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Recommend this book:
Rodeo Queen
T. J. Kline
2014 Bronze Medal
416 Pages
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Romance - Contemporary
Reviewed By Anne Boling for Readers' Favorite
Rodeo Queen by author T.J. Kline is a deliciously romantic tale that is sure to make readers' heart beat a little faster as they watch Sydney and Scott's love blossom. The couple literally ran into each other at the rodeo where Sydney had just been crowned queen. Scott couldn't help notice how attractive she was but he wanted no part of rodeo queens; one had already broken his heart and he wouldn't allow that to happen again. Sydney had her own nightmare to face. After seeing how she could train and handle horses, Sydney was hired to work on the ranch where Scott was part owner; her mere presence keeps Scott's heart racing. When an ex-girlfriend, Liz, with evil intentions arrives, so does a nightmare from Sydney’s past. How far is Liz willing to go to come between Sydney and Scott? Will Sydney survive the nightmare from her past?
It is T.J. Kline’s fault that I have been up all night reading. I know reviewers often say they cannot put a book down, but I literally could not. I was so caught up in this story that I read it through to the last page in one sitting. It was fun watching Sydney and Scott spar. I became very frustrated with Scott and his inability to say those three magic words. The writing was superb. T.J. Kline has cleverly created a female lead that will inspire women. Sydney is beautiful, intelligent, self-confident, yet vulnerable. Rodeo Queen is one of those books that draws out the reader's emotions: one moment the reader will be laughing at some of the antics between Sydney and Scott; the next moment brings fear and even tears. All in all, this is a great read. Fans of contemporary romance will not want to miss Rodeo Queen.
Rodeo Queen by author T.J. Kline is a deliciously romantic tale that is sure to make readers' heart beat a little faster as they watch Sydney and Scott's love blossom. The couple literally ran into each other at the rodeo where Sydney had just been crowned queen. Scott couldn't help notice how attractive she was but he wanted no part of rodeo queens; one had already broken his heart and he wouldn't allow that to happen again. Sydney had her own nightmare to face. After seeing how she could train and handle horses, Sydney was hired to work on the ranch where Scott was part owner; her mere presence keeps Scott's heart racing. When an ex-girlfriend, Liz, with evil intentions arrives, so does a nightmare from Sydney’s past. How far is Liz willing to go to come between Sydney and Scott? Will Sydney survive the nightmare from her past?
It is T.J. Kline’s fault that I have been up all night reading. I know reviewers often say they cannot put a book down, but I literally could not. I was so caught up in this story that I read it through to the last page in one sitting. It was fun watching Sydney and Scott spar. I became very frustrated with Scott and his inability to say those three magic words. The writing was superb. T.J. Kline has cleverly created a female lead that will inspire women. Sydney is beautiful, intelligent, self-confident, yet vulnerable. Rodeo Queen is one of those books that draws out the reader's emotions: one moment the reader will be laughing at some of the antics between Sydney and Scott; the next moment brings fear and even tears. All in all, this is a great read. Fans of contemporary romance will not want to miss Rodeo Queen.
Recommend this book:
Lovers at Heart
The Bradens, Book One: Love in Bloom Series
Melissa Foster
2014 Silver Medal
380 Pages
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Romance - Contemporary
Reviewed By Natasha Jackson for Readers' Favorite
When we meet Max and Treat in Lovers at Heart, they already have a bit of history. Six months after a regrettable moment of hurt at a wedding in Nassau, Treat and Max are in Allure, Colorado. He’s visiting the family ranch and she’s organizing a film festival, while ignoring the man who hurt her months ago. Unfortunately for Max, Treat hasn’t stopped thinking about her and feels compelled to apologize for his appalling behavior. Melissa Foster paints a beautiful image of two people damaged by a warped vision of love. Max is afraid to trust after her last relationship ended in devastating violence while Treat is terrified that loving someone means something horrible will happen. Foster’s tale of stubborn yet persistent love takes us on a heartbreaking and soul-searing journey.
