Good book whose twists and turns kept me glued to the pages from start to finish. Lies, betrayals, and rumors made this love triangle more complex.
ViGood book whose twists and turns kept me glued to the pages from start to finish. Lies, betrayals, and rumors made this love triangle more complex.
Viscount "Wolf" Wolfton is known for charming the ladies but moving on as soon as they start hinting at marriage. He's frustrated at the constant assault on his bachelorhood and asks Mrs. Dove-Lyon to accompany him to several charity events as protection. She declines but proposes a bet: She will find him a companion who can resist his charm.
Christina's family is in financial difficulties due to an investment that is the victim of an embezzler. She helps Mrs. Dove-Lyon with planning a series of charity events, and when the widow offers to pay her to take her place during those events, Christina can't say no. Christina isn't the usual society miss. She has a mind of her own, an interest in astronomy, and a caring heart.
Richard St. John is Christina's brother-in-law's cousin. He has been drawn to Christina since he met her. He has a quiet, steadfast personality rather than Wolf's blatant charm.
Christina spends a great deal of time in Wolf's company, attending the charity events. She enjoys his company but also senses that he has secrets that prey on him. I had mixed feelings about Wolf. He has charm and potential but also exhibits ungentlemanly behavior that turned me off. Meanwhile, Richard is there to help when Christina needs him, and they bond over their interest in astronomy. I loved Richard's protectiveness, Christina's worry about him, and how it brought them closer together.
Trouble comes when Wolf gives in to jealousy and makes a stupid decision. Meanwhile, rumors swirl around Richard, casting aspersions on his honor. Mrs. Dove-Lyons leads the charge to clear Richard's name. The twists and turns of the investigation kept me guessing to the end. There was one surprise at the end I didn't see coming. I'd like to see it followed up on in a later book....more
This was my first book by Sara Ackerman, but it won't be the last. She immediately drew me in with her opening description of Dane waiting for and ridThis was my first book by Sara Ackerman, but it won't be the last. She immediately drew me in with her opening description of Dane waiting for and riding the big wave at Peʻahi, one of the islands' most incredible surfing spots. I could feel Dane's excitement at the wave's strength and his respect for the ocean. It gave an excellent first impression of his identity and what drives him.
'Iwa is a field biologist, born and raised on the island. Her job is to track and protect the flora and fauna of the island. That also includes going up against a developer of an "eco-resort," which is anything but that. Her love and passion for the land leaped off the page. Spending time in the forest also brings back memories of her time with her late mother.
Dane and 'Iwa meet when Dane and the other surfers come into 'Iwa's dad's restaurant. They are immediately drawn to each other, but 'Iwa has a rule of no surfers and no off-islanders, having been burned in previous relationships. Dane is persistent in wanting to get to know 'Iwa better and finds a way by appealing to her love of nature.
I enjoyed seeing the slow build of Dane and 'Iwa's relationship. 'Iwa is wary of getting involved with another surfer whose goal is always the next big wave. But there is more to Dane than just the thrill, and I loved seeing them connect through their love of nature. There were some terrific scenes of them showing each other what was unique about each of their lives. Dane's appreciation of 'Iwa's work and his support of her efforts to protect the land went a long way toward softening her initial wariness. I especially enjoyed the scene at the waterfall. As a surfer herself, 'Iwa has a deeper understanding of Dane's fascination, almost obsession, with searching out the biggest waves. I enjoyed watching her support him, from Maui to California to Portugal.
However, some obstacles must be overcome to have a chance at a future together. A surfing event that goes wrong strains their relationship by stirring up insecurities on both sides. Dane and 'Iwa need to deal with their pasts before moving forward. Both journeys were intensely emotional, and I loved the realistic way they were depicted. The ending was terrific, and I loved seeing how it all worked out.
The secondary characters were fantastic. Dane's surfing friends, Kama, Yeti, and Hope, played significant roles in the story, from surfing to giving advice Dane didn't always appreciate. 'Iwa's friend Winston was a big part of her life, from being her musical partner to another warrior in the fight against unwanted development. However, the most important secondary character is Mother Nature herself. The vivid descriptions of the oceans as Dane and the others surfed made me feel as though I was there. The depth of the author's love for Hawaii was evident in the descriptions of the forests and animals. Seeing a rare endangered bird made my heart beat faster, just as it did for 'Iwa.
The surfing scenes and the background were fascinating to read about. I looked up surfing big waves at Peʻahi and Navare on youtube and gained a deeper appreciation for Dane's abilities. ...more
This was another exciting visit to Garnet Bend, Montana, and the world of Resting Warrior Ranch. As usual, with this author's books, I was immediatelyThis was another exciting visit to Garnet Bend, Montana, and the world of Resting Warrior Ranch. As usual, with this author's books, I was immediately drawn into the story and hooked to the finish.
Kenzie is a very successful commercial real estate agent in Denver who also gives seminars on how to grow a business. She is a city girl to the bone, but when she has a stalker whose threats escalate, the police send her to tiny Garnet Bend to lay low while they investigate. She arrives in town and immediately has car trouble. The sheriff sends her to Jensen, the town mechanic.
Jensen had a rough childhood, but meeting Lucas was a bright spot. They maintained their friendship through the years, and when Jensen came to a crossroads after his time as a security consultant, Lucas invited him to Garnet Bend. Jensen has a garage where he works on cars and is a talented wood carver.
When Jensen notices some suspicious trouble with Kenzie's car, he consults his friends at the Resting Warrior Ranch. They all agree that the sheriff needs to know about it (he knows about Kenzie's stalker problem). Jensen agrees that he should be her first line of defense since he is nearest Kenzie's location and unattached. Meanwhile, the other RWR men put their talents to use in helping uncover the identity of her stalker and provide extra protection.
The intensity grows when it becomes evident that Kenzie's stalker has found her. Threatening messages and physical attacks keep everyone on edge as they try to protect her. I was glued to the pages as the attacks escalated. The final confrontation had a twist I didn't see coming and kept me flipping pages as fast as I could read. The twist in the resolution was unexpected, and I can't wait for the next book.
I enjoyed watching the relationship between Kenzie and Jensen develop. They are such different people it was hard to see how they could become a couple. Kenzie is a city girl who likes the hustle and bustle of the city, the culture, and being close to her friends. She is outgoing and friendly. She doesn't look forward to her time there, expecting extreme boredom. Meanwhile, Jensen is quiet, not very sociable, and downright grumpy until he's had sufficient coffee in the morning. He's also honorable, a good friend, and has a heart bigger than he lets on.
Kenzie and Jensen have one thing in common. Both have trust issues - Jensen because of his childhood and Kenzie because of a relationship that turned out badly. However, it doesn't take them long to form a connection. Jensen's protective instincts kick in when he discovers the danger Kenzie is in. I loved how he understood her need to occupy her time with something productive and invited her to set up his social media sites for his woodworking business. Neither could deny the attraction that was building between them. Could they give into it without being hurt when Kenzie returns to Denver? I loved the ending and look forward to seeing more of them in future books.
