Review of "Married 'til Monday"

Rating: 4 Stars

Review: If a book was judged by its title alone, I would guess that "Married 'til Monday" would be a light and fun romance.  Denise Hunter gives readers much more in book 4 of "The Chapel Springs Romance" series.  Readers of the previous novels in the series will be familiar with Ryan and his past with his ex-wife, Abby. Although this can be read as a stand-alone novel, there is a sense of connection to the McKinley family that can only be developed after reading all of the preceding books. Reconnecting with past characters is almost like enjoying an extended epilogue, while hearing a new tale that has been waiting to be told.

Hunter combines humor, fun, and romance with emotional depth to capture readers.  The scenario of "Married 'til Monday" is completely different than the other Chapel Springs Romances. Between a failed marriage, broken hearts, and a long distance road trip in a tiny car, there is a lot of opportunity for revealing emotional conversations alongside romantic attraction. There are some funny scenes to lighten the mood, but the emotional journey of Ryan and Abby is most memorable.  They are both carrying heavy baggage from their marriage, and as more of Abby's childhood is revealed, the baggage gets heavier. I always appreciate the way that Denise Hunter develops her characters with dimension that makes them realistic and engaging. "Married 'til Monday" is no exception, and Ryan, Abby, and their struggles become very real throughout the novel.

"Married 'til Monday" is not a typical romance.  It is a tale of a broken marriage and two ex-spouses in need of healing and forgiveness.  After catching glimpses of Ryan in the other Chapel Springs Romance books, I was anticipating reading his story.  Denise Hunter delivered another solid story that will capture hearts.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. 

Summary from Thomas Nelson: 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?

Review of "The Wishing Season"

Rating: 4 Stars

Review:  Denise Hunter has kept readers ingrained in the lives of the McKinley family in her "Chapel Hill Romance" series.  "The Wishing Season" puts the spotlight on PJ, the youngest McKinley. True to the tone set by the previous novels, Hunter again delivers a story balanced with emotional complexity, love, and romance.  Although this can be read as a stand alone novel, the connection to the tight-knit McKinley family is definitely stronger after reading the preceding novels. 

PJ and Cole are thrown together in a sequence of events that leaves them sharing a house while competing for ownership of the property.  They each believe that the house is the answer to their aspirations -PJ hopes to open a restaurant and inn, while Cole wants to open a home for teens aging out of foster care.  Competition, attraction, and romantic tension weave their way throughout the plot. Some scenes will leave readers breathless; but while clean, the physical element of Cole and PJ's attraction is strong at times for my personal reading preferences.    

Romance aside, the relationship between PJ and Cole reveals a deeper message about the growth and realization of dreams.  Both of their stories, though very different, have touching and relatable elements.  Once again, the McKinley family dynamic shines with lovable realism.  As the youngest child, PJ feels overprotected and doubted by her family.  I enjoyed the journey of the McKinley family and the strengthening of their already strong bond.  Cole's past as a foster child is a stark contrast to PJ's secure upbringing.  He brings depth to the plot with memories of his childhood and the lives of the teens he fosters.  Heartbreak is very much a part of Cole's story, but healing leaves readers with a sense of hope and satisfaction. 

PJ and Cole join the ranks of happy McKinley couples, who I hope will reappear in a cameo role in another novel.  Denise Hunter leaves the door open for another "Chapel Hill Romance" with references to Ryan McKinley.  I definitely feel that Ryan's story deserves to be told and I finish "The Wishing Season" wishing to read more about him. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers through Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Summary from Thomas Nelson: Living side-by-side, a fledgling chef and a big-hearted contractor find a delicious attraction.  Trouble is, their chemistry could spoil their dreams.

Spirited PJ McKinley has the touch when it comes to food. Her dream of opening her own restaurant is just one building short of reality. So when a Chapel Springs resident offers her beloved ancestral home to the applicant with the best plan for the house, PJ believes it’s a contest she was meant to win.

Contractor Cole Evans is confident, professional, and swoon-worthy—but this former foster kid knows his life could have turned out very differently. When Cole discovers the contest, he believes his home for foster kids in transition has found its saving grace. All he has to do is convince the owner that an out-of-towner with a not-for-profit enterprise is good for the community.

