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The Kissing Tree
After five long years, Georgiana McLaughlin returns to the only place she s ever considered home---the same place she stole a kiss from Ridge Carson under the kissing tree; But this time he's a man, and reconciling their past is just the beginning. You'll find yourself applauding each new chapter filled with fun, romance, and adventure in this captivating, heartfelt tale of love, friendship, and finding your way back.
272 pages, Paperback
First published December 6, 2011
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February 23, 2012
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THANKS AND HAPPY READING!
The book starts with 12 year old Georgiana luring her friend Ridge under the massive oak tree, otherwise known in the community as the kissing tree, as a dare by her best friend Samantha. She happily obliged and kissed the one boy she has always fancied herself in love with. Then she left.
And 5 years later returns as a proper lady come home to help out her grandfather in his cattle ranch. For some reason, even with men clamoring for her attention, she has never given her heart completely, not even to Dawson, her handsome and accomplished friend and suitor. Upon seeing Ridge again though things became clearer, yet more complicated, as he can never seem to be straightforward with his intentions and instead teases her until her Irish blood boils. She herself didn’t know what she wanted: Ridge, the man she has always loved, or Dawson, the man everyone thinks she is meant to be with. And so she fights against her heart. But with the help (or scheming) of her grandfather Angus and Samantha, it’s a battle she was meant to lose.
I haven’t fallen in love with a historical romance in a very long time. So this was a welcome surprise. From the very beginning I was caught up by the intensely sweet love-hate relationship of Georgie and Ridge. There’s an innocence in these characters that’s refreshing to read. also, no one is left hanging as practically all the characters have an end to their stories, including the bad guys. Since I cannot divulge the ending, all I can say is that for eternal optimists like me who love happy endings, this book will not disappoint.
Technically, the pace of the book is perfect. The progression of the love story is just right. you can’t help but feel invested in their happiness. Not just Ridge and Georgie’s, but also Samantha’s and Dawson’s….even Georgie’s mom Charlotte. and despite all the different characters’ points of view, you still won’t get distracted from the main point which is the relationship of the two. There are several plot points in the book that could have gotten distracting, yet was written so well it was seamless. There are no loose ends in The Kissing Tree, just a great ending. And that my friend, is why I love this book!
THANKS AND HAPPY READING!
The book starts with 12 year old Georgiana luring her friend Ridge under the massive oak tree, otherwise known in the community as the kissing tree, as a dare by her best friend Samantha. She happily obliged and kissed the one boy she has always fancied herself in love with. Then she left.
And 5 years later returns as a proper lady come home to help out her grandfather in his cattle ranch. For some reason, even with men clamoring for her attention, she has never given her heart completely, not even to Dawson, her handsome and accomplished friend and suitor. Upon seeing Ridge again though things became clearer, yet more complicated, as he can never seem to be straightforward with his intentions and instead teases her until her Irish blood boils. She herself didn’t know what she wanted: Ridge, the man she has always loved, or Dawson, the man everyone thinks she is meant to be with. And so she fights against her heart. But with the help (or scheming) of her grandfather Angus and Samantha, it’s a battle she was meant to lose.
I haven’t fallen in love with a historical romance in a very long time. So this was a welcome surprise. From the very beginning I was caught up by the intensely sweet love-hate relationship of Georgie and Ridge. There’s an innocence in these characters that’s refreshing to read. also, no one is left hanging as practically all the characters have an end to their stories, including the bad guys. Since I cannot divulge the ending, all I can say is that for eternal optimists like me who love happy endings, this book will not disappoint.
Technically, the pace of the book is perfect. The progression of the love story is just right. you can’t help but feel invested in their happiness. Not just Ridge and Georgie’s, but also Samantha’s and Dawson’s….even Georgie’s mom Charlotte. and despite all the different characters’ points of view, you still won’t get distracted from the main point which is the relationship of the two. There are several plot points in the book that could have gotten distracting, yet was written so well it was seamless. There are no loose ends in The Kissing Tree, just a great ending. And that my friend, is why I love this book!
November 13, 2014
This was a really sweet read. I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it. Georgie was forced to move away from her childhood home and always longed to return. After five long years she is finally able to return to her Grandfather in Colorado. Once back she immediately runs into her childhood crush and the fun really begins. Georgie is a really likable character. She speaks her mind and yet is very sweet and loving. She cares deeply for her family and friends. Our leading man, Ridge, is also very likable. They have nice chemistry together. The supporting characters are also enjoyable. I loved Georgie’s Irish grandfather and the loveable cowhands. Samantha and Dawson were also great.
I really enjoyed the story, the setting was nice. There is even a little adventure thrown in at the end which added a fun element to the story. It was a fun escape. The story did remind me of a book called The Touch of the Lover’s Moon by Marcia McClure, which is also about childhood sweethearts who are torn apart and then reunited years later.
I really enjoyed the story, the setting was nice. There is even a little adventure thrown in at the end which added a fun element to the story. It was a fun escape. The story did remind me of a book called The Touch of the Lover’s Moon by Marcia McClure, which is also about childhood sweethearts who are torn apart and then reunited years later.
October 13, 2011
The Kissing Tree made me actually swoon out loud. Tad embarrassing when you’re on a train!
Five years ago, Georgiana McLaughlin left with her mother and brothers to visit with their aunt in New York City. No one told her they wouldn’t be returning to her childhood home in Colorado. Georgiana left behind not just the rest of her family, but her two best friends, Samantha and Ridge. Right before she left, Georgiana stole a kiss from Ridge…one neither of them forgot.
But now Georgiana has returned, and Ridge isn’t the boy she remembered…he has grown into a strong and handsome man who still retains his boyish teasing nature. Feelings that never really went away suddenly flare to life for both Ridge and Georgiana, but things are different than they were before. Both are older, less sure of their actions. Not to mention the rich and handsome Dawson that Georgiana left behind in New York.
The Kissing Tree was the kind of book that lingered with me whenever I wasn’t reading it. It was achingly romantic and laugh-out-loud funny. I adored the banter between Georgiana and Ridge, and how Georgiana more than handled the men on her grandfather’s ranch.
