhood and her desire to belong, to be valued. Andrew understood that Sylvie expressed herself through her baking. Baking wasn’t a hobby for Sylvie—it was her passion. Andrew learned to trust Sylvie and he experienced a sense of freedom in Jackson Hole. He met other doctors in the community who shared his passion and he volunteered at a free clinic.

Love Me Sweet is an engaging, compelling second chance romance. Cindy Kirk writes a fabulous story for Sylvie and Andrew. Loved that both characters had the opportunity to become friends while their chemistry sizzled in the background. Loved that each chapter revealed a new clue, a new layer to their relationship. I rooted for this couple and wanted them to realize that their love for one and another was the icing on the cake!

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

Amazon purchase

Monday, February 28, 2022

Susan's Review of Someone Like You by Marie Force-- Wild Widows Novel-- #1

Roni

After I suddenly lose my husband, Patrick, in a senseless shooting, I’m lost in a sea of well-meaning people trying to make the unimaginable seem possible. How am I supposed to go on without the man who's been at the center of my life for nearly a decade? My friends and family do what they can for me, but I quickly realize that surviving this loss is going to be on me. One day to the next, I have to make the decision to go on, but life isn’t done throwing me ringers, and just when I think I’ve got this young widow game figured out, I find out how wrong I am.

When a friend of my sister’s connects me to the Wild Widows, I find a group of fellow travelers who understand my new reality in a way no one else in my life ever could. The Wild Widows have one requirement for membership to their group—I must be open to the possibility of a Chapter 2, which is what they call a second chance at love. While I’m not in any way looking for or ready for a Chapter 2, if I’ve learned anything it’s that I’m not in control of where this journey will take me.

Someone Like You is the first book in Marie Force’s Wild Widows series and believe me –it has ALL the feels. I was drawn to Roni Connolly when Lt. Sam Holland told her that her husband, Patrick, was killed by a stray bullet in Fatal Reckoning. Sam’s friendship is a lifeline for Roni and I wanted to read her story.

Patrick and Roni had been together for 10 years and married for a few months when he died. Roni’s struggle to accept Patrick’s death is perfectly written. She feels his presence in their apartment and dreams of him and she can’t sleep or eat.

Roni accepts an invitation to join a support group called the Wild Widows. The Widows offer Roni emotional support, guidance and friendship. They have walked in Roni’s shoes and understand that acceptance isn’t something that happens on a timetable and that each widow’s journey towards their new life is different. Wild Widows Iris and Brielle were honest, compassionate and supportive to Roni and I loved that the Wild Widows had a caveat—each member had to be open to a Chapter 2—a second chance at love.

Loved that Roni was a strong person, acknowledged her struggle and reached out to the Wild Widows for help, advice and comfort. The storyline in Someone Like You is outstanding—all the feels and several amazing twists and turns. The supporting characters in this novel added a lot of depth and compassion to the story—Roni’s parents and sisters, her in-laws and the Wild Widows had significant roles in her journey.

Someone Like You will grab at your heartstrings—it’s an absorbing, emotional read filled with friendship, love and most of all HOPE. Fans of Kristin Hannah, Robyn Carr and Kristan Higgins will adore this novel.

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

Book purchased through Marie Force's store.

Tuesday, January 11, 2022

Susan's Review of Cindy Kirk's All The Right Reasons-- Jackson Hole Series --#7

When a good girl ignores the rules, crazy things can happen…

Social worker Poppy Westover had once been an incurable romantic. Cheated on by her ex and now, divorced at thirty-four, she’s determined to live her life by the book. She may deviate on some smaller points, but one rule is absolute. She will not get involved with another doctor. One was more than enough.

Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Benedict Campbell isn’t looking for anything serious. He’s intrigued by Poppy and the tension that fills the air whenever they’re together.

Spontaneity isn’t in either of their vocabularies, but the heat between them is too strong. One evening they give in to the attraction, but only after setting up a few ground rules. When it’s done, they walk away and never speak of the night again.

But never speaking of it again becomes hard to do when there's a baby on the way.

Cindy Kirk returns to Jackson Hole, Wyoming for this captivating story of second chances.

The pairing of social worker Poppy Westover and Dr. Benedict Campbell surprised me. Ben is an extremely busy surgeon and has been linked to several woman throughout this series—none of the relationships panned out. Poppy returned to Jackson Hole after a painful divorce and was rebuilding her career and was starting to socialize with her friends. The intense sexual attraction between the couple drew me into the story immediately.

