Review of Christmas Promises (Sugarville Grove #4) by Tess Thompson

 

Laney Gray thought she had her life all figured out—until her fairytale wedding turned into a public betrayal. Jilted at the altar and humiliated by the very people she trusted most, Laney flees the city for Sugarville Grove, the picturesque small town where she once spent her happiest summers. Seeking solace in her aunt’s charming bookstore, Laney hopes to piece her life back together in time for Christmas.

What she doesn’t expect is to run into Nolan Hayes—the quiet, bookish boy who stole her heart one magical summer. Now an English professor with a steady presence and a smile that still makes her knees weak, Nolan is no longer the shy teenager Laney remembers. But as their paths cross amidst twinkling lights and snow-covered streets, the connection between them feels as familiar—and as powerful—as ever.

Laney may be a city girl out of her element in Sugarville Grove, but as she works to rebuild the bookstore’s holiday traditions, she finds herself drawn not only to the town’s simple charms but also to Nolan’s quiet strength. Yet, both carry scars from the past—hers from a shattered engagement, and his from a heartbreak he’s never shared.

Can the magic of Christmas help Laney and Nolan find the courage to take a second chance on love? Or will old wounds keep them from the happy ending they’ve been waiting for all along?

Heartwarming and full of small-town charm, Christmas Promises is a cozy holiday romance about healing, hope, and the unexpected gift of a second chance.

Available on Amazon (KU!)

(affiliate links included)

Check out the entire Sugarville Grove series by Clara Pines and Tess Thompson!

**My thoughts**

Christmastime is a great time for second chances and true love. Laney was supposed to be married, but it blew up in her face in the most obnoxious way. I can't blame her for wanting to run away and find something that brings her peace and happiness. This is my fourth trip to Sugarville Grove, and I have to say I could use a break there, myself! Even better is when you run into your long lost love from those younger, happier days. You'd be surprised how often that unrequited love will return in your favor, especially in these small towns!

Laney and Nolan fall right back into each other's lives, like they had never been apart. You know that it's meant to be. It's understandable that others may have some reservations about them rekindling so quickly, especially since Laney just escaped a doomed wedding. Nolan has his own past devastating heartbreak. But when you know, you know, right?

I admit that I was fully cheering them on, while also thinking, slow down a bit and make sure this is really what you want and need! I mean, you know that it is, but I've gotten a bit more apprehensive in my old age. Simultaneously, I'm a bit envious of her having the chance to start over, to find a new path in life that has love and success. I really want my own Sugarville Grove!

And can I just say that I need a spinoff that features Aunt Edna and more details about her long lost love, Max? That story thread definitely had me sighing. 

I love these families and I love this town. It's going to be hard to wait for the next installments, but I'm sure looking forward to them!

Review of Swoony Moon (Crescent Moon Ranch #2) by Tess Thompson

 

Swoony Moon

As children, they’d made a pact to marry until a mutual family tragedy ripped them apart. Can a Christmas miracle bring them back together in this clean and wholesome, small-town romance, or will the cruel demons of the past ruin their second chance?

Atticus
Annie Armstrong was my best friend growing up. When betrayal brought heartbreak to both our lives, she and her father moved away from Bluefern, Montana. As the years went by, we tried to stay in touch through letters but eventually our correspondence dwindled to an occasional text. Now, she’s a big Hollywood star I see on my television screen every week. I’m just a boring tech nerd turned billionaire. Our lives could not be further apart, especially since I’ve returned to my family’s Montana ranch to run my charity work from home.

But then, Annie shows up, broken and in need of a good hiding place. Will the decades since our last tearful goodbye prove too much for a second chance?

Annie
Atticus Moon was the finest boy I’d ever known. Although the years had distanced us, I never stopped thinking about him or wishing we could have remained close. Was it simply time and distance that separated us? Or had the selfish choice my mother made when we were children ruined any chance of a relationship with Atticus or his family? I’d not stopped running from the past long enough to know the answer.

However, when the unthinkable happens and I’m left alone, publicly humiliated and in possible danger, I head to Bluefern and Atticus. Will he take me in after all this time and be the friend I so desperately need or will he disappoint me like all the other men in my life?

Opposites attract in this sweet, emotional family saga starring the Moon brothers. Grab it today for a cozy, happy-ever-after by USA Today bestselling author, Tess Thompson.

Buy on Amazon

(affiliate links included)

Check out the entire Crescent Moon Ranch series!

**My thoughts**

I fell in love with the Moon boys in the introductory book in this series, Mama Moon. I had a special soft spot for Atticus and Annie. Even as children, you knew that they shared the same soul and were destined for each other. But of course, fate had to step in and make a temporary mess of things. Sure, it's been a long time since they have seen each other. They are opposites in a lot of ways. But they are also perfect for each other in so many ways. I mean, where did Annie turn when she needed help? She knows that Atticus is her home.