But when the eccentric philanthropist sees PJ and Cole’s proposals, she makes an unexpected decision: the pair will share the house for a year to show what their ideas are made of. Now, with Cole and the foster kids upstairs and PJ and the restaurant below, day-to-day life has turned into out-and-out competition—with some seriously flirtatious hallway encounters on the side. Turns out in this competition, it’s not just the house on the line, it’s their hearts.

Review of "Dancing with Fireflies"

Rating: 4 Stars

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Review: Jade McKinley is a free spirit held captive by heartbreak.  Denise Hunter first introduces readers to Jade in "Barefoot Summer," when her sudden departure from Chapel Springs stirs questions among her family and readers.  "Dancing with Fireflies" chronicles her return home with more scars and secrets than when she left. As Jade puts into motion a plan to find a husband in name only, she is continuously drawn to her childhood friend, Daniel Dawson.  Jade's circumstances as an unemployed, emotionally scarred, pregnant single woman, set the stage for potentially heavy reading, but Hunter keeps the overall plot light with easy conflict resolution.  

The details surrounding Jade's pregnancy are revealed in the first chapters, but remain a secret from the McKinley family even longer than Jade's hidden pregnancy.  There is a gap between the incident leading to Jade's pregnancy and her return home.  During that time, Jade has formulated a plan for her and her unborn child and some of the emotional rawness is lost.  We see Jade as resolved to her recent past and her future, with only the occasional glimpse of pain.  Her acceptance almost seems too easy; but at the same time, I am glad that she didn't dwell on her circumstances.

Jade and Daniel are both likable characters who engage different emotional responses. Jade captures my sympathy and makes me long for her happy ending. Daniel's acceptance of Jade's pregnancy and his unwavering support of her and the unborn child called to mind a modern-day version of Ray Singleton from "The Magic of Ordinary Days."  It is easy to respect Daniel for his unfailing devotion and self-restraint when Jade seems too emotionally battered to accept his declaration of love.  As Jade's attraction to Daniel grows, physical interactions between them progress from the typical kiss to scenes that are too steamy for my preference. Hunter does not allow the characters to cross the lines of morality, but they definitely step close to the border. One scene in particular surprises me with the detailed description of a kiss between Jade and Daniel.   It is one that the plot can do without even though it ultimately conveys a lesson in resisting temptation. 

"Dancing with Fireflies" is another solid romance from Denise Hunter.  It is my favorite of the two Chapel Spring romances so far.  It is always enjoyable to see characters from a previous novel in a series reappear as secondary characters in future novels. I will especially look forward to seeing Jade, Daniel, and their children in the next Chapel Springs Romance.

I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through Net Galley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Summary from Thomas Nelson: Jade returns home to Chapel Springs after years of protecting her fragile heart. Then along comes Daniel, making her long to dance again.

Creative and complicated, Jade McKinley felt like a weed in a rose garden growing up in Chapel Springs. When she left, she thought she’d never look back. But now, pregnant, alone, and broke, she has no other choice but to return.

The mayor of Chapel Springs, Daniel Dawson, has been an honorary member of the McKinley family for years. While his own home life was almost non-existent, Daniel fit right into the boisterous McKinley family. He’s loved Jade for years, but she always saw him as a big brother. Now that she’s back, his feelings are stronger than ever.

As Jade attempts to settle in, nothing feels right. God seems far away, she’s hiding secrets from her family, and she’s strangely attracted to the man who’s always called her “squirt." Finding her way home may prove more difficult than she imagined.

Review of "A December Bride" by Denise Hunter

Rating: 4 Stars

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Review:  Because I have enjoyed many of Denise Hunter's books, I decided to begin the "A Year of Weddings Novella" series by reading her contribution to the twelve novellas collection, "A December Bride."  Novellas can sometimes be disappointing to read because they lack character development and depth, but "A December Bride"  examines the past of the two main characters Layla and Seth.   Both Layla and Seth have been hurt in the past and face their share of uncertainties and insecurities. Set in Chapel Springs, readers of Denise Hunter's "Barefoot Summer will remember Layla as the sister of Beckett O'Reilly.  Although her recent past is shared in "A December Bride," readers will have a more thorough understanding of her childhood and family background if they have read "Barefoot Summer."   When Layla finds herself "accidentally" engaged to Seth,  the scene is set for a light and sweet romantic novella.  While having to spend more time together by staging Seth's house during the Christmas season, Layla and Seth have the opportunity to confront a misunderstanding from their past and begin building a new relationship.   In many ways, it reads like a satisfying seasonal Hallmark movie.   

