Wildflower Falls (Riverbend #4) by Denise Hunter

 

He’s here to train her horses and then skip town. She’s keeping her true identity a secret. But their spark complicates both of their plans.

When Charlotte Honeycutt, owner of Stillwater Ranch, discovered her deceased mother’s safety deposit box, she was not expecting life-changing news inside—the long-hidden identity of her biological father and the location of her two half brothers, Gavin and Cooper Robinson. While her father’s location is unknown, her brothers have grown up in Riverbend Gap, just as she did. Charlotte is determined to know them, but she is unsure how the revelation of a new sister might be received. Fortunately, her plans to build a new stable on her horse farm coincide with this dilemma since Robinson Construction is the only game in town, and she jumps at the chance.

Horse trainer Gunner Dawson is averse to the idea of settling down—or having lasting connections of any kind. His time at Stillwater Ranch is only meant to be temporary, but the young woman he finds there isn’t at all who he expected. Despite an inner warning that she might threaten his peace of mind, he accepts the task of getting her training program off the ground. Before long, he’s not only working at the stables—Charlotte has somehow dragged him into a search for her biological father. And Gunner soon discovers he was right about his peace of mind. Meanwhile, an abused horse tugs at his heart, Charlotte’s brother becomes a loyal friend, and the town of Riverbend Gap is getting some kind of strange hold over him. He’s always run from connections before, but this time leaving seems harder than ever before.

Both Charlotte and Gunner will have to be honest with others and themselves if they have any hope of the future they’re both starting to long for.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

It's book four in the Riverbend series!  I've been reading this series since the beginning and I love it.  I would recommend reading this series in order.  Backstory is so important with this one.  But, I think it could stand alone, you just won't have as much depth of understanding with all the characters.

It was so good to be in this small town again, with this community and this family.  I loved having all the characters I've come to know and enjoy around and involved in this story too.  Charlotte is such a great character.  She is so well rounded and hard working.  She cares on a deep level and I loved her.  Gunner has some heavy childhood trauma to deal with which we don't get the details about until pretty far into the story.  The characters all felt authentic and real, dealing with the bumps in the road the best they can.  And such a pretty setting, too.

The overall story is gentle in nature, flowing steady and sweet.  I loved it.

Content:  kissing.  Loss of parents.  Search for biological parent.

A Novel Proposal by Denise Hunter

 

When novelist Sadie Goodwin is forced to stop writing westerns and charged with penning a contemporary romance novel to rescue her lackluster sales, there’s only one tiny problem: She’s never been in love.

Desperate to salvage her career, Sadie begins devouring romance novels. Knowing she must devote herself to this confounding genre, she accepts an invitation to hole up at her friend’s beach duplex for the summer. Where better to witness love in bloom than on the beautiful North Carolina shore?

However, once ensconced in the charming ocean-front home with her sweet maltipoo Rio, she finds many ways to procrastinate. First there’s the beach, right outside her backdoor, with all its interesting visitors (research). Then there’s the free library she decides to build and set up by the back deck (She has to do something with all those romance novels). To say nothing of Sam Ford, the grumpy neighbor on the other side of the duplex . . . who she can’t seem to stop annoying.

A social butterfly by nature, Sadie soon gets to know all the beach regulars—sunbathers, walkers, and surfers alike. The free books draw a crowd right up to the house for nice little book chats, which further irritates her reclusive neighbor, to break up her “writing.” But things take an unexpected turn when Sadie opens a recently-placed novel to find a secret compartment—and tucked inside is a beautiful engagement ring. To whom does the ring belong? Sadie is convinced she needs to find the owner and save the man’s proposal from certain doom.

She draws a reluctant Sam into the project, and slowly their connection begins to develop. Are these weird fluttery feelings the first stirrings of love? Has Sadie managed to stumble upon the very subject about which she must write—and wouldn’t Sam make the perfect alpha hero?

Will Sadie find the ring’s rightful owner? And will she manage to pen a career-saving romance novel by summer’s end?

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

There was so much to love about this book.  

* The ocean front setting

* The tiny library

* The mystery of the hidden ring

* All the book/writing references

* A cute dog

Sadie is a fun, friendly, lively character.  She's easy to like and easy to root for.  Her tangents made her human and relatable.  Sam wasn't really loving all that at first, but Sadie grew on him.  Of course she did.  It's hard to resist Sadie.  Almost no chance of it, really.  Poor Sam.  haha.  He just didn't know that he needed a Sadie in his life.

I really enjoyed reading this story!  It was personable and easy on the brain and heart.    

4/5 stars.