The beauty of Lovers At Heart is that these are not perfect people who fit perfectly together; they are both damaged with baggage, something that makes a future together almost impossible. But this love story that begins in Nassau, picks up in Colorado, and solidifies itself in Massachusetts has heart. Melissa Foster does what any great storyteller hopes to do by giving us a wonderful cast of characters that include the quirky but outrageous Kaylie, stunning Savannah and of course the lovable curmudgeon that is Hal Braden. Perhaps the most touching aspect of Lovers At Heart is watching Max and Treat deal with the demons that make it difficult for their love to truly conquer all obstacles.
The journey of Treat and Max is heartwarming and the connection between them is palpable.
When we meet Max and Treat in Lovers at Heart, they already have a bit of history. Six months after a regrettable moment of hurt at a wedding in Nassau, Treat and Max are in Allure, Colorado. He’s visiting the family ranch and she’s organizing a film festival, while ignoring the man who hurt her months ago. Unfortunately for Max, Treat hasn’t stopped thinking about her and feels compelled to apologize for his appalling behavior. Melissa Foster paints a beautiful image of two people damaged by a warped vision of love. Max is afraid to trust after her last relationship ended in devastating violence while Treat is terrified that loving someone means something horrible will happen. Foster’s tale of stubborn yet persistent love takes us on a heartbreaking and soul-searing journey.
The beauty of Lovers At Heart is that these are not perfect people who fit perfectly together; they are both damaged with baggage, something that makes a future together almost impossible. But this love story that begins in Nassau, picks up in Colorado, and solidifies itself in Massachusetts has heart. Melissa Foster does what any great storyteller hopes to do by giving us a wonderful cast of characters that include the quirky but outrageous Kaylie, stunning Savannah and of course the lovable curmudgeon that is Hal Braden. Perhaps the most touching aspect of Lovers At Heart is watching Max and Treat deal with the demons that make it difficult for their love to truly conquer all obstacles.
The journey of Treat and Max is heartwarming and the connection between them is palpable.
Recommend this book:
 by Sandra Edwards is a lovely romantic story of true love winning over money. Number two son, Andre de Laurent, comes from a family that has lots and lots of money; Tasha Gordon is an aspiring actress working as a waitress. Andre and Tasha are in love but have no plans of ever marrying. Andre has always known ...){kind=link}
The Marriage Caper
Billionaire Games
Sandra Edwards
2014 Silver Medal
206 Pages
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Romance - Contemporary
Reviewed By Trudi LoPreto for Readers' Favorite
The Marriage Caper (Billionaire Games) by Sandra Edwards is a lovely romantic story of true love winning over money. Number two son, Andre de Laurent, comes from a family that has lots and lots of money; Tasha Gordon is an aspiring actress working as a waitress. Andre and Tasha are in love but have no plans of ever marrying. Andre has always known his older brother would inherit the family business and become the leader of the family and he has always been a little jealous of his brother Julian. This all changes when his mother’s uncle leaves him the bulk of his estate. There are stipulations involved in the will, which states that in order for his brother and younger sister and himself to receive the inheritance Andre must find a bride within a very short period of time and remain married for a year. Tasha is also facing a situation in her life. She has just taken a pregnancy test and discovers that she is expecting Andre’s baby. Andre visits Tasha and plans to explain the situation he has been placed under and ask her to marry him for the year, but when he finds the pregnancy test results and realizes Tasha is having his child, he simply asks her to marry him and neglects the other important details. When Tasha does find out why she thinks they were married, things go badly.
Sandra Edwards is a wonderful romantic storyteller. The Marriage Caper is a book that will make you believe it is possible to find, love and marry your Prince Charming. The story was warm and fuzzy and the characters were so very likeable. I read this book in less than two days because I just couldn’t put it down; it made me smile and it made me cry just a little. This is a book every woman, young and old, will love reading. I didn’t know it was book two when I began reading or that Sandra Edwards has written more Billionaire Games books, but I am planning on getting them all and reading them immediately. The Marriage Caper is a ten-star book – don’t pass it up.