"A December Bride"  is a short, light-hearted read that is perfect for a winter day.  With authors like Denise Hunter, Rachel Hauck, and Meg Moseley, "A Year of Weddings Novellas" series offers a promising collection of short stories.  

I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from BookSneeze. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Summary from Zondervan:  What started as a whim turned into an accidental---and very public---engagement. Can Layla and Seth keep up the façade in Chapel Springs this holiday season---for the sake of her career . . . and his heart?

Under normal circumstances, Seth Murphy - the best friend of Layla O’Reilly’s ex-fiancé - would be the last person she’d marry. But the news of their upcoming (and phony) nuptials convinces a big client that Layla may be high-society enough to work for his agency - a coup that would put her fledgling home-staging business on the map. Seth has secretly loved Layla for years, even when she was dating his best friend. Maybe she’ll never forgive him for the way he hurt her back then, but he has to try. And Layla is willing to keep up their engagement farce until she’s landed her client.

For Layla, it's the chance to save her career. But for Seth, it's his last chance to win her heart.

Review of "Barefoot Summer" by Denise Hunter

Rating: 4 Stars

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Review:  Denise Hunter delivers another captivating novel in "Barefoot Summer," the first book in her newest series, "A Chapel Hill Romance."  True to its title, this novel evokes images of carefree, childhood summers full of innocence and fun that were spent at the river or beach.  "Barefoot  Summer"  is not just a lighthearted romance, but an emotional journey of two young adults, Beckett and Madison, with an entwined past shadowed by tragedy, heartache, and painful secrets.  

As a reader, I was immediately drawn into the story with Hunter's portrayal of Madison McKinley  

as a successful and grounded daughter in her closely-bonded family.  The warm interactions with her siblings and parents are in stark contrast to Beckett O'Reilly's broken family and shadowed past.  By telling the story through both Beckett's and Madison's perspectives, I sympathized with both individuals and wanted them to overcome the heartaches and emotional obstacles in their path.

Denise Hunter is an author who consistently delivers novels with emotional depth, a plot that develops at a steady pace, and a satisfying conclusion.  After meeting other friends and family members in "Barefoot Summer," I am eagerly anticipating her next novel in the "Chapel Springs" series.  I am very intrigued by Madison's sister, Jade, and her story that awaits within the pages of "Dancing with Fireflies," set to be released April 2014.     

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers through Book Sneeze. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Summary from Thomas Nelson Publishers: 
Madison’s heart has been closed for years. But one summer can change everything.

In the years since her twin brother’s drowning, Madison McKinley has struggled to put it behind her. Despite the support of her close-knit family and her gratifying job as a veterinarian in their riverside town, the loss still haunts her.

To find closure, Madison sets out to fulfill her brother’s dream of winning the town’s annual regatta. But first she has to learn to sail, and fast.

Beckett O’Reilly knows Madison is out of his league, but someone neglected to tell his heart. Now she needs his help—and he’ll give it, because he owes her far more than she’ll ever know.

Madison will do anything—even work with the infamous Beckett O’Reilly—to reach her goal. And as much as she’d like to deny it, the chemistry between them is electrifying. As summer wanes, her feelings for him grow and a fledgling faith takes root in her heart.

But Beckett harbors a secret that will test the limits of their new love. Can their romance survive summer’s challenges? And will achieving her brother’s dream give Madison the peace she desperately seeks?

Review of "Secretly Smitten" by Colleen Coble, Kristin Billerbeck, Denise Hunter, and Diann Hunt

Rating: 3 Stars

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Review:  Secretly Smitten is the light-hearted follow-up compilation of short stories to Smitten, and it re-invites readers into the quaint small town life of Smitten, Vermont.   The discovery of new or lost love is the focus of each of the stories; and in these four feel-good novellas, the conflict is resolved rather quickly and easily.  These are stories to be read when you want a happily ever-after escape.  