Swoony Moon definitely lives up to its name as this twosome figures out who they are now - both apart and together - and fall in love all over again. It's going to be hard for one of the other brothers to top this one for me! But we shall see. I'm looking forward to all of them finding their happily ever after.

Review of Unexpected Gifts (Sugarville Grove #2) by Tess Thompson

Unexpected Gifts 

Abigail Parker just wants to get through the holidays, but fate has other plans...

After a year of unexpected twists, Abigail finds herself in the small town of Sugarville Grove, Vermont, as the guardian of her late cousin’s two young children. Leaving behind her bustling city life and dream job at a veterinary practice, Abigail’s only goal is to adjust to her new responsibilities and figure out how to be the mother they need. Falling for her rugged, no-nonsense neighbor is definitely not part of the plan.

Luke Hayes has his hands full raising his lively four-year-old daughter, Lily, while managing his family’s maple syrup farm. With his heart still scarred from being abandoned by Lily’s mother, Luke has sworn off romance. But when a broken fence and a mischievous dog bring Abigail into his life, he starts to wonder if maybe love isn’t as far out of reach as he thought.

As the holiday lights sparkle and the snow falls, Abigail and Luke find themselves drawn together, despite their differences. But with Abigail adjusting to her new life and Luke determined to protect his heart, it will take more than a little Christmas magic to bring them together.

Welcome to Sugarville Grove, where holiday charm, second chances, and unexpected romance are always in the air. Life is sweet in Sugarville Grove! Be sure to check out the rest of the series!

Buy on Amazon

(affiliate links included)

Check out the whole Sugarville Grove series!

**My thoughts**

It's classic Tess Thompson at Christmas, tugging at the heartstrings with a festive backdrop. Small towns are her specialty. I felt Abigail's deep angst as she came to the rescue of her cousin's orphaned children. I felt Luke's loneliness while raising his daughter without her mother. We're taken deep into their thoughts and inner conflict as they both try to navigate new life situations. And while it may be an instant attraction, it's a nice slow burn of a love story that feels real. 

This book is the second installment of a four-book series penned by Tess Thompson and Clara Pines, taking place in Sugarville Grove. The two books are independent of each other in the sense that you don't have to read one to understand the other. But you will have nods to characters in Clara's book. And in another classic Tess Thompson move, there are links to other towns in her other series - a sort of Tess multiverse, if you will. I always love stumbling upon the Easter eggs.

So overall, this is another feel-good, clean love story that will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy. You may even shed a little tear here and there - in a good way! 

Each author has one more book planned for this series, coming out in a couple of months. I can't wait to see what else unfolds in Sugarville Grove! 

I received a requested review copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 

Read my review of book 1: Sweet Surprises by Clara Pines

Arresting Her Heart (First Responders of Faith Valley) by Jenna Brandt

 

Noah West has some big shoes to fill...
His brothers are the best first responders in all of Texas.

It's not easy being the rookie cop in a family of overachievers. When Noah decided to follow in his older brothers' footsteps, he had no idea it was going to make his life a living nightmare. Add to that, a small town filled with nosy neighbors and a history of bad girlfriends, and it's no surprise that he's not ready when the girl of his dreams comes crashing into his life.

Audree Hall can't believe she was matched with the guy who wrongfully arrested her. They've talked for weeks online, and she had no idea it was the same guy, who smugly perp walked her through the Faith Valley police station. She's tempted to bail on their first meeting, but the dating site can't be all wrong, can it?

You'll love this first in series suspenseful romance from award-winning and bestselling author, Jenna Brandt, because everyone loves to see a struggling hero find his way to a happily ever after.

Get this full-length opposites attract, small town cop, enmies-to-love, family drama novel now.

Fall in love with a small Texas town filled with heroes willing to put their lives on the line for others. Brothers wearing the same badge, cousins fighting the same fire, paramedics saving citizens, all while trying to find their way to the perfect soulmate.

Buy on Amazon

(affiliate link)

About Jenna Brandt:

Jenna Brandt is an international bestselling and award-winning author who writes historical and contemporary romance. Her historical books span from Victorian to Western eras and all her books have elements of romance, suspense and faith. She has her own best-selling historical series, Window to the Heart Saga and Civil War Brides, as well as contemporary series, Billionaires of Manhattan and Second Chance Islands. Additionally, she has created two best-selling multi-author series, The Lawkeepers and Disaster City Search and Rescue based off the life of her husband in law enforcement. Both of her books, Waiting on the Billionaire and Lawfully Treasured, were voted into the Top 50 Indie Books of 2018 on Readfreely.com.

She has been an avid reader since she could hold a book and started writing stories almost as early. She has been published in several newspapers as well as edited for multiple papers. She graduated with her Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Bethany College and was the Editor-in-Chief of the newspaper while there. Her first blog was published on The Mighty website, Yahoo Parenting and The Grief Toolbox as well as featured on the ABC News, CNN Health, and Good Morning America websites. She’s also a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) association.