The Marriage Caper (Billionaire Games) by Sandra Edwards is a lovely romantic story of true love winning over money. Number two son, Andre de Laurent, comes from a family that has lots and lots of money; Tasha Gordon is an aspiring actress working as a waitress. Andre and Tasha are in love but have no plans of ever marrying. Andre has always known his older brother would inherit the family business and become the leader of the family and he has always been a little jealous of his brother Julian. This all changes when his mother’s uncle leaves him the bulk of his estate. There are stipulations involved in the will, which states that in order for his brother and younger sister and himself to receive the inheritance Andre must find a bride within a very short period of time and remain married for a year. Tasha is also facing a situation in her life. She has just taken a pregnancy test and discovers that she is expecting Andre’s baby. Andre visits Tasha and plans to explain the situation he has been placed under and ask her to marry him for the year, but when he finds the pregnancy test results and realizes Tasha is having his child, he simply asks her to marry him and neglects the other important details. When Tasha does find out why she thinks they were married, things go badly.
Sandra Edwards is a wonderful romantic storyteller. The Marriage Caper is a book that will make you believe it is possible to find, love and marry your Prince Charming. The story was warm and fuzzy and the characters were so very likeable. I read this book in less than two days because I just couldn’t put it down; it made me smile and it made me cry just a little. This is a book every woman, young and old, will love reading. I didn’t know it was book two when I began reading or that Sandra Edwards has written more Billionaire Games books, but I am planning on getting them all and reading them immediately. The Marriage Caper is a ten-star book – don’t pass it up.
Recommend this book:
Wind Chime Cafe
Sophie Moss
2014 Gold Medal
284 Pages
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Romance - Contemporary
Reviewed By Lorena Sanqui for Readers' Favorite
Annie Malone moved to Heron Island to start anew and meeting Will Dozier was not supposed to be in the plans. She bought a place in the island to turn into a classy French bistro, but the success of her restaurant will depend on the tourists that the new resort will attract. Unfortunately for Annie, Will doesn't want to sell his land to the developers who will build the resort. They may seem to be at odds when it comes to business, but maybe they can be in harmony when it comes to their attraction in Wind Chime Café by Sophie Moss.
Wind Chime Café is a delightful romantic story. Heron Island seems so peaceful, the people are nice, and reading the book left me with a good feeling. I loved everything about it, but what I liked best were the characters. They were pleasant; Will’s childhood friends and the people of the community are very welcoming. I love that Will was able to connect with Annie’s daughter because of their past experiences. I think I like Taylor and Will’s relationship better, although Annie and Will were adorable together since the beginning. The story was also emotional, especially the scene of the fireworks during Halloween… that was gripping. And when Taylor got scared of the gun shots, another well written scene that made me teary. Sophie Moss can really get the emotions across to readers. I hope other characters will also get a chance to share their stories in the next books to come.
Annie Malone moved to Heron Island to start anew and meeting Will Dozier was not supposed to be in the plans. She bought a place in the island to turn into a classy French bistro, but the success of her restaurant will depend on the tourists that the new resort will attract. Unfortunately for Annie, Will doesn't want to sell his land to the developers who will build the resort. They may seem to be at odds when it comes to business, but maybe they can be in harmony when it comes to their attraction in Wind Chime Café by Sophie Moss.
Wind Chime Café is a delightful romantic story. Heron Island seems so peaceful, the people are nice, and reading the book left me with a good feeling. I loved everything about it, but what I liked best were the characters. They were pleasant; Will’s childhood friends and the people of the community are very welcoming. I love that Will was able to connect with Annie’s daughter because of their past experiences. I think I like Taylor and Will’s relationship better, although Annie and Will were adorable together since the beginning. The story was also emotional, especially the scene of the fireworks during Halloween… that was gripping. And when Taylor got scared of the gun shots, another well written scene that made me teary. Sophie Moss can really get the emotions across to readers. I hope other characters will also get a chance to share their stories in the next books to come.
Recommend this book:
Trust in Me
Bethany Lopez
2013 Bronze Medal
148 Pages
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Romance - Contemporary
Reviewed By Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite
Roni had a troubled past and she was doing her best to change that. She escaped an abusive relationship with the edge of her teeth and nearly lost her life in that struggle twice. But with the help of her ever loving and cherishing brother Kent she is able to get away from Hank and finally take a breath of freedom. But the scars of Hank's betrayal and fist are too deep to heal on their own. Roni wants to establish her career as a dancer as she always wanted but this means that she will have to confront the ever seductive and deadly attractive Rich. Will she be able to concentrate on only just dance or will be swept by another charmer? Rich is ready to leave his playboy days behind and start a relationship that is filled with love and commitment that will not end in a few years. And he already has a partner in mind; in fact he had that specific young woman in his mind for quite some years. He wants Roni in his life permanently and he is ready to do anything. But he has no idea but her past and the scars she is carrying with her. Will be able to make her take their relationship seriously? Will he be able to ask her to “Trust in Me?”