Content:  kissing

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Harvest Moon (Riverbend #3) by Denise Hunter

 

When a tragedy leaves a divorced couple with guardianship of their friends’ little girl, Laurel and Gavin drop everything for the sake of the child. Meanwhile, a case worker begins searching for a more suitable arrangement, and the estranged couple move into their friends’ home to provide temporary care for Emma and manage the on-property apple orchard. As they work together to comfort the grieving child and manage the busy harvest, tempers flare—as does the passion they both remember so well. But will the seeds of love, still growing inside them, thrive and flourish? Or will grief and regret strangle the feelings before they can fully blossom?

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

Gavin!  I feel like I've been waiting forever to finally get Gavin's story.  You know from the first book in this series that Gavin's story is tragic and haunts him.  But this book?  The tragedy just expands and it is honestly heartbreaking.  My heart was invested in the characters, the story and the outcome.

Grief is such a hard thing because everyone grieves so differently and the process moves at a different pace for everyone.  This is very true for Gavin and Laurel.  I was so grateful for the flashback scenes to when Gavin and Laurel fell in love and how their love story progressed.  It gave me the much needed foundation and information I needed to understand them both- maybe especially Laurel.

There's nothing like joining forces for the good of someone else to bring people together.  In this case, the sweetest little girl needed love and security and family.  I love that no matter what was going on between Gavin and Laurel, they were one hundred percent committed to Emma.  That was good for my heart.  And there is something so satisfying about second chance love stories.  This is such a good one.  I loved it.

I would definitely recommend reading this series in order.

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Mulberry Hollow (Riverbend #2) by Denise Hunter

 

 

Contractor Wes Mathews is nearly finished hiking the Appalachian Trail in honor of his recently deceased best friend when he falls terribly ill. He stumbles into the nearest town and soon finds himself indebted to the beautiful young doctor who owns the clinic. In lieu of payment, he proposes a trade that will keep him in town—and away from obligations to his best friend’s sister—for several weeks.

But as Avery and Wes spend time together, their friendship begins moving into unexpected territory. Soon they both begin to question their plans for the future. But will Wes be able to let go of the debt he owes his best friend? And will Avery find the courage to risk everything for love?

 * Goodreads * Amazon * 

I've been looking forward to this book ever since I finished the first book!  I love the small town setting nestled along the Appalachian Trail.  Avery's clinic and home is in the most picturesque place with a river running behind it.  It just sounds so lovely.

Avery and Wes have a relationship that grows so naturally and fluidly.  They were so comfortable with each other and I really felt that come through as a reader.  Both Avery and Wes are battling some big challenges that require courage and heart.  All I can say is thank goodness for good people in their lives, helping them to get to the right decisions to find happiness and peace.  It was so easy to like both Avery and Wes.  They are the kind of people I would like to be friends with.

This is a sweet, gentle story with strong, well defined characters. 

And now I will not so patiently wait for book three because Avery's brother deserves such a happily ever after.  I'm desperate for him to get it. 

Content:  kissing. Mild Christian elements.

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

 

Riverbend Gap (Riverbend #1) by Denise Hunter

 

 

When Katelyn Loveland’s car veered off a winding Appalachian Mountain road, she thought she was done for. That is until Cooper Robinson, local sheriff’s deputy, came to her rescue. And though Katie narrowly escaped her brush with death, she still fell. Hard.

She wasn’t the only one. But soon Cooper learns that the woman he’s more attracted to than any he’s ever met is his brother’s new girlfriend—and therefore unquestionably off limits. Yet, despite his best efforts, Cooper and Katie can’t seem to avoid running into each other. Or ignore the undeniable chemistry between them.

As they grow closer, Katie shares the secrets of her past and the real reason she moved to their small North Carolina town. She also wins over Cooper’s welcoming and bighearted family. But they don’t know that her feelings for Cooper keep growing—all while she’s dating his brother. Soon the stakes of their emotional connection become higher than either of them could have imagined. Katie stands to lose the first family she’s ever had, and a scandal could doom Cooper’s campaign for sheriff’s office. Suddenly they find themselves on the edge of another precipice—and they’re forced to make a decision that could change their lives forever.

 * Amazon * Goodreads * 

It's the start of a new series by author Denise Hunter!  That's something to be happy about!

The first meet between Cooper and Katelyn is a doozy and enough to spark all kinds of emotional connections.  Hanging off the side of a mountain in a car will do that to you.  Even though Cooper is all in emotionally, he knows he can't pursue Katelyn.  It's the slowest burn romance ever because nothing is happening physically or verbally for most of the book.  The attraction and growing feelings of love are all internal.  