This novel is not just a romance one – it is about family and commitments, and the difficult choice between following your heart or your head. A sure pleaser for anyone who adores romance, comedy or historical fiction. An author to watch.
Five years ago, Georgiana McLaughlin left with her mother and brothers to visit with their aunt in New York City. No one told her they wouldn’t be returning to her childhood home in Colorado. Georgiana left behind not just the rest of her family, but her two best friends, Samantha and Ridge. Right before she left, Georgiana stole a kiss from Ridge…one neither of them forgot.
But now Georgiana has returned, and Ridge isn’t the boy she remembered…he has grown into a strong and handsome man who still retains his boyish teasing nature. Feelings that never really went away suddenly flare to life for both Ridge and Georgiana, but things are different than they were before. Both are older, less sure of their actions. Not to mention the rich and handsome Dawson that Georgiana left behind in New York.
The Kissing Tree was the kind of book that lingered with me whenever I wasn’t reading it. It was achingly romantic and laugh-out-loud funny. I adored the banter between Georgiana and Ridge, and how Georgiana more than handled the men on her grandfather’s ranch.
This novel is not just a romance one – it is about family and commitments, and the difficult choice between following your heart or your head. A sure pleaser for anyone who adores romance, comedy or historical fiction. An author to watch.
October 31, 2011
The Kissing Tree is a sweet, light love story for fans of clean romance. It put a smile on my face and kept me reading way past bedtime, which I truly love in a book.
However, this book should have been five-star read for me, and it didn't quite measure up. I LOVE books like this. I am a Marcia McClure addict, and this story in plot and writing is similar to her books. However, it's the similarities to Marcia's books that perhaps made me enjoy the story less...because no one can compare to the Queen of Clean when it comes to this type of story. Some of the lines and descriptions from this book mimic too closely Marcia's unique style of writing, and the endearing cheese that Marcia makes swoony doesn't work when someone else is writing. Some of these lines (all those moist, demanding kisses!) felt direct from Marcia, forcing a comparison between the two, and Marcia is The Queen for a reason.
The Kissing Tree could benefit from more editing, as entire passages could be taken out to make a tighter story. I admit to being a bit of a stickler when it comes to timelines, and I get thrown out of a story when the passage of time isn't clearly delineated. I had difficulty for much of the story figuring out how much time had passed, and at times, the timeline conflicted with itself. For example, after Georgie hurts her foot and Dawson appears, the next day Dawson asks her about the social that's "tomorrow". However, at the social, they act like Dawson has been visiting for quite some time, when following this timeline, it should only be two days.
Plotwise, The Kissing Tree tries to do too much, with incongruous plot lines branching off for several different characters that eventually descend into a bit of melodrama. Again, tighter editing could clean this up and give the story more focus.
Despite these flaws and the inevitable comparison to The Queen of clean western romance, The Kissing Tree is sweet story for fans of this genre.
However, this book should have been five-star read for me, and it didn't quite measure up. I LOVE books like this. I am a Marcia McClure addict, and this story in plot and writing is similar to her books. However, it's the similarities to Marcia's books that perhaps made me enjoy the story less...because no one can compare to the Queen of Clean when it comes to this type of story. Some of the lines and descriptions from this book mimic too closely Marcia's unique style of writing, and the endearing cheese that Marcia makes swoony doesn't work when someone else is writing. Some of these lines (all those moist, demanding kisses!) felt direct from Marcia, forcing a comparison between the two, and Marcia is The Queen for a reason.
The Kissing Tree could benefit from more editing, as entire passages could be taken out to make a tighter story. I admit to being a bit of a stickler when it comes to timelines, and I get thrown out of a story when the passage of time isn't clearly delineated. I had difficulty for much of the story figuring out how much time had passed, and at times, the timeline conflicted with itself. For example, after Georgie hurts her foot and Dawson appears, the next day Dawson asks her about the social that's "tomorrow". However, at the social, they act like Dawson has been visiting for quite some time, when following this timeline, it should only be two days.
Plotwise, The Kissing Tree tries to do too much, with incongruous plot lines branching off for several different characters that eventually descend into a bit of melodrama. Again, tighter editing could clean this up and give the story more focus.
Despite these flaws and the inevitable comparison to The Queen of clean western romance, The Kissing Tree is sweet story for fans of this genre.
November 7, 2011
Thanks to Cedar Fort Publishing for review copy!
Giveaway of book found at the following link:
http://nightlyreading.wordpress.com/2...
What an absolutely beautifully written love story. I had fallen in love with the characters right from the beginning.
The book opens with Georgie and Ridge under “The Kissing Tree” with Georgie trying to take Samantha up on her dare. To steal a kiss from Ridge. Georgie keeps playing through her mind how she is going to accomplish this task, but ends up just going for it.
“There you have it, Ridge Carson.” She beamed down at him, proud she hadn’t lost her nerve. “I’ve stolen a kiss and you can never have it back!”
That was the last time that Georgie would get to see Ridge. Her family left for NYC that very same evening. Flash forward five years and Georgie is on her way home again. She is coming home to help her grandpa after the passing of her grandmother. It will be the first time that she has seen her home since she had left so many years ago. Beside her grandpa, of course, whom do you think is the first person she runs into…but, Ridge! This makes for a very entertaining scene especially since he is such a teaser!
The setting for this book was interesting. I loved that it reminded me of the old wild west and Little House on the Prairie. LOL … With horse and buggies, living on the cattle ranch and the fact that the women wore corsets.
There was a bit of a love triangle at work here. Georgie had a fella waitin on her back in NYC. She was torn over her feelings between Dawson and Ridge. She had never promised Dawson her hand in marriage, but felt obligated to him. The feelings she had for Ridge just could not be denied and she struggled daily.
The book left me with a storybook ending and I felt it was perfect! I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a good romance. I cannot really categorize this as YA, for it was about adults. But, it was tender, sweet and innocent with mild passionate kisses:)
Giveaway of book found at the following link:
http://nightlyreading.wordpress.com/2...