Bethany Lopez’s “Trust in Me” is definitely a keeper. The novel is indeed a good one; I was delighted to find a novel that was rich with an impressive storyline and a male protagonist who is more than a just hot body and charming. The characters are full of integrity and you can feel the love of the writer for her character in each and every word. The story is sensual and seductive without being disgustingly descriptive. In short, “Trust in Me” by Bethany Lopez is a novel that you will read on a stormy night, sitting in front of a fire and with a smile on your face.
Roni had a troubled past and she was doing her best to change that. She escaped an abusive relationship with the edge of her teeth and nearly lost her life in that struggle twice. But with the help of her ever loving and cherishing brother Kent she is able to get away from Hank and finally take a breath of freedom. But the scars of Hank's betrayal and fist are too deep to heal on their own. Roni wants to establish her career as a dancer as she always wanted but this means that she will have to confront the ever seductive and deadly attractive Rich. Will she be able to concentrate on only just dance or will be swept by another charmer? Rich is ready to leave his playboy days behind and start a relationship that is filled with love and commitment that will not end in a few years. And he already has a partner in mind; in fact he had that specific young woman in his mind for quite some years. He wants Roni in his life permanently and he is ready to do anything. But he has no idea but her past and the scars she is carrying with her. Will be able to make her take their relationship seriously? Will he be able to ask her to “Trust in Me?”
Bethany Lopez’s “Trust in Me” is definitely a keeper. The novel is indeed a good one; I was delighted to find a novel that was rich with an impressive storyline and a male protagonist who is more than a just hot body and charming. The characters are full of integrity and you can feel the love of the writer for her character in each and every word. The story is sensual and seductive without being disgustingly descriptive. In short, “Trust in Me” by Bethany Lopez is a novel that you will read on a stormy night, sitting in front of a fire and with a smile on your face.
Recommend this book:
Cowboy and Indian
Darryl Sollerh
2013 Silver Medal
96 Pages
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Romance - Contemporary
Reviewed By Jack Magnus for Readers' Favorite
Billy and Ray work as cowhands on the Silver C Ranch in Texas. They both live in small trailers on the land and enjoy the quiet times after a hard day's work with a beer and some good conversation. Billy is badly injured when a vehicle driven by some foster-care kids slams into Ray's truck, and Billy has no insurance to pay the hospital or get the therapy he'll need to learn to walk again. Life has suddenly gotten very complicated. Billy has no idea how he'll meet those bills or continue the payments on his trailer. After he leaves the hospital, Chelsea, the nurse who cared for him in the hospital, suggests that he contact her friend, Mira, who is a licensed physical therapist in India but needs practical experience here in the United States in order to get her license. Mira is willing to work with Billy for reduced rates. Billy's initial truculence, self-pity and frustration is eventually worn down by Mira as he relearns the art of walking and expands his world view.
I relished every minute spent reading "Cowboy and Indian". Billy's friend and fellow cowboy, Ray, is an understated hero who shines out even when paired with the personalities of Billy and Mira. Billy seems somewhat shallow and immature when you first meet him, but, as the story develops, he becomes a caring and complex character. Mira is the perfect foil for him, and the budding relationship between them is a joy to watch. I have greatly enjoyed all of the works I have read of Darryl Sollerh, and this one is certainly no exception.
Billy and Ray work as cowhands on the Silver C Ranch in Texas. They both live in small trailers on the land and enjoy the quiet times after a hard day's work with a beer and some good conversation. Billy is badly injured when a vehicle driven by some foster-care kids slams into Ray's truck, and Billy has no insurance to pay the hospital or get the therapy he'll need to learn to walk again. Life has suddenly gotten very complicated. Billy has no idea how he'll meet those bills or continue the payments on his trailer. After he leaves the hospital, Chelsea, the nurse who cared for him in the hospital, suggests that he contact her friend, Mira, who is a licensed physical therapist in India but needs practical experience here in the United States in order to get her license. Mira is willing to work with Billy for reduced rates. Billy's initial truculence, self-pity and frustration is eventually worn down by Mira as he relearns the art of walking and expands his world view.
