Susan's Review of The Summer Cottage by Annie Rains

This summer, they'll learn that home is where the heart is.

Somerset Lake is the perfect place for Trisha Langly and her son to start over. As the new manager for the Somerset Cottages, Trisha is instantly charmed by the property's elderly residents and her firecracker of a new boss, Vi Fletcher. But Trisha is less enchanted by Vi's protective grandson Jake. No matter how tempting she finds the handsome lawyer, Trisha knows that if Jake discovers the truth about her past, she'll lose the new life she's worked so hard to build.

Jake Fletcher left Somerset Lake after a tragic loss, but he's returning for the summer to care for his beloved grandmother, hoping Vi will sell the run-down cottages and finally slow down. There's just one problem: Trisha, Vi's new employee. She's smart, beautiful, and kind, but Jake's job is to protect his grandmother's interests, and his gut is telling him Trisha's hiding something that could jeopardize Vi's future. However, as they spend summer days renovating the property and bonding over their love for the town, Jake realizes that Trisha is a risk worth taking--if only she can trust him with her secrets . . . and her heart.

Annie Rains is one of my favorite authors. Her compelling characters, their stories, and descriptive voice me into her stories. Ms. Rains crafts a fabulous story for Trisha Langly and Jake Fletcher. Loved the plot premise- Trisha has been hired by Jake’s grandmother to oversee her rental cottages while Jake’s parents have asked him to convince his grandmother to sell the properties.

Grandmother Vi has asked them to work together to bring the cottages back to life. The chemistry simmered between Jake and Trisha as they worked side by side renovating the cottages, spent time with Trisha’s son Petey and attended community events. The couple’s slow burn romance was perfectly paced- loved reading how their friendship became so much more.

Love Annie Rains’ descriptive voice. I could picture Jake and Trisha sitting on the dock watching the sunset over Somerset Lake. I could hear Petey asking Jake a zillion questions about fishing, camping and flying. Loved the chapter where Trisha attended Tess’s book club. Trisha expected to be part of a book discussion—she left being part of a circle of supportive friends.

The Summer Cottage pulled at my heartstrings because Trisha made a difficult choice to move from Sweetwater Springs to Somerset Lake. She realized that she and Petey needed a fresh start. I loved the themes of honesty, forgiveness and hope in the novel. Family, home and community were important to Trisha and Jake—this made the book a 5 star read for me!

I adored the author’s Sweetwater Springs series. I am glad I joined Trisha and Petey in Somerset Lake! Loved the characters of Vi, Mr. S, Della Rose and Lucy and can’t wait to read more about them!

I highly recommend The Summer Cottage-- It’s a beautifully written small town romance filled with love, family drama and fantastic characters. Kick off your flip flops, grab a glass of wine and settle in for a heartfelt, sweet romance at Somerset Lake!

Reviewed by Susan Gorman
ARC from the publisher

Interview with Annie Rains

Susan: The Summer Cottage features Trisha and Petey Langley who were featured in the last Sweetwater Springs novel Reunited on Dragonfly Lane. Why did you choose Trisha and Petey to cross over to the new series?

Annie Rains: To be honest, characters sometimes just show up and demand to have their stories told. That’s what Trisha did. I didn’t know quite yet that my Sweetwater Springs series was over when she took her place as Sophie’s best friend in Reunited on Dragonfly Lane. Trisha’s move from Sweetwater Springs to Somerset Lake seemed like a natural next step for her at the end of book 7, and for me as well. It felt serendipitous in a way.

Susan: I loved getting to know Trisha and Petey and seeing them settle into Somerset Lake. I enjoyed reading about their journey—the road towards healing, trust and acceptance was not easy. The themes give the reader so much to think about. Was it difficult to write their story?

Annie Rains: Actually, I felt like Trisha’s and Petey’s story came very easy for me. I think everyone at some point in their lives has kept an aspect of their life hidden for fear of rejection from others, whether it be where you live, what you do, or what’s going on in your home life. I pulled from that one thread to write Trisha’s story. It’s hard to truly connect to someone else when you’re closed off the way Trisha is in the beginning of the book. I loved watching her open up to the town of Somerset Lake and to Jake. I enjoyed writing her and Petey’s arcs.

Susan: Petey is adorable! Such an inquisitive little boy with an adventurous spirit! His personality leaped off the pages of the book! He reminded me of my younger brother! Is he based on someone you know?