Katelyn has a lot going on in her personal life.  Her brother's death, a move to a new town, a new job, her search for her birth mother, a brush with death.  That's a lot, right?  Katelyn has such a strong desire to be a part of a family and to belong.  To be wanted.  It really pulled at my heartstrings.  

I loved the setting of this book, the history surrounding it and how the community is such a big part of it all.  It ALMOST makes me want to hike the Appalachian Trail.  But not quite.  haha.  I'm not a hiker.

I'm looking forward to the next book!

Content:  peril, kissing.

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

 

Bookshop by the Sea by Denise Hunter

 

After her mother became bedridden and her father bailed on the family, Sophie found herself serving as a second mother to her twin brother, Seth, and younger sister, Jenna. Sophie supported her siblings through their college years, putting aside her own dream of opening a bookshop in Piper’s Cove—the quaint North Carolina beach town they frequented as children.

Now it’s finally time for Sophie to follow her own pursuits. Seth has a new job, and Jenna is set to marry her college beau in Piper’s Cove. But the destination wedding reunites Sophie with best man Aiden Maddox, her high school sweetheart who left her without a backward glance.

When an advancing hurricane strands Aiden in Piper’s Cove after the wedding, he finds the hotels booked to capacity and has to ask Sophie to put him up until the storm passes. As the two ride out the weather, old feelings rise to the surface. The delay also leaves Sophie with mere days to get her bookshop up and running. Can she trust Aiden to stick around? And will he find the courage to risk his heart?

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

Wow, I sure love this cover and I would sure love to go to this bookshop by the sea.  Actually, I'd love to own a bookshop just like this and be like Sophie.  Books and the beach should always go together.  At least for me.

Sophie and Seth have a history together.  An unresolved, wounded history, at least for Sophie.  I liked Seth's determination to get to the root of it and work it out.  He was really trying to understand and fix things.  Sophie is so soft hearted and had given up so much of her life for her family.  I loved her dream for a bookshop and how hard she worked to achieve that goal.  The characters were real, flawed and easy to like.

I loved watching Seth and Sophie unravel the past and the present together.  It wasn't easy but it was worth it.  For them and for me as a reader.  Very satisfying.  I really enjoyed this one.  4/5 stars

Content:  kissing, 

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Autumn Skies (Bluebell Inn Romance #3) by Denise Hunter

 

 

The Bluebell Inn is turning a profit, and it’s time for the Bennett siblings to sell it and move on. Only Grace has plans to stay in the small lake town of Bluebell, North Carolina, where she hopes her growing outfitters business will save her from the loneliness of her siblings’ departure and the persistent sense of unworthiness in her life.

A gunshot wound resurrects the past for Secret Service agent Wyatt Jennings, and a mandatory leave of absence lands him in Bluebell. There he must come to grips with the tragedy that altered his life fourteen years ago.

When Wyatt books a room at the Bluebell Inn, sparks fly between him and Grace. She volunteers to be his mountain guide, and he soon opens up to her, drawn to her strength and sense of humor. But both are reticent to talk about the survivor’s guilt they each carry, and when their pasts finally collide, their budding romance might not survive the truth.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

I think this book may be my favorite of this series.  I really loved it- from beginning to end.  The characters and the story progression felt natural and moved forward at a great pace.  I was so invested in this story the whole way through. 

Wyatt and Grace are two characters that are easy to like and easy to root for.  I enjoyed them together and apart.  Wyatt is cautious and conflicted and his story is more complex.  His search for closure brings him close to Grace who struggles with some of her own demons.  The emotions were real and even though I don't personally struggle with the same things Wyatt and Grace did, I connected with the way the characters were feeling.  That's exactly what I want as a reader.

I've loved this Bluebell Inn series but again, this story was my favorite. It was nice to see Grace's sister and brother in this book too, keeping with the family connections present in each book.  I loved how all their stories came to a feel good resolution.  It was so well done.  I think this book could stand alone but I would really recommend reading this series in order.  These three siblings play a prominent role in each book and their stories progress in each even though each book focuses on one particular person.

Content:  mild peril, mild violence, kissing.  Christian fiction.

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

 

Lake Season (Bluebell Inn Romance #1) by Denise Hunter

 

When their parents die in a tragic accident, Molly Bennett and her siblings pull together to fulfill their parents’ dream: turning their historic home back into an inn.

Adam Bradford (a.k.a. bestselling author Nathanial Grey) is a reclusive author with a bad case of writer’s block. Desperate for inspiration as his deadline approaches, he travels to a North Carolina lake town, the setting of his next novel. There he immediately meets his muse, a young innkeeper who fancies herself in love with his alter ego.