I relished every minute spent reading "Cowboy and Indian". Billy's friend and fellow cowboy, Ray, is an understated hero who shines out even when paired with the personalities of Billy and Mira. Billy seems somewhat shallow and immature when you first meet him, but, as the story develops, he becomes a caring and complex character. Mira is the perfect foil for him, and the budding relationship between them is a joy to watch. I have greatly enjoyed all of the works I have read of Darryl Sollerh, and this one is certainly no exception.
Recommend this book:
Acadian Waltz
Alexandrea Weis
2013 Honorable Mention
270 Pages
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Romance - Contemporary
Reviewed By Natasha Jackson for Readers' Favorite
Acadian Waltz introduces us to Nora Kehoe, a head strong outspoken physical therapist who mostly knows what she wants out of her life despite everyone telling her she'd be better off with a husband. Feeling pressured to settle down by her overbearing mother, Nora meets Dr. Blessing after one of her many blind dates ends up in the emergency room. Upon entering into a relationship with Dr. Blessing, whom her mother adores, every doubt and insecurity instilled into her by her mother rises to the surface making her doubt every action. It is no wonder she constantly doubts herself since calling Dr. Blessing a jerk would be an understatement. Alexandra Weis does a fantastic job of illustrating what happens when we allow other people to dictate our lives. Honestly, if I had Claire for a mother I would be living as far away as possible and enjoy a Skype-only relationship with the woman.
The plot is well-crafted and the story is touching, especially the long history between Nora and her childhood friend and protector Jean Marc Gaspard. Though in adulthood Marc and Nora have a strained relationship filled with sexual tension, he still tries his best to keep an eye on her and will have you rooting for him from the moment you meet him. I swear at times I wanted to grab Nora and shake her; she has so much contempt for Marc, yet puts up with more than any sane woman should from John Blessing. I am not ashamed to admit that I had a bit of a crush on Marc and offered (in my mind, of course) to take him off Nora’s hands until she got her head on straight. While the decision of whom Nora should choose seems obvious to the reader, the indecisiveness she feels in reaching a decision comes through clearly, which is a testament to the writing skills of Weis. Overall this was a captivating read that draws you in and makes you care about these characters and that is the mark of a truly great story.
Acadian Waltz introduces us to Nora Kehoe, a head strong outspoken physical therapist who mostly knows what she wants out of her life despite everyone telling her she'd be better off with a husband. Feeling pressured to settle down by her overbearing mother, Nora meets Dr. Blessing after one of her many blind dates ends up in the emergency room. Upon entering into a relationship with Dr. Blessing, whom her mother adores, every doubt and insecurity instilled into her by her mother rises to the surface making her doubt every action. It is no wonder she constantly doubts herself since calling Dr. Blessing a jerk would be an understatement. Alexandra Weis does a fantastic job of illustrating what happens when we allow other people to dictate our lives. Honestly, if I had Claire for a mother I would be living as far away as possible and enjoy a Skype-only relationship with the woman.
The plot is well-crafted and the story is touching, especially the long history between Nora and her childhood friend and protector Jean Marc Gaspard. Though in adulthood Marc and Nora have a strained relationship filled with sexual tension, he still tries his best to keep an eye on her and will have you rooting for him from the moment you meet him. I swear at times I wanted to grab Nora and shake her; she has so much contempt for Marc, yet puts up with more than any sane woman should from John Blessing. I am not ashamed to admit that I had a bit of a crush on Marc and offered (in my mind, of course) to take him off Nora’s hands until she got her head on straight. While the decision of whom Nora should choose seems obvious to the reader, the indecisiveness she feels in reaching a decision comes through clearly, which is a testament to the writing skills of Weis. Overall this was a captivating read that draws you in and makes you care about these characters and that is the mark of a truly great story.