Annie Rains: Well, I work with children in my day job as a school-based occupational therapist. Petey’s inquisitive nature is a match for half the children I know, ha ha. I get asked a hundred and one questions throughout the day about a wide range of topics. I knew when I was writing Petey that I wanted him to have that same curious nature. As I wrote him, he really became his own character though. He’s not based on any one person in real life.

Susan: Loved that Trisha joined the Thursday night book club. Will any of the book club ladies be featured in the new series?

Annie Rains: Yes! I’m writing Tess Lanes story right now. She’s the owner of Lakeside Books. Her story is a lot of fun. It’s called TRUE LOVE BOOKSHOP and it’ll release next summer (2022).

Susan Tell us a little bit about the next Somerset Lake book— The Christmas Village!

Annie Rains: The Christmas Village is Lucy Hannagan and Miles Bruno’s story, and swoon! I loved writing these two! This is a second chance romance. Miles broke Lucy’s heart when they were young. After losing her mother last year, Lucy is living all alone in a huge pink house in The Village, an older neighborhood in Somerset Lake. She’s working to pay off her mom’s debt so she decides to rent out the apartment above her garage. Enter Miles Bruno who needs a temporary place to live. Miles convinces Lucy to enter the neighborhood annual Christmas decorating contest, which would further help pay down her mom’s debt. So it’s a book full of lights, tinsel, second chances, and new beginnings. This will be my first trade-sized paperback and I’m so excited for October 12th!

Thank you so much for sharing my book with your readers!!

Susan's Review of Reunited on Dragonfly Lane By Annie Rains-- Sweetwater Springs #7

Boutique owner Sophie Daniels certainly isn't looking to adopt a dog the day veterinarian Chase Lewis convinces her to take in Comet. A rambunctious puppy with a broken leg may not be the best choice for a first-time pet owner. And house calls from the handsome doctor—her high school sweetheart who's just moved back to Sweetwater Springs—may not be the best choice for her heart either. 

Chase has come home to help his nephew but finds that he's forgotten just how much he enjoys small-town life. However, sooner or later, he's going to have to face the past and his unresolved feelings for Sophie. Now that Comet needs both their help, Chase is going to let the four-legged matchmaker work his canine magic. Then Chase will prove to Sophie that first love is even better the second time around. 

Annie Rains creates a heartwarming story for veterinarian Chase Lewis and boutique owner Sophie Daniels in the latest addition to the Sweetwater Springs series. Reunited on Dragonfly Lane is a well plotted, poignant second chance romance filled with captivating characters.

Ten years ago, a climbing accident turned Sophie’s world upside down. Instead of going to college, she broke up with Chase, her high school boyfriend, and spent a year in rehab. Annie Rains has crafted a heroine who appears to be happy and content. In truth, Sophie has not forgiven herself for the decision she made while on the mountain. This mistake changes Sophie both physically and emotionally and in doing so makes her a flawed but, relatable character.

Chase moved back to Sweetwater Springs to support Trisha, his former sister- in -law and his nephew Petey. Chase’s brother was convicted of embezzlement and his family is suffering repercussions. He’s a dedicated vet who loves all outdoor sports; mountain bike riding, climbing, fishing. Loved that he has unresolved issues—with Sophie and his brother—and is not quite sure how to resolve them.

An injured Border collie puppy named Comet brings the couple together. The sexual chemistry between the couple sizzled which enabled the author to create a slow burn romance for Sophie and Chase. They have been given a valuable gift- the opportunity to build a relationship built on trust and forgiveness.

 
Reunited on Dragonfly Lane grabbed my heart from the first page because Sophie survived and made a difference in her community. Her journey was very emotional, inspirational and heartwarming. I loved that kindness and forgiveness were the key themes in this novel Sophie and Chase brought out the best in each other—this made this captivating novel a 5 star read! 

I have enjoyed every book in this series and will miss the characters, their stories and the close knit community. Sweetwater Springs is the type of series that can be reread and appreciated with each reading. Am looking forward to the authors next series—Somerset Lake! 

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

ARC provided by the publisher

Interview with Annie Rains

Susan: Why do you think the Sweetwater Springs series resonated with readers? And do you have a favorite couple? 

Annie Rains: I think Sweetwater Springs resonated with readers because it was a wholesome small town with lovable characters, quirky hotspots, and lots of dogs. A lot of readers have mentioned over the years that they wish Sweetwater Springs was a real place. I would have to agree. I loved stepping into that world every morning. I’m so glad that readers felt the same way when they opened the books! 