Both Ben and Poppy have trust and commitment issues. Cindy Kirk writes a compelling story for this couple. Ben and Poppy are allowed time to explore their friendship and own their feelings for one and other. Poppy can’t help but compare Ben with her former husband. Both men are charming, confident surgeons who adhere to schedules and are used to getting what they desire. The similarities are too much for Poppy in the beginning of the relationship and haunt her throughout the story. Ben has trust issues and isn’t sure he can fully commit to a relationship.

Cindy Kirk weaves several themes -- families and their expectations, infidelity, infertility and freedom of choice-throughout the novel. She is able to incorporate these themes into Ben and Poppy’s story effortlessly. I could relate to the push-pull of the romance because with each chapter the couple shared more with each other.Their conversations were filled with honestly, anguish and heartbreak… so very relatable.

I adore Cindy Kirk’s voice – her characters are multi-faceted and her well-plotted stories are filled with compelling issues Ben and Poppy’s journey was passionate, emotional and so very rewarding. Am looking forward to the next Jackson Hole story.

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

ARC provided by the Author

Thursday, January 6, 2022

Susan's Review of Last Dance With A Cowboy-Silverado Lake --# 3

Can this wandering cowboy convince his first love that he deserves a second chance?

Leila Valentino will do anything to keep her grandparents’ Colorado winery afloat. Even partner with August Harding, the first—and last—man to break her heart. Fifteen years ago, August left Silverado Lake, and Leila, far behind. Now the cowboy’s back with an offer that could save her family’s business. But to keep her grandparents from worrying over the vineyard’s finances, Leila insists August give a different reason for his return: her.

August Harding is one step away from a huge promotion. All he has to do is ensure that his company acquires Valentino Bellas Vineyards. And if pretending he and Leila are back together is the cost . . . well, he can’t say no. Leila has never forgiven him for the way he ended things, but the longer they pretend to be a couple, the more he begins to wonder if a second chance isn’t impossible after all. But can he convince Leila that this time he’s not walking away?

I enjoyed Sara Richardson’s One Night With A Cowboy, the second book in the Silverado Lake series. It was one of my favorite reads in 2021. The Harding family dynamics, the gorgeous setting and the close knit community of Silverado Lake appealed to me. Last Dance with A Cowboy is the third book in the series—it’s August Harding’s story. Enjoyed every word in this well- plotted character driven novel!

Leila Valentino realizes that her family’s vineyard is on the verge of declaring bankruptcy. She reaches out to Kingston Wineries and brokers a secret deal with them. She has 3 months to increase the wineries profit margin or Kingston takes over. Leila’s family loyalty and determination to succeed made her a likeable, relatable character.

Auggie Harding is handsome cowboy who is not afraid of using his good looks and charming personality to climb the corporate ladder at Kingston Wineries. He has brokered many acquisitions for the company and views it as a game—a role to play. Forrest Kingston dangles a huge promotion in front of August to supervise the vineyard takeover - knowing that Auggie and Leila have a history.

Sara Richardson choice to reunite Auggie and Leila worked for me. Fifteen years have passed since they went their separate ways but, the chemistry between the couple bubbled like a glass of champagne. Ms. Richardson is able to blend emotion, conflict and passion perfectly in this novel. I was drawn to their story—the history, the passion, the love for the ranch and the vineyard- and rooted for Auggie and Leila.

The secondary characters add depth and humor to the storyline. I adored Nonna and Poppa—their love for each other, their family, friends and vineyard is the cornerstone of the novel. I was glad to catch up with Ryan, one of my favorite characters from One Night With A Cowboy, and to meet Leila’s brother Sam. I am hoping Sam will be featured in an upcoming book.

Last Dance With A Cowboy has all of the story elements I look for in a novel- dynamic characters, descriptive prose, conflict and romance. Auggie and Leila’s story will tug at your heartstrings-- the themes of forgiveness, acceptance and love are woven perfectly throughout this novel.

If you enjoy novels by RaeAnne Thayne, Cindy Kirk and Robyn Carr—than this is the book for you!

