This grumpy single dad is about to be upended by a force of nature he never saw coming.
His nanny.
Sloane Russo has been called a lot of things Capricious. Impulsive. Irresponsible. But now that she has to add flat broke to the list, she’s desperate for some fast cash. Her job writing steamy novels set in exotic places only works if she’s in exotic places. She’ll do anything to kick the writer’s block that’s been plaguing her ever since she landed in sleepy, small-town Pine Mountain.
Even take straightlaced, super serious Gavin Carmichael up on his reluctant offer to care for the thirteen year-old half-sister he’s unexpectedly single parenting. Sloane might not have childcare on her résumé, but she needs the money to save her career. The deal is temporary—just until Gavin can find a real nanny—and anyway, how hard can it be?
Gavin will do anything to find a stable, reliable nanny for his half-sister. Including, as it turns out, hiring his boss’s best friend as a fast fix. But Sloane is as fickle as she is gorgeous. The last thing he needs is to be tempted by someone he can’t depend on in the long run. As Bree’s nanny, she’s entirely off-limits.
Except the more time they spend together, the more Gavin realizes Sloane isn’t just exactly the nanny he needs—she’s the woman he wants. Only she’s got a one-way ticket out of town along with his heart, and he’s playing for keeps…
***** Stirring Up Trouble is an updated version of the third full-length Pine Mountain novel that was originally published in 2014. This edition has been edited for readability and added steam.
USA Today best-selling author Kimberly Kincaid writes romantic suspense that sizzles and contemporary romance with heart and heat. Equal parts action and emotion, her firefighters and first responders always save the day. When she's not finding adventure with her family and naughty Whippets, Olive, Daisy, and Jack, she can be found practicing obscene amounts of yoga, whipping up anything from enchiladas to éclairs in her kitchen, or curled up with her nose in a book.
Kimberly's series include The Intelligence Unit, Remington Medical, Station Seventeen, and her brand-new Remington Rescue Squad series. All titles stand alone for easy reading.
I read all of these romance books and it always amazes me how authors can tackle real, serious issues while juggling a story about two people meeting and falling in love. I know it shouldn't surprise me... after all we live lives every day... and every day each and every one of us must over come our own personal challenges... but as I embark on reading something to escape in... there are life lessons abound.
This was one of those books which was more compelling to me because of the challenges then the actually romance part. The romance part was fine... they were good people; deserved to be happy and in love with someone who cared about them for them.
What I overwhelming appreciated, though, was the insight the author had to so many subjects; she tackled death of a parent leaving an older brother in charge of a preteen sister. She tackled a woman who marched to a different beat of the drum than the rest of her family causing her to feel like the black sheep and the bane of her mother's existence. She tackled the desire to be successful and proud of the work you do even when family feels it is beneath them....and she addressed the pain of never feeling like you are doing things correctly or enough... of feeling like you'll never get it right.
What I loved about this book were clued in moments... moments which felt like they could be real... like when our lead gal stepped up and shared how she handled the same pain our preteen girl had... how she worked as a bridge between the brother and sister. Another perfect life lesson was the conversation and care the brother gave our gal... showing her she was worthy and deserving of all the good in the world... that she was original and strong.
There was also a very cute nod to romance writing... as our gal is a romance author. We were able to experience writer's block; the process of how a book is written from start to finish and the push pull between publishers and authors.
Oh, and yes there was a romance between two adults with humor, sass and some sweet... who wanted to be together but fought their instincts only to realize there was something there which could not be denied.
So, this book had the romance...had a plot and had the added benefit of some very serious issues and ways to address them. For me, it worked and I ended up enjoying the read.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review
Sloane has always had a case of wanderlust but with her new job as an exotic locations romance writer, she seems to have found her niche. Except for one little detail, her inspiration is leaning toward small town America romance right now. When her publisher rejects her new idea and demands a Greek hero, Sloane capitulates and finds herself searching for a way to save up enough money for her Greece trip. Fortuitously, Gavin and his thirteen year old sister Bree enter the picture. Gavin has just moved to the small town of Pine Mountain becoming a restaurant manager and newly appointed guardian of his half sister. Their mom recently passed away from breast cancer and to say the least, both are having a hard time adjusting to their new lives. When Gavin's regular babysister has a family emergency, Sloane steps in to help take care of Bree.
Sloane is a fly by the seat of your pants gal while Gavin is more rigid than a newly starched collar; clashes and battles occur as they bump up against each other and push each other's boundaries. Sloane was the more interesting of the two characters, she struggles with being the black sheep of the family because getting married and having kids isn't the end all for her. This affects what she considers her self-worth and the reader gets to see the emotional toll it all takes on her. Gavin is portrayed as so calm, cool, and collected for most of the story that he never feels real and I could never quite warm up to him. Cracks under his surface are eventually shown but this wasn't until very close to the end. Bree, surprisingly, was my favorite character as her emotional drama of missing her mother and trying to get Gavin to react or open up to her was the most poignant part of the story. The opposites attract trope was really the only thing holding Sloane and Gavin together for me; very small doses of passion.