Susan: This book really grabbed my heart because Sophie survived and made a difference in the community. Her journey was very emotional , inspirational and heartwarming. I loved that kindness and forgiveness were key themes in this novel. Was it difficult to write Sophie’s story? 

 
Annie Rains: It was so much more difficult that I expected it to be. I really didn’t know Sophie’s story when I decided to write it. She’d been in all the books, but I didn’t feel like I knew very much about her. As her story slowly evolved, there was a bit of research to do. I usually add pieces of myself in some small way to help myself feel connected to the characters, but Sophie is nothing like me. So, in that way, it was more difficult. I enjoyed writing her story and getting to know her. I’m glad that she was able to get her happy ending. She really deserved one! 

 
Susan: What was the inspiration for Sophie’s Fairy Godmother closet? 

 
Annie Rains: A friend of mine created a similar place at her church a couple years ago. She collects nice clothes to help people who need work wear so that they can interview and become gainfully employed. She is so passionate about this charity, and that inspired me to make this part of Sophie’s story. 

 
Susan: Why do you think readers love second chance romances? Are they difficult to write? 

 
Annie Rains: I think readers love second chance romances because they come with elevated emotions and feelings from page one. There’s already a rich backstory and landscape of emotion to pull from, and it’s easier to become invested in the relationship. They’re the easiest stories to write for that reason. When two characters have never met, you have to build that connection between them. If they’ve already met, fallen in love and broken up, the connection is already there along with lots and lots of messy emotions. 

Susan: Loved Comet and his role as a matchmaker in the novel. I loved that this series covers featured the character’s homes and dogs. Any plans to have a corgi on a cover soon? 

 
Annie Rains: I love a corgi! The school that my children attend often has a corgi in the front office. It tugs on my heartstrings and I can easily see this breed on the cover of one of my books some day 🥰 

Susan: What can you tell us about your new series Somerset Lake? 

Annie Rains: For my Somerset Lake series, I drew inspiration from Lake Lure, NC where the Dirty Dancing movie was filmed. It’s a beautiful lakeside town, a bit old-fashioned, and there are a few quirky places that define small towns. One of the many things I love about small towns is that everyone knows each other and there’s a lot of opportunity for friends to enemies and second chances. Readers will see that in my new series. You’ll meet Sophie’s best friend, Trisha Langly, in Reunited on Dragonfly Lane; she’ll be the heroine in the first book in my Somerset Lake series: The Summer Cottage. 

 
Susan: Thank you Annie Rains for stopping by the blog today! I can't tell you how much I have enjoyed each book in the Sweetwater Springs series! I can't wait to read The Summer Cottage!

Susan's Review of Sunshine on Silver Lake by Annie Rains

Welcome back to Sweetwater Springs, North Carolina for a heartwarming second-chance romance between a quirky café owner and a handsome park ranger.

With summer just around the corner, Emma St. James is eagerly planning a 5K run at Sweetwater Springs National Park. But first she needs the help of one charming, rugged, and handsome park ranger. Her brief high school romance with Jack Hershey may have ended in heartbreak, but Emma can't deny that he still gives her butterflies. So when Jack responds to her request with an all-too-tempting plea to pretend to be his girlfriend for the summer, how can she say no?

Jack would do anything for his sister -- even pretend to give up his bachelor life to care for his nephew. Passing his days with his high school sweetheart guarantees one long, hot summer -- but only because every moment together leaves him wanting a real relationship. He can't imagine spending another season without Emma by his side. Can he convince her to give their love a second chance before the summer draws to a close?

Annie Rains writes a captivating, second chance romance which features café owner Emma St. James and park ranger Jack Hershey. Sunshine on Silver Lake is my favorite book in the Sweetwater Springs series!! I adored the pairing of Emma and Jack! Their long- term friendship, the couple’s easy back and forth banter and the sparks of attraction that filled the air each time Jack gave Emma a Hershey’s Kiss drew me immediately into the novel.

The attraction between Jack and Emma—it is off the charts…and so very complicated. Jack broke Emma’s heart over ten years ago when he stood her up for her prom. Emma doesn’t know why Jack didn’t take her to prom. Even though she is attracted to him, Emma can’t let go of the hurt. They are strictly friends. Jack’s mom asks him to deliver a box to Emma. The box and its contents drew me into the story and set the stage for Emma’s journey.

