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Between the Lines
Luke Shipley, hard-working single father, has kept a secret for most of his life. When he realizes that secret could affect his daughter, he risks the small-town gossip to fix his problem. Seeking help will change his life for the better…in more ways than one.
Tessa Burton wants nothing more than to create a life for herself away from her upper-crust parents and their heavy expectations. She hopes the slower pace of small-town life will quiet the anxiety that plagues her. Then Luke enters her orbit with a problem she was tailor-made to solve…
As Luke and Tessa work together, their friendship blossoms into something more. But when challenges and insecurities threaten their future, they’ll have to read between the lines to get to the heart of what they really want.
Set in a charming, small southern town, Between the Lines is a heartwarming romance that explores friendship, community, and the power of love.
Tessa Burton wants nothing more than to create a life for herself away from her upper-crust parents and their heavy expectations. She hopes the slower pace of small-town life will quiet the anxiety that plagues her. Then Luke enters her orbit with a problem she was tailor-made to solve…
As Luke and Tessa work together, their friendship blossoms into something more. But when challenges and insecurities threaten their future, they’ll have to read between the lines to get to the heart of what they really want.
Set in a charming, small southern town, Between the Lines is a heartwarming romance that explores friendship, community, and the power of love.
356 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 26, 2023
56 people are currently reading
1564 people want to read
About the author
Brandy Pelletier
5 books108 followersBrandy Pelletier spends her days as a reading specialist and her nights and weekends reading anything she can get her hands on. She’s wanted to become a published author ever since second grade, when her original story “How the Giraffe Got Its Long Neck” was published in her school district’s annual writing anthology.
When she’s not blasting Taylor Swift or attempting to tackle her ridiculously long TBR, she can be found collecting book boyfriends and dreaming of living in a witch cottage with her miniature schnauzer, Pippa.
Follow Brandy on Instagram @thebrandyland.
When she’s not blasting Taylor Swift or attempting to tackle her ridiculously long TBR, she can be found collecting book boyfriends and dreaming of living in a witch cottage with her miniature schnauzer, Pippa.
Follow Brandy on Instagram @thebrandyland.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews
February 21, 2024
I poured my whole dang heart into writing this, so that means I have to give it 5 stars, right???
May 12, 2023
✅ Single dad
✅ Blue collar man with emotional intelligence
✅ Small town with meddling
✅ Hot Librarian FMC
✅ Lots of heart and character growth
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Between the Lines is a seriously adorable, emotional romcom about Luke Shipley a man with a secret that has not only haunted him his whole life, but is now affecting his perceived ability to be the best father he can to his five year old daughter. *Spoiler* He’s illiterate and has managed to get away with his whole life.
Deciding to learn to read, he seeks help from the library in his small Georgia town.
Enter Tessa, a librarian who is running from the emotional trauma associated with living in her parent’s upper crust existence. When she decided to settle down in small town Georgia, she wasn’t expecting to help with the literacy program, and she definitely wasn’t expecting Luke to be her student. Neither of them were expecting to fall in love….
This book was funny, swoony, romantic, inspirational, and had me crying multiple times. I love the fact that Luke is taking his life and trying to better it for himself and his daughter. The writing was well done, the plot well conceived, the dialogue natural, and the romance adorable, and even mildly spicy! This is definitely a book for small-town contemporary romance lovers!
✅ Blue collar man with emotional intelligence
✅ Small town with meddling
✅ Hot Librarian FMC
✅ Lots of heart and character growth
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Between the Lines is a seriously adorable, emotional romcom about Luke Shipley a man with a secret that has not only haunted him his whole life, but is now affecting his perceived ability to be the best father he can to his five year old daughter. *Spoiler* He’s illiterate and has managed to get away with his whole life.
Deciding to learn to read, he seeks help from the library in his small Georgia town.
Enter Tessa, a librarian who is running from the emotional trauma associated with living in her parent’s upper crust existence. When she decided to settle down in small town Georgia, she wasn’t expecting to help with the literacy program, and she definitely wasn’t expecting Luke to be her student. Neither of them were expecting to fall in love….