When Molly finds an old letter in the walls of her inn she embarks on a mission with Adam to find the star-crossed lovers and bring them the closure they deserve. But the guest she invites along has secrets of his own. Past and present collide as truths are revealed, and Molly and Adam will have to decide if love is worth trusting.

 * Amazon * Goodreads * 

I'm always happy to pick up a new book by author Denise Hunter.  I've been reading her books for a long time and always enjoy the stories she creates.  This is the first book in a new series and it's off to a good start!

If you love sweet, gentle romances, this is your book.  It's predictable like a Hallmark movie but I LOVE Hallmark movies!  It kind of has a story within a story with some flashbacks to the past as Molly and Adam are trying to find the people associated with a long, lost letter.  In the beginning the story progression was slow.  It seemed to spin in the same place for a long time before moving forward but it really gave me time to get to know the characters of Molly and Adam- who are endearing and so easy to root for.

I don't think this is my favorite book by Denise Hunter but I did enjoy it and I'm looking forward to the next book!

Content:  kissing, Christian fiction elements

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own. 

 

Summer by the Tides by Denise Hunter

Following a painful betrayal, Maddy Monroe's love life is a wreck, and her restaurant career is in shambles. When her grandmother goes missing, she and her estranged sisters converge at the family beach house in Sea Haven, North Carolina. Being with uptight Nora and free-spirited Emma at the place where their family broke apart is a struggle, and undercurrents of jealousy and resentment threaten to pull the sisters under. In the midst of the storm, sparks begin to fly between Maddy and Gram's maddening neighbor, Connor Murphy.

As the sisters pack up the family belongings, memories of idyllic, slow-paced summers are resurrected. But long-buried secrets also come to light as Maddy discovers that all was not as it appeared that last summer in Sea Haven--nor today in the seemingly perfect lives of her sisters.

As family tensions rise and Connor causes tumult in Maddy's heart, the sisters must find a way to accept each other for the women they've become before the bitterness of the past destroys their hope for a future.

 * Amazon * Goodreads * 

I've been looking forward to this book for so long!  I was excited to finally get to sit down and enjoy it.  Denise Hunter is one of my go-to authors and I'm always watching for her next book.

The coastal setting of this book was magic to me.  I'm in desperate need of some summer beach time and this story made that desire even stronger.  

There are some strong family dynamics happening in this book.  Maddy and her sisters have drifted apart.  They really have no idea what is happening in each other's lives and when they are thrown together it makes for some tense situations.  The detailed backstory is revealed bit by bit, intertwining with current circumstances.  It made for an excellent build up of emotions.  I loved getting to know all the characters in such a personal way.

Maddy is the youngest by quite a bit.  She is the one trying to keep the peace between her warring sisters.  Emotionally she has a lot on her plate.  Poor Connor gets the brunt of Maddy's frustrations and betrayals in the beginning as he is misjudged and just a titch mistreated.  Fortunately, he is a good, solid guy.  He is honest and he is kind.  I really loved him.  Maddy eventually comes around to the knowledge of the kind of stand up guy he is and I loved when that shift started to happen. 

This book was full of emotion and conflict that came to rest in a very satisfying ending.  I was all in and enjoyed every single page.

Content:  peril, kissing, Christian elements (talk of God, trusting in God)

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

 

On Magnolia Lane (Blue Ridge #3) by Denise Hunter

Falling in love with Daisy was easy for Jack. But finding the courage to tell her becomes problematic when his secret feelings lead to even bigger complications.

After two years of counseling sessions with Daisy Pendleton, Pastor Jack McReady has earned a permanent spot in her life as a spiritual leader—and nothing more. Jack would never risk losing her trust by exposing the depths of his heart, but he’s hopelessly in love with her.

Daisy loves her southern small-town life and her job at her family-run flower shop, but she doesn’t have the thing she longs for most: someone to share it with. Her recent foray into online dating has been a disaster—until she meets TJ.

Jack could kill his friend Noah for using his initials and some indistinct photos to set up a profile on the dating app Daisy is using. But when he’s finally afforded the opportunity to show her a different side of himself, he’s sucked into the plan before he has time for second thoughts.

Online, Daisy shares some of her greatest fears with TJ, but in person, Jack and Daisy are spending more time together. When a devastating family secret surfaces, Daisy knows that only her trusted friend and counselor can bring her comfort. Jack wants nothing more than to be both men for Daisy, but revealing his secret will prove to be the ultimate test of Daisy’s grace.