What an absolutely beautifully written love story. I had fallen in love with the characters right from the beginning.
The book opens with Georgie and Ridge under “The Kissing Tree” with Georgie trying to take Samantha up on her dare. To steal a kiss from Ridge. Georgie keeps playing through her mind how she is going to accomplish this task, but ends up just going for it.
“There you have it, Ridge Carson.” She beamed down at him, proud she hadn’t lost her nerve. “I’ve stolen a kiss and you can never have it back!”
That was the last time that Georgie would get to see Ridge. Her family left for NYC that very same evening. Flash forward five years and Georgie is on her way home again. She is coming home to help her grandpa after the passing of her grandmother. It will be the first time that she has seen her home since she had left so many years ago. Beside her grandpa, of course, whom do you think is the first person she runs into…but, Ridge! This makes for a very entertaining scene especially since he is such a teaser!
The setting for this book was interesting. I loved that it reminded me of the old wild west and Little House on the Prairie. LOL … With horse and buggies, living on the cattle ranch and the fact that the women wore corsets.
There was a bit of a love triangle at work here. Georgie had a fella waitin on her back in NYC. She was torn over her feelings between Dawson and Ridge. She had never promised Dawson her hand in marriage, but felt obligated to him. The feelings she had for Ridge just could not be denied and she struggled daily.
The book left me with a storybook ending and I felt it was perfect! I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a good romance. I cannot really categorize this as YA, for it was about adults. But, it was tender, sweet and innocent with mild passionate kisses:)
October 31, 2011
Honestly, there was so much to love about this book! I’m so happy to be a part of the blog tour for The Kissing Tree. My thanks to Cedar Fort for providing the opportunity and the book.
I’m a fan of historical fiction, so this was right up my alley. The story was filled with love and friendship, misunderstanding and reconciliations. The small western town feel versus the proper society, big city feel was perfect.
Georgiana’s poor young heart was broken when she was forced to move away from her childhood home, her grandparents and her friends. Her return journey home provides such satisfaction and mending but not without the bumps and bruises a fiery Irish temper can bring.
Ridge is such a great character. I love his playfulness and easy going nature. And how swoon worthy to have a guy fall for you at such a young age and never get over it. So sweet. I love all the little things that make Ridge endearing. Keeping a hair ribbon all those years, carving Georgie’s name along with his own in the tree,… Bice has done a great job of making the characters real and personable.
The one drawback for me personally, was the remembering. Each character seemed to be doing a lot of “remembering” in order to tell the back story. And while I realize that needs to be part of the story, there was so much of it. It seemed like characters were remembering the same events and it got a bit long. I found myself wanting to skim through instead of read those parts.
Still, having said that, I really did love this sweet story. I love to sit down with a good historical romance and just enjoy myself with no worries of offensive language or sexual scenes. It’s such a relief to me. I left this book feeling good and uplifted. My romantic heart was satisfied.
I am having a giveaway on my blog for a copy of this book starting November 1st and running through the 10th, 2011. You can check it out here. http://gettingyourreadonaimeebrown.bl...
I’m a fan of historical fiction, so this was right up my alley. The story was filled with love and friendship, misunderstanding and reconciliations. The small western town feel versus the proper society, big city feel was perfect.
Georgiana’s poor young heart was broken when she was forced to move away from her childhood home, her grandparents and her friends. Her return journey home provides such satisfaction and mending but not without the bumps and bruises a fiery Irish temper can bring.
Ridge is such a great character. I love his playfulness and easy going nature. And how swoon worthy to have a guy fall for you at such a young age and never get over it. So sweet. I love all the little things that make Ridge endearing. Keeping a hair ribbon all those years, carving Georgie’s name along with his own in the tree,… Bice has done a great job of making the characters real and personable.
The one drawback for me personally, was the remembering. Each character seemed to be doing a lot of “remembering” in order to tell the back story. And while I realize that needs to be part of the story, there was so much of it. It seemed like characters were remembering the same events and it got a bit long. I found myself wanting to skim through instead of read those parts.
Still, having said that, I really did love this sweet story. I love to sit down with a good historical romance and just enjoy myself with no worries of offensive language or sexual scenes. It’s such a relief to me. I left this book feeling good and uplifted. My romantic heart was satisfied.
I am having a giveaway on my blog for a copy of this book starting November 1st and running through the 10th, 2011. You can check it out here. http://gettingyourreadonaimeebrown.bl...
May 16, 2012
This was a sad disappointment. I expected fluff - and welcomed it! - but this isn't even good fluff. It's total crap.
The Kissing Tree was recommended to me by someone who compared it to L.M. Montgomery and I am now 100% positive that that person has never even touched a Montgomery novel. Apart from being set in a similar time, there's nothing Montgomery about this.
Here's the deal. The Kissing Tree is poorly written, in need of editing, and attempts too many story lines (childhood sweethearts, cold witch of an aunt, suitor-who-really-is-a-friend-who-falls-in-love-with-bff, BANK ROBBERY??? (sooo random), loss of a father, etc.). Why didn't somebody tell this poor author to pick one or two incidents and expound upon those? What's left for her to write about in her next book?
Also...the constant change in PoV. Why, why, why? I understand speaking from Ridge and what's-her-name's PoV, but Charlotte?? Really? Newsflash: I don't actually care about Charlotte. She was weak and stupid and boring and barely part of anything.
There was just way too much telling and not enough showing. I also can't handle the backwoods, country bumpkin accent. I get that Bice was going for authenticity, but I found it irritating.
The Kissing Tree was recommended to me by someone who compared it to L.M. Montgomery and I am now 100% positive that that person has never even touched a Montgomery novel. Apart from being set in a similar time, there's nothing Montgomery about this.
Here's the deal. The Kissing Tree is poorly written, in need of editing, and attempts too many story lines (childhood sweethearts, cold witch of an aunt, suitor-who-really-is-a-friend-who-falls-in-love-with-bff, BANK ROBBERY??? (sooo random), loss of a father, etc.). Why didn't somebody tell this poor author to pick one or two incidents and expound upon those? What's left for her to write about in her next book?