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

Book provided by Forever

Wednesday, December 1, 2021

No Ordinary Christmas by Belle Calhoune **** Mistletoe, Maine 1

The quaint New England town of Mistletoe is thrilled to welcome back one of their own, Dante West. Now a famous Hollywood action star, Dante is filming a movie in town to help the local economy, as well as make amends with the people he hurt when he abruptly left Mistletoe all those years ago.

Librarian Lucy Marshall isn't thrilled to see Dante. He was once her best friend and first love until he left her behind without a word of goodbye. When Dante makes her an offer she can't refuse -- use of the library as a filming venue in exchange for a lucrative donation, Lucy finds herself spending a lot of time in Dante's company. With the magic of Christmas in the air, Dante and Lucy begin to forge a new bond. But can two people leading such different lives find lasting love the second time around?

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Belle Calhoune's No Ordinary Christmas takes place in Mistletoe, Maine during the holiday season. It’s the BEST second chance romance that I have read all year! I loved the small town setting, the storyline and characters.

Head librarian Lucy Marshall is drawn to the scene taking place on the town square in front of the library. Everyone in Mistletoe has gathered to see Dante West, the hometown hero who is a movie star. Everyone but Lucy. Dante broke Lucy’s heart when he left town without saying a word. She’s held onto her anger and can’t seem to move forward.

Love the author’s voice and that she is able to describe each one of the characters so vividly. She is able to portray Lucy’s feelings so the reader feels compassion, not pity for her. Dante wants to make things right with his brother Troy and Lucy. Dante was not perfect and his actions hurt his family and Lucy. Dante’s determination to make things right won me over.

Loved the secondary characters. Lucy’s sisters Stella and Tess (she’s a hoot!) are an integral part of the story as they offer emotional support to her. I liked that the sisters were close and that they wanted to protect Lucy. Tess’s scene stealing added lots of laughter to the storyline. Dante’s best friend Nick and his son Miles tugged at my heartstrings and I am hoping to read their story very soon.

The chemistry between Lucy and Dante still sizzles after eight years. Belle Calhoune writes an exceptional story for this couple – their journey is not easy and it’s filled with a mix of emotion, heartache and passion. No Ordinary Christmas has it all- a determined hero, a stubborn heroine, great secondary characters and the perfect blend of romance and conflict.

I highly recommend No Ordinary Christmas-- it is an engaging story of compassion and the capacity to forgive--hallmarks of the holiday season.

Monday, November 1, 2021

Susan's Review of Home for the Holly Days by Cindy Kirk-Holly Pointe Series

A model who lost the limelight. A hockey star benched from the game. Will a small-town Christmas celebration reveal a most unexpected gift?

Going “Holly” Wood isn’t what America’s sweetheart, Krista Ankrom, had in mind when she made her annual Christmas trip to Holly Pointe, Vermont. Frustrated after losing another job to a younger rival, and fearing she’s walked her last runway, she’s hoping the happy site of her childhood Christmas pasts will be the perfect hideaway. But when asked to team up with NHL superstar Dustin Bellamy to save the town’s weeklong holiday celebration, how could she say no?

Dustin Bellamy is devastated that his days on the ice could be over. Needing distraction after suffering a career-ending injury, he agrees to be the celebrity host for his hometown’s Christmas celebration. But when his beautiful co-star—and former high school sweetheart, Krista Ankrom--shines a light into his bleak world, he worries his jingling emotions will distract him from his next professional move.

Beneath a sky of softly falling show and twinkling lights aglow, will Krista and Dustin share a yuletide fling? Or will the magic of the season bring them the real thing?

Cindy Kirk’s Home for the Holly Days is a heartfelt novel of second chances. Dustin Bellamy and Krista Ankrom’s families next door to rented cabins each other during the Holly Point holiday season for many years. Dustin and Krista are given a second chance to explore their feelings towards each other. Their story takes place during the town’s annual Holly Days festival where all things Christmas are celebrated!

After losing an important account, Krista and her friend Desz Presley decide to escape the glitz and glamour of New Your City to spend Christmas in Holly Pointe, Vermont. Krista describes Holly Pointe to Desz as “A picture postcard of how life can be.” Krista understands that she needs to make a career pivot and a visit to Holly Pointe will give her the time and space to plan her next step.