This had all the ingredients, small town, opposites attract, demanding mother, struggling hero, and trying to find herself heroine, to be a very quaint heartfelt story but I think it came up a little short. Almost all the scenes take place in Gavin's home, so any small town feel with any whimsical characters was absent. This also caused the pace to be very slow, the middle part of the story felt uninspired and while the Big Misunderstanding helped give some spark, readers are going to see it coming a mile away and find it every day. The author's writing is very solid if not remarkable. Small town romance series are pretty popular right now, unfortunately this one has a very been there, done that feel.
STIRRING UP TROUBLE is the third novel I have read by Kimberly Kincaid. Her stories to me are like the most expensive and delicious chocolates In the world! I devour her novels and can think of doing nothing else until I finish them. Kimberly pulls you right in and gets you all involved in everyone's business. Sloane and Gavin feel like old friends and then throw Bree in the mix and soon you find yourself giggling it loud when they are all together.
Note: I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Kimberly Kincaid has become a favorite of mine for when I’m in need of a sweet and sexy romance where I find myself smiling throughout.
Sloane was introduced in the previous installment and I immediately wanted her love story. She just seemed like a vibrant and witty lady who took life by the steering wheel and put her foot to the petal and said “watch out world here I come”. But in all of that energy there was also a romantic who could sweep her readers away in her romance novels but hadn’t had her feet lifted off the ground yet by any man.She was yearning for that "O" in Love and wanted it to be as big as the ones in her novels. Although Sloane didn't think that settling down was in the cards for her she still couldn't fight the attraction of one serious sexy as sin Gavin.
Gavin was submerged in all the details of the painful and devastating death of his mother. What was left behind wasn’t only settling of her estate or normal things but a broken 13 yr old sister Bree. Gavin was doing the best a person could do thrown into this situation. The chips were stacked against this brave man because he’s dealing with not only being a sudden parent but working full time at a busy restaurant and also his sister is in the “hormonal teenage years” along with the grieving of the only parent she had.
Gavin and Sloane were adorable together. It’s like they could see inside each other the real person that wanted out. Sloane was used to being labeled the fly by the seat of her pants girl and Gavin was Mr. Serious. Together she saw herself as responsible and caring in Gavins eyes and Gavin learned how to loosen up and have a little fun.
There were some pretty sexy
times between the sheets and against many other surfaces. "wink"
I'm not sure I've ever read about drinking wine in a sexier way and I'm still thinking about it.
There was some misunderstandings that caused a blip in this sweet love story but Sloane and Gavin belonged together with Bree by their side.I rooted for them the whole way and loved how it all came together. Kimberly Kincaid made me cry some sappy and happy tears several times and I am so glad I got lost in this book.
My Review: Stirring Up Trouble by Kimberly Kincaid is installment four in the Pine Mountain series.
About the Book: Sloane Russo is an accomplished author who is searching for her next great story. Due to certain circumstances, she now finds herself sequestered in the Pine Mountain community. When she meets an opinionated grump (Gavin Carmichael) who is in need of a babysitter/tutor for a thirteen year-old, she chooses to work his business proposal to her advantage. Everything is going extremely well...until it is not. A huge misunderstanding, poor communication, lots of wrong assumptions, and a hasty decision lead to heartbreak. Can all involved parties pause long enough to make things right?
My Final Say: This novel had a lot of threads to untangle. On the family front, both Sloane and Gavin each had unresolved tensions to deal with, regarding their loved ones. Because they themselves were total opposites, they, too, had to learn how to respectfully speak each others language in order to productively move forward. There were other existing emotional cords that were revealed, some were dealt with and others not so much. All in all, a semblance of an HEA came about.
Other: While this couple did have a connection of sorts, it seemed off balance at times. Before they went into their forever, I would think they would need premarital counseling to work on developing healthy habits. On another note, I think Bree would benefit from MH counseling, as well.
Rating: 3/5 Recommend: Yes Audience: A Series: Yes Status: M Level: 🌶
Thank you to the author, to the publisher (Kimberly Kincaid Romance), and to NetGalley for granting access to this work in exchange for an honest review. Your willingness to afford an opportunity to read this novel is appreciated.
Take some grump, some impulsiveness, add a surly teenager, and you’ve got a story I didn’t put down once! Gavin and Bree need something to change because they’re sure not communicating now, but is Sloane the right woman for the job? After all, she’s sure that she doesn’t want or know how to relate to children, she’s got a bit of a dilemma, and a deadline looming ever closer. But she can’t help wanting to be there for these two. Bree needs someone neutral, or at least not in the trenches with her and her brother, to talk to and learn better coping mechanisms from. Gavin needs someone to balance his overbearing nature that hides his anxiety over messing this all up. And Sloane? She needs to belong somewhere.