I have to admit that I found the plots and characterization of the first three stories to be less developed than I   expected.  The mystery of grandma Rose's long-lost love adds depth to the overall story; but as a reader, I felt a detachment to the characters and their emotions at times. Secretly Smitten does conclude on a strong note with Denise Hunter's  final  novella about Clare.  Denise Hunter proves that novellas can be written so that the characters are developed and well-rounded.  As a reader, I felt sympathetic to Clare's feelings and struggles.  Denise Hunter was not only able to pull me into Clare's world, but she also provided a  satisfying resolution to grandma Rose's past as well.

Overall, Secretly Smitten is a light and fluffy read; so if you are ever looking for a brief escape from reality, it just might be the right fit for you.

I received a complimentary e-copy of this novel from BookSneeze, courtesy of Thomas Nelson.   I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Summary from Thomas Nelson:  Summer, fall, winter, spring—Smitten, Vermont, is the place for love . . . and mystery!

There’s a secret in Grandma Rose’s attic—a forgotten set of dog tags belonging to her first love. But David Hutchins was killed in action and never returned to Smitten. How did the dog tags end up in the attic?

The mystery intrigues Rose’s three granddaughters—Tess, Clare, and Zoe—and they decide to investigate, though their mother, Anna, warns against meddling. But as the seasons turn and the mystery unravels, the three young women and their mother encounter some intriguing mystery men of their own. Has a sixty-year-old puzzle sparked something new for this close-knit family of women?

Join popular romance novelists—and real-life BFFs—Colleen Coble, Kristin Billerbeck, Diann Hunt, and Denise Hunter for four delightful intertwined tales of mystery and sweet intrigue.

Review of "The Trouble with Cowboys" by Denise Hunter

Rating: 4 Stars

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Summary from Thomas Nelson: Only one pair of boots—and the cowboy wearing them—can get Annie out of the mess she’s in.

Annie Wilkerson is Moose Creek’s premiere horse trainer and equine columnist for Montana Living. Money is tight as she tries to put her kid-sister through college and provide for her young nephew. When Annie’s column is cancelled, she’s given first shot at a new lovelorn column—and she can’t afford to turn it down. Only problem is . . . Annie’s never been in love.

Always resourceful, she reluctantly strikes a deal with the town’s smooth-talking ladies’ man Dylan Taylor: She’ll work with his ailing horse, Braveheart, if he’ll help her answer the reader letters.

Working closely with Dylan is harder than Annie imagined, and she quickly realizes she may have misjudged him. But her unwavering conviction that cowboys are nothing but trouble has kept her heart safe for years. And she can’t risk getting hurt now.

The more Annie tries to control things, the more they fall apart. Her feelings are spinning out of control, and her sister’s antics are making life increasingly more difficult. Annie knows she needs to turn the reins over to God, but surrender has never come easily.

When Dylan reveals his feelings for her, Annie doesn't know what to trust—her head or her heart. The trouble with this cowboy is that he might just be exactly what she needs.

Review: Denise concludes her Big Sky Romance series on a strong note.  The Trouble with Cowboys is my favorite book of the series with two likable main characters and appearances by characters from the past two novels.  This is the perfect weekend read, providing an escape to the wild and beautiful American West.   Hunter captures the small town charm that is very much alive in Western towns and paints a vivid scene of the mountainous, big-sky landscape.  It is refreshing to read a novel set in the modern-day west with characters facing contemporary issues. 

The plot of The Trouble with Cowboys reads like a movie.  It is steady, entertaining, and quite addictive; qualities which make up for the relative predictability of the novel.  Annie's strong aversion to cowboys, especially quintessential flirt, Dylan Taylor, creates some humorous scenes and interactions. Her confusion over Dylan's flirtation and character is completely understandable and adds interest to their growing relationship. 