This book was funny, swoony, romantic, inspirational, and had me crying multiple times. I love the fact that Luke is taking his life and trying to better it for himself and his daughter. The writing was well done, the plot well conceived, the dialogue natural, and the romance adorable, and even mildly spicy! This is definitely a book for small-town contemporary romance lovers!
May 6, 2023
ARC received in exchange of an honest opinion
I loved the whole premise of the story.
Loved how the author showed the transition of them just there to help themselves but later went on to becoming friends and more than just friends.
There are many things that I found cute about this book, the interaction between Tessa and Mel... The way they had such good understanding of one an other.
The whole book was a bliss to read.
Overall a good read. Luke was the besttt
I loved the whole premise of the story.
Loved how the author showed the transition of them just there to help themselves but later went on to becoming friends and more than just friends.
There are many things that I found cute about this book, the interaction between Tessa and Mel... The way they had such good understanding of one an other.
The whole book was a bliss to read.
Overall a good read. Luke was the besttt
May 9, 2023
I read this all in one sitting! I really enjoyed this medium slow burn. This is an ARC I received for an honest review. (Y'all know I'm a terrible liar anyway, so you know this will be honest.)
I was pleasantly surprised to find that the FMC has the same exact degree I am currently in grad school to get! So when Tessa talked to Luke about morphological awareness and phonology, I actually knew what that was. So exciting for me in such a nerdy way lol.
I liked seeing the MMC as a single dad that was actually doing his best and not foisting his daughter off on other people to babysit, as is often the case in real life (sorry, my bitterness is showing there). I would love for him to braid my hair for me too lol. His illiteracy really made me evaluate what my life would be like if I couldn't read. It hurt to think about things we take for granted, like texting and social media. As a high school teacher, I have unfortunately seen a few students over the years that were almost adults and still could not read. It's something I wish no one had to go through. Hopefully some day illiteracy is completely a thing of the past.
This is a fantastic debut contemporary romance, and I will definitely be reading whatever the author releases in the future. Happy reading!
I was pleasantly surprised to find that the FMC has the same exact degree I am currently in grad school to get! So when Tessa talked to Luke about morphological awareness and phonology, I actually knew what that was. So exciting for me in such a nerdy way lol.
I liked seeing the MMC as a single dad that was actually doing his best and not foisting his daughter off on other people to babysit, as is often the case in real life (sorry, my bitterness is showing there). I would love for him to braid my hair for me too lol. His illiteracy really made me evaluate what my life would be like if I couldn't read. It hurt to think about things we take for granted, like texting and social media. As a high school teacher, I have unfortunately seen a few students over the years that were almost adults and still could not read. It's something I wish no one had to go through. Hopefully some day illiteracy is completely a thing of the past.
This is a fantastic debut contemporary romance, and I will definitely be reading whatever the author releases in the future. Happy reading!
July 9, 2023
Luke’s obsession with Tessa was hilarious to read. This dude was so whipped so quickly, it was genuinely adorable .
Something I wasn’t a huge fan of was that the word eleventy was used so much in this book that it actually started to annoy me a little. Another thing is how he kept referring to her as girl as a grown man in reference to a grown woman. That always bothers me so it wasn’t this books fault just my personal preference.
Overall it was enjoyable but didn’t really capture me all that much. I liked the characters well enough but they didn’t steal my heart. My favourite was Hannah 😘
Something I wasn’t a huge fan of was that the word eleventy was used so much in this book that it actually started to annoy me a little. Another thing is how he kept referring to her as girl as a grown man in reference to a grown woman. That always bothers me so it wasn’t this books fault just my personal preference.
Overall it was enjoyable but didn’t really capture me all that much. I liked the characters well enough but they didn’t steal my heart. My favourite was Hannah 😘
May 12, 2023
Thank you Brandy for the ARC in exchange for a review!
Between the Lines is all about Tessa, who tutors Luke to read. Luke has a daughter, Hannah, who is the cutest! Luke & Tessa develop feelings for each other & it is so sweet to watch that play out!
I loved the characters! I felt like Luke was the “perfect” man & the dynamics between Luke, Tessa, & Hannah were the best. Mel & Cordell are Luke & Tessa’s friends and bring such a fun personality to their friendships.