As angry as Gavin and his quick-trigger temper made me a few times, I totally understood the panic that fed it. He truly doesn’t want to lose his sister, but he doesn’t know how to relate to her in a way that helps. And the same goes for Bree, but with the added helping of teenage angst and desire to fit in heaped on top. They both need Sloane, and she feels complete when she’s with them. So when something that should’ve been mentioned, even if it was then discarded as “nah, don’t want to, I have a better plan” almost immediately, makes itself known, two of these three overreact. One is a little expected due to upheaval of lives, but the other is really one who should’ve taken a breath and listened first. Or at all. Luckily, the third party is the rational one once emotions are wrung out, and they all communicate to make things right again. Good thing, too, because I’m pretty sure they’d all be miserable without this tiny family unit that they’ve built!
Reader note: This is an updated version aka re-released of the book. It’s had a little refresh with added goodies and steam but has been made even better if that’s possible! I loved this book the first time around and loved it even more now. There is nothing like going back to a favourite and re-discovering how good it was.
I loved this book from the first page to the last where the author includes recipes from the characters. When you finish a book with a happy sigh and a big goofy grin, you know as a reader you have found that next book for your keeper shelf. Well this book is looking awfully pretty sitting on mine.
I have stated before that if Pine Mountain was real I would be the first to pack my bags and move there and Gavin and Sloane are the first friends I would want to make. I absolutely loved them.
Gavin is prime book boyfriend material. He’s busy being a restaurant manager and big brother to a surly teen. Not quite what he expected to be doing, but after the death of their mother he stepped up to the plate and is trying with everything he has to be what she needs. Even if they clash at every turn.
Sloane on the other hand is adorable. Romance novel writer, traveler and if you believe her mother, way past due to settle down, get married and have a couple kids. Shame Sloan doesn’t subscribe to that theory. Sloane is happy living her life as she pleases. Or she was until her editor told her to change the book she was planning to write.
When Gavin who suddenly and desperately needs a babysitter for his sister while he works long shifts and Sloane who needs to get her creative ass to Greece as soon as possible to immerse herself in her writing cross paths with a doozy of an opening…
“In spite of what I do for a living, I’m starting to think men who can dish up Richter scale orgasms are just a cruel myth.”
They quickly find themselves in close proximity and neither can ignore the chemistry that snaps and pops between them. And the more time they spend together the stronger it gets. The fun loving Sloane and the responsible Gavin certainly burn up the sheets and other places. It’s great to see Gavin let go a bit.
I’m not forgetting Gavin’s sister Bree, I loved her. I have been her at more than one point in my life. I think most of us have been. I constantly wanted to give her hugs, even when she was being a normal teen and pushing the boundaries. My heart totally went out to the little girl who lost her mother, had to move away from her friends and now has to live with a brother who is trying to be the best he can for her. When Sloane breaks through Bree’s shell and encourages her to talk to Gavin it nearly broke my heart.
This author certainly knows how to tug at the heartstrings. Whether it be Bree getting her period the first time, when she finally opens up to her brother, Gavin’s own feelings or the ending that will have you sniffling and cheering, you will run through all your emotions in this book. It’s why she is a favourite of mine.
“It’s not your fault nobody ever took the time to really find you in there. That nobody showed you what a goddamn treasure you are.”
This book may be part of a series but it can be read as a standalone. I encourage you to read all the books in the Pine Mountain series though, they are fantastic. Each one makes you fall in love with a fictional town all over again.
Grab your book, pick a comfy spot and dive into another hit from Kimberly Kincaid. Pine Mountain is calling you. .
Stirring Up Trouble was a beautiful and sweet heartwarming read. The characters were realistic and lovable. They were all going through normal human problems, and that is why I love reading books by Kimberly Kincaid. You can't help but fall in love with the characters.
This is book 3 in the Pine Mountain series, and I really enjoyed it. I have always been a fan of small town stories, but I wish the author could have gave a view of the town. We know it is in a small town, but we don't actually get to see the small town. I would have loved to meet some of the members of the town, and get a feel for the town itself. I personally think that is what help make the book so much better. We got to see a little of the town in Gimme Some Sugar, which is book 2 in the series. I just really would have liked to see more.
As a die heart romance fan, I can tell you that Miss Kincaid really heats things up between Sloane and Gavin. I really enjoyed the front row seat view of them getting to know each other. Sloane is sweet, caring, but very sassy. And I loved her from the start. Gavin on the other hand I wasn't to sure of at first. He seemed kind of stuck up. About 45% into the book, I really started to like him.
I really liked Gavin's thirteen-year-old sister right away. She lost her mom at a young age, and I know personally that it is really hard. She is grieving for her mom, while growing up, and learning to adjust to living with her brother at the same time. She played a major part in this book.. She was definitely my favorite character, I guess it is because I knew exactly how she felt. I really loved that Sloane kind of stepped in and became that mother figure that she needed.