Dustin Bellamy has spent 20 years pursuing an NHL career. He lives and breathes hockey; he can’t imagine life without competing. An injury has forced him to sit out the season and may have ended his career. He’s returned to Holly Pointe to regroup and come up with a plan.

Loved that Dustin and Krista decided to work together to help promote the Happy Holly Days festival. Loved the interaction between the fans and Dustin and Krista and that the couple enjoyed working together. They realized that their presence drew people to the festival and that helped the crafters and artisans sells their work. Loved that the couple embraced the holiday spirit and enjoyed the winter activities.

The romance between Krista and Dustin is perfectly paced. Cindy Kirk creates characters that engage and intrigue me. As the Holly Days ambassadors, Krista and Dustin are trending on social media. But, that’s on the surface; as behind the scenes they are falling in love while dealing with huge career path decision. Krista and Dustin approach their career pivot differently; Krista thought process is logical while Dustin’s approach is emotional. Dustin offered support to Krista when he was having a hard time deciding on his future; he was torn and is being influenced by others. Cindy Kirk does not shy away from conflict between her characters—this added a lot of emotion to the story line. Loved the secondary character of Desz as she immersed herself in the Holly Days celebration and offered friendship and support to Krista. I hope to read her story soon!

The town of Holly Pointe embodies the true Christmas spirit- the sense of a community coming together to bring joy and the Christmas spirit to all. I adored this novel and can’t wait for the next Holly Pointe book from Cindy Kirk.

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

Book purchased on Amazn

Check out my reviews the Holly Pointe series:

Holly Pointe and Mistletoe

Holly Pointe and Candy Canes

Monday, October 11, 2021

Susan's Review of The Christmas Village by Annie Rains--Somerset Lake -2

Lucy Hannigan has inherited her mother's bulldog, Bella, and her childhood home, the only pink house on Gingerbread Lane. With the holidays coming up, the pressure is on to decorate the house for the annual lights competition and maintain her parent's winning streak. But Lucy already has her hands full as a midwife and a new landlord-to her ex-fiance.

When Miles Bruno is suddenly asked to move out of his rental home, he's grateful to Lucy for taking him on as a tenant. But their broken-off engagement doesn't make it easy to live next door. Sparks still fly between them, and he'd give anything to get back in Lucy's good graces. But to do that will take much more than just tree trimming and house decorating and contest winning. Will one wildly grand romantic gesture on Christmas Eve finally soften her heart?

Annie Rains creates a heartwarming second chance story set during the season of love, hope and forgiveness. The unresolved feelings and the undeniable chemistry between midwife Lucy Hannigan and police officer Miles Bruno immediately drew me into The Christmas Village.

Lucy and Miles’ story is emotional and very complicated. Lucy never understood why Miles broke up with her ten years ago and Miles has never stopped loving Lucy. Neither of them were able to move forward. I enjoyed that the author added drama to this holiday romance--it kept me engaged in the story.

Miles realizes that Lucy is still grieving for her Mom and is struggling both emotionally and financially. He has two goals: to make sure Lucy isn’t alone during the holidays and to win the neighborhood’s Merriest Lawn contest which offers a cash prize. Loved that Miles’ competitive spirit and his enthusiasm enabled Lucy to face the holidays with a smile.

Loved how Lucy and Miles story developed during the novel. Both Lucy and Miles are complex, strong characters. Lucy is building her midwife practice, re connecting with friends and has set a goal to be out of debt by the New Year. Miles childhood experiences play a huge part in his desire to help his community and be financially stable. Miles is a charming romantic –he’s a swoon worthy hero! I loved that he owned his mistakes— this made me love him all the more! Loved that the couple shared a romantic past and Annie Rains is able to convey all the feels-heartbreak, love, forgiveness-as the couple's story unfolds.

Annie Rains has created the perfect small town and filled it with wonderful characters. I loved the small town feel and the sense of community in the Somerset Lake series. I imagined that I was watching the holiday flotilla with Lucy, Miles and their friends. I could see the bright lights and festive displays on Lucy’s street. Loved the honest conversations and the strong bonds between Lucy, Moira, Della, Trisha and Tess. Miles love for his family and his community shows each time he speaks with his mom, sister and the children who spent time at the Youth Center. The two secondary stories added a bit of mystery to this story and introduced new characters to the Somerset Lake community.

If you are looking for a heartfelt holiday romance – pick up a copy of the Christmas Village. Grab a mug of hot chocolate and enjoy!