I loved seeing characters from the previous books. They aren't thrown in just to connect this book to the series; they play vital roles in the story. I loved how the men immediately jumped in to help. The women made Kenzie part of their group without blinking an eye. It was fun to see Kenzie included in the RWR Sunday dinner tradition and its effect on her and Jensen. ...more
Good second chance love story. Winslow McInniss is Garrick's vassal, and thanks to his service to the king, he was awarded the estate of Sedgeworth. HGood second chance love story. Winslow McInniss is Garrick's vassal, and thanks to his service to the king, he was awarded the estate of Sedgeworth. He has been too busy to do anything with it, but now that he's returned from Scotland, he must do so. On his way back to Merewood, he stumbles across a young woman under attack. He rescues her, but she is badly injured. He takes her to Merewood to be cared for. There is something about her that arouses his protective instincts.
Genvieve is Augustin's cousin and is on the way to Merewood to help care for his daughter when she is attacked. She fights as best she can but is badly injured before a stranger appears and saves her. She wakes up surrounded by strangers and unable to speak because of an injury to her throat. She is wary of those around her but trusts McInniss. I ached for Genvieve. Her fear of her unknown circumstance and frustration at being unable to communicate was palpable. (Though she can read and write, why didn't she just write notes to people?)
McInniss and Genvieve initially resist the attraction between them. McInniss loves a woman who is married to someone else and has given up on love because of it. Genvieve had loved and lost and had no desire to risk further pain. Nonetheless, McInniss is determined to discover who is behind the attack on Genvieve and doesn't recognize that the need stems from his growing feelings for her. Being forced into marriage isn't what either wants.
Suspense builds as McInniss delves deeper into the attack on Genvieve. Matters become complicated when he, too, is attacked. The truth he uncovers shocks and appalls him. The resolution was heartbreaking in what it exposed. I liked seeing Genvieve and McInniss finally let go of their pasts and embrace the future. The epilogue was well done.
Another thing I enjoyed about this series was the presence of McInniss's "Irish Contingent." These men are O'Malleys and the ancestors of those in the Duke's Guard series. I'd like to know more about them. ...more
This was a sweet story of family and love, with lots of warmth and humor. I love the author's small-town stories, which are full of quirky and relatabThis was a sweet story of family and love, with lots of warmth and humor. I love the author's small-town stories, which are full of quirky and relatable characters.
Lila returned home to tiny Ditto, Texas when her Aunt Gracie died and left Lila her estate. It is up to Lila to make the more than one-hundred-year-old house her own. Bittersweet memories of growing up there make sorting through Aunt Gracie's effects an emotional experience, most notably going through the sympathy cards. There are rumors that Gracie had some big secret, but no one has discovered what it is.
Aunt Gracie's best friend and neighbor, Jasper, is a fun addition to the story. He is a feisty old gentleman with plenty of stories about the good old days. I loved how they comforted Lila and gave her insight into her beloved Aunt Gracie. Jasper was family to Lila, and watching the two together was often amusing, as was her insistence on a trip to the hospital when he was sick. Jasper was equally protective of Lila, and I laughed out loud when he dealt with the unwelcome visitors.
A newcomer to town, Connor recently left the military and works for his grandfather, Emmett. Emmett leases Lila's strawberry fields and is set to turn his businesses over to Connor. He's laid back and charming and shows a decided interest in Lila. I enjoyed seeing his kindness and support when she needed it and the twinkle of humor ever-present in his eyes. There are some sweet scenes of them together. My favorite is the picnic by the river. You can see them falling for each other; there's no drama, just a steadily growing attachment.
The book is mainly about Lila's journey through her grief over Aunt Gracie's death. Listening to Jasper's stories and those told by others helps Lila see her aunt as the strong woman she was. Little things lead to unexpected revelations and a desire to change her life. The scene where Lila cleans out Gracie's closet was fantastic, with the memories it stirred up.
The epilogue was terrific. I loved seeing them ten years down the road and seeing what their lives were like. ...more
Terrific story about Dorcas Anderson, a twice-widowed mother of a young son. She eloped with her first husband and followed him to the war, where her Terrific story about Dorcas Anderson, a twice-widowed mother of a young son. She eloped with her first husband and followed him to the war, where her husband was killed just before her son was born. His commanding officer, who was also her husband's twin brother, refused to give her the money to return to England, leaving her no choice but to marry another soldier for protection. After he was also killed, she made her way back to London, where she takes in embroidery to make ends meet.
One day, Dorcas saves Mrs. Dove-Lyon from an accident and is rewarded with three tokens, each worth a favor from Mrs. Dove-Lyon. The timing was propitious, as she was shortly thereafter accused of theft by her former brother-in-law. Dorcas uses her first token to request help, and Mrs. Dove-Lyon sends Ben, the Earl of Somerfield, to get her out of jail and bring her to the Lyon's Den for protection. There are some lovely scenes of Dorcas and her son at the Lyon's Den. I especially enjoyed seeing Mrs. Dove-Lyon's "wolves" and the third-floor ladies become part of Dorcas's cheering section.
Ben knew Dorcas from when he was with the army. He remembers her as kind and honorable. He is happy to help and, in spending time with her, is reminded how much he admires her. I enjoyed seeing them together as Ben steps in to help her get the justice she deserves. They begin to develop feelings for each other, but Dorcas believes that she is not of sufficient class to hope for marriage. An invitation to the Lyon's Den masque opens her eyes to possibilities for the future. I loved this part. The description of the gown Dorcas designed and its effect on the men who attended the ball was very emotional.
Dorcas and Mrs. Dove-Lyon agree that her best plan to protect herself and her son is to marry again to a man of sufficient rank to stand up to her former in-laws. This is where Mrs. Dove-Lyon excels. Ben recognizes the depth of his feelings for Dorcas, but it is almost too late. I enjoyed seeing Mrs. Dove-Lyon make Ben work to earn the hand of the lady he loves. The ending was intense, but we know love will triumph.
There is trouble for Dorcas throughout the book as her husband's twin brother continues to make trouble for her. Dorcas doesn't know why he shows such enmity toward her. Ben's determination to ensure her safety soon uncovers the truth. Ben's protectiveness goes a little too far at one point, angering Dorcas and possibly opening her up to more trouble. Fortunately, he learns from his mistakes. I liked the twist during the ceremony and the resolution of Dorcas's troubles. ...more
Mrs. Dove-Lyon succeeds again at matching two unlikely subjects for a happy marriage. Hattie has been a scandal magnet since she turned sixteen. SocieMrs. Dove-Lyon succeeds again at matching two unlikely subjects for a happy marriage. Hattie has been a scandal magnet since she turned sixteen. Society's rules frustrate her, so she ignores them. Now twenty-nine, her parents are fed up with her antics and hire Mrs. Dove-Lyon to find her a husband who will take her off their hands. Hattie doesn't want to be married, but she's given no choice.