The story line is a total Hallmark outlook without the Christmas — which is right up my alley! This book was fun to read & I loved the ending so much! The ending really just gets ya!
Between the Lines is all about Tessa, who tutors Luke to read. Luke has a daughter, Hannah, who is the cutest! Luke & Tessa develop feelings for each other & it is so sweet to watch that play out!
I loved the characters! I felt like Luke was the “perfect” man & the dynamics between Luke, Tessa, & Hannah were the best. Mel & Cordell are Luke & Tessa’s friends and bring such a fun personality to their friendships.
The story line is a total Hallmark outlook without the Christmas — which is right up my alley! This book was fun to read & I loved the ending so much! The ending really just gets ya!
May 27, 2023
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. In her debut novel, Brandy has written a romcom that is heartwarming and begging to be brought to screen! Her characters and storyline are realistic and refreshing. If you love Christina Lauren or Emily Henry, add Brandy Pelletier to your favorite author list. I can’t wait to read more from her.
May 26, 2023
It should be possible to rate a book higher than five stars when it’s absolutely amazing and Between the Lines is unbelievable!!!!!!
Read it. Buy it. Read it again!
Between the Lines is real, raw and vulnerable. A beautifully written romance that is founded on laying yourself bare, putting in the hard work and believing you are enough.
Luke Shipley, a hardworking single dad, has a secret he can no longer run from. Tessa Burton, librarian extraordinaire, might as well be her elite parents secret with how disappointed they are in her career and life choices. Luke, knows the only person who can help him with his secret is Tessa and he also knows that allowing himself to be vulnerable with her is going to change their dynamic. Tessa refuses to let Luke quit and in turn he pushes her to see her worth. The two unlikely pair grow as friends and their relationship takes another turn when they both can no longer deny their attraction.
Between the Lines will no doubt make you laugh, the witty banter had me in hysterics. Tessa Burton you will forever have my admiration for the dragon costume alone. It’s going to make you cry because the characters are so real and their feelings so raw. Luke, you got this! It’s going to break your heart and put it back together because their is absolutely nothing more beautiful than two people finding a home within each other and understanding their worth.
Brandy, Between the Lines is phenomenal and I cannot wait to see what else the little town of Bennett, Georgia has in store!
*Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Read it. Buy it. Read it again!
Between the Lines is real, raw and vulnerable. A beautifully written romance that is founded on laying yourself bare, putting in the hard work and believing you are enough.
Luke Shipley, a hardworking single dad, has a secret he can no longer run from. Tessa Burton, librarian extraordinaire, might as well be her elite parents secret with how disappointed they are in her career and life choices. Luke, knows the only person who can help him with his secret is Tessa and he also knows that allowing himself to be vulnerable with her is going to change their dynamic. Tessa refuses to let Luke quit and in turn he pushes her to see her worth. The two unlikely pair grow as friends and their relationship takes another turn when they both can no longer deny their attraction.
Between the Lines will no doubt make you laugh, the witty banter had me in hysterics. Tessa Burton you will forever have my admiration for the dragon costume alone. It’s going to make you cry because the characters are so real and their feelings so raw. Luke, you got this! It’s going to break your heart and put it back together because their is absolutely nothing more beautiful than two people finding a home within each other and understanding their worth.
Brandy, Between the Lines is phenomenal and I cannot wait to see what else the little town of Bennett, Georgia has in store!
*Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
May 10, 2023
Thank you to the author for the ARC of Between the Lines.