Jack is my favorite Annie Rains hero. He made a huge mistake, learned from it and turned his life around. He is a kind man, who is devoted to his family and dedicated to his job. He understands that Emma is dreading her 30th birthday and wants to be there for her. There are a few complications; Emma’s father dislikes him, Jack’s nephew, Sam, is staying with him for the summer and Sam believes Emma and Jack are a couple.

Loved that the author dealt with the couple’s fears. Emma was afraid she was going to be diagnosed with breast cancer like her mom and grandmother. Jack did not want to be drawn into substance abuse like his sister and father. Jack’s decision to abstain from alcohol and Emma’s anxiety about her birthday and mammogram were perfectly written. I emphasized with Emma’s real fear and could relate to Jack’s choice. Both learned valuable lessons from their parents.

Emma organizes a 5k to honor her mother and to make a difference in people’s lives. Emma benefited the most from the run as she learned to confront her fears, to accept her mother’s death and to forgive Jack. The couple’s slow burn romance unfolds perfectly. Loved how Jack really wanted to be a better person for Emma and that he wanted more than friendship. Loved catching up with Brenna, Halona Granger and Luke and the other characters in the series.

Sunshine on Silver Lake is filled with friends, family and love. Emma and Jack’s friends to lovers story will tug at your heart strings-it’s emotional, swoony and very romantic. Who can resist a man who carries Hershey’s kisses in his pocket?


Click HERE to read an excerpt.

Review- Susan Gorman

ARC provided by the Publisher

USA Today and Publisher's Weekly Bestselling Author, Annie Rains, is a contemporary romance author who writes small town love stories set in fictional towns in North Carolina.

When Annie isn’t writing, she’s spending time with her husband and 3 children or reading a book by one of her favorite authors.

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Susan's Review of Starting Over at Blueberry Creek by Annie Rains

Should they fan the flames or douse this fire before someone gets seriously burned?
Firefighter Luke Marini moved to the small town of Sweetwater Springs with the highest of hopes - new town, new job, and new neighbors who know nothing of his past. And that's just how he wants to keep it. But it's nearly impossible when the gorgeous brunette next door decides to be the neighborhood welcome wagon. She's sugar, spice, and everything nice - but getting close to someone again is playing with fire.

Brenna McConnell put college on hold to raise her little sister. Now that Eve is grown, Brenna is ready to leave Blueberry Creek and finish what she started. Moving on isn't easy, however, when her gruff new neighbor gives Eve a dangerous firefighting job. And yet, even as Brenna is telling him off for putting her sister in harm's way, she can't deny the sizzling chemistry between them. She put her dreams on hold once. Is she willing to make that sacrifice again for a chance at forever?




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Luke Marini and Brenna McConnell’s story tugs at your heartstrings. Starting over at Blueberry Creek is sweet, sexy friends to lovers romance with all the feels.

I loved the relationship between sisters between Brenna and Eve. Their conversations are spot on; Eve constantly tests Brenna’s patience while Brenna struggles to realize that Eve is old enough to make her own choices. The sisters’ relationship added a lot of emotion, humor and fun to the story. I was able to understand why Brenna made the choice to give up college to take care of Eve after their parents death and how that choice impacted her life. Eve dreams of joining the Sweetwater Springs fire department while Brenna dreams of finishing her teaching degree. Luke checks in on Brenna after she and Eve have a loud disagreement—loud enough for the neighbors to hear. Sparks fly between the couple but Luke and his dog continue on their walk.

I loved that the romance between the couple developed slowly and I really enjoyed how Luke accidently got into the middle of a huge issue between Eve and Brenna. Luke has his own issues. He’s now the acting fire chief and he is tasked with building a team at the firehouse. The men have slacked off-and sloppy behavior caused the chief to fall. Luke has to earn the respect of his co -workers and get them back on track.

Both Luke and Brenna have scars from the past. Brenna’s scars are emotional related to her parents death while Luke’s physical scars remind him of his survival and the loss his family endured. I adored Luke—he was falling so hard for Brenna—but he didn’t want to hold her back from her dreams.

Annie Rains’ characters make each one of the Sweetwater Springs novels enjoyable to read. I love that the Brenna, Halona and Emma’s friendship continued in this book. And I am hoping Emma’s story is next!

Starting over at Blueberry Creek is filled with family, friends and heart. The romance between Brenna and Luke is slow burn, swoony and so much fun to read! Annie Rains’ mix of romance, humor, family drama and work life issues is the perfect recipe for a fabulous read!