Simon is a retired Navy captain who lost an eye in the war with the Americans a few years earlier. He's stayed busy since then, including spending time with his friends. However, many of them have fallen prey to Mrs. Dove-Lyon's manipulations and are now married (albeit happily). He's somewhat envious of their happiness, but not enough to step into that trap himself - until the night he wins a drinking wager at the Lyon's Den. The next thing he knows, Mrs. Dove-Lyon threatens to reveal his secret unless he marries the scandal-ridden Hattie immediately.
I liked the development of Hattie and Simon's relationship. Honest communication from the get-go smoothed the way as they decided to make the best of their situation. Hattie is stubborn and impulsive but not stupid, and she quickly sees the benefits of her marriage. Simon understands her and doesn't try to push or control her. I liked watching them get to know each other and discovering that they like what they have together. And that's before they give in to the sparks of attraction that grow stronger by the day.
But there are some obstacles between them and the future they want, obstacles caused by the trust that is difficult to bestow. Simon keeps his professional singing career to himself because he wants to be appreciated for who he is, not his celebrity. Hattie knows he's keeping something from her and is hurt by the lack of trust.
Meanwhile, it takes a while for Hattie to confide in Simon about her propensity for prophetic dreams. She has been dreaming about lions, and some of those dreams terrify her. Complicating matters is a rejected suitor who refuses to give up his pursuit of Hattie. The resolution of that matter was very well done....more
This was an emotional story about two people whose pasts cause them to believe that romance and love are not in their futures. Their journey from flinThis was an emotional story about two people whose pasts cause them to believe that romance and love are not in their futures. Their journey from fling to forever was filled with attraction and anxiety.
Tamsin is a transplant surgeon who chose her career because of the effects of her own transplant on her and her sister, Emily. The backstory is heartbreaking and leaves Tamsin blaming herself for what happened to Emily. While romance is not welcome, the occasional one-night stand is okay. So, when sparks fly between her and pediatric surgeon Max during a working trip to Edinburgh, she gives in. But the deep connection she feels freaks her out, and Tamsin quickly distances herself.
Max has his own reasons for avoiding commitment, but there is something about Tamsin he's unable to forget. When aftercare for her transplant patient brings her back to Edinburgh, Max wants to pick up where they left off. Tamsin is wary but sets her doubts aside when they agree to a short-term, no-strings fling.
I enjoyed watching Max and Tamsin's relationship develop. It's evident from the start that their connection is more than just physical, but neither wants to admit it. They soon spend just as much time outside the bedroom, enjoying being together. The scenes of ordinary activities of being a couple raise red flags in Tamsin, but she doesn't want to lose what they have. She knows she's getting in deep when Max introduces her to the children at the orphanage where he grew up.
I liked watching Max open up and reconsider his no-commitment stance. But Tamsin is still mired in her guilty feelings, which drives a wedge between them when he wants more. I ached for both as harsh words were exchanged. Can Tamsin take Max's advice and mend the rift with her family before it's too late? I loved the ending and the intervention that brought Max and Tamsin to their big moment.
The medical theme of this book is transplants and what happens before and after. I loved how Tamsin's past made her so passionate about her work. The transplant patient at the center of the story was a terrific way to explain the process without feeling like a med school lecture. ...more
Another terrific book in the West Investigations series with a gripping mystery, second-chance romance, and an interesting art museum setting. It starAnother terrific book in the West Investigations series with a gripping mystery, second-chance romance, and an interesting art museum setting. It starts with a bang when the famous Vipere ruby is stolen from the Larimer Museum.
Maggie is one of the curators at the museum and the force behind the special exhibit. The night of the donor's preview, Maggie is attacked, and the ruby is stolen. Later that night, she discovers that her best friend and fellow curator has been murdered. Complicating matters, the investigator for the security company is Kevin, the college sweetheart who left her without looking back.
Kevin recently started working for West Investigations. This is his first case with them, and he's determined to excel. The last person he expects to see is Maggie, the girl he's never forgotten.
The suspense of this story had me glued to the pages from start to finish. The search for the ruby is a rollercoaster ride of promising clues and dead ends, with a twist at the end that I never saw coming. The final confrontation was a nail-biter with a terrific ending.
I enjoyed the rekindling of Maggie and Kevin's relationship. Maggie still feels hurt and resentful over how Kevin walked away from her, while Kevin realized long ago that he'd made a terrible mistake. I liked how Maggie insisted on being part of the investigation, which meant spending more time with Kevin. It quickly became evident that the sparks between them were as strong as ever, but Maggie was wary of getting her heart broken again. I liked Kevin's protectiveness and his support of Maggie during the turmoil of the investigation. I liked seeing that they could talk about their past, mistakes, and hopes for the future, taking things slowly to ensure they get it right. ...more
Terrific book. Maddox Hale grew up on the ranch next to the Bravos but couldn't wait to leave Medicine Creek behind. He's now a successful businessmanTerrific book. Maddox Hale grew up on the ranch next to the Bravos but couldn't wait to leave Medicine Creek behind. He's now a successful businessman, thanks to his workaholic ways. For the same reason, he is divorced and hasn't been much of a dad to his two kids. He plans to right that wrong by spending the summer on the family ranch with his kids. Those plans alter when his father breaks his leg, and Maddox goes home early to care for him. First on the agenda is to hire a nurse to supervise Fergus while he heals.
Sarah Bravo is home recovering from an injury sustained while running a free clinic in Bolivia. She is saving money to get her Master's in nursing, and when she hears of the opening at the Hale ranch, she applies.
The story starts with a bang as Maddox and Fergus interview potential nurses. Feisty Fergus isn't thrilled with any of them until Sarah shows up. He knows Sarah well and likes her. Maddox is not as enthusiastic. She's too young, too pretty, and too much of a possible distraction. I laughed out loud at the conversation between Maddox and Fergus as they debated hiring her. Obviously, Fergus wins.
I enjoyed watching Maddox and Sarah's relationship develop. Their attraction is evident from the start, but there are obstacles. Nursing ethics prohibit Sarah from getting personally involved with a patient or a patient's family member. Maddox has no plans to marry again. However, discussions during late-night swims encourage a closeness neither expected, and the attraction becomes harder to resist.
Giving in to the attraction for the summer is one thing, but what happens when Sarah wants more? Maddox's past convinces him that he is unworthy of love, and nothing will convince him otherwise. I loved seeing Sarah stand up for herself and her needs. Maddox earned his misery when he walked away from what he had with Sarah. Some well-meaning interference from Fergus leads to an unexpected twist that motivates Maddox to take a chance. I loved the ending.