On the outside, Dylan is a cocky, non-committal cowboy who is only interested in romantic dalliances. His character could easily be irritating, but Hunter softens Dylan's edges by providing insight into his feelings and motives. Early on, Hunter has the reader hoping for a relationship to blossom between Annie and Dylan.  There are plenty of obstacles standing in the way of a budding romance, which add interest and tension to the plot. 

Such a quick read could easily lack depth, but Hunter provides just enough conflict to make this a meaningful read.  Both Dylan and Annie carry past baggage that is revealed throughout the novel, and they face their share of current challenges as well.  Annie in particular struggles with her younger sister, Sierra, whose story takes a turn at the end of the novel.  Sierra is an interesting secondary character, who would have been a great focus for another novel. 

The Trouble with Cowboys presents no trouble for readers.  Denise Hunter incorporates themes of letting go of fear and having faith into a novel that will appeal to a wide range of readers.  

I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from Thomas Nelson.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Review of "The Accidental Bride" by Denise Hunter

Rating: 3.5 Stars

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Synopsis from Thomas Nelson:  When a wedding reenactment turns real, Shay finds she’s an accidental bride.

Shay Brandenberger is raising her daughter in Moose Creek, Montana, on her childhood ranch, nestled against the Yellowstone River. Despite the hard work, she can’t seem to keep her head above water—and now the bank is threatening to foreclose. She prays for a miracle, but the answer she receives is anything but expected.

Having agreed to play the bride in the Founders’ Day wedding reenactment, Shay is mortified to be greeted at the end of the aisle by none other than Travis McCoy, her high-school sweetheart—the man who left her high and dry for fame and fortune on the Texas rodeo circuit.

Then the unthinkable happens. Thanks to a well-meaning busybody and an absentminded preacher, the make-believe vows result in a legal marriage. But before Shay can say annulment, Travis comes up with a crazy proposal. If she refuses his offer, she may lose her home. If she accepts, she may lose her heart.

Shay isn’t sure if the recent events are God’s will or just a preacher’s blunder. Will trusting her heart to the man who once shattered it be the worst mistake of her life? Or could their marriage be the best accident that ever happened?

Review:  Denise Hunter's latest release and a follow-up to A Cowboy's Touch in her A Big Sky Romance series certainly has an attention-grabbing title.  After all, how can two people really get married accidentally?  Hunter acknowledges that these circumstances are a bit contrived and highly unlikely.  Yet, for both the author and readers it is hard to resist such a storyline because it offers the potential for further blunders and moments of tension as the consequences of such an arrangement unfold.   

Because I read A Cowboy's Touch, I was looking forward to re-visiting Moose Creek, Montana and characters from the first series.   Shay and her daughter Olivia made appearances in the first book, and I was looking forward to reading Shay's story since she was portrayed as a hard-working and loving single parent, experiencing her share of challenges.  In The  Accidental Bride, readers will continue to see that Shay is independent and strong-willed.  These character traits are born out of past experiences and hardships, which include financial insecurity, being left at the altar by her high school sweetheart, and later being deserted by her husband.   There is no doubt that she carries layers of hurt, disappointment, and betrayal beneath her guarded front.   

The one person who threatens to break through these barriers is Travis McCoy, Shay's accidental groom and the man who jilted her.  I initially thought that I would not like Travis; but because Hunter switches viewpoints, we are able to see both of their perspectives.  There is no doubt that situations in the past were not handled well, but I found myself liking Travis better than Shay, which really surprised me.  I was actually irritated by Shay and her stubborn streak, especially during the second half of the novel.  While I understand the feelings that motivated her decisions, I  grew tired of her willfulness. Finally, when there was a resolution in sight, the novel drew to a close a bit too quickly for me, considering the obstacles that were encountered throughout the story.  

Denise Hunter continues to be an author who crafts well-written, modern romances.  The Accidental Bride began on a promising note, but I just could not always sympathize with Shay.  This lack of connection to a main character caused the story to be one of my least favorites of Hunter's.  Despite this setback, I still look forward to a possible upcoming third book in A Big Sky Romance series. 

I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from NetGalley, courtesy of Thomas Nelson.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” 

Review of Smitten by Colleen Coble, Kristin Billerbeck, Diann Hunt, & Denise Hunter

Our Rating:  4 Stars

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Synopis from Thomas Nelson:  Four friends devise a plan to turn Smitten, Vermont, into the country's premier romantic getaway-and each finds her own true love along the way.