Writing is her passion, but Jenna also enjoys date nights with her hubby, cooking from scratch, watching movies on Netflix, reading books by her author friends, and engaging in social media with her readers. Jenna’s three young daughters keep her busy with Girl Scout activities, going to the mall, and playing at the park where they live in the Central Valley of California. Jenna summers on the Golden Central Coast where she finds endless inspiration for her romance books. She is also active in her local church where she volunteers on their first impressions team.

To find out more about Jenna, to sign-up for her newsletter, or to purchase her books, visit her website at http://www.jennabrandt.com

Jenna’s Joyful Page Turners Reader’s Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/844819802336835/

Heroes and Hunks Reader’s Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/430422374043418/

Her books on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Jenna-Brandt/e/B0711MSFXW/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1497269877&sr=8-1

Like her on Facebook www.facebook.com/JennaBrandtAuthor

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Look her up on Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/16847426.Jenna_Brandt

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I was compensated via Fiverr for sharing this post. I only share those books that I feel will be of interest to my readers.

Review of Her Christmastime Family by Tara Randel

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Welcome to the book tour for Her Christmastime Family by Tara Randel! I love this series so much! Today I'm sharing my review. And if you follow the tour, you'll have a chance to read an exclusive excerpt over at Candrel's Crafts, Cooks, and Characters, one of my other sites. Enjoy the tour and best of luck in the giveaway!

Her Christmastime Family

(The Golden Matchmakers Club #2)

By Tara Randel

Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 271 Pages

November 30, 2021 by Harlequin Heartwarming

A holiday match…
For a lifetime of love!

Creating new Christmas traditions is a priority for single mom Faith Harper. But the handsome widower next door, police officer Roan Donovan, is struggling to make the season merry for his two girls. Sunny Faith could brighten the holiday for Roan. And the way he protects his daughters touches her heart. Will facing their challenges together unite their families…and build a love to weather all seasons?

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Target | Bookshop

**My thoughts**

I love this series! I love this group of people who have the younger generation's best interests at heart and work at fixing them up without being obnoxiously interfering and obvious about it. Plus there is a bit of romance brewing within that group! And fear not, each book works as a standalone.

Faith and Roan are just perfect for each other right out of the gate. They rely on each other to help with being single parents. And the kids just naturally fit together and have fun. They also learn a lot from each other and grow so much. It's a nice, slow burn of a friendship that develops into so much more. And it's not just two adults getting together, it's two families. And with it all happening around Christmas, it is extra magical and wonderful.

I loved watching them evolve and can't wait to find out what happens next in this adorable small town!

I received a requested review copy from Prism Book Tours. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Other Books in the Series

Stealing Her Best Friend's Heart

(The Golden Matchmakers Club #1)

By Tara Randel

Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages

July 27, 2021 by Harlequin Heartwarming

A home renovation…
Could change this friendship forever

Heidi Welch has her eye on the perfect home…until Reid Masterson buys it! Now Heidi has one last chance to get back the home of her dreams from her childhood friend and longtime crush. If she helps Reid with the renovations, he'll sell her the house. But “just friends” seems just about impossible…especially when friendship keeps getting in the way of falling in love.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Target | Book Depository

About the Author

USA Today Bestselling Author Tara Randel has enjoyed a lifelong love of books, especially romance and mystery genres, so it didn't come as a surprise when she began writing with the dream of becoming published. Family values, mystery and, of course, love and romance are her favorite themes, because she believes love is the greatest gift of all. Tara lives on the West Coast of Florida, where gorgeous sunsets inspire the creation of heartwarming stories, filled with love, laughter and the occasional mystery.

Website | Goodreads | BookBub | Facebook | Twitter | Amazon

Tour Schedule

Tour Giveaway

Prize #1: Signed print copy of His Honor, Her Family and Stealing Her Best Friend’s Heart, a Christmas ornament and a $25 Amazon Gift Card. (Open to US only)

Prize #2: $10 Amazon e-Gift Card (Open Internationally)

Ends December 22, 2021

ENTER HERE

 

Review of Ruined (Destiny Falls Book 2) by Rebecca Wilder

 

This story starts with a car crash.

Lyla Winters’s life is at a crossroads. She's bounced around from one job to another since she was sixteen, wanting to experience everything, but now that she's twenty-five, her lack of a plan is a little less cute. Too bad for her, she has no idea what she wants to do with the rest of her life.

She’s got a plan though. She’ll take a year off to travel and find herself. That plan goes off the road though when she gets to Destiny Falls, Michigan, and runs into some fancy SUV.

Out climbs Hudson Hayes. Restaurateur, James Beard Winner, and the man with a plan.

Also, maybe the man of her dreams.

She has to pay for the damage to both of their cars and just like that, there goes her savings for the year. Now she’s stuck in Destiny Falls, working at the Mystery Cabin and living in the apartment above Hudson’s restaurant.