Also...the constant change in PoV. Why, why, why? I understand speaking from Ridge and what's-her-name's PoV, but Charlotte?? Really? Newsflash: I don't actually care about Charlotte. She was weak and stupid and boring and barely part of anything.
There was just way too much telling and not enough showing. I also can't handle the backwoods, country bumpkin accent. I get that Bice was going for authenticity, but I found it irritating.
October 28, 2011
This is really a 4.5 rating. Too bad Goodreads doesn't have a way to do 1/2 stars.
I really love a good romance story. A story that reminds me what it was like to fall in love. The tingles that you get when you first hold a hand and the anxiety in whether or not he really loves you.
This is a really sweet love story. It is about two friends who are separated while young. They have the school age crush and somehow never really quite got over the other while they were spending five years apart.
This would have been five star if it didn't feel a little sluggish in the middle. It just felt too drawn out for me.
There is a happy resolution for all that I thoroughly enjoyed. I loved the humor and that it has good story line.
I really love a good romance story. A story that reminds me what it was like to fall in love. The tingles that you get when you first hold a hand and the anxiety in whether or not he really loves you.
This is a really sweet love story. It is about two friends who are separated while young. They have the school age crush and somehow never really quite got over the other while they were spending five years apart.
This would have been five star if it didn't feel a little sluggish in the middle. It just felt too drawn out for me.
There is a happy resolution for all that I thoroughly enjoyed. I loved the humor and that it has good story line.
September 29, 2011
What should have been a cute read failed miserably. This was poorly written and in need of some major editing. There was far too much info dumping and constant switching of POV to keep track of it all. Also the way the characters thought, especially in the beginning when the heroine is a young girl, feels off. The author gives her adult thoughts and words she wouldn't even be aware of, let alone use in everyday speech.
The heroine is so confusing with what she wants and her actions don't make sense half the time.
The slang and colloquialisms switched on and off for no reason and there just wasn't enough plot or tension to keep this story going.
Read more like a bad first draft.
A pass.
The heroine is so confusing with what she wants and her actions don't make sense half the time.
The slang and colloquialisms switched on and off for no reason and there just wasn't enough plot or tension to keep this story going.
Read more like a bad first draft.
A pass.
Read
October 11, 2011I'm a sucker for novels about childhood sweethearts reconnecting as adults. This was a very sweet romance.Georgie and Ridge were cute together. She did have a very bad and quick temper but it was fun watching him enjoy her outbursts. I liked the way things ended with Dawson although he jumped ship pretty dang quick. This was squeaky clean and fun. There is also some action in the plot to raise the emotional stakes. I also loved the epilogue. This was a fun read!
February 7, 2012
So, so, so cute! Georgiana grew up in the late 1800s in Colorado, but was suddenly moved to New York (along with her mom and brothers) to live with an aunt when her dad died. Five years later, she decided to return to help her grandpa out. And guess who's his right hand man? Her old crush, Ridge.
It was sad to me that she lost touch with her best friend, but they quickly stepped right back into things. Ridge was great! Georgie was quite a tease and a lot of fun. Cute and clean!!
It was sad to me that she lost touch with her best friend, but they quickly stepped right back into things. Ridge was great! Georgie was quite a tease and a lot of fun. Cute and clean!!
February 15, 2016
Predictable but a clean romance novel.
March 14, 2016
This story was so sweet, I loved the romance and the humor. I couldn't put the book down!
April 10, 2018
I really got into this one. Clean and refreshing. I still remember it years after reading it. That’s always a good sign. 😊
May 27, 2024
Cute easy read!! Katy Ravsten recommended it and it did not disappoint!!!
June 14, 2017
I couldn't put it down and I'm glad I had a day off to finish it.
October 3, 2018
A bit predictable, but oh so lovely. Loved the Characters and side stories. I was so engaged and loved so much of this. I picked this up on a clearance at the book store and I swear, just like clothes, you can love it more because it was such a steal? I know this is not the book for everyone, by far, but it was the beautiful, descriptive, tale of love and sorrow I love. What I love to escape to.
February 17, 2021
Looking for a new topic? I would recommend this book! I normally like to stay to the fantasy side of the genres but my best friend suggested I read this book. I gave it a try and never regretted it! What a great book to start my love for regency era romance books!
November 10, 2011
I wasn't quite sure what to expect when I first heard the blurb of The Kissing Tree. I thought that it sounded like a sweet story, and when I read it, I was pleasantly surprised because it was even better than I thought it would be. Not only did it have an incredibly sweet and romantic story line, it also had feisty characters with amazing chemistry! I also loved the historical element of the story!
I loved Georgie! She was such a fun heroine and she was so spunky. The only downside to her was that she was too accommodating to society... but I understood why, it was customary to the time period she was in and how she was raised in New York once her family moved there. I loved that for the most part Georgie didn't let what other people thought dictate her actions. Occasionally she did, but usually only because she didn't want to hurt anyone. She's feisty, but she isn't vicious, and I loved that. :) I also loved her Irish temper, as her grandfather calls it, it made me smile every time she would get all worked up!
Ridge...oh, Ridge. Seriously, what an amazing name! With an awesome name like Ridge, you kind of assume he's going to be a sexy and boy was he ever! I loved Ridge! He and Georgie are fantastic together! They're a steamy duo, and boy could you feel the steam of their kisses. ;) The best thing about Ridge though, is that he was more than just a pretty face. He's smart, definitely charming, and he only has eyes for Georgie...so freaking adorable! :D
Along with Georgie and Ridge, my favourite character was Georgie's grandfather. He's awesome! He tries to play matchmaker, and tells about Irish stories, which I loved! :D I also loved his relationship with Georgie, they are so close, and I think that's wonderful to see in a story, especially when contrasted with Georgie's relationship to her Aunt, and even her mother, who is kind and loves her, but is rather closed off emotionally...I won't tell you why though. :P
Now, before you start thinking that this is just an historical romance between two people who are too stubborn to admit that they love each other...I have to mention that it's so much deeper than that! It's about finding your true home, and with that discovering what home really means. It's got some action in it, too, some pretty crazy action I might add involving banks. Also, the whole black and white relationship status between Georgie and Ridge is much more complicated, you add in suitors, the time period, relatives, and other meddling outsiders, and it makes for one complicated relationship.