 * Goodreads * Amazon *

I love this Blue Ridge series.  The place and the people are all becoming so familiar to me and this book felt a bit like coming home.  

Poor Jack.  You can't help but feel for the guy who has loved Daisy from a distance for so long.  Being her pastor makes that line between confidant and potential boyfriend seem bigger than it needs to be but Jack sure has a tough time crossing it.  Instead he dreams of what could be while Daisy is left clueless.  No wonder he can't help but become TJ when Daisy starts responding to him on the online dating app.  Poor guy.  He really set himself up for a fall later but I couldn't blame him.  Poor, poor Jack.  He just loves Daisy so much!

Meanwhile, Daisy has so much swirling around in her life!  No wonder she only sees Jack as someone to listen to her and to confide in.  She really needs that from him.

I loved watching the transformation as Jack gained more confidence and Daisy became more aware.  It was so sweet.  This book was easy to settle in with and felt good on my heart.

Content:  Christian elements (talk of God, forgiveness, etc.), kissing

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Honeysuckle Dreams (Blue Ridge Romance #2) by Denise Hunter

 

After Brady Collins’ ex-wife dies, he receives devastating news—his nine-month-old son Sam isn’t his son at all. And Sam’s wealthy maternal grandparents want custody of the child. Brady knows he’s in for the fight of his life. But regardless of what any blood test says, Sam is his son, and Brady will go to any lengths to keep him.

Brady’s attorney tips him off that one major life change would virtually assure him of winning guardianship of baby Sam at the final hearing: an impending marriage. And his friend Hope is willing to step in as the loving and devoted fiance.

Local radio celebrity Hope Daniels has been driven by a solitary goal her entire life, and after a happy accident she’s finally offered her dream job. But if the truth comes out about her arrangement with Brady, she may miss the chance of a lifetime and stand in the way of a dear friend’s dreams.

As Brady and Hope make sacrifices to help each other in their times of need, they risk uncovering a truth neither of them expects to find. 

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

 I love Denise Hunter's books.  I'm always on the lookout for the next book coming from her and I feel like a lucky girl to be able to read and review them. I got a glimpse of Brady and Hope in the previous book in this series so I knew that this was a story I wanted to read.  

Brady and Hope have been great friends for quite awhile.  When circumstances lead them to a marriage of convenience, they decide to do it because they they do love each other in a friendly, respectful sort of way, and they both love Sam.  Of course marriage leads to a new awareness of each other and what better way to start off a romance then with friendship, right?

Hope makes the road a bit bumpy and I'm not sure I completely understood her one-eighty turn around in personality and nature.  There were some valid reasons for reluctance and hesitation but her reactions were so extreme and out of character for what I knew of her up to that point.  I didn't really like Hope in those moments but all's well that ends well, I guess.  :)  There is something to say for facing fears and standing and fighting.  Thankfully there was Brady.  He was the solid, steady one.  I loved him from the very beginning and I loved him all through this book.  How can a girl resist a guy that fights for his son?  Even when he finds out his son isn't his by blood?  A girl cannot resist that.  Honestly.  That is a guy worth keeping.

As always, Denise Hunter knows how to bring her characters to life.  They feel human and challenged like we all are.  Hunter doesn't shy away from the gritty and messy yet always balances it out with the perfect amount of love and hope.  

Content:  mention of intimate relations outside of marriage with no details, depression, death.  Christian fiction.

- I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher at my request.  All opinions expressed are my own.

This book is releasing on May 1st.

 

Blue Ridge Sunrise (Blue Ridge Romance #1) by Denise Hunter

Former free spirit Zoe Collins swore she’d never again set foot in Copper Creek or speak to the man who broke her heart. But return she must when her beloved Granny dies, leaving the family legacy to Zoe--a peach orchard nestled at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

When Zoe returns home with her daughter and boyfriend Kyle, she finds that she’s the only person in town who doesn’t expect her to give up the life she’s established far away from Copper Creek. Everyone believes she was born to run the orchard, but how can she make it her home after so many years?

Cruz Huntley never quite got over his first love Zoe Collins, the little sister of his best friend Brady. Not when she cheated on him during their “break,” not when she took off to parts unknown with good-for-nothing Kyle Jenkins, and not even now—five years later.

As life-changing decisions and a history with Cruz hang over Zoe’s head, tensions rise between her and Kyle. Even as she comes to terms with the shifting relationships in her life, Zoe still isn’t sure if she can remain in Copper Creek with her new responsibilities . . . and her first love.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

One thing I love about Denise Hunter is she knows how to write books that get into the gritty parts of life that aren't so pretty.  Her books bring out the not so pretty and the sometimes hopeless parts but she also shows how those not so pretty things can turn into beautiful things through love and faith.  Hunter's books always feel like a journey that end in the best sort of satisfaction for me.