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

ARC provided by the Publisher

Monday, March 8, 2021

Susan's Review of Dream A Little Dream by Melinda Curtis -Sunshine Valley Series-- #3

A small-town judge meets her match in a rodeo star troublemaker, but soon they may both end up targets of the town's matchmakers in this delightful and heartwarming tale of romance.

Darcy Jones Harper is thrilled to have finally shed her reputation as the girl from the wrong side of the tracks. The people of Sunshine Valley have to respect her now that she’s the new town judge. But when the bad boy who broke her heart back in high school shows up in her courtroom, she realizes maybe things haven’t changed so much after all . . . because her pulse still races at the sight of him.

Jason Petrie wants to make amends for the mistakes of his youth—starting with the woman he never stopped loving. Darcy may not believe that he really intends to quit the bull riding circuit and stick around this time but Jason vows—with the help of the matchmaking Widows Club—to pull out all the stops to convince her that they both deserve a second chance.

Dream A Little Dream by Melinda Curtis is an engaging, small town romance. I loved the characters, the conflict and the author’s voice.

Melinda Curtis has created a great group of characters—the matchmaking Widows Club. These ladies are awesome and their schemes are filled with so much laughter and love—you can’t put down this book!

The Widows Club have decided to reunite Darcy Jones Harper and Jason Petrie. Darcy Jones Harper is doing her best to put her troubled childhood in the past, coping with widowhood and being named interim county judge. Darcy has very little experience practicing law and faces an uphill battle each time she enters the courtroom. Melinda Curtis conveys Darcy’s feelings perfectly. I could connect with her feelings of self-doubt and loved how she emerged from her cocoon.

Jason Petrie is at a crossroads-he’s recovering from an injury and desperately wants a second chance with Darcy. Jason is determined to win Darcy back and he enlists the Widows Club to help him. Melinda Curtis does a fabulous job fleshing out the secondary characters of Iggy and Ken; Jason’s friend and manager. Loved the well written video scenes with Jason, Iggy and Bitsy—these pages are filled with emotion, witty dialogue and provide insight into the characters.

Melinda Curtis is a new-to-me author. Loved the chemistry between Darcy and Jason, their romantic journey and the small town atmosphere. Dream A Little Dream is well written, the characters are engaging and the story is heartwarming. I am looking forward to the next story in this series!

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

ARC provided by the publisher

Author Photo credit Sharon Ella

Melinda Curtis is the USA Today bestselling author of light-hearted contemporary romance. In addition to her Sunshine Valley series from Forever, she's published independently and with Harlequin Heartwarming, including her book Dandelion Wishes, which is currently being made into a TV movie.

She lives in California's hot central valley with her hot husband—her basketball-playing college sweetheart. While raising three kids, the couple did the soccer thing, the karate thing, the dance thing, the Little League thing and, of course, the basketball thing.

Between books, Melinda spends time with her husband remodeling their home by swinging a hammer, grouting tile, and wielding a paintbrush with other family members.

Learn more about Dream a Little Dream and read an excerpt HERE!

Thursday, February 4, 2021

Susan's Review of What I like About You by Claire Hastings --Indigo Royal Resorts--3

Dalton “Tripp” Sutherland fully realizes just how badly he screwed up ten years ago, resulting in the loss of the best friend he ever had – the incomparable Zara Wellington. From the outside looking in, it may appear that he’s living his best life, spending his days sailing and being the resort playboy, but deep down he’s still haunted by the unforgivable words he uttered that night in high school. If only he had a chance to prove to her that he didn’t mean what he’d said.

Life for Zara Wellington is pretty amazing. As creator and lady-boss behind the top beauty blog on the internet, she gets to travel the world trying out new spas and is even on the verge of having her journalistic dreams come true. Even though she still carries around her life-long insecurities about her weight, it’s rare that she ever thinks about that night she overheard the unimaginable come from the only person she thought ever really cared for her – her best friend Tripp.

But when Zara shows up at the Indigo Royal Resort to review the brand new Cherish Spa, the two come face to face for the first time in ten years. Can they manage to get past everything from that night all those years ago and the painful feelings that still linger, or is the damage done forever?

Claire Hastings’ What I Like About You is a novel of second chances. The chemistry, emotional dialogue and the romance between Dalton and Zara drew me into the novel instantly.