With Smitten Lumber closing, residents wonder if their town can stay afloat. Then four friends and local business owners-Natalie, Julia, Shelby, and Reese--decide the town is worth saving. How will they do it? They'll turn Smitten into a honeymoon destination!

As Natalie, Julia, Shelby, and Reese work to save the town, each discovers romance in her own life. Meanwhile, the faith of a little child reminds the whole town what it means to have real faith in the God who is the always and forever Love.

Discover a novel written by four of Christian fiction's most popular romance novelists- friends in real life who've drawn an amazing story of four friends! Includes a Reading Group Guide as well as "Conversation over Coffee with the Authors".

Review:  I have to admit that sometimes I am a bit weary about reading a collection of inspirational fiction short stories because past experience has shown me that the characters can be somewhat one-dimensional and lack plot development.  However, when I saw the authors who had contributed to Smitten, I decided that this particular collection may well be worth my time.  I have enjoyed books from each of the authors in the past; and like the introduction  and acknowledgments explain,  Smitten is a work that developed as a result of their friendship.  

As the authors state,  elements of each of the four friends' personalities mirror their own.  It is this real-life friendship that creates one seamless story about the trials, support, laughter, and love among friends and community members in Smitten, Vermont.  Although each short story focuses on one of the four friends, Natalie, Julia, Shelby, or Reese, it progresses through the year as the town rallies to save the town by transforming it into a romantic destination.  As a reader, I relished the descriptions of the idyllic small-town with citizens working together to create successful private businesses.  Despite the small town appeal, Smitten would be a failure without a plot that develops each of the characters and encourages readers to relate to them.  Fortunately, like the title suggests, readers will likely become emotionally connected to the characters' struggles, and "smitten"  with their stories.   

Smitten is a collection of light-hearted and uplifting stories to escape to at the end of the day. Readers can re-visit Smitten at www.smittenvermont.com, and a sequel entitled Secretly Smitten will be available December 2012.  

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers through their book review program, BookSneeze.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Review of Seaside Letters by Denise Hunter

Rating: 3.5 Stars

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Synopsis from cbd.com:  Sabrina never intended to fall in love with Tucker McCabe, the man she serves coffee to every morning at a Nantucket cafe-especially since he's unwittingly tied to a past she deeply regrets. But she's fallen hard, though she's kept her feelings a secret.

When Tucker learns Sabrina is the research assistant for a local mystery writer, he asks Sabrina to help him with a little sleuthing of his own. . . locating an elusive woman he's fallen for online. If Sabrina accepts the job, she'll spend her evenings in close proximity to a man who can never be hers. If she turns him down, he'll hire someone else-and that would be a disaster. Because if someone sifts through all those letters and finds out the truth, Tucker will discover her secret. . .

Review: I read The Convenient Groom a few months ago and found it very enjoyable.  Last week, I saw Seaside Letters at the library and decided to check it out.  It was the perfect weekend read and a nice last minute "vacation" to the beach as a cold spell settled over my area. The star of Seaside Letters is Nantucket. Denise Hunter's descriptions bring the area to life and lures the reader into the charm of the island.  I've always wanted to travel to Nantucket, and this series has reawakened that dream.

Seaside Letters introduces us to less-than-perfect characters. Both Sabrina and Tucker have flaws and make misguided decisions.  I found myself cringing every time they decided to bend the truth, tell an outright lie, or refused to reveal their secrets.  Denise Hunter definitely shows the reader the implications and tangled web that one indiscretion, and one lie can create.  The plot was twisted, but understandable. Each chapter opens with a quotes from Sabrina (Sweetpea) and/or Tucker (Harbormaster) and offered insight into their characters and hints into what would transpire in the chapter. 