The plan for the year off is still in play though. She just needs to save up her money and keep her eye on the prize. It’s just that the prize looks more and more like Hudson every day.

When Lyla finally has enough saved to leave Destiny Falls, will she be able to say goodbye to the friends and life that she’s made here in this small town? Or will she have finally found the one place that she truly belongs?

***This is a 50,000 word small town romance novel that ends in a happily ever after***

Goodreads * Amazon

(affiliate link included)

**My thoughts**

Ruined is apparently the second book in the Destiny Falls series by Rebecca Wilder. Fear not, it totally works as a standalone.

I first have to say that I fell in love with the town. Reading about it made me all nostalgic because I grew up just south of the Michigan line.

I felt a lot of connection to Lyla and her desire to travel after losing her father. I was also very close to my dad and found myself doing a lot of traveling after he passed. I just couldn't pack up my entire life looking to start somewhere new.

I also understood her need to rediscover herself, because your identity does truly change.

She got lucky when she rear-ended Hudson. He's rich, gorgeous, and talented in the kitchen. And instead of flipping out on her, he basically helped her launch a new start. I admit that I am torn on his persistence with the daily "This or That" notes that he leaves on her car asking her out. They are fun, but she kept saying no. Would it have been as endearing had it been someone who wasn't so rich and gorgeous?

That being said, I do like the two of them together. Being with a man who cooks well is amazing. Bonus points when he is also talented elsewhere.

I admit I don't quite understand the title of Ruined, though. I didn't get the impression that Lyla felt like she had been ruined by anything, though it was clear she felt inferior at times.

Nevertheless, I enjoyed my trip to Destiny Falls and look forward to returning.

Thank you to the author and Inkslinger for the requested review copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Review of The Last One (Love in a Small Town Book 1) by Tawdra Kandle

Come home to Love in a Small Town, stand-alone happily ever after romances with lots of heat and heart!

Welcome to Burton, Georgia, the farm community where the women are sassy, the men are sexy, and happily-ever-afters are a specialty of the house.

Meet Meghan and Sam . . .


Meghan

When I signed up to spend my final summer of college teaching art to underserved kids, I wanted a chance to reinvent myself, to go somewhere new and different. I never thought I’d end up in a small town in Georgia, living on a farm . . . with a man who clearly wishes I were anywhere but there.

But here I am. And even if Sam Reynolds doesn’t like it, I can’t help my attraction to him. Maybe I don’t want to help it. His deep brown eyes and slow Southern-boy drawl just do something to me. Something real and deep and maybe a little scary.

Sam

I don’t need excitement, and I sure don’t want romance. Fun is out of the question for a guy like me. I’ve had to be the steady, responsible one since my parents died, and serious is my way of life.

When this fiery red-haired art student moves into my farm house, I won’t deny that I’m tempted by her. But giving into temptation could mean radical change . . . maybe more than I can handle. Meghan makes me want to believe in crazy things like forever and happy endings.

She’s the last thing I expected. I’m the last one she needs. And this is just a summer fling.

Isn’t it?

All of the Love in a Small Town romances can be read on their own. While characters pop up in each other's stories, you can begin reading at any book and feel right at home!

Buy it for FREE!

Goodreads * Amazon * BN

(affiliate link included) 

**My thoughts**

The Last One is the first book in a series that is a spin-off from Tawdra’s Crystal Cove series, which I loved. It features Meghan, the daughter of our favorite heroine from The Posse, which kicked off that series.

She’s been going through a lot after the death of her father and then all of the other life changes while working toward the end of her college career. So when her roommate suggests a joyride to a small town called Burton to go out dancing, she jumps on it. She has a little too much fun and then the car breaks down while her roomie is driving them home. They get helped out by a hottie who is immediately physically drawn to Meg. But when they meet up again, their interaction is quite contentious. And then when Meg gets placed in Burton for a summer gig teaching art, guess who the host family is?

Sam and Meghan are constantly at odds with each other. You know what that means. The more passionate the arguments, the more passion there will be elsewhere. And man, do these two have it.

I’ll tell you right now that if you are not into open door love scenes, do not read this book. (Though you will be missing out on a great story.) These two have quite the physical attraction to each other.

But it does also go deeper than that and we have front row seats to it all.

I like Sam for his devotion to his family and his strong work ethic, both of which have served him well through some tumultuous years. Meghan is super feisty and aims to get what she wants. She is also super dedicated to her art and the children she teaches. It’s that kind of passion that they both have in life that has drawn them to each other.

We also meet other characters who will feature in later installments. I am particularly fond of Ali, Sam’s little sister.

I had originally read this back when the series was just a trilogy, but came back to it to catch up on the rest and prepare for the year-long novella series coming out this year. I really enjoy the town of Burton and its residents. I hope you will, too.