I have been waiting for the swoony Dalton to meet his match and the author did not disappoint! Sexy, charming and handsome best describe Dalton. He left behind a lucrative job in Atlanta for the carefree island life. Sparks ignite when he ran into Zara Wellington, his childhood friend, at the resort. Their meeting is awkward at best because Dalton and Zara have not spoken to each other in ten years.

Zara is a successful lifestyle blogger with a huge following She’s been invited to Indigo Royale to review her experience at the resorts new spa. Zara has worked hard to create her beauty blog and her efforts are being recognized-she has a chance at her own tv show. Her review could make or break the spa.

Claire Hastings writes a fantastic story for this couple. In order to understand the emotional depth of Zara and Dalton’s breakup, she uses flashback scenes. These scenes show how much the couple cared for each other and the event that shattered their friendship. The author takes a bold step by portraying Dalton-everyone’s best friend- in a bad light. As the novel unfolds, Dalton is given a chance to redeem himself. Forgiveness and honesty are huge themes in this story of second chances. Loved all of the secondary characters-especially Zara’s best friend Antwan! Loved the laugh out loud conversations between Zara and Antwan. The well-paced engaging storyline blended romance, secrets and drama perfectly.

Kudos to Claire Hastings for writing an emotional second chance story for Dalton Sutherland and Zara Wellington!

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

ARC provided by the Author

Claire Hastings is a walking, talking awkward moment. She loves Diet Coke, gummi bears, the beach, and books (obvs). When not reading she can usually be found hanging with friends at a soccer match or grabbing food (although she probably still has a book in her purse). She and her husband Drew live in Atlanta with their fur-child Denali.

Click HERE to Visit Claire's website

Sign Up for Claire’s Newsletter HERE!

Find Claire on Facebook HERE, Goodreads HERE, Instagram HERE and her Facebook Reader page HERE!!

Tuesday, January 26, 2021

Susan's Review of Make Mine A Cowboy-- by A. J. Pine Meadow Valley #2

Dr. Charlotte North has no time for a player, not even one as tempting as Ben Callahan. Besides, Charlotte is only in Meadow Valley for a few months to help her grandmother. After that, it's back to New York and the career she loves. But when her gram starts to meddle in her personal life, Charlotte knows just the man to help her out. Ben's the perfect no-strings boyfriend, until Charlotte discovers that beneath that rugged, charming exterior lies a sweet and bighearted cowboy.

Ben Callahan is tired of people assuming he's an immature playboy, so when the smart and sexy Charlotte asks him to be her pretend boyfriend, he jumps at the chance to show everyone that he's changed his ways. Though he and Charlotte are calling their relationship fake, Ben's heart says otherwise. Two months with Charlotte isn't nearly enough. Will Ben be able to prove he's worthy of her for real before their time together is up, or will she leave Meadow Valley---and him---forever?

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Make Mine A Cowboy is a heart- warming novel of second chances. I loved the characters and their second chance romance.

I adored the charming, handsome Ben Callahan from the first page of the novel. Six months ago, he was misdiagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s. Ben kept the devastating news to himself and decided to enjoy life, beer and woman.

Dr. Charlotte North works in an extremely busy pediatrician’s office in New York City. She is consumed by her job and responsibilities and has no social life. I could relate to Charlotte and understood her work ethic and work pressures. Charlotte’s return to Meadow Valley to help her injured Grandmother run the inn provides Ben with a second chance with Charlotte.

I loved how the author blended light hearted dialogue and emotional drama in this story. Loved that Gram Pearl played the role of matchmaker for her granddaughter. Gram wanted Charlotte to have a home, friends and family. Ben endeared himself to me when he took Charlotte out on their first date – a picnic under the stars— so very romantic. Loved the chemistry between this couple and their romance and that Ben put himself out there made his feelings about Charlotte clear!

Make Mine A Cowboy is a perfect winter read! Ben-the swoony hero will capture your heart as he tries to win over the determined Dr. North. Grab a mug of tea and enjoy this story!

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

ARC provided by the publisher

Friday, November 13, 2020

Susan's Review of Forever With You by Barb Curtis (Sapphire Springs #1)

From debut author, Barb Curtis, a heartwarming small-town romance about high school sweethearts who return home and discover that first love sometimes gets a second chance. . .