Cruz and Zoe have quite the history.  It unfolds slowly throughout that book as the two try to navigate a new reality of working together after years spent apart.  They parted after some big misunderstandings which provide for some major bumps in the road as they try to come to terms with what happened.  Cruz and Zoe are imperfect people.  Their flaws are obvious but so are their strengths.  It makes them feel human and easy to relate to.

I loved the light suspense and the added tension it brought as I just waited for that "something" to happen that I knew was coming.  

I enjoyed this book a lot!  I read through it quickly and found myself caring about the characters.  The pacing is great.  I really hope Zoe's brother gets his story next!  :)

Content:  mild violence, mentions of sex outside of marriage with no details, kissing.  Light Christian fiction elements.

- I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Sweetbriar Cottage by Denise Hunter

When Noah and Josephine Mitchell discover their divorce was never actually finalized, their lives are turned upside down.

Following his divorce, Noah gave up his dream job, settling at a remote horse ranch in the Blue Ridge Mountains of northern Georgia, putting much-needed distance between himself and the former love of his life. But then Noah gets a letter from the IRS claiming he and Josephine are still married. When he confronts Josephine for the first time in months, they discover that she missed the final step in filing the paperwork and they are, in fact, still married.

Josephine is no happier about the news than Noah. Maybe the failed marriage—and okay, the botched divorce—was her fault, but her heart was shattered right alongside his, more than he would ever believe. The sooner they put this marriage behind them, the better for both of their sakes.

But when Josephine delivers the final paperwork to his ranch, the two become stranded in his cottage during the worst spring snowstorm in a decade. Being trapped with Josephine is a test of Noah’s endurance. He wrestles with resentment and an unmistakable pull to his wife—still beautiful, still brave, and still more intriguing than any woman he’s ever known.

As they find themselves confronted with each other and their shared past, old wounds surface and tempers flare. But when they are forced out into the storm, they must rely on each other in a way they never have before. Josephine finally opens up about her tragic past, and Noah realizes she’s never been loved unconditionally by anyone—including him. Will Noah accept the challenge to pursue Josephine’s heart? And can she finally find the courage to trust Noah?

 * Goodreads * Amazon *

That is a really long blurb.  It pretty much sums up the whole story.  I'm glad I didn't read it before I read the book because it would have taken out the anticipation of what was to come for me.  

This book was basically Josephine and Noah wading through the muck of their broken marriage and struggling against each other and truth, which always has a way of coming out one way or another.  

Josephine is a secret keeper.  She has an awful, horrible past and it has really messed with her ability to connect to people and share her real self.  Noah is angry and confused and rightly so.  His knowledge is limited and it's hard to judge situations for what they are when you have limited knowledge.  I really loved Noah.  Even in his gruffy and self preservation moments, he was kind and protective.  He showed respect when most people would say it wasn't deserved.  The love in his heart was the catalyst for change and healing.  

This book deals with such heavy issues.  It really isn't a light-hearted romp through the park and reading it at some points was very hard.  The characters are in a messy situation.  Situations alternate between the present and the past.  It was good as a reader to be able to visualize their initial meeting and their growing relationship to balance out the present day angst.  The flashbacks to Josephine's past are just sad and hurt my heart.  But those helped me to feel the compassion I needed to like Josephine and understand her better.  The book is well written and I felt the constant pull to keep reading in order to find the resolution I was so desperately seeking for these characters.

Content:  rape, sexual abuse, child abuse and neglect, marital affair, Christian fiction

- I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.   A positive review was not required and all opinions expressed are my own.

Just a Kiss (Summer Harbor #3) by Denise Hunter

Riley Callahan’s plans to reveal his secret feelings for his best friend are derailed when his life is drastically altered in Afghanistan.

Watching the love of his life fall for his brother was enough to send Riley straight to boot camp. But over a year later, he’s officially a marine, and Beau and Paige are no longer an item. When Riley’s tour in Afghanistan is up, he intends to confess his feelings to Paige and win his best friend’s heart once and for all.

But all that changes when an IED takes the life of a comrade and leaves Riley an amputee. Now he’s heading home, injured and troubled. His plans to win Paige are a distant dream. She deserves so much more than the man that’s left. All he can do now is put some healthy distance between them. But upon his return he discovers his family has arranged for him to stay with Paige.