I thought it was cool that Sloane was a romance writer. I loved that the author gave us a peak at Sloane's writing process. I will definitely be using some of those tips for my own writing. It make me wonder if that is how the author writes her books herself!
Overall I really enjoyed this book, and I eagerly await the next heartwarming story by Miss Kincaid. Give this book a read, I am sure that most romance fans will love this book!
***Book provided by publisher on NetGalley for review.***
WOW is all that I can say about Stirring Up Trouble!!! LOVED IT!!!
I loved Sloane for her ability to stand up for what she wants to do in life and pursue her writing career, even though her parents give her grief about it. She lives her life without commitments and likes it that way. Sloane is dealing with some insecurity’s about herself, so it was easier to run away from everything instead of staying and dealing with them BUT in the end she has to face everything due to her feelings for Gavin and Bree.
Gavin is the general manager of, La Dolce Vita, Pine Mountain Resort's restaurant. He is very serious about everything, especially his job and his sister. He traveled around the globe saving restaurants that were having a hard time, but he due to his mother’s illness he had to come home to take care of her and his sister Bree. He is having a hard time learning to be a parent and he knows it, but his pride keeps him from asking for help. When his regular babysitter has a family emergency he has to find a replacement for her ASAP and Carly recommends Sloane. He hires Sloane with a lot of concerns about hiring her, but he is desperate for someone to take care of her while he works.
I loved Gavin and Sloane’s relationship and how Sloane finally decided what she wanted in life.
***ARC provided by Kimberly Kincaid and Kensington Books for an honest review***
**ARC provided via NetGalley by Kensington Books in exchange for an honest review***
I really enjoyed Kimberly Kincaid's style of writing. This was my first novel by her and I will be reading the previous two books in this series ASAP! The book is a touching small town contemporary romance, complete with desire, well-defined characters and a compelling storyline. I love reading small town stories and their inhabitants. The book was very well written and it get me engaged till the end. I read it in one afternoon! The H/h have a very smoky connection and are really hot together. They are likeable and you can relate to them. I myself spent a lot of time crying in this book, but I cry at Hallmark commercials so take that with a grain of salt. If you do the same, grab a box of Kleenex before you start to read this book! I have no doubt in my mind that when I go back to read the first to books about Pine Mountain, that I will enjoy them just as much as I enjoyed Stirring Up Trouble! Highly recommend this sweet and loving story to anyone!
I loved this book. I love Sloane and Gavin. Pine Mountain is a place I would love to move to. I enjoy Kimberly Kincaid's style of writing. It is always great getting glimpses of couples from previous books in a new book. I also love that the swan concept from book two is carried over into this book. I would highly recommend this book to anyone.
series, book 3 of 5. I gotta check to be sure ... i am not sure if i have read anything from Kimberly or not? i am following her on Amazon??! too many authors jumping around in my mind there??! small town romances, who doesn't love those??! i sure do. love comedy too. great cover. lots of chemistry in this read. I love Bree she is so fun, nothing to knock her back, great style. I wanna visit Pine Mtn. found this read at Dollar General for $3 bucks ... didn't know they do sell them there?? be sure to check them out.
I obtained a copy of this book through the library system in my home town.
A very lively story that is funny in a sad sort of way that our leading lady, Sloane, writes hot, sexy romance and the man she meets, Gavin, how little need nor time for any romance at all.
As with most romances of boy meets girl, this one takes truly opposite people, this story shows the depth and skill of Ms. Kincaid's writing. The detail provided about the characters and settings made this a delightful read.
This is a fun and sexy story. Sloane is a fun loving and free spirited author. Gavin is a resort restaurant manager who is staid and serious. Gavin is taking care of his moody 13 year old sister. What starts out as an abrasive relationship eventually turns heated. The dialogue is often funny and witty as Sloane, Gavin and Bree become acquainted. It is an easy to read and page turning story with a happily ever after.
Stirring Up Trouble is the third book in author Kimberly Kincaid’s Pine Mountain Series. This is a series I have loved since the very beginning and was so excited to get my hands on Sloane’s story and let me say…this series just keeps getting better and better. This book was fantastic!
Romance writer Sloane Russo has always lived by the seat of her pants. Trying out new things, going on new adventures, never slowing down long enough to grow bored and that’s how she liked it. Now, her family didn’t like it, per se, and thought she should be settling down and making babies, but it was her life and she loved it. And it was those adventures that lead her to her successful writing career. Her travels to exotic places gave her inspiration and the material to spark her imagination and get her creative juices flowing. Only problem now was that she had used up her travel experiences and was all dried up in the inspiration department. She was also died up in the finances department. Making matters worse was that her publisher wanted a new exotic book, and fast. There was no way she could fly to a far off destination on her good looks and the dust bunnies in her bank account. Leave it to fate to have a way of intervening and dropping a job practically right into her lap. A temporary babysitting job for Gavin, her best friend’s restaurant manager’s, thirteen-year-old sister. Not exactly a dream job, but a job nonetheless. She just had to stick it out for a few weeks, hop on a flight, and write a book. That becomes easier said than done when Sloane soon starts falling for Gavin. Could she ever dream of staying in one place long enough to start a real life? With Gavin, she thinks it just may be possible.