Overall, I thought that The Kissing Tree was a fantastic story, and I really liked it. :) The characters are fantastic, and I think that it's a refreshing take on an historical romance that's set somewhat to the style of a Western. The Kissing Tree mixes genres, keeps things exciting, and incorporates an Irish story passed down the generations into the local legend of the "Kissing Tree" where Georgie steals her first kiss from Ridge. If you enjoy a teasing romance, with not-too-sweet characters, The Kissing Tree is perfect for you. :)
I loved Georgie! She was such a fun heroine and she was so spunky. The only downside to her was that she was too accommodating to society... but I understood why, it was customary to the time period she was in and how she was raised in New York once her family moved there. I loved that for the most part Georgie didn't let what other people thought dictate her actions. Occasionally she did, but usually only because she didn't want to hurt anyone. She's feisty, but she isn't vicious, and I loved that. :) I also loved her Irish temper, as her grandfather calls it, it made me smile every time she would get all worked up!
Ridge...oh, Ridge. Seriously, what an amazing name! With an awesome name like Ridge, you kind of assume he's going to be a sexy and boy was he ever! I loved Ridge! He and Georgie are fantastic together! They're a steamy duo, and boy could you feel the steam of their kisses. ;) The best thing about Ridge though, is that he was more than just a pretty face. He's smart, definitely charming, and he only has eyes for Georgie...so freaking adorable! :D
Along with Georgie and Ridge, my favourite character was Georgie's grandfather. He's awesome! He tries to play matchmaker, and tells about Irish stories, which I loved! :D I also loved his relationship with Georgie, they are so close, and I think that's wonderful to see in a story, especially when contrasted with Georgie's relationship to her Aunt, and even her mother, who is kind and loves her, but is rather closed off emotionally...I won't tell you why though. :P
Now, before you start thinking that this is just an historical romance between two people who are too stubborn to admit that they love each other...I have to mention that it's so much deeper than that! It's about finding your true home, and with that discovering what home really means. It's got some action in it, too, some pretty crazy action I might add involving banks. Also, the whole black and white relationship status between Georgie and Ridge is much more complicated, you add in suitors, the time period, relatives, and other meddling outsiders, and it makes for one complicated relationship.
Overall, I thought that The Kissing Tree was a fantastic story, and I really liked it. :) The characters are fantastic, and I think that it's a refreshing take on an historical romance that's set somewhat to the style of a Western. The Kissing Tree mixes genres, keeps things exciting, and incorporates an Irish story passed down the generations into the local legend of the "Kissing Tree" where Georgie steals her first kiss from Ridge. If you enjoy a teasing romance, with not-too-sweet characters, The Kissing Tree is perfect for you. :)
January 18, 2022
Book. Just a fun romance fun read. Friends separated in youth. 5 years apart they get back together.
November 6, 2011
In the very beginning of the book a 12 year old, girl, named Georgiana is given a dare by her friends. The dare is to kiss a boy, named Ridge. She fulfills the dare and kisses Ridge. After that exact day Georgiana has to pack up all her belongs, because her family and her are going to New York City for the summer. Next, she is not told that this trip is not only a summer vacation, but will also become her new home.
Georgiana remains in New York City with her family, which includes a mother and siblings. While being in New York her family lived with her aunt, Ceceila. Geogiana does not like this aunt, because her aunt detest children, especially children who came from an irish immigrant. Her aunt, Cecelia is very cruel and verbally abusive. Luckly Georgiana got sent to a school that is like a girls institute for only girls.
Throughout her stay in New York her aunt introduces her to society. She begins seeing a man named, Dawson who loves her. Dawson may love her, but she she feels like she can't give her heart entirely to him because she still has feeling s for Ridge.
After, five years Georigana returns to Crystal Creek, Colorada her hometown. At this time she is 18 years old. Once she arrives their she is meet with her grandfather. At the same time Georgiana encounters Ridge Carson. It turns out that Ridge does not remember her. She realizes Ridge is no longer a young boy, but now he has become a handsome and strong man.
All of a sudden Georigana's feelings for Ridge surface her. Her feelings for him never went away even when she was in New York City. Now both Ridge and Georgiana are older and things are definitely different now. Now she must decide between what her heart wants and what her mind wants her to do. Basically Georigana must with who she wants to be with. It's either Ridge of Dawson that she must choose from. Her decision is very difficult especially, since Dawson is waiting for her to return to New York City. She told Dawson before that she had to clear some issues in Colorado, because it would allow her to finally be able to give her heart completely to him. Georgiana must make her decision. The story revolves aroud her journey on making her choice between who she wants to stay with.
Now I will let you fellow readers find out who she ends up choosing. The Kissing Tree by Prudence Bice had me constantly laughing. I thought it was a good historical romance.
Prudence Bice
Georgiana remains in New York City with her family, which includes a mother and siblings. While being in New York her family lived with her aunt, Ceceila. Geogiana does not like this aunt, because her aunt detest children, especially children who came from an irish immigrant. Her aunt, Cecelia is very cruel and verbally abusive. Luckly Georgiana got sent to a school that is like a girls institute for only girls.
Throughout her stay in New York her aunt introduces her to society. She begins seeing a man named, Dawson who loves her. Dawson may love her, but she she feels like she can't give her heart entirely to him because she still has feeling s for Ridge.
After, five years Georigana returns to Crystal Creek, Colorada her hometown. At this time she is 18 years old. Once she arrives their she is meet with her grandfather. At the same time Georgiana encounters Ridge Carson. It turns out that Ridge does not remember her. She realizes Ridge is no longer a young boy, but now he has become a handsome and strong man.