Paige is a nurturer at heart and happy to take care of her best buddy. By all appearances Riley is adjusting miraculously well to his disability. But as the days pass, Paige begins to see that the smiles and laughter are just a mask for the pain he’s hiding. To make matters worse, her job is in serious jeopardy. The animal shelter that she’s poured her heart into has lost its funding, and she has three months to come up with the money needed to save it.

As the weeks wear on, Paige’s feelings for Riley begin to shift into uncharted territory. Why is she suddenly noticing his arm muscles and the way his lips curl at the corners? Will she be able to deny her feelings for another Callahan brother? And will Riley let his heart heal so he can let Paige in?

 * Goodreads * Amazon *

I have been waiting what feels like forever to read this book.  It really hasn't been that long but there was so much anticipation after the last book that this book just couldn't come soon enough.  I was so happy to finally get to read Riley and Paige's story.

This series is one of my favorites by one of my favorite authors.  I have loved each book.  I think each book could stand on it's own, but you will love them so much better if you read them in order.  Trust me on this.

Poor Riley.  I just loved him.  Even in his most ornery, pig headed moments, I loved him.  The progression of Riley and Paige from friends to more than friends is bumpy and crazy and sometimes ugly but the journey felt real and vulnerable.  These characters were fantastic.

There is a feeling of coming home in this book as all the family is around and active in the plot.  I loved the sub plot with Riley's aunt.  That one has been building through all the books!  Resolution feels so good after struggle.

I can't wait to see what's coming next from Denise Hunter.  I'll be watching.  And waiting.  :)  

Content:  Clean

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

The Goodbye Bride (Summer Harbor #2) by Denise Hunter

She only remembers loving him. But he can’t forget the way she left.

Following a concussion, Lucy Lovett can’t remember the last seven months of her life. She doesn’t remember leaving her fiancé Zac Callahan weeks before their wedding or moving to Portland, Maine. And she sure doesn’t remember getting engaged to another man. All she remembers is loving Zac more than life itself.

It’s taken Zac months to move on after Lucy left him with no explanation. He’s thrown himself into his family’s farm and his restaurant business in Summer Harbor. Now Lucy’s back, vulnerable, homeless, and still in love with him. She needs his help putting the pieces together, but letting her back into his life is a risk—and the stakes are high. If he follows his heart he’ll win back the love of his life. But if her memory returns he’ll lose her all over again.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

Oh, sigh.  I loved this book.  I wasn't too surprised at this given I love to read Denise Hunter's books.  This book just settled into my heart so nicely.  <sigh>

The whole set up for this book was so good.  The beginning drew me right in- immediately.  My heart was just hurting for both Lucy and Zac.  It was the perfect set up for a romantic journey.  The ending was perfect.  Love.

It was nice to see characters from the first book in this series and now I cannot wait for the next book.  I sense some good stuff coming!

Oh!  I also love the cover for this book.  Perfect!

Content:  Clean, Christian Fiction

*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

Falling Like Snowflakes ( A Summer Harbor Novel) by Denise Hunter

When the Christmas season finds Eden in Summer Harbor, Maine, she's on the run from trouble. Romance is the last thing on her mind.

Riding in a bus in the thickly falling snow, Eden Davis wonders how it ever came to this--fleeing under cover of night with young Micah sleeping fitfully in the seat beside her. When a winter storm strands them in Summer Harbor, Maine, Eden wonders if what might have been the end could be a new beginning.

Beau Callahan is a habitual problem-solver. He's recently left his job with the sheriff's department to take over the family Christmas tree farm to save it from insolvency. But he's flummoxed. During the busiest season of the year, he's shorthanded. Then Eden shows up looking for work, and Beau believes he's been rescued. Competent, smart, and beautiful, Eden's also guarded and quiet. He soon figures out she comes with a boatload of secrets. But Beau can't seem to help himself from falling for her.

As Christmas Eve approaches, Beau discovers he'll do anything to keep Eden safe. But who's going to protect his heart from a woman who can't seem to trust again?

 * Goodreads * Amazon *

Denise Hunter is one of my favorite Christian Fiction authors.  I'm always on the lookout for the next new book from her.  I've come to know exactly what I'm going to get from a Denise Hunter book and I am never disappointed.

Eden is on the run.  We get bits and pieces of her story as things go along- in flashbacks mostly.  Meanwhile Eden is trying to find work, hide her secrets and keep her son safe.  It's a big burden to carry.  Eden is a strong woman, afraid of the danger she's in, but not afraid to do what it takes to keep her son and herself safe.  Eden doesn't trust though, understandably, which makes it really hard for the people who are trying to help and love her.