The majority of the first half of the novel is spent with Sabrina and Tucker skirting the truth and their feelings for each other. Sabrina knows her that Tucker is "Harbormaster", and Tucker knows that Sabrina is "Sweetpea", but Sabrina doesn't know that he knows her identity. What's a girl to do when she is too afraid reveal her identity and the depth of her feelings?  The full truth is not revealed until the very end of the novel.  After the secrets that held Sabrina and Tucker apart in the "real world" are uncovered, the resolution seemed a bit fast. Overall, I enjoyed the second half of the novel more than the first, which became redundant at times.  Even so, I recommend Seaside Letters, and will certainly read more of Denise Hunter's novels in the future. 

A Cowboy's Touch by Denise Hunter

Rating: 5 Stars

Synopsis from the Publisher: Abigail is just in Moose Creek, Montana for the summer to temporarily care for her great aunt. But a tender-hearted cowboy beckons her to stay.

Abigail Jones intends to spend just one summer in middle-of-nowhere Montana with her Aunt Lucy. Time away from her job is just what Abigail needs to reassess her life. The slow pace has her breathing deeply for the first time in years. And the majestic scenery encourages her to get reacquainted with herself . . . and God.
What she didn't count on was the handsome widowed cowboy who owns the ranch where her aunt lives. When the rancher loses his daughter's nanny, Abigail decides to lend a hand for the summer.

Wade Ryan can't help being attracted to Abigail. But he's given up everything to protect his daughter, and he's not about to risk it all on a pretty face.
Under Abigail's care, Wade's home and daughter thrive. And with Wade's touch, Abigail's heart feels at home at last. But Abigail knows this elusive rancher is hiding something. Will her own secrets separate her from the cowboy who finally captured her heart?

Review:  After reading The Inconvenient Groom by Denise Hunter a few months ago,  I was anticipating the release of  A Cowboy's Touch, the first in her new "Big Sky" series.  My expectations for a light and enjoyable read were fulfilled, and I even surprised myself by reading the novel in practically one sitting! 

The plot of  A Cowboy's Touch moves along at a steady pace, and in many ways it reminded me of a Hallmark movie.  While Wade has a past that threatens their relationship, Abigail has secrets of her own.  I was very sympathetic to Wade and his daughter Maddy; and at times, I became very exasperated by Abigail's actions.  But any great story needs to have its share of tension and characters who make their share of mistakes.  Ultimately, it is is a story of forgiveness and finding new beginnings. 

I look forward to Denise Hunter's next novel in this series, The Accidental Bride, which is scheduled to be released in January 2012. 

I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from  NetGalley, courtesy of Thomas Nelson  Publishers.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Convenient Groom by Denise Hunter

Rating: 4.5 stars

Based on appearances, celebrity marriage counselor Kate Lawrence has it all.  She has a successful career, and she is about to marry her fiancée, Bryan, on the beautiful island of Nantucket.  Hours before her highly publicized marriage ceremony and upcoming book release, her well-planned future comes to a shocking halt.

Without Bryan, Kate is faced with the the embarrassment of admitting that she has been left at the altar or secretly entering into a marriage of convenience with Lucas Wright, her landlord. Taking what appears to be the easiest route at the moment,  Kate makes the spontaneous decision to marry Luke; and both Kate and Luke have a lot to learn about themselves, each other, and the consequences of their deceit. 

While I have read quite a few marriage of convenience stories that have been set in the past, The Convenient Groom is the first modern day story that I have read, and I thoroughly enjoyed it! The Convenient Groom takes it readers on an emotional, and often humorous, roller coaster ride as Kate mourns the loss of her future with Bryan, while establishing her life with Luke.  Since Kate has a type-A personality and feels that Luke is her polar opposite, the scene is set for tension and humorous situations.   Regardless of when the story takes place, a novel that is centered around a marriage of convenience is one of my favorite.  In order for the scenario to work and pull me into its pages, it must be well-written.  Denise Hunter successfully crafted a story that kept me turning the pages as Kate meets her in-laws and goes around town acting like a happy newlywed.  But, there is often a fine line between pretending and reality.  It is enjoyable to see the plot unfold as Kate, the marriage counselor, works through her own relationship. 

I highly recommend The Convenient Groom, and I am looking forward to reading the other three books in Denise Hunter's Nantucket Love Story series (Surrender Bay, Seaside Letters, and Driftwood Lane.)

I  received a complimentary copy of this book from BookSneeze (Thomas Nelson Publishers) through their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”