All of a sudden Georigana's feelings for Ridge surface her. Her feelings for him never went away even when she was in New York City. Now both Ridge and Georgiana are older and things are definitely different now. Now she must decide between what her heart wants and what her mind wants her to do. Basically Georigana must with who she wants to be with. It's either Ridge of Dawson that she must choose from. Her decision is very difficult especially, since Dawson is waiting for her to return to New York City. She told Dawson before that she had to clear some issues in Colorado, because it would allow her to finally be able to give her heart completely to him. Georgiana must make her decision. The story revolves aroud her journey on making her choice between who she wants to stay with.
Now I will let you fellow readers find out who she ends up choosing. The Kissing Tree by Prudence Bice had me constantly laughing. I thought it was a good historical romance.
Prudence Bice
October 29, 2011
The Kissing Tree is a delightfully sweet historical romance. Although a year is not given, it takes place in early American history. Colorado has been settled. Small towns have been established around farming and cattle ranch communities. Crystal Creek is just such a small town.
When the story begins thirteen year old protagonist Georgiana McLaughlin has recently lost her father to a tragic horse accident. She and her siblings, along with their mother are traveling to New York to stay with Aunt Cecelia for the summer break. Before they leave, she steals a kiss from Ridge Carson under the kissing tree and runs. She doesn’t return home until five years later.
Georgiana returns to Colorado, leaving behind a young man waiting for her to accept a marriage proposal. He is a charming man, who adores her, but she can’t bring herself to say yes. When she arrives home she finds Ridge all grown up and working on her grandfather’s cattle ranch.
The chemistry Bice creates between Georgiana and Ridge is delightful. Georgiana is all Irish fire and spunk. The way in which these to spar will have you giggling. There is wholesomeness to this tale that I find refreshing.
The Kissing Tree has a love triangle, villains and finds our heroine in danger. The tale unfolds at a wonderful pace. Bice writes a story with lots of twists, and wraps it all up in a bow at the end. She delivers the perfect romantic story that will leave you feeling good.
I am adding Prudence Bice to my list of authors to watch. The Kissing Tree will be available on December 6, 2011. This would make the perfect gift for the romance reader on your holiday shopping list.
I want to thank netGalley and Cedar Fort Publishing for this ARC, in exchange for my unbiased review.
you can see more of my reviews at : http://kimbathecaffeinatedbookreviewe...
When the story begins thirteen year old protagonist Georgiana McLaughlin has recently lost her father to a tragic horse accident. She and her siblings, along with their mother are traveling to New York to stay with Aunt Cecelia for the summer break. Before they leave, she steals a kiss from Ridge Carson under the kissing tree and runs. She doesn’t return home until five years later.
Georgiana returns to Colorado, leaving behind a young man waiting for her to accept a marriage proposal. He is a charming man, who adores her, but she can’t bring herself to say yes. When she arrives home she finds Ridge all grown up and working on her grandfather’s cattle ranch.
The chemistry Bice creates between Georgiana and Ridge is delightful. Georgiana is all Irish fire and spunk. The way in which these to spar will have you giggling. There is wholesomeness to this tale that I find refreshing.
The Kissing Tree has a love triangle, villains and finds our heroine in danger. The tale unfolds at a wonderful pace. Bice writes a story with lots of twists, and wraps it all up in a bow at the end. She delivers the perfect romantic story that will leave you feeling good.
I am adding Prudence Bice to my list of authors to watch. The Kissing Tree will be available on December 6, 2011. This would make the perfect gift for the romance reader on your holiday shopping list.
I want to thank netGalley and Cedar Fort Publishing for this ARC, in exchange for my unbiased review.
you can see more of my reviews at : http://kimbathecaffeinatedbookreviewe...
November 23, 2011
This is s beautiful romance story. An easy read with a wonderful setting and the characters are fantastic.
Following the life of Georgiana from childhood to adulthood. She grew up on a cattle ranch in Colorado; living with her parents, grandparents and her two younger brothers. Her father has a terrible accident on the ranch and Georgiana's mother is so grief stricken that she cannot live there any longer and has to move to New York and live with her sister. She takes the children with her without telling them they will not see their friends again.
Georgiana is heartbroken, no longer the outgoing and bubbly child, she has withdrawn from everyone and pines for her friends back in Colorado. The years pass by without any contact from her friends; now a grown young lady, she decides to visit her Grandpa and help with the domestic duties of the ranch. Before departing New York, her companion, Dawson, insists on visiting if she doesn't return quickly.
Arriving in Colorado, Georgiana finds nothing has changed. She rekindles her friendship with Samantha her best childhood friend and sees her sweetheart Ridge. But things only seem to get more complicated.
This is a lovely love triangle and beautiful story with twists included. As this is set in the old west, I found it a refreshing read and the author certainly knows how to draw the reader into the story. I found it addictive and laughing along with the clumsiness of Georgiana. Highly recommended to all romance readers.
Received from NetGalley for review.
Following the life of Georgiana from childhood to adulthood. She grew up on a cattle ranch in Colorado; living with her parents, grandparents and her two younger brothers. Her father has a terrible accident on the ranch and Georgiana's mother is so grief stricken that she cannot live there any longer and has to move to New York and live with her sister. She takes the children with her without telling them they will not see their friends again.
Georgiana is heartbroken, no longer the outgoing and bubbly child, she has withdrawn from everyone and pines for her friends back in Colorado. The years pass by without any contact from her friends; now a grown young lady, she decides to visit her Grandpa and help with the domestic duties of the ranch. Before departing New York, her companion, Dawson, insists on visiting if she doesn't return quickly.
Arriving in Colorado, Georgiana finds nothing has changed. She rekindles her friendship with Samantha her best childhood friend and sees her sweetheart Ridge. But things only seem to get more complicated.
This is a lovely love triangle and beautiful story with twists included. As this is set in the old west, I found it a refreshing read and the author certainly knows how to draw the reader into the story. I found it addictive and laughing along with the clumsiness of Georgiana. Highly recommended to all romance readers.
Received from NetGalley for review.