Restaurant manager, Gavin Carmichael really didn’t need any more complications in his life. He lost his mother to cancer, relocated, and now was responsible for his little sister. He couldn’t believe he now lost his sitter for a few weeks. Things start to look up, marginally, when he meets Sloane and she agrees to help him and Bree out. She isn’t exactly his first choice as a sitter for his sister, but she was an adult and could surely supervise. Hopefully. It turns out she is more than capable and in more ways than one and he is soon smitten with all that Sloane is and all that she has become to mean to him and Bree. It scares him to death that she self-admittedly doesn’t do the permanent and never stayed in one place for the long-term but he wants noting more to convince her that he and Bree were worth it. Would he succeed in getting the free spirit to put down roots? God, he really hoped so…
This book focuses on Sloane and Gavin (and Bree) and it was the total package from the very first chapter. Sloane is one of the best heroine’s I’ve read. She’s witty and snarky and matter of fact and I loved everything about her. She doesn’t really do the soft and fluffy and I adore her for it. She cuts to the chase and tells it like it is and even though she doesn’t think she’s the settling down type, deep down she really is. She’s just waiting for the right reason to settle down for. Enter Gavin. The astute professional who is navigating the father-figure role as best as he can. He is handsome and responsible and just wants his life, and his sister’s life, to be ok. What he really needed is an outsider’s point of view to help with his sister and that’s where Sloane shines. Truly opposites, Gavin and Sloane were a gem of an unlikely match that completely belongs together, even if they didn’t want to believe it at first. The attraction and chemistry between them smolders at first and quickly grows into a burning heat… It. Was. Delicious. I loved watching the relationship evolve for all of them (Sloane, Gavin and Bree) and seeing it bloom into something so very special. I cried my eyes out more than once while reading and the loss of Gavin and Bree’s mother brought a touching aspect to this story.
As I said in the beginning of this review, the Pine Mountain Series is a series that just gets better and better with each book. Yes, you can read any of them as a stand-alone, but the effect as a whole is just so amazing that I vote for reading them all.
Kimberly Kincaid is one of those hidden author gems. She always writes a beautiful story with well-developed characters, great dialogue, interesting and engaging story lines, and plenty of beautifully written heated scenes. If you haven’t picked up one of her book yet, what are you waiting for? Thank you, Kimberly, for another wonderful addition to the Pine Mountain crew! I can’t wait to read Aidan’s story….
I love, love, LOVED it!! This was a GREAT story!! It had me laughing so hard at points my eyes watered!! It also had me biting my lips at some points and wanting to strangle the hero and heroin!! Hahaha!! But, all in all, this is a book you don't want to pass up, it will be worth your time guaranteed!!
I really enjoyed this visit back to Pine Mountain.
Sloane and Gavin could not be more different personality wise, but that doesn't stop the spark between them from flaring! Kimberly does a great job writing these two characters, building their relationship and smouldering a romance between them. Sloane and Gavin are brought together in an unusual way...he hires her to 'babysit' his 13 year old sister Bree. Gavin is not too sure about Sloane to start with, but he takes the chance. Gavin and Sloane are both struggling with aspects of their lives, and neither of them has plans to settle down with anyone. Sloane has never met the right person, and Gavin has no time for romance right now. Sloane doesn't plan to stay in Pine Mountain, but while she's there the pull Gavin and her feel becomes impossible to resist. There is great chemistry between them, but they have very different life plans. What happens when it's time for her to move on?
I really liked how different Sloane and Gavin were and how they came together, complementing each other very well. Sloane is doing what she loves to do - writing romance novels for a living. Her heart hurts because her family is not supportive of her, but she does what is best for her. I love that quality in a heroine! Sloane is definitely her own person with her own ideas. She is strong and independent, she tends to go with the flow of her life. Gavin is not a man to go with the flow! He is much more structured, has strong opinions, and is at times very rigid in his ideas/opinions. This made their professional and personal relationship very tricky and interesting! At times entertaining, but at other times serious, Kimberly gives us a great mix just like real life in Stirring Up Trouble, and I really liked Sloane and Gavin. Their differences will either push them apart or help each other grow.
Bree is a very strong secondary character and I really, really liked how Sloane was with Bree...although she's never had kids, the connection she develops and the caring she has for Bree is so obvious and touching. I enjoyed watching this relationship evolve as much as I enjoyed watching Sloane and Gavin's! Bree's struggles are so sad at times and my heart broke for her. I think Kimberly wrote all of her characters realistically, and I felt like they could be anyone I know.