Review of Stealing Her Best Friend's Heart by Tara Randel

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

It's always sad when a series has to end. But sometimes, the author is able to create a spin-off series that is just as delightful as the original series. And that is what Tara Randel has done here. Check out Stealing Her Best Friend's Heart, featuring another member of the Masterson family. Read my entire book review and be sure to follow the tour for even more. Best of luck entering the giveaway!

Stealing Her Best Friend's Heart

(The Golden Matchmakers Club #1)

By Tara Randel

Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages

July 27, 2021 by Harlequin Heartwarming

A home renovation…
Could change this friendship forever

Heidi Welch has her eye on the perfect home…until Reid Masterson buys it! Now Heidi has one last chance to get back the home of her dreams from her childhood friend and longtime crush. If she helps Reid with the renovations, he'll sell her the house. But “just friends” seems just about impossible…especially when friendship keeps getting in the way of falling in love.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Target | Book Depository

Harlequin | BAM | IndieBound | Apple Books | Google Play | Kobo

**My thoughts**

I always love a spinoff series for a series I have already enjoyed! The Golden Matchmaker series is a spinoff from the Meet Me at the Altar series by Tara Randel. This first one features Reid Masterson, whose brother Logan was previously featured. And we get to see Heidi again. The two of them have been good friends for a long time, but never really thought of anything more. But the Golden Matchmakers have something to say about that. 

The Golden Matchmakers start with Reid's grandmother and Heidi's guardian. They are determined to get their kids together and will do all kinds of scheming to make it happen. But while they are determined, they are also somewhat subtle about it. Normally I hate it when people interfere in my love life, so I understand how Heidi and Reid feel when they pick up on some of the matchmaking. But at the same time, these two women are so sweet, you can't fault them. And they get some other charming help as well. (Quick side note: I am sensing a possible romance blossoming within this group as well, no?)

And I love how the two of them come together. Again, they have been friends for a long time, but they get thrown together working on remodeling Heidi's dream home, which Logan beat her to purchasing in the hopes of flipping it. There is something about a man who can work with his hands, and something even more when you get to work alongside him and learn. Heidi is also super feisty and has been fighting to establish her own identity and independence, and I admire her tenacity. Reid has his own battles trying to decide what he really wants to do in life and how to still be loyal to his family. And the two of them are perfectly matched to help each other work through all of these life obstacles and trials. 

I was completely engrossed in this book on a rainy Sunday afternoon. I want to go back to reread the other stories from this delightful small town and can't wait to see what happens next. We do get a clue who the next matchmaking target is. And like I said earlier, I have a prediction for another possible match later on.

I received a requested review copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

About the Author

USA Today Bestselling Author Tara Randel has enjoyed a lifelong love of books, especially romance and mystery genres, so it didn't come as a surprise when she began writing with the dream of becoming published. Family values, mystery and, of course, love and romance are her favorite themes, because she believes love is the greatest gift of all. Tara lives on the West Coast of Florida, where gorgeous sunsets inspire the creation of heartwarming stories, filled with love, laughter and the occasional mystery.

Website | Goodreads | BookBub | Facebook | Twitter | Amazon

Tour Schedule

Tour Giveaway

Prize #1: Signed print copy of Trusting Her Heart, tote bag, insulated cup and a $25 Amazon Gift Card (Open to US only)
Prize #2: $10 Amazon e-Gift Card (Open Internationally)

 
Ends August 11, 2021

ENTER HERE

Review of A Bridge Home by Virginia McCullough

 

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Welcome to the book tour for A Bridge Home by Virginia McCullough. This is the third book in her Back to Bluestone River series that I have been greatly enjoying. Read on for my full book review and check out the tour for even more!

A Bridge Home

(Back to Bluestone River #3)

By Virginia McCullough

Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages

August 1, 2020 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Will a new beginning…

Lead to forever?

What good is a home without a family? School principal Eric Wells finally has the house he’s always wanted, but a painful childhood makes him question his ability to be a father. So when his high school crush Amy Morgan returns to Bluestone River with her troubled daughter, he’s surprised to find he wants to be there for both of them. Will Amy finally give him a chance?

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | B&N | Target | Apple Books | Google Play | Kobo | Harlequin

**My thoughts**

This is the third book in this series, and I have been enjoying every single one of them. While it is a part of the series, it is very easily read as a standalone book. Characters from the previous books do make an appearance, but their backstory is not essential to this one. But you will want to definitely go back and read their stories anyway.

This series is definitely one about second chances. As people are returning to the town of Bluestone River, they are seeking to touch home base to start their lives over again after having a great deal of difficulty in life after they left. For these two characters, their lives growing up were difficult, thanks to poor relationships with their parents, but being home is so very important. Eric's father was basically worthless and Amy's parents abandoned her with her grandparents before perishing in an accident. They both have a desire to help the next generation in their lives not have to suffer the same way that they did, and while facilitating this to happen, find some healing in their own lives.