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

ARC provided by publisher

Susan's Review of Snowfall on Cedar Trail by Annie Rains

From a USA Today bestselling author comes a heartwarming holiday romance between the a small-town florist and the handsome chief of police.

Last Christmas was tough for Halona Locklear and her seven-year-old son Theo, who hasn't spoken a word since his father's death. This year, Halona wants nothing more than to give him a good holiday and to hear his sweet voice again. Enrolling him in the Mentor Match program might help, but when Theo gets matched with Sweetwater Springs Chief of Police, Alex Baker, Halona realizes that the handsome hero might know secrets about her past that she is determined to keep buried.
Chief of Police, Alex Baker, re-opens his father's hit-and-run cold case every December, hoping to finally solve it. This year, his plate is full with being a Mentor Match to a young seven-year-old boy as well. His biggest obstacle, however, is fighting his attraction to the boy's mother, Halona. As Alex gets close to solving his father's cold case, he learns that those closest to him may be in danger -- including Halona. Alex has already lost one of the most important people in his life; he isn't about to lose her too, even if it means walking away to keep her safe.
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Annie Rains writes a heartwarming story for police chief Alex Baker and single mom Halona Locklear. Snowfall on Cedar Trial is a captivating friends to lovers romance which takes place during the holiday season.

Alex Baker has been attracted to his best friend’s sister for ages. He makes excuses to run into her at the local coffee spot or at her florist shop. Alex has been preoccupied with solving his father’s murder—it haunts him during this time of the year. He’s a complex character-he’s kind to his friends, looks in on the elderly, and takes time to visit friends in the hospital. I wondered why he couldn’t take a leap of faith and ask Halona out. Alex takes his job seriously and does what he thinks is right. He sees situations in black and white—no grey—and this plays a huge part of the storyline.

Halona Locklear is a single mom who works full time at her florist shop. Ms. Rains was spot on describing Halona’s work- home life balance and as a full time working mom-I could relate to her. Halona’s concern for her son Theo set the tone for the novel. Her complicated relationship with her ex-husband plus her son’s inability to communicate verbally since his death added to the depth of the storyline.

Alex joins the Mentor Match community service project to spiff up his image and is thrilled to have been paired with Halona’s son Theo. I liked that Alex and Theo got along so well; Alex truly enjoyed their time together, Theo had a friend and a role model and Alex and Halona were able to spend time together.

Annie Rains blends friendships, family and work issues, a strong sense of community values and adds a bit of mystery in this novel. I liked that Alex and Halona shared a past and they had a HUGE misunderstanding to work through. This plot choice intrigued me; I loved reading how the characters reacted to the challenges they faced during their journey. Loved that the relationship took time to grow—it was perfectly paced.

I adored catching up with Kaitlyn, Mitch, Josie, and Tuck and meeting Brenna, Grandmother Baker and the adorable Mr. Chew. I am enjoying this series so much-each book has great characters, relatable situations and a small town values. The conclusion is perfect for this couple—hard won but, very rewarding! I can't wait for the next book in the series!!!!

Are you looking for an amazing friends to lovers Christmas romance? Snowfall on Cedar Trail has all the feels—it’s a captivating, feel good novel that will definitely get you in the holiday spirit! Grab a mug of hot chocolate, your favorite corgi to snuggle with and settle in for a fabulous read!

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

ARC provided by the author.

Susan's Review of A Wedding On Lavender Hill by Annie Rains-Sweetwater Springs 2.5

Event planner Claire Donovan loves giving clients the weddings of their dreams. But that gets tricky when she has to work with the man who recently broke her heart-Bo Matthews. As the son of the groom and owner of the perfect venue in Sweetwater Springs, Bo will be impossible to avoid. But can Claire be this close to her sexy ex without falling for his charms all over again?

Bo's happy for his dad, but he gave up on his own happily ever after when his fiancée left him at the altar. Until he met Claire. She was the first woman who made him think he could fall in love again, which is why he ended things with her so suddenly. But planning a wedding together may be just what this couple needs to remind them that love is always worth the risk.

Event planner Claire Donovan has three days to plan a wedding for Rebecca Long and Pearson Matthews. The catch? She has to work with Pearson’s son Bo. He’s the guy who didn’t call her for a second date. Awkward? Yes—but, the storyline works perfectly in Annie Rain’s short story A Wedding On Lavender Hill.

The chemistry between Claire and Bo sizzled. Loved the back and forth banter between the couple as they struggled to figure out how they were going to put a wedding together in three days. Claire tells Bo that his home on Lavender Hill is the perfect place for a wedding. I loved that she reminded him that he owed her a big favor.