The first thing I loved about this story was the fact it focused on something I hadn't seen in a romance book before; adult literacy problems. Absolutely loved that it tackled a topic that almost feels taboo at times or often overlooked. Our MMC, Luke, has struggled his entire life with not being able to read, but now that his daughter is in kindergarten, he wants to do better for her... I mean, hello... swooning for a single dad willing to look past his embarrassment in order to be a better parent. I am here for it! I thought the struggle he had felt real. The thoughts of shame and embarrassment and not feeling worthy of love or "more" were honest and done well. Tessa is new to town librarian who ends up heading the adult literacy program where her only student is Luke. The attraction for both of them is instant, but they both keep the end goal in mind: Luke learning how to read. At least they try to keep that goal in mind, but this is romance so of course keeping the teacher/student line drawn is going to be difficult. While we see them slowly start to have feelings, we also get a look at both of their insecurities and personal issues. Luke is an amazing dad, and I love the connection the author created between him and his daughter. You could feel how determined he was to do better for her and that it remained his ultimate goal. Tessa's personal issues stem from her parents who want a "perfect daughter/perfect life" type thing. There is an age gap, but for me, the third act breakup didn't quite feel right. But I didn't have parents who expected me to be perfect, so maybe I would have acted the same? Either way, this was a fun story with a solid 3.5/4 stars. I look forward to reading more from the author in the future.
The first thing I loved about this story was the fact it focused on something I hadn't seen in a romance book before; adult literacy problems. Absolutely loved that it tackled a topic that almost feels taboo at times or often overlooked. Our MMC, Luke, has struggled his entire life with not being able to read, but now that his daughter is in kindergarten, he wants to do better for her... I mean, hello... swooning for a single dad willing to look past his embarrassment in order to be a better parent. I am here for it! I thought the struggle he had felt real. The thoughts of shame and embarrassment and not feeling worthy of love or "more" were honest and done well. Tessa is new to town librarian who ends up heading the adult literacy program where her only student is Luke. The attraction for both of them is instant, but they both keep the end goal in mind: Luke learning how to read. At least they try to keep that goal in mind, but this is romance so of course keeping the teacher/student line drawn is going to be difficult. While we see them slowly start to have feelings, we also get a look at both of their insecurities and personal issues. Luke is an amazing dad, and I love the connection the author created between him and his daughter. You could feel how determined he was to do better for her and that it remained his ultimate goal. Tessa's personal issues stem from her parents who want a "perfect daughter/perfect life" type thing. There is an age gap, but for me, the third act breakup didn't quite feel right. But I didn't have parents who expected me to be perfect, so maybe I would have acted the same? Either way, this was a fun story with a solid 3.5/4 stars. I look forward to reading more from the author in the future.
May 14, 2023
Wow. I absolutely loved the premise of this book. Single Dad tropes are a favorite of mine, but a single Dad who can’t read and wants to better himself for his daughter.. I’m swooning over Luke and the book had barely begun.
I loved the build between Luke and Tessa. The focus solely being on him learning to read and the building of their friendship was perfect. Sometimes I think a slow build can be too slow and I start thinking let’s move on already BUT I never felt that way. There was so much development and building of the relationship with not just Luke and Tessa, but also Tessa and Hannah. It was exactly what I would expect of a single dad wanting to be sure that his daughter and potential girlfriend got along.
I also want to shout out Luke for being the perfect gentleman and helping Tessa work through her anxiety. I loved that this topic was approached and demonstrated in the best way possible.
Throughout the story, I had a hard time thinking about what could cause some turmoil in a seemingly perfect relationship that when the real drama finally got here my jaw was on the ground.
I could go on and on about all the swoon worthy, tear jerking, overall happy moments in this story, but you’re just going to have to read it for yourself.
Thank you so much for the ARC, Brandy! I cannot imagine a better debut novel.
P.S. I rarely read the acknowledgements, but I am so happy I did to know that one day there will be a Mel and Cordell story 😍
I loved the build between Luke and Tessa. The focus solely being on him learning to read and the building of their friendship was perfect. Sometimes I think a slow build can be too slow and I start thinking let’s move on already BUT I never felt that way. There was so much development and building of the relationship with not just Luke and Tessa, but also Tessa and Hannah. It was exactly what I would expect of a single dad wanting to be sure that his daughter and potential girlfriend got along.
I also want to shout out Luke for being the perfect gentleman and helping Tessa work through her anxiety. I loved that this topic was approached and demonstrated in the best way possible.
Throughout the story, I had a hard time thinking about what could cause some turmoil in a seemingly perfect relationship that when the real drama finally got here my jaw was on the ground.
I could go on and on about all the swoon worthy, tear jerking, overall happy moments in this story, but you’re just going to have to read it for yourself.