Eric and Amy actually were friends back in high school. Eric had a huge crush on her, but Amy only had eyes for Scott, the man she ended up marrying and divorcing after having their daughter. Eric has just moved back to be the school principal and finds himself encountering Amy more frequently while navigating issues that Amy's daughter Cassie is having at school. I really like Eric and how he handles children who are having problems. I felt a sort of kinship with him, because that was one of my specialties when I was teaching.

Amy is so sweet and so caring, yet protective of her heart, and especially protective of her daughter's heart. She is also very smart and business savvy and is able to make a splash in this small town. She also has an innate desire to help others, particularly Kyra and her foster daughter Lottie, with whom Amy has a special understanding of the roller coaster of feelings.

Amy and Eric are just a natural fit with each other. They really do want the same things in life and I enjoyed watching their bond grow.

And then there is the whole substory about the town's beloved covered bridge being damaged in a storm and the debate about what to do with it and how do you balance maintaining the essence of the small town while also trying to survive and have some progress. I am partial to covered bridges because they were one of my father's favorite things to visit and paint. And I am also sensitive to that balance of preserving a way of life while also making some progress. It will be interesting to keep watching this town work through this and develop if the series continues.

The only weird thing for me with this book was Amy's ex Scott. He wasn't much a part of Cassie's life, and then suddenly started coming around a lot more. I was expecting there to be more going on with him as the story unfolded. It felt like his presence was a bit of an afterthought and then he kind of disappeared. And this one did resolve a little faster than I expected, almost as if the word count limit was imminent and it had to end.

Nevertheless, I really enjoyed this story. It was a perfect escape while sitting on the deck on a lovely summer morning with a latte in hand. I really hope there is more to this series, because you can be sure I will be picking it up as well!

Thank you to the publisher, author, and to Prism Book Tours for providing me with a requested review copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Other Books in the Series

(Linked to Amazon affiliate links.)

Read my review of A Family for Jason

Read my review of The Christmas Kiss

About the Author

Born and raised in Chicago, Virginia McCullough has been lucky enough to develop her writing career in many locations, including the coast of Maine, the mountains of North Carolina, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and currently, Northeast Wisconsin. She started her career in nonfiction, first writing articles and then books as a ghostwriter and coauthor. She’s written more than 100 books for physicians, business owners, professional speakers and many others with information to share or a story to tell.

Virginia’s books feature characters who could be your neighbors and friends. They come in all ages and struggle with everyday life issues in small-town environments that almost always include water—oceans, lakes, or rivers. The mother of two grown children, you’ll find Virginia with her nose a book, walking on trails or her neighborhood street, or she may be packing her bag to take off for her next adventure. And she’s always working on another story about hope, healing, and second chances.

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His Small-Town Girl by Lacy Williams Release Day!

Sutter’s Hollow Book 1

Sweet Romance

Date Published: May 12, 2020

She’s sweet and wholesome. And hiding something.

He’s back home, resurrecting old ghosts.

One of them is going to get hurt.

Molly arrives in Sutter’s Hollow out of gas and out of options. The rundown ranch seems like a perfect place to hide. Except the man who owns it seems just as dangerous as what’s chasing her.

Cord’s mantra growing up? Get out of Sutter’s Hollow. Now he’s back in town, but only long enough to get rid of his grandma’s ball and chain—the ranch. He doesn’t need a complication like Molly, who reminds him of an injured baby bird. He’s no protector. So why can’t he tell her to get lost?

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Excerpt

Molly strummed her guitar lightly, the squeak and pull of the strings familiar and comforting. 

But not enough to relax her to the point where she could close her eyes and sleep.

Nothing was these days.

She had her shoulder wedged against her driver's side door, her body turned sideways, and one booted foot up on the seat. Counting the minutes until they turned into hours.

It wasn't that late. Eight. Maybe eight-thirty. 

From where her truck had died in his drive, she'd seen the rancher's truck—its headlights, rather—drive up behind the ranch house and then shut off. Lights had gone on inside the ranch house in a sort of pattern. Her imagination told her he'd stopped in the kitchen to wash up. Maybe feed the dog. He'd moved into the living room next. Watched a sitcom. No, a cop drama. A sitcom might make him smile, and that wouldn't do.

The living room light had gone off, too, and then an upstairs light had gone on. 

Lots of nightlife for the rancher. Cord.

She let her head loll back against the seat, her fingers going lax on the frets so the next strum was a jangle of wrong notes.

It was going to be a long night.

Her thoughts began to unravel. Her breathing sped up as her anxiety spiked.

No.

She was safe here.

No one knew where she was. No one except the rancher.

She was parked plenty far back from the road. If anyone turned in the drive, she'd see them. She'd have time to react.

There were two empty fields on either side of her truck. Grass as far as the eye could see. No one could sneak up on her here.

She could worry about her future tomorrow. Figure out what to do about the dwindling loaf of bread and jar of peanut butter she'd been rationing for days.

She jumped when a flash of light came through the windshield. It glared right in her eyes, temporarily blinding her.