Jay Wynter wants to be successful on his own merit. That's why he left Sapphire Springs and his family's winery to build a career from scratch. But now that he's successor to Wynter Estate, Jay must return to his small hometown to face everything, and everyone, he left behind-especially his high school sweetheart, who happens to be his stunning new business partner . . .

Leyna Milan knows family legacies come with strings attached, but she's determined to prove that she can run her family's restaurant. Of course, Leyna never expected that honoring her grandfather's wishes meant opening a second location on her ex's property-or having to ignore Jay's sexy grin and guard the heart he shattered years before. But as they work closely together, she begins to discover that maybe first loves deserve a second chance .

Forever with You is an engaging second chance love story set in the Niagara Falls wine country. I was intrigued by the second chance romance between vintner Jason “Jay” Wynter and restaurateur Leyna Milan and adored this dynamic couple.

The friendship between Stefan Wynter and his best friend Joe Leone plays a central role in Forever With You. Prior to Joe’s passing, they had committed to building a restaurant at Wynter Estates, the family’s vineyard. These plans put their grandchildren; former high school sweethearts Jason Wynter and Leyna Milan in an uneasy partnership. Jay has plans to for the property-he envisions growing grapes for syrah wine while Leyna wants to focus on Rosalia’s, the family’s Italian bistro.

Loved the author’s descriptive writing and dialogue! I could feel the joy and excitement in Jay’s voice when he spoke of his love for the vineyard—the soil, vines, grapes and his crew. He was immersed in his work and enjoyed every aspect of the winemaking process. Layna’s mission is to keep her family’s business out of debt. I could hear the worry in her voice when she realized that her financially responsible grandfather left her with outstanding bills. Loved the friendship between Leyna and her friend Emily—their conversations shared over Emily’s cupcakes were honest, poignant and funny.

The author effortlessly blends the romance between Jason and Leyna with family and business intrigue. The chemistry between Jay and Layna bubbled up immediately. I enjoyed reading their perfectly paced slow burn romance. I loved that the author included wine making process thread through the novel. Barb Curtis created fabulous secondary characters-Emily, Tim, Danielle, Cass and Mark- each one added to the storyline.

I highly recommend Forever With You by Barb Curtis!!! It has all the feels- an engaging couple, gorgeous setting and a heartfelt second chance at love. I can’t wait for the next book in the Sapphire Springs series!!

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

ARC provided by the publisher

A happily-ever-after-crafter at heart, Barb Curtis’ love for writing began with a quick-witted style column, and her background in marketing led to stints writing print and web copy, newsletters, and grant proposals. The switch to fiction came with the decision to pair her creativity with her love for words, and crafting characters and settings she could truly get lost in. Barb happily lives in a bubble in rural New Brunswick with her husband, daughter, and dog. You’ll find her restoring the century-old family homestead, weeding the garden, and no doubt whistling the same song all day long.

Wednesday, September 9, 2020

Susan's Review of Tempted by Love--Melissa Foster-Steeles of Silver Island Book 1

Years ago, bestselling author Jack “Jock” Steele lost his girlfriend and baby in a horrific accident that drove a wedge between Jock and his family, keeping him from sharing a devastating secret. An aging philanthropist saved him from the brink of despair, and for a decade Jock cared for his ailing friend who became his family. Now his friend has passed away and left him a fortune—on the condition that he publishes another book. Jock is floundering, unsure how to rebuild the life he’d walked away from, much less find his muse, have another relationship with a woman, or even think about having a family of his own. But he can’t get his sweet, sexy new friend, single-mother Daphne Zablonski out of his head, and her adorable toddler must know something he doesn’t, because she wraps her tiny fingers around his heart and won’t let go.

Daphne has been through the wringer with her ex-husband and doesn’t believe true love is in the cards for her. Friends she can handle, but letting a man see her mom bod naked? Especially someone as strikingly handsome and unbelievably sexy as Jock? No, thank you. Besides, she has a toddler to chase after and enough fictional boyfriends to fill her lonely nights. If only her book boyfriends could make her body tingle the way one look from her mysterious neighbor does.

As Jock and Daphne’s friendship turns to something too tempting to deny, their lives take an unexpected turn. Can a man who has lost everything find redemption with a woman who has everything to lose? And then there’s that secret…

Melissa Foster pairs single mom Daphne Zablonski and enigmatic author Jock Steele in Tempted by Love.