November 30, 2011
Georgie was dared by her friend to steal a kiss from their friend Ridge while under the "kissing tree." Georgie got her kiss, but soon she left town to move to New York City. After five years Georgie has returned home to help her grandfather on his ranch. Now that she's back, she has to face a grown-up Ridge. Georgie feels a lingering attraction to Ridge, but she also has a devoted suitor from New York. Georgie will have to decide what she wants from her life...and who she wants a life with.
This was a very sweet romance. There aren't really any surprises or anything, but that doesn't detract from the enjoyment of the book. Georgie and Ridge were fun characters. It was cute to watch their childhood feelings slowly develop and change into more adult ones. Of course, Georgie also had to deal with all the reasons she had to leave in the first place and the consequences of that move. She discovers some things she didn't know before as secrets and mysteries were uncovered. There's even a hint of adventure.
This book does what it is supposed to and does it well. There are characters you root fore and outcomes you are dying to see come true. One negative I did have was that I hard a hard time reading the dialect of some of the characters, but overall this wasn't too bad. I just found myself re-reading some lines to understand what the characters had said. That wasn't a major deal for me though, so overall I enjoyed this book. It is soft and sweet and full of love and affection.
Galley provided for review.
This was a very sweet romance. There aren't really any surprises or anything, but that doesn't detract from the enjoyment of the book. Georgie and Ridge were fun characters. It was cute to watch their childhood feelings slowly develop and change into more adult ones. Of course, Georgie also had to deal with all the reasons she had to leave in the first place and the consequences of that move. She discovers some things she didn't know before as secrets and mysteries were uncovered. There's even a hint of adventure.
This book does what it is supposed to and does it well. There are characters you root fore and outcomes you are dying to see come true. One negative I did have was that I hard a hard time reading the dialect of some of the characters, but overall this wasn't too bad. I just found myself re-reading some lines to understand what the characters had said. That wasn't a major deal for me though, so overall I enjoyed this book. It is soft and sweet and full of love and affection.
Galley provided for review.
November 1, 2011
This book was a nice change of pace from the paranormal and fantasy that often rule my library.
A sweet romantic novel kept my eyes glued to the pages and stole all of my attention and focus. After all, that is what a first kiss is about, it is something never to be forgotten. She tapped into the essence of hope and dreams while writing this book. Because most girls when giving up that first kiss give it up to someone they think will be the one, they hope will be there forever.
I know that even though I can't remember the time it happened or the date, I certainly remember the smell of his cologne, the clothes he wore and the butterflies he instilled in my stomach. I remember the way his hand felt in mine and the sweet taste of his kiss.
I applaud Prudence Bice for making Georgie so relatable in that manner. It made my heart swoon that unlike in most real life scenario's the first kiss turned out to be the one for Miss Georgie even though she had been swept away right after it happened. There is just something about finding those long lost loves that always keeps me coming back for more. Every closet romantic will agree, a well written book like the Kissing Tree is a must for those heart throb moments and book club meeting's that you want to gush over.
Favorite Character: Ridge, something about those smart ass types always gets me going and makes me root for them. Probably because my sweetness is that way. XD
A sweet romantic novel kept my eyes glued to the pages and stole all of my attention and focus. After all, that is what a first kiss is about, it is something never to be forgotten. She tapped into the essence of hope and dreams while writing this book. Because most girls when giving up that first kiss give it up to someone they think will be the one, they hope will be there forever.
I know that even though I can't remember the time it happened or the date, I certainly remember the smell of his cologne, the clothes he wore and the butterflies he instilled in my stomach. I remember the way his hand felt in mine and the sweet taste of his kiss.
I applaud Prudence Bice for making Georgie so relatable in that manner. It made my heart swoon that unlike in most real life scenario's the first kiss turned out to be the one for Miss Georgie even though she had been swept away right after it happened. There is just something about finding those long lost loves that always keeps me coming back for more. Every closet romantic will agree, a well written book like the Kissing Tree is a must for those heart throb moments and book club meeting's that you want to gush over.
Favorite Character: Ridge, something about those smart ass types always gets me going and makes me root for them. Probably because my sweetness is that way. XD
January 26, 2015
I was immensely happy to read a good ol' Western romance. But there are quite a few things that I was unhappy about as the book went along.
I wasn't happy to revisit the old Southern belle/Irish airs. Georgie has a ridiculous temper and a ridiculous pride that goes off with clanging bells and whistles when she gets ticked off. Which is all the damn time. She left Colorado a country girl but she's come back as a prissy little miss. Oh, she still loves the dirt and roughing it out but her manners are all prim and proper.
Still, I liked the way the author capture the old-fashioned speech and isn't it funny how girl camaraderie throughout centuries is the same, just applied differently?
Ridge - “Hello, Georgie. Hello, Sam.”
“Now you just ignore him, Georgie, and keep walkin’,” Samantha ordered. “We’ll pretend he’s not even there.” She took her friend’s arm, coaxing her to walk faster.
“Oh, come on, Georgie. I really am sorry. I should’ve never done it,” Ridge pleaded sorrowfully.
“Ridge, will you just go away?” Samantha snapped. “Can’t ya see she doesn’t ever want to talk to you again?”
“Ever?” Ridge asked.
“Ever and ever,” Samantha repeated, “. . . and ever!”
The good part is that I loved the way that Ridge loves Georgie.
The bad part is that the book revolves around indecision and misunderstanding.
Especially towards the end, it gets so predictable I was thoroughly bored.
I did however like how Georgie and Cordelia turned out.
I wasn't happy to revisit the old Southern belle/Irish airs. Georgie has a ridiculous temper and a ridiculous pride that goes off with clanging bells and whistles when she gets ticked off. Which is all the damn time. She left Colorado a country girl but she's come back as a prissy little miss. Oh, she still loves the dirt and roughing it out but her manners are all prim and proper.
Still, I liked the way the author capture the old-fashioned speech and isn't it funny how girl camaraderie throughout centuries is the same, just applied differently?
Ridge - “Hello, Georgie. Hello, Sam.”
“Now you just ignore him, Georgie, and keep walkin’,” Samantha ordered. “We’ll pretend he’s not even there.” She took her friend’s arm, coaxing her to walk faster.