She scrambled to get the guitar out of the way. It echoed discordant notes as it hit the dash. She'd picked up a small canister of pepper spray at a gas station a hundred miles ago. Where had she put it—?

The light was gone, and she blinked against the hazy afterimages burned into her vision.

It was the rancher. His shoulders filled the driver's side window, and he tapped the butt of his flashlight on the glass.

She took her sweet time rolling it down—the hand crank helped with that—using the moments to try to slow her frantic breathing. 

"What're you doing out here?" 

His voice was harsh and demanding. And somehow comforting. He'd been gruff and dismissive earlier. She'd trusted him. Maybe that was stupid.

"You can't stay here," he said.

"I can't leave." She tapped the steering wheel. "This puppy is dead."

Skepticism was written all over his face.

"You want me to prove it?" She gave the key a twist. Nothing happened. Not even a click.

His expression didn't change from the frown he'd appeared with. “Call a tow truck."

He had to be kidding. A tow from the little town she'd passed would be expensive.

"Who's gonna come all the way out here tonight?" she asked. "Plus, I'm dead broke."

"Well, you can't stay out here." Was that her imagination, or was there a little bit of the same desperation she felt leaking out of the man. 

"It's fifteen miles to Sutter's Hollow," she said. "You want me to walk? In the dark?" 

"What about your family?"

"Don't have any." It wasn't a lie. She didn't have any family that would help her.

Even in the dim light from the flashlight, she could see a muscle jumping in his cheek. He ducked his head and mumbled something too low for her to make out.

"Get out of the truck." 

She bristled at this order. She wasn't walking down those winding dirt roads in the dark.

"You're not sleeping in your truck. You can stay the night. Tomorrow morning, I'll drive you to town. You're on your own from there. And you better figure out a way to get your truck off my land."

"Really?" She grabbed her backpack and guitar from the passenger floorboard and then juggled both on her lap as she rolled up the crank window. The door made an awful metal creak when she moved to hop out. She caught the cowboy's wince in the dim light from his flashlight.

"That truck is older than you are."

"I know. Ain't it great?" She tried to cover up her nerves by giving the hood an affectionate pat as she shifted her backpack onto her shoulder. Maybe he wouldn't see how white her knuckles were as she clutched her guitar. "She was my mom's. Back before I was born."

He mumbled something else. Maybe he had a mumbling problem. Or maybe he just didn't like her.

"Just because something is old or needs work doesn't mean you give up on it," she said.

He sent her a sideways glare but didn't say anything else. She followed him toward the sad old farmhouse, careful to keep a good yard between them.

From the porch, his farm dog wagged its tail.

Seeing it helped settle the nervous energy jangling through her. Animals were a true judge of character. The farm dog was lean but groomed. It's teeth were good. And it was friendly. 

Maybe she couldn't trust herself to judge a man's character, but she'd grown up on a ranch. She could trust the dog. It wasn't as if she was going to sleep a wink anyway. Might as well be warm inside instead of freezing in her truck.

Author Lacy Williams

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Review of Jilted (Cliffside Bay Series) by Tess Thompson

Jilted

Despite being young and romantically inexperienced, Sophie Woods is an old soul who believes in true love, working hard at her bar, and always trusting her instincts. And from the moment she meets Nico, she knows without a doubt that he is her one-and-only. Twelve years her senior, the handsome architect is only sure of two things when it comes to Sophie: she’s far too young for him, and he wants no part in upsetting her protective older brother.

Broke and broken, Nico Bentley moves to Cliffside Bay for a fresh start at both work and play. But in a cruel twist of fate, it’s the one woman he can’t have whose captivating smile makes him forget all about his past. Yet when tragedy turns the vivacious Sophie into a shell of her former self, it will be Nico, and only Nico, who steps up to bring the joy back into her life. And in the process, the depth of his feelings for her can no longer be ignored.

In this installment of USA Today bestselling author Tess Thompson’s beloved Cliffside Bay Series, return to the small town that warms your heart and take a trip halfway across the world to discover hope, healing, and the importance of happiness.

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**My thoughts**

Both Nico and Sophie have extremely difficult and twisted pasts. Sophie has enjoyed a happier life than Nico and isn't nearly as bitter as he is. Right away, we get introduced to these pasts. If you've been following the series, you probably already knew some. But this intro helps to keep the possibility of this book being a standalone. But really, you 'll want to read them all!

They are super close friends with so much in common and have an undeniable attraction to each other. Sophie already knows he is her soulmate. Nico just can't get out of his head long enough to acknowledge his own heart. 

This one is a smidge spicier than the others, but fear not. It is still a sweet and clean romance. 

I also have to say that I adore Judi Coventry and not just for her name. She is fiesty and spunky and tells it like it is. She also has a big heart, even if she won't admit it. I hope we get to see her some more!

Thank you to the author and publisher for an advanced review copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Get more of Tess Thompson's books here.