Recommend this book:
Surfing in Stilettos
Carol E Wyer
2013 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Contemporary
Reviewed By Stephanie Dagg for Readers' Favorite
This is a clever, lively story. Amanda Wilson, on the more interesting side of 49, is setting off for a year of travelling around Europe with grumpy husband Phil. Son Tom is left at home where he slowly but steadily works his way through the household appliances as only a clumsy, undomesticated 20-year-old can do. Meanwhile Bibi Chevalier in France has decided that she needs to take a lover to get back at her womanizing husband. Add a camper van breakdown which strands Amanda in France and an ex-lover from Australia and paths begin to cross in interesting and unpredictable ways. Finally a space hopper and a dog make the cast complete. Amanda soon faces a very big decision.
Amanda is an exuberant character, determined to keep life interesting. The Europe trip is one of her means to do this and in preparation she starts a blog, 'Fortifying Your Fifties'. Blog entries are interwoven with the story and this works extremely well both as a literary device and in terms of entertainment value. A few by-the-by subplots even begin to appear in the comments, where TheMerryDivorcee and SexyFitChick in particular have a lot to say without taking the story off course. Bibi is complex and almost a tragic figure but her subtle scheming and stoic spirit make her likeable. Tom is like everyone’s eldest son and Phil slowly and steadily emerges as someone worth knowing. They are all very human and excellently portrayed. Add atmospheric settings and plenty of humor and this book becomes something you can’t put down. More to come in this wonderful series, I hope.
This is a clever, lively story. Amanda Wilson, on the more interesting side of 49, is setting off for a year of travelling around Europe with grumpy husband Phil. Son Tom is left at home where he slowly but steadily works his way through the household appliances as only a clumsy, undomesticated 20-year-old can do. Meanwhile Bibi Chevalier in France has decided that she needs to take a lover to get back at her womanizing husband. Add a camper van breakdown which strands Amanda in France and an ex-lover from Australia and paths begin to cross in interesting and unpredictable ways. Finally a space hopper and a dog make the cast complete. Amanda soon faces a very big decision.
Amanda is an exuberant character, determined to keep life interesting. The Europe trip is one of her means to do this and in preparation she starts a blog, 'Fortifying Your Fifties'. Blog entries are interwoven with the story and this works extremely well both as a literary device and in terms of entertainment value. A few by-the-by subplots even begin to appear in the comments, where TheMerryDivorcee and SexyFitChick in particular have a lot to say without taking the story off course. Bibi is complex and almost a tragic figure but her subtle scheming and stoic spirit make her likeable. Tom is like everyone’s eldest son and Phil slowly and steadily emerges as someone worth knowing. They are all very human and excellently portrayed. Add atmospheric settings and plenty of humor and this book becomes something you can’t put down. More to come in this wonderful series, I hope.
Recommend this book:
The Sixties Girl
Victoria Staat
2012 Honorable Mention
354 Pages
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Romance - Contemporary
Reviewed By Joy Hannabass for Readers' Favorite
In “The Sixties Girl,” Victoria Staat tells a story of when life was quite a bit more innocent that it is today. With the setting in the 1960’s, readers can enjoy the signs of the times as it was back in those days. Brad Montgomery had the things that count going for him, women loved him and he had money. But Claudette wasn’t about to let anyone else have Brad, for she wanted him all for herself. All of this changed though after Brad went off on a business trip. Brad and Claudette had an argument before he left, so he felt free to look when he saw the cute car hop at Lou’s Drive-In. Kit was sure to check out Brad as well, especially with his shining Shelby Mustang. Sparks seemed to fly hot when these two young people met. Imagine miss Claudette when she meets Kit! Of course she did try her best to pull the breaks on their relationship, but did she really have it in her to break them up? Don’t miss this sparkling romance and a nice trip back to a funny and exciting time in history.
I love the book cover, with the car hop Kit in her bobby socks, tennis shoes and ponytail. And then there is Lou’s Drive-In Restaurant. I love meeting Lou and the restaurant gang. I thoroughly enjoyed the trip back to the 1960’s era, enjoying everything as it was back then. Remember the jukebox music? Victoria Staat pens a fun and enjoyable story with characters that are so realistic and believable for the 1960’s. She so vividly details the story to make you feel as though you are back there in time. I enjoyed Kit and Brad’s story, with their romance and struggles, love and war, and the determination to make their love work. If I were you, I would run out and grab a copy of this book to read and enjoy for yourself.