Fergus was my favorite secondary character. Nothing gets him down for long. The story behind his broken leg is hilarious, and I loved seeing him deal with the consequences. Maddox's kids were great. I liked the realism of RJ's issues with his father's neglect and Maddox's determination to redeem himself. ...more
Sweet story. Adaline owns the local bakery and is an active member of Comfort Paws, an animal therapy group. As the book opens, she takes her dog, FuzSweet story. Adaline owns the local bakery and is an active member of Comfort Paws, an animal therapy group. As the book opens, she takes her dog, Fuzzy, to the local assisted living facility to visit the residents. Adaline meets Gus, who could give the Grinch a run for his money. On the way out of his room, she encounters Gus's great-nephew, Jace, her fifth-grade nemesis.
Jace lived with Gus for a year while his dad was undergoing cancer treatment. Then he went back home to his parents. He's never forgotten the time he spent with Gus. When he learns that Gus is ill, Jace packs up his life and returns to the small town. Gus is the only family Jace has left, and he's determined to spend Gus's remaining days with him.
Jace is happy to see Adaline again. He fondly remembers the bubbly, larger-than-life girl from school. He doesn't understand why she is so cold to him. The strain continues when Jace unknowingly interferes with a planned Comfort Paws fundraiser.
I liked Jace and Adaline. Jace is a good guy. When he finds out about the fundraiser, he finds a way to help them. I liked how he cleared the air with Adaline about the past and opened the door to renew their friendship. Adaline loves helping her friends and tends to go all in on any project she takes on.
I enjoyed seeing the relationship develop between Jace and Adaline. Once they got past the initial antagonism, they quickly discovered that they liked each other. When Adaline's grandmother signs her up for a matchmaking service, Adaline panics and claims she has a boyfriend, even though she doesn't. Jace comes to the rescue and claims that it is him. As they spend time together, their feelings for each other grow, but neither is ready to risk rejection by saying so,
Things get complicated when Jace and Adaline discover a secret about Gus's past. This causes a rift between Jace and Gus, stirring up Jace's insecurities. Instead of staying and working it out, Jace runs. I hurt for him and the loneliness he feels. I also hurt for Adaline, who had other bad news. Jace's departure was a final blow that hurt more than she expected. I loved that she didn't let it stop her for long. I laughed as she read Gus the riot act and hoped it would have the necessary effect on him. The ending was terrific. I loved Jace's big moment and the surprise he had for her. The epilogue was sweet and emotional, with a happy outlook for Jace, Adaline, and Comfort Paws. ...more
Fun Christmas book with a Cinderella theme. I liked the interweaving of the real-life Cinderella with the village play. The characters were realistic Fun Christmas book with a Cinderella theme. I liked the interweaving of the real-life Cinderella with the village play. The characters were realistic in their situations and their actions.
Ella is an artist whose art takes a back seat to the other things happening in her life. Her father died a year or so earlier, but not before asking Ella to look after the family business, her stepmother, and her stepbrothers. The company is Magic Mops, a cleaning service, but Ella is the only one doing much work. Lucinda is demanding and selfish, and her two stepbrothers constantly call out with excuses; everyone but Ella can see right through. She's exhausted from doing everyone else's work, and because of it, she misses many lessons with famous artist Henry.
Alex is also an artist who has come to Mistletoe to study with Henry. He works for his father in the family business and is on a short hiatus for the lessons. His dad still expects Alex to keep up with his work remotely.
Ella and Alex did not get off to a good start. A runaway dog and a car driving too fast for the conditions nearly led to disaster, and Alex's cold attitude left an unlikeable impression. Ella was doubly dismayed to find they would both be working with Henry. Henry has a unique way of drawing the best out of his pupils, though it takes some time for them to see results.
One of Henry's methods is to get Alex to broaden his experience. To do this, he ropes Alex into helping with the village Christmas production of Cinderella. It was funny and painful to see Alex floundering with things so far outside his experience.
I enjoyed watching the relationship develop between Ella and Alex. It is rough initially, as Ella sees Alex as cold and unfeeling, and Alex thinks Ella is irresponsible. Their attitudes begin to change as they get to know each other. I liked seeing Ella encourage him to embrace the feelings he suppressed for so long. She also helps him develop confidence in his artistic ability. Working together on the play adds a layer of complications when a practice kiss as Cinderella and Prince Charming gets out of control.
Their complicated lives leave both wondering whether pursuing a relationship is possible. Alex will return to Edinburgh by Christmas, and Ella is stuck in Mistletoe running the family business. Trouble looms when two misunderstandings stir up Ella and Alex's insecurities. The first was dealt with easily, and I loved how Alex gave Ella the moral support she needed to tackle the problem. The second one involved Alex and his father and was especially painful to watch. Alex's reactions were intense, and he said some hurtful things to Ella. It takes serious self-examination for Alex to break free of the chains that kept him struggling for acceptance. I loved his "aha" moment and the joy he finally embraced. His big moment at the end was sweet, romantic, and fun.
The secondary characters were terrific and added lots of emotional growth and development opportunities. Ella's stepmother was a selfish and manipulative woman who thrived on making Ella's life miserable. Her stepbrothers were spoiled and selfish. Though I detested them in the beginning, by the end of the book, they showed great promise in turning into decent human beings. The artist, Henry, who instructed Elle and Alex, could be insensitive, but he made good points with his instructions. It was interesting to see how he struggled with his relationship with Ella's godmother. I loved Mae's relationship with Ella and her support and understanding as Ella faced the challenges in her life. My favorite was Hunter, the young boy who was a budding artist and so much like Alex. Their conversation in the café was sweet, and I loved how Alex helped him. ...more
This book picks up where the previous book (Liberating the Lady of Loughmoe) left off. The keep does well under Garrick and Dunstan's management, and This book picks up where the previous book (Liberating the Lady of Loughmoe) left off. The keep does well under Garrick and Dunstan's management, and life is somewhat more settled. Then word arrives that King William intends to give the keep to one of his warriors. Widowed Lady Eyreka fears for the safety of her family and her people, so when she learns that the Norman is a widower, she develops a plan. She sneaks away to see the king and offers marriage to the Norman in exchange for her family's cooperation in running the keep.
Augustin loved his late wife and had no desire to remarry or stay in England. However, no one says no to the king, and Augustin quickly finds himself married and on the way to Merewood. He is an honorable man though also a bit arrogant and does not realize how unprepared he is to take over Merewood.
I loved watching the relationship between Eyreka and Augustin develop. They get off to a rough start, as Augustin is accustomed to having his orders obeyed, and Eyreka is used to a full partnership with her late husband. Their clashes of will are fun to watch as each strives to come out on top. Unexpected attraction complicates their interactions.
Melding Saxon and Norman into a cohesive unit doesn't come easy. The antagonism, both overt and subtle, keeps everyone on edge. Eyreka and Augustin realize that their resistance to the sparks between them adds to the tension. I liked seeing them get to know and respect each other before giving in to their attraction. The bigger question is whether they can let go of the past and make a future together.
I loved watching the Normans and Saxons learn how to work together. The initial distrust between them is evident and understandable. There are stronger undercurrents with some of Augustin's men, and I ached for Eyreka, who found herself the target of some of those resentments. There are some terrific scenes of Augustin as he settles into life at Merewood and begins to make progress.