Thank you so much for the ARC, Brandy! I cannot imagine a better debut novel.
P.S. I rarely read the acknowledgements, but I am so happy I did to know that one day there will be a Mel and Cordell story 😍
May 7, 2023
4.5 stars rounded down for Goodreads.
First, thank you to Brandy for letting me read this as an ARC! I love supporting new and independent authors.
On to the review- I genuinely loved this story! Obviously, reading is something I hold dear to my heart and it was so interesting to see a story focused around it. Luke is a 34 year old single dad in Bennett, Georgia and he has a huge secret- he can’t read. His daughter, Hannah, is excelling in school, but her teacher wants Luke to read to her at night. When he confesses that he isn’t able to, the teacher gives him the information for an adult literacy program at their local library.
Tessa is new to Bennett and is working as a librarian for the county library system. She’s approached to be the literacy teacher for someone in town, and little does she know, she’s about to fall hard for the man she’s teaching. Tessa is also someone that struggles with anxiety and panic attacks. I felt like the representation of her anxiety was so spot on and a place I’ve found myself in before.
Over the course of their relationship, Luke does learn to read and they fall fast & hard for one another. Tessa’s difficult relationship and seeming failure to please her parents ends up putting she and Luke in a tight spot for a while. They both struggle hard to reconcile that maybe they aren’t right for one another, but in the end , Tessa approaches Luke during his lunch break and pours out her heart. Seeing how much Hannah had fallen for Tessa and how much she was struggling without her absolutely broke my heart.
I LOVED Luke’s very public confession at the bar when they finally reconciled and got back together. The epilogue being from his POV was absolutely genius and I loved every second of it.
The spice was generally pretty low and never super graphic, but not totally closed door. If you’re someone who enjoys low-spice romances, this’ll be up your alley.
Congratulations on a beautiful debut novel and I can’t wait to see what you do in the future, Brandy!
First, thank you to Brandy for letting me read this as an ARC! I love supporting new and independent authors.
On to the review- I genuinely loved this story! Obviously, reading is something I hold dear to my heart and it was so interesting to see a story focused around it. Luke is a 34 year old single dad in Bennett, Georgia and he has a huge secret- he can’t read. His daughter, Hannah, is excelling in school, but her teacher wants Luke to read to her at night. When he confesses that he isn’t able to, the teacher gives him the information for an adult literacy program at their local library.
Tessa is new to Bennett and is working as a librarian for the county library system. She’s approached to be the literacy teacher for someone in town, and little does she know, she’s about to fall hard for the man she’s teaching. Tessa is also someone that struggles with anxiety and panic attacks. I felt like the representation of her anxiety was so spot on and a place I’ve found myself in before.
Over the course of their relationship, Luke does learn to read and they fall fast & hard for one another. Tessa’s difficult relationship and seeming failure to please her parents ends up putting she and Luke in a tight spot for a while. They both struggle hard to reconcile that maybe they aren’t right for one another, but in the end , Tessa approaches Luke during his lunch break and pours out her heart. Seeing how much Hannah had fallen for Tessa and how much she was struggling without her absolutely broke my heart.
I LOVED Luke’s very public confession at the bar when they finally reconciled and got back together. The epilogue being from his POV was absolutely genius and I loved every second of it.
The spice was generally pretty low and never super graphic, but not totally closed door. If you’re someone who enjoys low-spice romances, this’ll be up your alley.
Congratulations on a beautiful debut novel and I can’t wait to see what you do in the future, Brandy!
May 11, 2023
This was the debut novel by Brandy Pelletier, and I was lucky enough to get an ARC. This was exactly what I didn’t even know I needed in my life. Really great debut - I got absorbed into this beautiful small-town romance.
This is the story of Luke and Tessa. Luke’s a salt-of-the-earth single father (to the adorable Hannah) holding onto a pretty serious secret - he can’t read. With his daughter starting kindergarten, he finally decides that it’s time to learn how and enlists the adult literacy services from his local library. Tessa - new to town - is assigned to be his tutor and there’s an instant attraction. As their lessons progress and they get to know each other, both try to convince themselves that they shouldn’t give in - Luke’s convinced the younger Tessa won’t want anything to do with a single-dad, blue collar worker who is just learning to read, and Tessa’s dealing with a lifetime of feeling like a disappointment to her parents and partners. Eventually, though, the attraction is too much and they - slowly and carefully - start to give in.