Kimberly keeps a good balance between light hearted and serious issues in Stirring Up Trouble as she explores family dynamics, death and love and how it affects the lives of Sloane, Gavin, and Bree.
Stirring Up Trouble is part of a series, but can be read as a stand alone. I love the small town setting of Pine Mountain, even if we didn't see a lot of it. The focus is on the relationship of Sloane, Gavin and Bree, and it works well.
I'd recommend Stirring Up Trouble to any contemporary romance reader!
Stirring Up Trouble by Kimberly Kincaid is a charming and touching small town contemporary romance. This book is wonderful, complete with desire, well-defined characters and a compelling storyline. This is the third book from Ms. Kincaid's Pine Mountain series and I am happy to say the fourth one is scheduled for release next February. I am glad I got the opportunity to once again visit Pine Mountain, and this time Carly's best friend, Sloane Russo, is in the hot seat.
Sloane has always embraced life a little less traditionally than her mother would prefer. She writes steamy romance novels for a living and travels on a whim to exciting cities for inspiration. At the request of her best friend, Sloane has spent the past year in Pine Mountain, and as a result, she has been unable to write. Sloane promised her editor a new book where the country of Greece is the setting, and she has to get their quickly, since time is of the essence. Considering Sloane is extremely low on cash, she accepts a temporary, well paying babysitting job. Her charge is Bree, a hormonal thirteen-year-old girl with a lot of attitude. Although Sloane does not have any childcare experience, her common sense and ability to understand, creates a miraculous sensation.
Restaurant manager Gavin Carmichael is a very serious man with a lot of responsibility. His mother died about year ago, so in addition to grieving and successfully running a high-end restaurant, he is now his half-sister's legal guardian. Gavin finds raising Bree to be quite challenging. To make matters even more difficult, Gavin is in a bind, his sitter has a short-term emergency and he needs a new one immediately, since leaving Bree at home alone is not an option. Lucky for Gavin, Sloane is available. Sloane's romantic chemistry with Gavin and her positive influence on Bree, is a winning combination and nothing short of amazing.
This is a well written book that will keep you engaged from beginning to end. Sloane and Gavin are a hot couple and their connection is sensual. The story is nicely paced and the characters are well developed and likeable. If you are prone to tearing up during emotional scenes, you may want to have a box of tissues handy. Although this is the third book from the author's Pine Mountain series, it can be read as a standalone. However, the first two books are really good, so you may want to check them out.
Stirring Up Trouble by Kimberly Kincaid is the third book in her Pine Mountain series and my current favorite in this series. (I have to confess that I felt that way about the other two right after I read them, too.) Sloane Russo traveled the world and began her romance writing career based on those travels. Sloane lives her life without commitments and likes it that way. She is independent, flighty and sassy. What I realized as I got to know Sloane more is that she was dealing with some insecurities about herself, so it was easier to run than to stay. Now her agent wants her to continue to write her next book along the same theme - and the readers have suggested that it be based in Greece. Sloane has a small problem with that because she's flat broke. She's been in Pine Mountain with her best friend Carly for a year now and the dreaded "writer's block" has struck. She needs a job that pays well for a short time. Gavin Carmichael is the general manager of the Pine Mountain Resort's restaurant, La Dolce Vita. He is serious and dedicated to his job. His previous job(s) allowed him to travel around the globe rescuing failing restaurants; but he came home to take care of his mother and his sister, Bree. He is now Bree's guardian and takes his job of being Bree's guardian to heart each and every day. He is floundering with being a parent and he knows it; but he just doesn't know how to ask for help. He needs a babysitter for her while he is at work and he needs one ASAP. He hires Sloane with a lot of misgivings (but he is desperate). The sparks between Sloane and Gavin begin to fly within the first couple of weeks of her working for him. This relationship was so much fun to watch as it went from a slow burn to a forest fire. They both taught each other about life and it's different perspectives. They also could burn up the sheets once the sparks turned into the blazing fire that I knew was coming. It was fun to revisit with old friends, Carly and Adrian. They certainly helped me to understand Sloane so much more. Kimberly's writing so so well paced and she can really develop characters that you just have to fall in love with each time. I would love to visit Pine Mountain and meet them all. This was a great addition to the series and I look forward to the next one in the series that comes out next year. Kimberly, please write faster.
Ms. Kincaid has a hit on her hands with Stirring Up Trouble! Sloan is a romance writer who thinks she must write on location for her stories to be any good, so she has no desire to stay put in one locale especially sleepy little Pine Mountain. Gavin is a restaurant manager who is busy raising his teenage sister and has to stay in one place for his her sake. Gavin ends up hiring Sloan as temporary tutor and sitter for his sister.