But there is trouble looming. When Eyreka and his daughter become the targets of revenge, Augustin must bring together both sides if he will save them. The confrontation was intense, and I was on the edge of my seat until it was over. I loved the depth of emotion displayed at the end and what it meant for their future....more
Good addition to the Emerald Bay series. This is the story of Hannah, the middle daughter of the Kelly family. In previous books, Hannah stands out asGood addition to the Emerald Bay series. This is the story of Hannah, the middle daughter of the Kelly family. In previous books, Hannah stands out as the environmentally conscious activist member of the family. The book opens with Hannah's first foray into protesting for a cause at the age of eight, then moves on to the present day. Hannah works for the non-profit group Feed the World with Bees, where she also has a massive crush on her boss, Dylan. When Dylan shows her an article about a huge garden center planned for her hometown, Hannah rushes home to rally the community. She doesn't expect to find a guest staying in the house. Tom Flynn, an architectural project manager from Dublin, was sent to do the advanced work for the proposed development. Hannah takes an instant dislike to him because of it.
The initial meeting between Tom and Hannah was hilarious, leaving Hannah at a slight disadvantage. In addition, she is so focused on her mission that she comes across as very judgmental. I liked seeing Tom call her out on it. They are thrown together on several occasions, and Hannah discovers that there is more to Tom than she realizes. I liked Tom. He is charming and has a sense of humor even in difficult moments. Neither Tom nor Hannah expected the sparks that flared between them, complicating their interactions. A few bumps along the road to their happy ever after are mainly caused by Hannah's distrust. Fortunately, Hannah's journey includes some self-examination and rethinking of her priorities. I loved the scene of Tom and Hannah at the cottage as they finally cleared the air. The ending was sweet, and I loved seeing the whole family together.
I love the Kelly family, and this book is full of Kellyisms. The teasing among the sisters is hilarious, but they have each other's backs when support is needed. Kitty Kelly, the grandmother, shows a different side of herself when the proposed development intrudes on a special place in her history. I loved the history she revealed and how it brought her past to life for the sisters. There is also a bit of intrigue involving an American woman who appears to be stalking Hannah's mother, Nora. The resolution of that mystery was a shock to everyone.
The village residents add humor and depth to the story. I especially enjoyed Eileen and how she roped Hannah into helping with her latest project. The scenes with the teenagers were funny and moving....more
Good book. Asher Tyler has maintained his carefree bachelor life by steering clear of each Season's marriage-minded misses while watching two of his bGood book. Asher Tyler has maintained his carefree bachelor life by steering clear of each Season's marriage-minded misses while watching two of his best friends fall to Mrs. Dove-Lyon's matchmaking efforts. He and his friend Lucius are the only ones unwed and are determined to stay that way. Then Asher encounters a woman who catches his attention, and he can't forget her.
Patience is a widow and member of the Wicked Widows Club. She is not particularly wicked, but her reputation suffered when she eloped with her late husband and her father disowned her. She lives with her friend, Cassandra, who pays Mrs. Dove-Lyon's matchmaking fees to find Patience a husband. Patience is willing but wants to find a man she can love, a man very different than the one she encountered at the Lyon's Den.
I enjoyed watching Asher and Patience's relationship develop. The sparks between them are evident from the start, but Asher stubbornly hangs on to his bachelorhood while Patience is wary of trusting him with her heart. Mrs. Dove-Lyon does a masterful job of throwing them together without them realizing her involvement. Each encounter increases the sparks between them. Complications occur when Asher's brother, Gideon, expresses his interest in her. The possibility of losing Patience to another man opens his eyes to his feelings for her. I liked his efforts to win Patience's heart and earn her trust.
There is some trouble when an old enemy of Asher's seeks revenge. His actions add an element of danger that threatens to come between Asher and Patience. Some tense moments occur near the end, but the resolution is very satisfying.
The ending is excellent. I enjoyed Lucius's comments about preserving his freedom, especially in view of the epilogue. There, we see that Mrs. Dove-Lyon has him in her crosshairs. I can't wait for the author's next Lyon's Den book. I'd also like to see Gideon get a happy ending himself. ...more
I always look forward to a new Cutter book, and this was no exception. Quinn and Haley Foxworth are on an anniversary trip when their dog Cutter lets I always look forward to a new Cutter book, and this was no exception. Quinn and Haley Foxworth are on an anniversary trip when their dog Cutter lets them know there is trouble ahead. Sure enough, they come upon Brady, a deputy preparing to rescue the victim of a traffic accident. They all work to pull Ashley from the wreck, only to discover something very strange going on.
Ashley believes that she is slowly going insane, just as her father did. She has nightmares of monsters, episodes of forgetfulness, and has been found wandering with no idea how she got there. Her mother, the town mayor, moved Ashley back home to keep her safe and set her up with the local psychiatrist. During the times when she's clear-headed, Ashley is terrified of what the future holds for her. The latest accident is one more nail in her mental coffin. The only bright side is the handsome deputy who shows concern for her well-being and the dog who exudes comforting vibes.
I loved seeing Cutter do his "fix it" stare at the accident scene. Quinn and Haley are quite used to his intuitive actions now and are ready to help if asked. After reading past reports of Ashley's problems, Brady is warier, but he can't deny that something feels off to him. When he finds Ashley at a very low point, he knows he needs to get involved and takes Ashley to Quinn and Haley.
I enjoyed the intertwining of the suspense and the romance. Brady felt protective of Ashley from the beginning, even when he wasn't sure of her story. As Brady becomes more convinced that there is nothing wrong with Ashley's mind, his confidence gives her the strength to believe in herself. Sparks of attraction flare between them. Brady tries to resist, careful not to take advantage of Ashley's turmoil, while Ashley doesn't want to do anything to drive him away. Neither of them stands a chance against Cutter and his belief that they belong together.
While I suspected the truth early in the book, it was even worse than I knew. I loved seeing Quinn, Haley, and the Foxworth Foundation do what they do best - fight for those that need it. Brady is a "by the book" lawman but quickly appreciates the resources the others bring to the table. There are some interesting moments between Brady and Quinn as Brady reconciles what needs to be done with the rules he works under. I ached for Ashley as they came closer to the truth and an unexpected twist brought the last piece of the puzzle. I loved Brady's anger on Ashley's behalf and how having that support gave Ashley added confidence. I loved her anger and determination to see justice done. The final confrontation was fantastic, and seeing Ashley face down her tormentor was incredibly satisfying. I loved the ending and seeing Brady and Ashley look toward the future together.
As always in a Cutter's Code book, the dog is an integral part of the story. After sixteen months together, Quinn and Haley have accepted Cutter's unique abilities and have learned not to ignore him. It is always fun to see new people's responses to his actions, and Brady and Ashley were no exception. It was amusing to see them go from disbelief to amazement after hearing about his successes. And that was before learning about his secondary talent for matchmaking. The descriptions of Cutter's antics and his uncaninelike facial expressions were such that I could easily picture them. I especially enjoyed the "smug" looks and his depiction at the end as "utterly relaxed" because "obviously the dog considered his work done."