Luke was such a great MMC - he was solid, caring, and focused on proving himself to Tessa. The adult literacy rep was new to me, but something that’s not that uncommon - I appreciated how she presented this topic and didn’t make Luke one-dimensional. I also loved how Tessa dealt with her insecurities - with Luke and Hannah and the rest of her found family helping along the way.
This book comes out on soon and I would definitely recommend picking it up!.
This is the story of Luke and Tessa. Luke’s a salt-of-the-earth single father (to the adorable Hannah) holding onto a pretty serious secret - he can’t read. With his daughter starting kindergarten, he finally decides that it’s time to learn how and enlists the adult literacy services from his local library. Tessa - new to town - is assigned to be his tutor and there’s an instant attraction. As their lessons progress and they get to know each other, both try to convince themselves that they shouldn’t give in - Luke’s convinced the younger Tessa won’t want anything to do with a single-dad, blue collar worker who is just learning to read, and Tessa’s dealing with a lifetime of feeling like a disappointment to her parents and partners. Eventually, though, the attraction is too much and they - slowly and carefully - start to give in.
Luke was such a great MMC - he was solid, caring, and focused on proving himself to Tessa. The adult literacy rep was new to me, but something that’s not that uncommon - I appreciated how she presented this topic and didn’t make Luke one-dimensional. I also loved how Tessa dealt with her insecurities - with Luke and Hannah and the rest of her found family helping along the way.
This book comes out on soon and I would definitely recommend picking it up!.
May 8, 2023
ARC REVIEW
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
This is Brandy’s debut book, and it was so incredible!!! Make sure you give her a follow because this is an author you will want to read more of!!
•
•
Luke has been keeping a secret his entire life, but with his daughter starting kindergarten, he knows it’s time to finally come clean. He can’t read, and he is determined to learn. What he wasn’t expecting was his tutor to be gorgeous. Tessa is patient and kind as she works with him for months. Not only that, but she is so good with his daughter Hannah. But there are so many reasons he tries to stay away. She’s his tutor, she’s 8 years younger than him, there’s no way she’d be interested in a single dad construction worker, who is just now learning to read. But one day when Tessa reveals her over-bearing parents are trying to set her up even though she isn’t interested, he decides he’s done avoiding his growing feelings for her.
•
•
I would classify this book as more of a sweet romance. There is a spicy scene, but for the most part this book is all butterflies and kicking your feet in the air while squealing. Luke is confident in his pursuit of Tessa. The way he is so patient with her as she struggles and works through her anxiety is perfection. This book is a must read!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
This is Brandy’s debut book, and it was so incredible!!! Make sure you give her a follow because this is an author you will want to read more of!!
•
•
Luke has been keeping a secret his entire life, but with his daughter starting kindergarten, he knows it’s time to finally come clean. He can’t read, and he is determined to learn. What he wasn’t expecting was his tutor to be gorgeous. Tessa is patient and kind as she works with him for months. Not only that, but she is so good with his daughter Hannah. But there are so many reasons he tries to stay away. She’s his tutor, she’s 8 years younger than him, there’s no way she’d be interested in a single dad construction worker, who is just now learning to read. But one day when Tessa reveals her over-bearing parents are trying to set her up even though she isn’t interested, he decides he’s done avoiding his growing feelings for her.
•
•
I would classify this book as more of a sweet romance. There is a spicy scene, but for the most part this book is all butterflies and kicking your feet in the air while squealing. Luke is confident in his pursuit of Tessa. The way he is so patient with her as she struggles and works through her anxiety is perfection. This book is a must read!!
May 11, 2023
Thank you SO much to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
What a FANTASTIC debut!! I devoured this book and loved the cozy, small town vibes, well-written characters, and perfect mixture of sweet and spicy romance. 🥰
I am a Kindergarten teacher and loved all the references to reading and literacy as well. (There is also a line about Kindergarten teachers being saints but I digress…) 😇 The author is a reading specialist so that aspect of the book was very accurate and fun to read.