In “The Sixties Girl,” Victoria Staat tells a story of when life was quite a bit more innocent that it is today. With the setting in the 1960’s, readers can enjoy the signs of the times as it was back in those days. Brad Montgomery had the things that count going for him, women loved him and he had money. But Claudette wasn’t about to let anyone else have Brad, for she wanted him all for herself. All of this changed though after Brad went off on a business trip. Brad and Claudette had an argument before he left, so he felt free to look when he saw the cute car hop at Lou’s Drive-In. Kit was sure to check out Brad as well, especially with his shining Shelby Mustang. Sparks seemed to fly hot when these two young people met. Imagine miss Claudette when she meets Kit! Of course she did try her best to pull the breaks on their relationship, but did she really have it in her to break them up? Don’t miss this sparkling romance and a nice trip back to a funny and exciting time in history.
I love the book cover, with the car hop Kit in her bobby socks, tennis shoes and ponytail. And then there is Lou’s Drive-In Restaurant. I love meeting Lou and the restaurant gang. I thoroughly enjoyed the trip back to the 1960’s era, enjoying everything as it was back then. Remember the jukebox music? Victoria Staat pens a fun and enjoyable story with characters that are so realistic and believable for the 1960’s. She so vividly details the story to make you feel as though you are back there in time. I enjoyed Kit and Brad’s story, with their romance and struggles, love and war, and the determination to make their love work. If I were you, I would run out and grab a copy of this book to read and enjoy for yourself.
Recommend this book:
Beneath the Mimosa Tree
Stephanie Verni
2012 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Contemporary
Reviewed By Alice DiNizo for Readers' Favorite
Annabelle Marco and Michael Contelli have been next door neighbors in Annapolis, Maryland, since they both were five years old. In their senior year of high school under the mimosa tree in Michael's back yard, they realized their attraction to each other. By the end of their college years, Annabelle and Michael are ready to marry. And, oh, aren't their parents excited about this! However, Annabelle deserts Michael on the eve of their Caribbean wedding as she feels the pushiness of her parents and Michael's. Both sets of parents obviously are furious with Annabelle, and Michael goes off to London alone and stays there for ten years, marrying the wrong girl for a short and dismal time. Now he is coming back to Annapolis and Annabelle has just ended a disastrous affair with an alcoholic. Will Annabelle be able to apologize to Michael for what she did ten years before and will he accept her apology and be able to love her as he once did?
"Beneath the Mimosa Tree" is a lovely, well-written and well-edited story of childhood sweethearts. Annabelle and Michael, their parents, Annabelle's grandmother Vivi and all their supportive friends in the United States and London are totally believable. The special charm of this story is that Annabelle and Michael have much to overcome and take their time doing so. They don't just make up and jump right into bed together. The story's true-to-life plot flows smoothly to the book's conclusion and "Under the Mimosa Tree" is a story to read and cherish.
Annabelle Marco and Michael Contelli have been next door neighbors in Annapolis, Maryland, since they both were five years old. In their senior year of high school under the mimosa tree in Michael's back yard, they realized their attraction to each other. By the end of their college years, Annabelle and Michael are ready to marry. And, oh, aren't their parents excited about this! However, Annabelle deserts Michael on the eve of their Caribbean wedding as she feels the pushiness of her parents and Michael's. Both sets of parents obviously are furious with Annabelle, and Michael goes off to London alone and stays there for ten years, marrying the wrong girl for a short and dismal time. Now he is coming back to Annapolis and Annabelle has just ended a disastrous affair with an alcoholic. Will Annabelle be able to apologize to Michael for what she did ten years before and will he accept her apology and be able to love her as he once did?
"Beneath the Mimosa Tree" is a lovely, well-written and well-edited story of childhood sweethearts. Annabelle and Michael, their parents, Annabelle's grandmother Vivi and all their supportive friends in the United States and London are totally believable. The special charm of this story is that Annabelle and Michael have much to overcome and take their time doing so. They don't just make up and jump right into bed together. The story's true-to-life plot flows smoothly to the book's conclusion and "Under the Mimosa Tree" is a story to read and cherish.
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