I liked seeing characters from previous books make appearances. They weren't tossed in willy-nilly but had specific roles to play. References to previous cases enhanced Foxworth's standing in Brady's eyes as he grew to understand precisely what they do. I especially enjoyed seeing Gavin and his reputation play a big part in the end. I can't wait for the next book - still waiting for a story for Rafe.
Merged review:
I always look forward to a new Cutter book, and this was no exception. Quinn and Haley Foxworth are on an anniversary trip when their dog Cutter lets them know there is trouble ahead. Sure enough, they come upon Brady, a deputy preparing to rescue the victim of a traffic accident. They all work to pull Ashley from the wreck, only to discover something very strange going on.
Ashley believes that she is slowly going insane, just as her father did. She has nightmares of monsters, episodes of forgetfulness, and has been found wandering with no idea how she got there. Her mother, the town mayor, moved Ashley back home to keep her safe and set her up with the local psychiatrist. During the times when she's clear-headed, Ashley is terrified of what the future holds for her. The latest accident is one more nail in her mental coffin. The only bright side is the handsome deputy who shows concern for her well-being and the dog who exudes comforting vibes.
I loved seeing Cutter do his "fix it" stare at the accident scene. Quinn and Haley are quite used to his intuitive actions now and are ready to help if asked. After reading past reports of Ashley's problems, Brady is warier, but he can't deny that something feels off to him. When he finds Ashley at a very low point, he knows he needs to get involved and takes Ashley to Quinn and Haley.
I enjoyed the intertwining of the suspense and the romance. Brady felt protective of Ashley from the beginning, even when he wasn't sure of her story. As Brady becomes more convinced that there is nothing wrong with Ashley's mind, his confidence gives her the strength to believe in herself. Sparks of attraction flare between them. Brady tries to resist, careful not to take advantage of Ashley's turmoil, while Ashley doesn't want to do anything to drive him away. Neither of them stands a chance against Cutter and his belief that they belong together.
While I suspected the truth early in the book, it was even worse than I knew. I loved seeing Quinn, Haley, and the Foxworth Foundation do what they do best - fight for those that need it. Brady is a "by the book" lawman but quickly appreciates the resources the others bring to the table. There are some interesting moments between Brady and Quinn as Brady reconciles what needs to be done with the rules he works under. I ached for Ashley as they came closer to the truth and an unexpected twist brought the last piece of the puzzle. I loved Brady's anger on Ashley's behalf and how having that support gave Ashley added confidence. I loved her anger and determination to see justice done. The final confrontation was fantastic, and seeing Ashley face down her tormentor was incredibly satisfying. I loved the ending and seeing Brady and Ashley look toward the future together.
As always in a Cutter's Code book, the dog is an integral part of the story. After sixteen months together, Quinn and Haley have accepted Cutter's unique abilities and have learned not to ignore him. It is always fun to see new people's responses to his actions, and Brady and Ashley were no exception. It was amusing to see them go from disbelief to amazement after hearing about his successes. And that was before learning about his secondary talent for matchmaking. The descriptions of Cutter's antics and his uncaninelike facial expressions were such that I could easily picture them. I especially enjoyed the "smug" looks and his depiction at the end as "utterly relaxed" because "obviously the dog considered his work done."
I liked seeing characters from previous books make appearances. They weren't tossed in willy-nilly but had specific roles to play. References to previous cases enhanced Foxworth's standing in Brady's eyes as he grew to understand precisely what they do. I especially enjoyed seeing Gavin and his reputation play a big part in the end. I can't wait for the next book - still waiting for a story for Rafe....more
Terrific start to the new series focusing on Eagle Mountain's Search and Rescue unit members. The book started with a rush and kept me hooked to the eTerrific start to the new series focusing on Eagle Mountain's Search and Rescue unit members. The book started with a rush and kept me hooked to the end. Hannah, an EMT with the SAR unit, was the first arrival at the scene of an accident. A white box van had gone over the edge of the road into a ravine. As she called down to let them know help was coming, she saw an injured man climbing up. But when she looked away to see a deputy arrive, the man disappeared. When the rescuers climbed down to the van, they discovered both remaining victims were dead - with one obviously murdered. They later found out the man she saw was an escaped serial killer.
Jake is new to the Eagle Mountain Sheriff's Department. He plans to get experience there before moving to a larger department. He has handled everything from speeders to stray animals, but a manhunt for a serial killer is new. I loved the scene of Jake trying to catch the stray dog. I was not surprised by what happened with the dog, though I laughed out loud at the scene in the jail. Also new is his interest in the pretty EMT.
The suspense of the story was fantastic. From the moment Cutler escaped, the race was on to catch him. The process is complicated by Cutler's military experience with extreme weather. I could feel the frustration of the sheriff's department as they always seemed to be a step behind him. The search hits particularly close to home when it becomes evident that Cutler has fixated on Hannah as his next victim. The intensity ramps up as Cutler taunts his pursuers by showing how close he can get without being caught, even causing an avalanche. As the threats against Hannah grow, Jake is determined to keep her safe. The final confrontation is a nail-biter involving weather, a hair-raising rescue, and a fight on the side of a cliff.
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Jake and Hannah. Hannah was a little wary at first because she knew Jake didn't plan to stay in Eagle Mountain, and she had no interest in leaving. But they have a lot in common, and their attraction is undeniable. Besides spending time together and getting to know each other, they frequently work together at accident scenes. I loved that Jake was protective yet respectful of Hannah's capabilities. I liked seeing their feelings for each other deepen. Hannah dreamed of a future together but worried about what would happen if Jake got a job offer that would take him away. The ending is perfect and shows a bright future for them.
I loved the setting of a Search and Rescue unit in the Colorado mountains. Each member has a unique personality, and I look forward to learning more about them. The rescue situations portrayed in the book felt realistic and kept me interested in their actions. I also liked Hannah's father and found his backstory as a competitive climber intriguing. His willingness to help Jake at the end was critical to the successful resolution of the confrontation.
#ARC
Merged review:
Terrific start to the new series focusing on Eagle Mountain's Search and Rescue unit members. The book started with a rush and kept me hooked to the end. Hannah, an EMT with the SAR unit, was the first arrival at the scene of an accident. A white box van had gone over the edge of the road into a ravine. As she called down to let them know help was coming, she saw an injured man climbing up. But when she looked away to see a deputy arrive, the man disappeared. When the rescuers climbed down to the van, they discovered both remaining victims were dead - with one obviously murdered. They later found out the man she saw was an escaped serial killer.