Review of Scarred: Trey and Autumn (Cliffside Bay) by Tess Thompson

Scarred: Trey and Autumn 

For Autumn Hickman, online dating has been an exercise in nothing more than coffee and failure. There simply isn’t a man on the planet who can compare to her best friend, Trey Wattson. And while Trey is everything Autumn has ever wanted in a partner, she knows the man who loves life’s most beautiful things could never cherish anything as scarred and mangled as her.

Trey Wattson is in love with his best friend, but he can't seem to reach her. She’s guarded, and for good reason, but Trey doesn’t care. He knows Autumn’s soul, and it’s the most beautiful thing he’s ever seen. Desperate to claim Autumn’s heart for his own, Trey conspires with The Wolves to create a fake profile on the dating site Autumn frequents. But the more Autumn trusts Trey’s online persona, the more it becomes clear that Trey is gambling with the very thing he wants most of all.

Return to Tess Thompson’s beloved Cliffside Bay and discover for yourself why true love is built on honesty and trust, and why best friends often make the very best life partners, in this anonymous online romance set in your favorite charming small town.

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**My thoughts**

Autumn has physical scars that have prevented her from getting involved with anyone. Trey has emotional scars from his horrible ex-wife, making him unavailable. Pursuing a man like that is not worth it until he is ready, believe me. 

And now Trey is finally admitting that he is in love with Autumn, but isn't sure how to convince her to take their friendship to the next level.

Trey and the Wolves concoct a plan, with her brother Stone's permissions, to create a fake profile on the dating site she has been using to try to win her over that way. They liken it to the movie You've Got Mail. I am really torn on this tactic, because it could go either way. She's either going to be swept off her feet or extremely pissed that he lied to her. A good book will have elements of both.

I have no idea what I would do in that situation. In my younger years, I may have swooned. Now I feel the opposite. But at the same time, it is giving him some insight on how to get through to her. I admit I kept vacillating through the story.

Trey's pain is familiar to me as I went the opposite in my longest relationship, starting with dating the man who was so scarred by his ex-wife to becoming best friends instead. Autumn's pain actually makes me want to cry as she goes through the motions of self-doubt.

Autumn's scars, of course, go much deeper that just the physical ones, including bits of her past and upbringing, which are also discussed in other books featuring her brothers. She is given an amazing opportunity to reconnect with someone from her past that made me emotional. And then a whole scene with some of the other women sharing their own scars literally brought me to tears. 

Another great installment in this series.

Thank you to the author and publisher for my advance review copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Read more from Tess Thompson here.

Review of Healed: Stone and Pepper (Cliffside Bay) by Tess Thompson

It's Cliffside Bay and beyond in this heartwarming enemies-to-lovers romantic adventure from USA Today bestselling author Tess Thompson.

Stone Hickman is the last of a dying breed. The former Marine believes in integrity, service to his country, a hard day's work, and taking care of his loved ones. When he meets the clever Pepper Griffin, their obvious attraction has him ready to count the stunning beauty among the people that he cares for. But Pepper doesn't share the instant connection. In fact, she wants nothing to do with him. And for honest, straightforward Stone, not knowing why only makes the rejection worse.

Pepper Griffin is the epitome of scrappy. For years she's struggled to make acting her career without any help at all from her famous father. While she's still accepting meager roles with little screen time, her best friend has steadily risen to the height of fame. To make matters worse, that very same friend is happily in love, newly engaged, and wants poor Pepper, whose love life is as sad and pathetic as her last film role, to serve as her maid-of-honor while Pepper's enemy, Stone Hickman, is sure to be the groom's best man.

Though Pepper despises the best man, she loves the bride-to-be more. To keep the peace, Pepper willingly includes Stone in the wedding planning process. When the unlikely pair find themselves stranded in a snowstorm while searching for the perfect venue, they'll have to work together to survive the chill even if that means thawing Pepper's heart.

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**My thoughts**

First, this is my favorite cover in the whole series.

And now the story ... 

Stone has been in love with Pepper since he first laid eyes on her. But she doesn't feel the same.

Wrong. She does, but she just has trouble admitting it, thanks to trauma in her past. And now Stone is dealing with the return of his estranged mother and revelations about his and his siblings' past that change everything.

Luckily, Stone and Pepper volunteer to go scope out a venue for Rafael and Lisa's upcoming wedding, when they literally are snowed in together. That kind of situation always lends itself to romantic revelations. I may not like being cold in the snow, but some of the most romantic moments in my life have happened in it. It also helps to soften rough exteriors, which both of these two people need to move on in their lives and to heal.

This is a great couple. Their banter is fantastic and the kind of loving sarcasm some of us aspire to achieve in our own relationships. I read this one curled up in front of a fireplace, which was a perfect location.

This one, as all of the regular-length novels in the Cliffside Bay series, definitely works as a standalone. You'll want to read it before the novella Christmas Wedding.

Thank you to the author and publisher for an advanced review copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Read more Tess Thompson books here.