Claire Donovan is friendly, upbeat and a hard worker. She’s overcome a difficult childhood and is an important part of the Sweetwater Springs community. Claire doesn’t want to lose her heart to a man who would choose work over love. She realizes that she has feelings for Bo; she understands that he isn’t ready for a relationship. Claire is not going to trust her heart with him.

Bo has trust issues. He was best man for his friend who married the woman who jilted him at the altar. He and Claire got together at that wedding. Instead of calling Claire the day after the wedding; he took a long term out of town work assignment. Annie Rains does a fabulous job crafting Bo’s struggles with family, work and love. She makes Bo relatable to the reader.

A Wedding On Lavender Hill is a fabulous story of two people finding their heart’s desire while planning a wedding for another couple. I enjoyed that the couple struggled on their journey as they learned to put the past behind and trust each other. Loved the secondary characters and the well-paced storyline. And the conclusion? It was perfect-romantic, fun and full of surprises! I enjoyed this short story and am looking forward to Springtime at Hope Cottage!

If you love books by Debbie Mason, Samantha Chase and Emily March, you will enjoy A Wedding On Lavender Hill! It’s the perfect afternoon read!

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

Book purchased on Amazon

Susan's Review of Christmas on Mistletoe Lane by Annie Rains

USA Today bestselling author Annie Rains invites you to the delightful North Carolina town of Sweetwater Springs in this all-new series . . .

'Tis the season for a fresh start . . .

It's the start of the holiday season in the North Carolina mountains, and the air is fresh and crisp and filled with promise. After the devastating loss of her job in the big city, the small town of Sweetwater Springs feels like heaven to Kaitlyn Russo. She's inherited her grandparents' charming (if a little rundown) bed and breakfast, and it's just the new lease on life she needs. Only "heaven" comes with a catch-and a handsome and completely infuriating one at that.
After what he hopes will be a quick trip, Mitch Hargrove wants nothing more than to put his hometown in the rearview mirror. But his plans get derailed when he learns he's now half-owner of the Sweetwater B&B. The fact that he's given only two months to make the inn a success is a huge problem, but it's his pretty-and incredibly headstrong-partner who's the real challenge. With the holiday fast approaching and a grand re-opening looming, will Mitch keep running from the ghosts of Christmas past . . . or will he realize the true gift he's been given?

Christmas on Mistletoe Lane is the debut novel in Annie Rains’ new Sweetwater Springs series. I adore reading Annie Rains novels because she creates interesting, relatable characters and unique, emotional stories for them. Kaitlyn Russo and Mitch Hargrove learn they have inherited the Sweetwater B&B from Kaitlyn’s grandmother. Mabel Russo’s will stipulates that Kaitlyn and Mitch have 8 weeks to get the B&B up and running and they must run the inn together. The unusual provision in Mabel’s will intrigued me and drew me into the story.

Grandmother Mabel’s inheritance is the answer to Kaitlyn’s prayers. She left her job after a client made unwanted advances towards her and desperately needs a fresh start. Kaitlyn needed the B&B to be successful. I love how running the inn, becoming a member of the Sweetwater community and connecting with her guests restored her confidence. Mitch worked for Kaitlyn’s grandparents and isn’t sure if the B&B can be restored or if they can even afford to pay for the inn’s upkeep. Mitch spends time with his mom and reconnects with his high school friends. Annie Rains writes great military heroes; I adored Mitch Hargrove. His transformation from a broody ex-marine to an important member of the Sweetwater community was flawlessly written.

Annie Rains is an amazing story teller—her descriptive voice and her honest, emotional dialogue draws you into the story. I could picture Mitch and Kaitlyn picking out the Christmas tree for the inn, Mitch teaching Kaitlyn to cook and the couple falling in love as they worked together to restore the inn. I adored the attraction between Kaitlyn and Mitch, the B&B guests and their stories, the importance of community in the town and the secondary characters of Alex, Tuck Cassie and Kyle. Mitch’s conflicting emotions and career decisions play an important role in the story. The last few chapters of the novel are perfectly paced, emotional and very romantic as Mitch realizes the true spirit of Mabel’s gift.

If you are looking to read a holiday story full of second chances, romance and magic, pick up a copy of Christmas on Mistletoe Lane. It’s got all the feels—and a fabulous holiday message.

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

Review Copy from the Author

Book purchased via Amazon