I liked Beau from the very beginning.  He is protective and strong.  He works hard and loves his family.  He is everything a male hero lead should be.  Beau is also a patient man and he works hard to help Eden, even when he doesn't understand.

This book was so easy to settle into.  I read through it quickly and it ended before I was ready.  I loved it and I cannot wait to see what comes next for the Callahan brothers!  Today is release day for "Falling Like Snowflakes" so go pick up your copy today!

This is a clean romance.  Christian Fiction.  No swearing or sexual content.  There is some mild violence.  My thanks to the publisher, Thomas Nelson, for providing a copy of this book for review.

Married 'til Monday by Denise Hunter

With a big anniversary party in the works for her parents, Ryan will pretend to be Abby's husband for just one last weekend.

Ryan McKinley has tried to move on from his ex-wife, Abby. He’s sulked, he’s gotten angry, and ultimately he bought her dream house. Big mistake. Living alone in the massive 2-story has only made him miss her more. When her parents call him out of the blue about their anniversary party in Summer Harbor, Maine, Ryan believes God has dropped a golden opportunity straight in his lap.

Abby McKinley never exactly told her parents about the divorce. A strained relationship with her dad has culminated in a distant relationship with her parents, but she’s finally succumbed to her mom’s pressure to make the drive for their 35th-anniversary party.

Then Ryan shows up on her doorstep, looking as devastatingly handsome as ever. When he insists he’s going to Seabrook, with or without her, Abby knows she can’t say no. Her parents still think they’re married and now Ryan knows it too. Besides, he only wants to check in with his best friend from college—her cousin Beau, who just lost his dad. It’s just a one-week road-trip with the man who broke her heart. What could possibly go wrong?

 * Goodreads * Amazon *

First off, cute cover, right?  I love the title font!  

I always enjoy reading books by Denise Hunter.  I know exactly the kind of story I'm going to get and I know how I will feel in the end.  This is a Christian Fiction book and the fourth in the Chapel Springs Series.  I don't think you need to read them in order as each book stands on it's own.

Obviously Ryan and Abby have a history and not an all together good one.  Their history unfolds slowly as we get to know them better.  I think Ryan might deserve a medal and sainthood.  Honestly.  Ryan's patience knows no bounds.  Which is a good thing because Abby is a girl with a truck load of issues.  Wowza.  She never makes it easy for Ryan.  Ever.

I really felt badly for Abby.  She had my compassion for the really hard things in her life, but I never really liked Abby.  Most of the time she wasn't very nice.  Ryan, on the other hand, was easy to like.  That is a man who knows how to persevere.  He is a kind man and I really liked that.

This was an enjoyable read and a good distraction.  It's squeaky clean and left me feeling good!  My thanks to the publisher, Thomas Nelson, for allowing me to read and review this title for them.

The Wishing Season by Denise Hunter

She daydreams of whipping up sauces and souffles in her own restaurant. His heart is set on helping foster children. Both dreams are at stake. So are their hearts.

With grand plans to open her own bed & breakfast in Chapel Springs, PJ McKinley can't afford the most crucial part: the brick and mortar. But when the owner of a local historic home announces a contest and promises her property to the worthiest candidate, PJ makes a fervent wish and tosses her name into the hat.

Cole Evans is cool, confident, and successful, but he'll never forget his roots. He's thankful for how far he's come and knows his life could have turned out drastically different. If he can win the stately old mansion, he'll turn it into a home for children aging out of the foster system.

When the eccentric house owner narrows the entries down to only two applicants, she extends the contest, giving PJ and Cole one year to prove which one of them can make the best use of her beloved home. As the pair competes in close proximity, something deeper than rivalry sparks between PJ and Cole. And in this battle, they're likely to lose their hearts.

* Amazon * Goodreads *

Whenever I see a new book by Denise Hunter coming out, I grab it on NetGalley if I can.  I love reading anything by her.  If you are looking for inspirational, clean romance then you should read this book.  Or any books in this Chapel Springs series, really.  I've enjoyed them all.

PJ and Cole have a very interesting first meeting.  You will love PJ from the very first few moments of this book.  Cole may take you a few chapters longer but you will love him too.  He is determined to do the right thing all the time.   As Cole's story unfolds, it will break your heart.  Both PJ and Cole are determined and have worthy dreams and goals.  The sparks fly between them from the start and we all know where sparks lead, right?  

If only that stalker-ish ex boyfriend would go away.  If only PJ and Cole could forgive themselves.  If only.

This book was easy to read and a great diversion.  I loved the time I spent with PJ and Cole.  I was sad when it was over because I really wanted more!  

Look for this title to be released December 9th.