Jake is new to the Eagle Mountain Sheriff's Department. He plans to get experience there before moving to a larger department. He has handled everything from speeders to stray animals, but a manhunt for a serial killer is new. I loved the scene of Jake trying to catch the stray dog. I was not surprised by what happened with the dog, though I laughed out loud at the scene in the jail. Also new is his interest in the pretty EMT.
The suspense of the story was fantastic. From the moment Cutler escaped, the race was on to catch him. The process is complicated by Cutler's military experience with extreme weather. I could feel the frustration of the sheriff's department as they always seemed to be a step behind him. The search hits particularly close to home when it becomes evident that Cutler has fixated on Hannah as his next victim. The intensity ramps up as Cutler taunts his pursuers by showing how close he can get without being caught, even causing an avalanche. As the threats against Hannah grow, Jake is determined to keep her safe. The final confrontation is a nail-biter involving weather, a hair-raising rescue, and a fight on the side of a cliff.
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Jake and Hannah. Hannah was a little wary at first because she knew Jake didn't plan to stay in Eagle Mountain, and she had no interest in leaving. But they have a lot in common, and their attraction is undeniable. Besides spending time together and getting to know each other, they frequently work together at accident scenes. I loved that Jake was protective yet respectful of Hannah's capabilities. I liked seeing their feelings for each other deepen. Hannah dreamed of a future together but worried about what would happen if Jake got a job offer that would take him away. The ending is perfect and shows a bright future for them.
I loved the setting of a Search and Rescue unit in the Colorado mountains. Each member has a unique personality, and I look forward to learning more about them. The rescue situations portrayed in the book felt realistic and kept me interested in their actions. I also liked Hannah's father and found his backstory as a competitive climber intriguing. His willingness to help Jake at the end was critical to the successful resolution of the confrontation.
Terrific start to the new series. I sat down to read this and couldn't put it down until I finished it. Jace won my heart from the beginning.
Jace is Terrific start to the new series. I sat down to read this and couldn't put it down until I finished it. Jace won my heart from the beginning.
Jace is a nice guy - kind, considerate, smart, and good-looking. Part of the wealthy Abernathy ranching family, Jace spends most of his time working on the family ranch. He is also a volunteer firefighter who works regular shifts at the firehouse. Jace is best known around town as a bachelor who tends to go out with women who need help in some way. He's all into the relationship until the problem is fixed, the woman becomes clingy, or he loses interest. His family teases him about his "white knight" tendencies, and he swears to turn over a new leaf.
As the story opens, Jace spots a fire in progress while running errands. After calling it in, he enters the apartment to see if any is there. He discovers a young woman in active labor and gets her away from the fire. I ached for Jace as he delivered the baby but realized the mother was in a bad way. She begs him to raise her baby if she doesn't make it, as neither she nor the baby's deceased father had any family. Jace makes that promise, hoping it won't be needed, but when he arrives at the hospital later, he finds out she died. Jace is determined to keep his promise and makes a bit of a scene at the hospital when he tries to see the baby. Nurse Tamara talks him down, lets him see the baby, and sends him on his way.
Tamara loves her job as an OB nurse, caring for mothers and babies. Her job gets all her attention after breaking things off with her cheating boyfriend. She doesn't have much patience for men right now, and Jace's insistence that he will foster and adopt baby Frankie strikes her as unrealistic. She knows the rules of the game and that Jace doesn't meet most of the requirements. But she isn't hard-hearted and does her best to let him see the baby when possible.
I enjoyed watching this relationship develop. Jace's determination is undeniable, and with the help of his family and most of the town, Jace succeeds in gaining foster parent status for Frankie. He enlists Tamara to help him learn the ins and outs of caring for the baby. Neither is looking for a relationship. Tamara is still wary of getting involved, and Jace wants to concentrate on Frankie. But there is no denying the sparks that flare between them.
Jace is especially taken with the knowledge that Tamara doesn't need him. From changing her tire to her job as a nurse, she is an independent and confident woman with no interest in depending on Jace for anything. Though they initially limit themselves to friendship, it isn't long before both realize there is something more between them. I loved seeing them together, both with and without Frankie, as they got to know each other and felt like a family.
There are a few bumps along the way to their happy ending. Jace makes up his mind quickly that Tamara is the one for him and has trouble holding back his feelings. Meanwhile, Tamara is wary of the speed of their feelings and worried that she's making a mistake. Help sorting out her feelings comes from an unexpected source, and Tamara can finally see that she and Jace belong together.
#ARC
Merged review:
Terrific start to the new series. I sat down to read this and couldn't put it down until I finished it. Jace won my heart from the beginning.
Jace is a nice guy - kind, considerate, smart, and good-looking. Part of the wealthy Abernathy ranching family, Jace spends most of his time working on the family ranch. He is also a volunteer firefighter who works regular shifts at the firehouse. Jace is best known around town as a bachelor who tends to go out with women who need help in some way. He's all into the relationship until the problem is fixed, the woman becomes clingy, or he loses interest. His family teases him about his "white knight" tendencies, and he swears to turn over a new leaf.
As the story opens, Jace spots a fire in progress while running errands. After calling it in, he enters the apartment to see if any is there. He discovers a young woman in active labor and gets her away from the fire. I ached for Jace as he delivered the baby but realized the mother was in a bad way. She begs him to raise her baby if she doesn't make it, as neither she nor the baby's deceased father had any family. Jace makes that promise, hoping it won't be needed, but when he arrives at the hospital later, he finds out she died. Jace is determined to keep his promise and makes a bit of a scene at the hospital when he tries to see the baby. Nurse Tamara talks him down, lets him see the baby, and sends him on his way.
Tamara loves her job as an OB nurse, caring for mothers and babies. Her job gets all her attention after breaking things off with her cheating boyfriend. She doesn't have much patience for men right now, and Jace's insistence that he will foster and adopt baby Frankie strikes her as unrealistic. She knows the rules of the game and that Jace doesn't meet most of the requirements. But she isn't hard-hearted and does her best to let him see the baby when possible.
I enjoyed watching this relationship develop. Jace's determination is undeniable, and with the help of his family and most of the town, Jace succeeds in gaining foster parent status for Frankie. He enlists Tamara to help him learn the ins and outs of caring for the baby. Neither is looking for a relationship. Tamara is still wary of getting involved, and Jace wants to concentrate on Frankie. But there is no denying the sparks that flare between them.
Jace is especially taken with the knowledge that Tamara doesn't need him. From changing her tire to her job as a nurse, she is an independent and confident woman with no interest in depending on Jace for anything. Though they initially limit themselves to friendship, it isn't long before both realize there is something more between them. I loved seeing them together, both with and without Frankie, as they got to know each other and felt like a family.
There are a few bumps along the way to their happy ending. Jace makes up his mind quickly that Tamara is the one for him and has trouble holding back his feelings. Meanwhile, Tamara is wary of the speed of their feelings and worried that she's making a mistake. Help sorting out her feelings comes from an unexpected source, and Tamara can finally see that she and Jace belong together.