I loved Tessa and Luke and their chemistry was undeniable. The spice was perfect and the kisses made me swoon.
Congrats on a fabulous debut novel; I cannot wait for more from this author in the future! 📚
What a FANTASTIC debut!! I devoured this book and loved the cozy, small town vibes, well-written characters, and perfect mixture of sweet and spicy romance. 🥰
I am a Kindergarten teacher and loved all the references to reading and literacy as well. (There is also a line about Kindergarten teachers being saints but I digress…) 😇 The author is a reading specialist so that aspect of the book was very accurate and fun to read.
I loved Tessa and Luke and their chemistry was undeniable. The spice was perfect and the kisses made me swoon.
Congrats on a fabulous debut novel; I cannot wait for more from this author in the future! 📚
May 11, 2023
Thank you Brandy for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the premise and execution of this book. Bringing spotlight to adult literacy issues in a respectable way while also being a good portrayal of anxiety? Top notch.
Luke and Tessa were both amazing characters with their own problems to overcome and it was such a sweet journey watching them grow together. Hannah?? Omg adorable.
Another great addition to the list of small town romances.
I loved the premise and execution of this book. Bringing spotlight to adult literacy issues in a respectable way while also being a good portrayal of anxiety? Top notch.
Luke and Tessa were both amazing characters with their own problems to overcome and it was such a sweet journey watching them grow together. Hannah?? Omg adorable.
Another great addition to the list of small town romances.
May 10, 2023
4.5 ✨ (rounded up for GoodReads)
This was such a cute story. I fell in love with Lucas Shipley, and his little Hannah. This story proved that it truly takes a village, and that after all we’re just humans. 💕 I would’ve wanted more from Tessa’s parents, and even a little smidge on how her Christmas Break with Tyler Davenport went. All in all, it was a quick, refreshing read.
I am so very excited for Mel and Cordell’s story. 😬
This was such a cute story. I fell in love with Lucas Shipley, and his little Hannah. This story proved that it truly takes a village, and that after all we’re just humans. 💕 I would’ve wanted more from Tessa’s parents, and even a little smidge on how her Christmas Break with Tyler Davenport went. All in all, it was a quick, refreshing read.
I am so very excited for Mel and Cordell’s story. 😬
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 28, 2023
When it comes to reading, I am always thrilled when the “I can’t put this down” book comes along. Bravo, to this new author!! My only question, when does your next book come out?!? Congratulations!
If you love a good romance, you better get this book NOW!! 💜
If you love a good romance, you better get this book NOW!! 💜
May 26, 2023
You tell me this is a debut? I'll read it
You tell me there's a single dad?? I'LL COME RUNNING
So, is this debut novel everything I hoped it would be?
more ♡
(^you'll understand the reference after you read the book🙈)
Just wow, Luke Shipley can come in my dreams any night and I'll ✨welcome✨ him🥵
(yes yes i know there are many other fictional boyfriends that might be better but i don't know, he just feels right, like home. don't read into my emotions much, okay?)
Moving on, the concept is new and the "secret" is something many people struggle with but don't speak up. The author here brought the issue to light without creating a major failure to happen, it was just time for Luke to overcome it for his daughter and God knows he tried so hard despite being frustrated most of the times. He's an amazing father, no doubt ever.
Our heroine, Tessa has anxiety and controlling parents but she still faces it everyday, for the love towards her career and for independence.
She's all sunshine when Luke's all grumpy. She's his tutor who believes in him when he doesn't believe in himself. She's the person whom everyone gravitates towards, enough that when Luke messes up, his family is on her side, telling him to make it up.
The twist that came was unpredicted. I knew her family would cause the rift but i never know that "this" person would say that in front of her parents. Luke's anger was justified but that caused both of them equal amounts of misery which finally he understood and did his grand gesture.