“Oh, come on, Georgie. I really am sorry. I should’ve never done it,” Ridge pleaded sorrowfully.
“Ridge, will you just go away?” Samantha snapped. “Can’t ya see she doesn’t ever want to talk to you again?”
“Ever?” Ridge asked.
“Ever and ever,” Samantha repeated, “. . . and ever!”
The good part is that I loved the way that Ridge loves Georgie.
The bad part is that the book revolves around indecision and misunderstanding.
Especially towards the end, it gets so predictable I was thoroughly bored.
I did however like how Georgie and Cordelia turned out.
November 1, 2011
This book was a sweet story about a girl, Georgiana, who moves back home after the death of her grandmother. She moved to New York five years before the story takes place and she has never forgotten her original home in Colorado. She has grown into a remarkable, independent woman who has never been able to give her heart to a suitor, even though she has a wonderful man who is willing to do anything for her. When she moves back to Colorado she runs into Ridge, the boy whom she stole a kiss from when she was 13. Georgiana is forced to choose between her heart and her head and decide who she ultimately wants to be with.
This book had a great love story and it was a nice change of pace for me. I am used to reading paranormal type books and this novel allowed me to put myself in Georgiana's shoes and I was constantly wishing that I was her. She is such a wonderful, strong character and even though she has had a tough life, she is able to overcome it with determination and grace.
I had a hard time deciding which love interest I was rooting for to end up with Georgie. I loved that you could relate to every character in this book.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a good, clean romantic story!
This book had a great love story and it was a nice change of pace for me. I am used to reading paranormal type books and this novel allowed me to put myself in Georgiana's shoes and I was constantly wishing that I was her. She is such a wonderful, strong character and even though she has had a tough life, she is able to overcome it with determination and grace.
I had a hard time deciding which love interest I was rooting for to end up with Georgie. I loved that you could relate to every character in this book.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a good, clean romantic story!
November 7, 2011
Hinting suspiciously of Gilbert and Anne with an "e" and full of delightful colloquialisms, The Kissing Tree is a fun read with endearing characters that will make you smile. Ridge and Georgie think they're all grown up now, but they both still act childish around each other--because they haven't yet learned to accept each other as adults. As they reaquaint themselves with each other and come to terms with their lingering feelings, Ridge and Georgie also have to learn how to communicate now as adults, a process that plays out in a way that, well, just made me smile.
This is one of those books I think I would enjoy even more as an audiobook, partly because of its narrative style of storytelling, and partly because I love to hear the Irish brogue spoken much more than I like to read it. But as could easily happen, the dialect doesn't get in the way of the fluid narration, and only enhances the setting and the difficulty of the choices Georgie has to make.
The Kissing Tree is both squeaky clean and well-developed, a sometimes difficult feat. It is a character-driven but delightfully told story. I recommend The Kissing Tree to anyone who enjoys a lighthearted and uplifting read.
Full review at http://www.sixmixedreviews.blogspot.com
This is one of those books I think I would enjoy even more as an audiobook, partly because of its narrative style of storytelling, and partly because I love to hear the Irish brogue spoken much more than I like to read it. But as could easily happen, the dialect doesn't get in the way of the fluid narration, and only enhances the setting and the difficulty of the choices Georgie has to make.
The Kissing Tree is both squeaky clean and well-developed, a sometimes difficult feat. It is a character-driven but delightfully told story. I recommend The Kissing Tree to anyone who enjoys a lighthearted and uplifting read.
Full review at http://www.sixmixedreviews.blogspot.com
August 10, 2016
The Kissing Tree by Prudence Bice is a charming novel about falling in love. I absolutely loved reading this novel. It's a heartwarming-beautiful story that will capture your attention until the very last page. The narrator and main character named Georgiana is a spunky young lady who has to choose between her childhood crush and her handsome new beau. She is a wonderfully lovable character that makes this story great.
***Spoiler***
Georgiana moves from her childhood home to New York to live with her evil Aunt Cecelia. She longs for the day she can come home to her grandfather’s ranch in Colorado. After living in New York for five long years she finally makes the journey back to the place she loves, but not before saying goodbye to her handsome beau Dawson. Dawson promises to write often and come retrieve her if she’s away for too long. Upon Georgiana’s arrival she bumps into her childhood sweetheart Ridge along with her grandfather. It doesn’t take long for Georgiana to realize she still has feelings for Ridge. Will she stay in Colorado with her rugged childhood crush or go back to New York with her sophisticated new beau Dawson?
***Spoiler***
Georgiana moves from her childhood home to New York to live with her evil Aunt Cecelia. She longs for the day she can come home to her grandfather’s ranch in Colorado. After living in New York for five long years she finally makes the journey back to the place she loves, but not before saying goodbye to her handsome beau Dawson. Dawson promises to write often and come retrieve her if she’s away for too long. Upon Georgiana’s arrival she bumps into her childhood sweetheart Ridge along with her grandfather. It doesn’t take long for Georgiana to realize she still has feelings for Ridge. Will she stay in Colorado with her rugged childhood crush or go back to New York with her sophisticated new beau Dawson?
March 8, 2012
When reading this book, it took me back to the movie "Anne of Green Gables". Now I am sure that a lot of you woman out there know what I am talking about! Being as that movie is one of my favorites, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book! It has mischief, friendship, love, mystery and heartache. All the qualities you need for a great read. Ridge and Georgiana take you on a journey from when they were children in Colorado, to 5 years apart living in two separate worlds. I don't know if any of you have ever lost contact with a friend or someone who you were close too, but when you see them again, all the memories are still there and you have more memories to add and build on for the future. For me love and friendship are forever, and this book only confirms it.
I highly recommend this beautifully written novel. Prudence Bice also has another book out called "The Widower's Wife". Which I read during the summer. I cant wait to see what other novels she has in store!
I highly recommend this beautifully written novel. Prudence Bice also has another book out called "The Widower's Wife". Which I read during the summer. I cant wait to see what other novels she has in store!
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