Sweet story. Fletch is a pediatrician who has come to Singapore on a two-year contract. He's lived there before and is pleased to be there again. His Sweet story. Fletch is a pediatrician who has come to Singapore on a two-year contract. He's lived there before and is pleased to be there again. His arrival gets off to a rough start because his apartment isn't quite ready yet, and he spends a night in a hotel. The next day, he heads to the hospital where he will work and encounters a harried young mother whom he helps to the hospital daycare. Afterward, she offers to show him around.
Madison is widowed and has twin preschoolers. Her work as a physiotherapist is satisfying, and she loves being a mother. She's at her wit's end with her son, Justin, who has not been himself lately, but nothing seems to be obviously wrong with him.
There were sparks between Madison and Fletch from the moment they met. This comes as a surprise to Fletch, who is a perennial bachelor. He loves women and is a serial dater who rarely lasts longer than six months in a relationship. He also parts with his girlfriends on good terms, remaining friends long past the end of those relationships. His childhood left him wary of settling down, though he can see it happening sometime in the distant future. But something about Madison appeals like no other woman has.
Madison hasn't dated since her husband's death, being too busy with work and kids. But she can't deny her immediate connection with the new doctor. He's upfront about his record, leaving her to decide if she wants to date him. She cautiously accepts, under the condition they keep their relationship under wraps. She doesn't want to hurt her in-laws or raise gossip in the hospital.
I enjoyed watching the relationship develop between Madison and Fletch. Fletch is a sweet, understanding, and romantic man. I loved his creativity when he set up their dates and could see the impression that they made on Madison. But things become complicated when Madison takes Justin to Fletch as a doctor. Suddenly, the lines between personal and professional lives are blurred. His relationship with Madison makes his determination to solve the mystery of Justin's illness that much more personal.
I loved Madison's trust in Fletch and how she came to depend on him. But that dependence came with complications when Fletch's presence in her life created tension with her late husband's parents. I ached for Madison, whose stress had her questioning everything happening, and for Fletch, who suddenly felt like he was on the outside looking in. I liked the advice Fletch received from one of Madison's friends and what he did with that advice. The ending was terrific, and Fletch's big moment was lovely. The epilogue was a sweet wrap-up for the story.
I enjoyed the Singapore setting. The date locations were described so vividly that I felt like I was there. I also liked the realism of the difficulty in diagnosing Justin's illness. The description of symptoms and behavior made it informative without preaching and more likely to be remembered.
#netgalley
Merged review:
Sweet story. Fletch is a pediatrician who has come to Singapore on a two-year contract. He's lived there before and is pleased to be there again. His arrival gets off to a rough start because his apartment isn't quite ready yet, and he spends a night in a hotel. The next day, he heads to the hospital where he will work and encounters a harried young mother whom he helps to the hospital daycare. Afterward, she offers to show him around.
Madison is widowed and has twin preschoolers. Her work as a physiotherapist is satisfying, and she loves being a mother. She's at her wit's end with her son, Justin, who has not been himself lately, but nothing seems to be obviously wrong with him.
There were sparks between Madison and Fletch from the moment they met. This comes as a surprise to Fletch, who is a perennial bachelor. He loves women and is a serial dater who rarely lasts longer than six months in a relationship. He also parts with his girlfriends on good terms, remaining friends long past the end of those relationships. His childhood left him wary of settling down, though he can see it happening sometime in the distant future. But something about Madison appeals like no other woman has.
Madison hasn't dated since her husband's death, being too busy with work and kids. But she can't deny her immediate connection with the new doctor. He's upfront about his record, leaving her to decide if she wants to date him. She cautiously accepts, under the condition they keep their relationship under wraps. She doesn't want to hurt her in-laws or raise gossip in the hospital.
I enjoyed watching the relationship develop between Madison and Fletch. Fletch is a sweet, understanding, and romantic man. I loved his creativity when he set up their dates and could see the impression that they made on Madison. But things become complicated when Madison takes Justin to Fletch as a doctor. Suddenly, the lines between personal and professional lives are blurred. His relationship with Madison makes his determination to solve the mystery of Justin's illness that much more personal.
I loved Madison's trust in Fletch and how she came to depend on him. But that dependence came with complications when Fletch's presence in her life created tension with her late husband's parents. I ached for Madison, whose stress had her questioning everything happening, and for Fletch, who suddenly felt like he was on the outside looking in. I liked the advice Fletch received from one of Madison's friends and what he did with that advice. The ending was terrific, and Fletch's big moment was lovely. The epilogue was a sweet wrap-up for the story.
I enjoyed the Singapore setting. The date locations were described so vividly that I felt like I was there. I also liked the realism of the difficulty in diagnosing Justin's illness. The description of symptoms and behavior made it informative without preaching and more likely to be remembered.
Short second chance romance. Brennan and Ruby had just started a relationship in high school when her best friend swooped in and stole him away. An unShort second chance romance. Brennan and Ruby had just started a relationship in high school when her best friend swooped in and stole him away. An unplanned pregnancy had Brennan doing "the right thing" and marrying Alice. He never forgot Ruby or the guilt he felt for his actions. Ruby consoled herself with someone else and ended up with an unplanned pregnancy herself, but avoided the mistake of marrying someone she didn't love. She never forgot her feelings for Brennan though she tells herself she's moved on.
Ruby and Brennan get quite a shock when his son and her daughter get married two weeks before they're supposed to leave for college. Neither Brennan nor Ruby makes any secret of their dismay at their kids' impulsive action, but they also know there's nothing they can do about it. Moreover, Vivian and Seth point out that their parents obviously still have feelings for each other, and it's time they did something about it.
The rekindling of their relationship takes place over a few days as they spend time together exploring the attraction that never died. Older and wiser, they spend some time talking about the past. I liked their acknowledgment of mistakes made and lessons learned as they look toward a future together. There's an interesting twist involving Vivian and Seth at the end of the book.
#netgalley
Merged review:
Short second chance romance. Brennan and Ruby had just started a relationship in high school when her best friend swooped in and stole him away. An unplanned pregnancy had Brennan doing "the right thing" and marrying Alice. He never forgot Ruby or the guilt he felt for his actions. Ruby consoled herself with someone else and ended up with an unplanned pregnancy herself, but avoided the mistake of marrying someone she didn't love. She never forgot her feelings for Brennan though she tells herself she's moved on.
Ruby and Brennan get quite a shock when his son and her daughter get married two weeks before they're supposed to leave for college. Neither Brennan nor Ruby makes any secret of their dismay at their kids' impulsive action, but they also know there's nothing they can do about it. Moreover, Vivian and Seth point out that their parents obviously still have feelings for each other, and it's time they did something about it.
The rekindling of their relationship takes place over a few days as they spend time together exploring the attraction that never died. Older and wiser, they spend some time talking about the past. I liked their acknowledgment of mistakes made and lessons learned as they look toward a future together. There's an interesting twist involving Vivian and Seth at the end of the book.
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