Sloan’s wanderlust is on hiatus as she works this temp job to save money for her jaunt to Greece where she plans to pen her next bestselling novel. While she is charged with looking after Bree, Gavin’s 13-year old sister, Sloane learns to slow down and appreciate those around her. As she falls deeper in love with Gavin and Bree, her next great novel comes pouring out of her even though she is still convinced she has to go to Greece to research the story her editor wants her to write next.
Gavin and Bree are still mourning the death of their mother who passed away from cancer a year ago. Because of all the upheaval they have been through since their mom got sick, they both have trust issues and won’t even open up to each other to get through the grieving process. It takes Sloane to show them they really need each other, but will they realize they also need Sloane?
This story was very touching and all the characters mesh well together. Ms. Kincaid has a wonderful balance of teen angst with Bree, low self-esteem with both Gavin and Sloan, a supportive best friend in Carly, Sloane’s nosy mother, and H-O-T chemistry between Gavin and Sloane. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and look forward to reading the other novels in this series.
What a fun read this was! I just loved how quirky Sloane was and how controlled Gavin was, and it was a whole lot of fun watching the sparks fly between the two of them.
Sloane was a great heroine who was determined to be true to who she was – even if her family thinks she is a bit crazy and unstable and she is prone to a bit of wanderlust. Her unconventional career as a romance writer hasn't helped her find stability, which only feeds her families opinions.
Gavin has had to step in to care for his teenage sister after his mother has passed away. The new pressures and stress in his life leave little time for fun, but when Sloane enters the picture to help him out by tutoring and acting as a temporary babysitter for his sister Bree, she has a way of making him lose control.
I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait to read the first two in the series – jumping in at book 3 was no problem – and am looking forward to more! I just love small town romances and this little community seems to have a wonderful cast of characters with lots of personality and color that should make for more great stories. I’m not usually a fan of a younger character having such a big role in a book, but I really loved Bree and the added dimension she brought to the story. Her relationship with not only her brother, but also with Sloane, was very “real”, and it was so touching to watch her rebuild her relationship with her brother.
This is a definite must read!
I received this book from NetGalley to read and leave an honest review.
Sloane has always lived her life to the fullest. And being a romance writer she travels at whim to exotic destinations for inspiration. Being in Pine Mountain with her best friend Carly for a year has her hitting the writers block wall. But now Carly is getting married and she has a new book to write,and she needs to get to Greece fast. With no money she takes on Bree, with her attitude and spunk. Nervous about the whole not good with kids, she does the best she can and it works wonders for Bree.
Gavin is as serious as a man can get. Taking care of his thirteen year old sister after their mom dies has been the hardest thing he has ever done. Between managing the resorts five star restaurant and taking care of Bree, he doesn't have time for anything else. When his babysitter has an emergency, Sloane agrees to help out for a few weeks. Their chemistry is off the charts and Sloane and Gavin find themselves falling fast. When Bree opens up to Sloane, she falls even more for them both. Can she write the story that is pouring from her heart or will she run and leave her heart behind? Will she trust in Gavin's words and believe she is good enough just the way she is and stay and fight for what she believes,or will she run like she always has?
Stirring Up Trouble is the perfect balance of sweet and savoury, sass and serious, fire and ice. It had me laughing out loud and crying all within minutes. Do yourself a favour and journey to Pine Mountain.
"Stirring Up Trouble" is book three in the Pine Mountain series by Kimberly Kincaid.
Sloane Russo writes steamy romance novels that are set in exotic locales much to the dismay of her family... She is the black sheep of the family. Currently Sloan is living in the small town of Pine Mountain, and is there for her friend Carly who is from her home town and is getting married. Sloan needs to get some money together because her publisher feels that location books sells and her writing is in a rut. Small town America isn't good enough for her publisher.
Gavin Carmichael is the manager at a restaurant her friend Carly works at. He is the guardian of his 13-year-old half-sister, Bree. Since their Mom died from Cancer. When his babysitter has a family emergency, he hires Carly since he works late into the night and doesn't like leaving his sister at home alone. Since Carly needs the money to finance her trip she goes to work as a babysitter.
Carly has a way of stirring up trouble, but she becomes a welcomed family member in the Carmichael family. Will Greece still look good or does she have enough sexy encounters in the small town to keep her in Pine Mountain? Each Pine Mountain novel can be read as is, but if you’re like series books you'll love this one. Totally 5 out of 5 stars.
Ms. Kincaid is Brilliant..10****** the third book in Pine Mountain. Live a little; Take a chance.Do something out of the norm. Dance in the rain. Well Sloane Russo does Stir a little Trouble with Gavin.
When Gavin gets stuck with no babysitter for his thirteen old sister Bree he doesn't know what to do. He finds himself in a sticky situation. The last person he ever thinks of asking for help is Sloane. She's to flighty plus she's a romance novelist and he's unsure of his sister being around her. When he's left with no other choice. She doesn't do kids, but agrees to help until he gets someone else.