There is so much to love about Daphne and Jock— their off the charts chemistry, conversations filled with laughter, emotion and honesty and the unconditional love of a small child. I love that Jock “gets” Daphne—he adores her sweet personality and sense of humor, and appreciates her curves. Most of all, he understands that Daphne is devoted to her daughter Hadley. Jock knows they are a package deal and he needs to step up his game to win them over.

Daphne is an intelligent, compassionate woman who is trying her best to focus on her child, career and friends. Daphne’s happily ever after was shattered when her ex-husband decided that children weren’t part of his plan. I loved that Daphne was a strong, centered character who put her event planning career on hold to move home to be with her family after Hadley was born.

Jock and Daphne’s story is heartbreaking at times. They have a lot of challenges and both characters needed each other’s strengths to move forward. Loved that Hadley stole so many scenes and that she loved Jock with her whole heart as this added humor and compassion to the storyline.

Melissa Foster perfectly blends emotion, angst and passion in this engaging novel of second chances.

I highly recommend Tempted by Love and look forward to the next Silver Island novel.

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

ARC provided by the author

Melissa Foster is a New York Times & USA Today bestselling and award-winning author. She writes sexy and heartwarming contemporary romance and new adult romance with emotionally compelling characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page. Melissa’s emotional journeys are lovingly erotic and always family oriented–perfect beach reads for contemporary romance lovers who enjoy reading about wealthy heroes and smart, sassy heroines.

Saturday, August 1, 2020

Susan's Review of Searching for Love-Melissa Foster

Zev Braden and Carly Dylan were co-explorers, best friends, and first loves. Their close-knit families were sure they were destined to marry—until a devastating tragedy struck, breaking the two lovers apart.
Over the next decade Zev, a nomadic treasure hunter, rarely returned to his hometown, and Carly became a chocolatier and built a whole new life across the country.
When a chance encounter brings them back into each other’s lives, can they find the true love that once existed, or will shattered dreams and broken hearts prevail?
Find out in Searching for Love, a deliciously sexy, funny, and emotional second-chance romance.

Can you ever forget your first love?

Zev Braden is back---Is Carly Dylan over him??

Searching for Love is the perfect second chance at love story. It’s brimming with emotions; heartache, fear, compassion and most of all love. Melissa Foster balances the couple’s sweet memories of their childhood friendship and romance with their present day love affair. Their One-Day list and love for adventure drew me into the story.

Carly and Zev’s story is deeply moving; the tragic death of a friend devastated the couple. Zev was unable to deal with the loss. He broke up with Carly and left town. Carly and Zev get their second chance when they run into each other at Zev’s brother’s wedding. Zev realizes that Carly has changed. He notices that Carly is no longer the confident, adventurous girl he remembered and wonders what happened to her dreams and sense of adventure.

For the past ten years, Zev has been searching for treasure, adventure and challenges. Loved the honest, candid discussion between Zev and his father; it is an important turning point in the novel. His father reminds Zev to forgive himself and then ask for Carly’s understanding. Zev is determined to find out if Carly has feelings for him. He turns on the Braden charm on full speed and send her gifts, leaves her messages taped to her car and takes her on a very, very romantic date. He has another surprise for Carly. Zev had discovered the wreck of the Pride near Silver Island in Massachusetts before he came to Colorado. Zev and Carly dreamed about the Pride and its treasure when they were younger.

Zev took Carly to Noah’s lab to work on the concretions because she became an important part of the discovery. I wanted Carly to take a leap of faith and trust Zev—trust in their love. With a little help from Birdie, Zev was able to surprise Carly and take her on a whirlwind trip to his boat in Massachusetts. The secondary characters of Birdie, Quinn, Cutter and Cowboy added to the storyline—I adored Birdie and her shopping sprees for Carly!

Loved that Melissa Foster made the couple dig deep and fight for their love story. Events have changed both characters. Zev has spent ten years searching for treasures beneath the sea while Carly has built a life filled with friends and a business she loves. Is the couple’s chemistry enough to overcome the obstacles that face them?

Searching for Love is fabulous summer read! Grab a glass of wine and some truffles and settle in for a fantastic read—you will enjoy every page of this book!

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

ARC provided by the author

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