The days go by and things are looking up. Bree is slowly coming out of her shell doing better in school. Even reaching out to Sloane. When something happens and Sloane ends up staying longer oh boy watch out. Things become very interesting and it will not be able to put the book down.
Bree is going through some hard things and so is Gavin. Sloane knows it's really rough but helps out in any possible way. She explains to Bree that her and her brother need to talk to each other. That Gavin is hurting too.
The bottom line in this book you see something really special develop. It's not good to hold things in. Let loose once in a while.
OMG, I was so excited to get this book. This is the third book in the Pine Mountain series, and it was great! Even though it is part of a series it can be read as a standalone. Slone has had many jobs over the years. She has recently published her first book and is scheduled to release her next book soon. However, she has a problem her next book is based in Greece so she needs to find a way to make some money to pay for her trip since she needs to experience the location before she can write about it. Gavin is raising his thirteen year old sister after the death of their mother and is having trust issues and issues with communication. Gavin hires Sloan to help care for Bree while he is working; This book was full of emotions between Gavin, Sloan, and Bree. I loved this book and the attraction between Gavin and Sloan. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
I loved this book. It took me a minute to adapt to Sloane being a girls name, but the name fits her. It is a strong name for a strong character. While her family may not understand her, she still pursues her ultimate dream of being a writer. Even when her family is giving her grief for not being more traditional, she still follows her heart. And I love that she is from Brooklyn, NY, my hometown and only the best place in the world to grow up.
But for me, Gavin and Bree really steal the story. How can you not love a man who gives up his dream job and traveling to take care of his beloved mother and then his little sister. Gavin's devotion to his sister is amazing and I love how he puts her best interests first, even when she is a little rough and tough around the edges towards him,
But in the end, it takes Sloane to help Gavin understand Bree and help them improve their sibling relationship.
I look forward to reading an update on this couple in the next Pine Mountain installment.
STIRRING UP TROUBLE, the third book in Kimberly Kincaid’s Pine Mountain Series, is a delightful, funny, romantic and wonderful romance!!! Sloane Russo, an independent author who has some quirky ways of how she thinks she should live her life, Gavin Carmichael, a follow the rules type of guy who also runs a restaurant, and his half-sister Bree, all manage to stir up trouble in their own unique, sometimes funny, sometimes sad way. Their challenges help them stir up trouble and overcoming their challenges, are what finds yourself teary eyed, laughing out loud and want to climb in the book and stir up trouble with them! I especially was drawn to Sloane Russo, because she is such a strong woman and it made me smile the way she discovered things about herself she had not known. Gavin and Bree also discovered strengths they did not know they had and “watching” them all learn about themselves and how they all fell in love, was a treat. This book is definitely a read again one and a keeper!
With her third installment, author Kimberly Kincaid takes us back to the small town of Pine Mountain for another heart-stopping romance.
Sloane Russo is, a free-spirited romance writer bent on never settling down in one spot or risking her heart on a happily ever after she knows will never exist for her.Gavin Carmichael is the hot, smart, serious, did I mention hot, manager of her best friend Carly’s restaurant and since the recent death of their mother, guardian of his troubled half-sister, just turned teen Bree. When these two opposites meet, sparks unexpectedly fly in more ways than one!
Author Kimberly Kincaid weaves another wonderfully engaging and sexy story filled with a cast of new and returning characters that will keep you turning the page until you reach the end. Stirring up Trouble can be read as a stand alone, though I highly recommend reading the first two as well
I love this series and can’t wait for the next story in the series.
Spotlight & Review: Stirring Up Trouble (A Pine Mountain Novel) by Kimberly Kincaid http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-1De Publication Date: October 7, 2014 Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna Rated: 4.5 Stars
A fun story about opposites attracting and the sparks that can cause. Sloane is fun and quirky but she’s met her match in serious by the book Gavin. It seemed natural when they couldn’t fight the attraction and I enjoyed how they both found the perfect middle ground to learn from each other. It also helped that the romance was nice and steamy. Another sign it was a good book is that one minute I’m chuckling and the next tearing up. I love Ms. Kincaid’s Pine Mountain and the men who live there. I also can’t wait to try the recipes and the next book in this series.
*Review copy provided by Kensington in exchange for an honest review.
The 3rd book in the Pine Mountain Series, Kimberly Kincaid has once again brought me back to the small town in the Blue Ridge Mountains to enjoy another great love story! Gavin is the responsible guy, raising his teenage sister and Sloane, well she's been known to do some crazy things to finance her writing career. What you get is a small town romance with enough heat to warm the coldest heart! The Chemistry between Gavin and Sloane HOT! HOT! HOT! Learning to let loose, lessons in trust, a supportive best friend and oh yes a mother who can't stay out of your business. All obstacles this couple work through, not always easy but yes love conquers all! A great read, grab this book and fall in love with the Pine Mountain Series. Can't wait to read the next in this series!