You tell me there's a single dad?? I'LL COME RUNNING
So, is this debut novel everything I hoped it would be?
more ♡
(^you'll understand the reference after you read the book🙈)
Just wow, Luke Shipley can come in my dreams any night and I'll ✨welcome✨ him🥵
(yes yes i know there are many other fictional boyfriends that might be better but i don't know, he just feels right, like home. don't read into my emotions much, okay?)
Moving on, the concept is new and the "secret" is something many people struggle with but don't speak up. The author here brought the issue to light without creating a major failure to happen, it was just time for Luke to overcome it for his daughter and God knows he tried so hard despite being frustrated most of the times. He's an amazing father, no doubt ever.
Our heroine, Tessa has anxiety and controlling parents but she still faces it everyday, for the love towards her career and for independence.
She's all sunshine when Luke's all grumpy. She's his tutor who believes in him when he doesn't believe in himself. She's the person whom everyone gravitates towards, enough that when Luke messes up, his family is on her side, telling him to make it up.
The twist that came was unpredicted. I knew her family would cause the rift but i never know that "this" person would say that in front of her parents. Luke's anger was justified but that caused both of them equal amounts of misery which finally he understood and did his grand gesture.
May 26, 2023
4.5 ⭐️
Small town romance? He falls first? Dual POV? SLOW BURN??
I had the privilege of receiving an ARC for an honest opinion and here are my thoughts:
I absolutely loved this book! I am not one for contemporary romance due to the fact that I am a fantasy girly. But this book.. WOW. Made me feel so many emotions! I cried.. That’s how you know it’s good! It tugged at my heart strings! I loved it!
Luke Shipley has a secret. And the new girl in town helps him overcome it. Tessa Burton moved to this small town in hope to get away from her snobby parents because she realized that, that life is not for her. She loves books and is a librarian. She meets Luke and helps him overcome his secret while also getting to know him, and his daughter, Hannah. Hannah is the cutest little girl I’ve ever read about! I loved her dialogue! Tessa and Hannah’s relationship actually means the world to me. Luke Shipley is the best dad, son, worker, friend, lover.. I was not expecting to love this book as much as I did. It was wonderful and beautiful for a debut novel.
Waiting for the *hopefully* interconnected sequel!🤭
Thank you Brandy Pelletier and her team for sending me this ARC! It is such a beautiful small town romance and I can’t wait to read more of your future projects!
❤️
Small town romance? He falls first? Dual POV? SLOW BURN??
I had the privilege of receiving an ARC for an honest opinion and here are my thoughts:
I absolutely loved this book! I am not one for contemporary romance due to the fact that I am a fantasy girly. But this book.. WOW. Made me feel so many emotions! I cried.. That’s how you know it’s good! It tugged at my heart strings! I loved it!
Luke Shipley has a secret. And the new girl in town helps him overcome it. Tessa Burton moved to this small town in hope to get away from her snobby parents because she realized that, that life is not for her. She loves books and is a librarian. She meets Luke and helps him overcome his secret while also getting to know him, and his daughter, Hannah. Hannah is the cutest little girl I’ve ever read about! I loved her dialogue! Tessa and Hannah’s relationship actually means the world to me. Luke Shipley is the best dad, son, worker, friend, lover.. I was not expecting to love this book as much as I did. It was wonderful and beautiful for a debut novel.
Waiting for the *hopefully* interconnected sequel!🤭
Thank you Brandy Pelletier and her team for sending me this ARC! It is such a beautiful small town romance and I can’t wait to read more of your future projects!
❤️
May 25, 2023
R𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
𝑺𝒑𝒊𝒄𝒆: 🌶️🌶️
New to town Tessa is trying to learn where she fits in. She never felt like she fit in with her family growing up. Overbearing controlling judgemental parents have never been her cheerleader. Luke has been keeping a life long secret, but wants to fix that for his daughter. As a single dad he wants the best for his little girl. Little did he know he was about to walk into the library and his world would change. Tessa is a sunshine sweet girl who tries to see the good in everything. Growing up with judgmental parents has left her anxiety. These two have their own battles to fight, but with each other in their corner to cheer one another on their lives are instantly better. I loved reading this book. It was a slow burn, but had lots of depth and detail to it. Definitely with a spicy side to it. The patience and love Luke has for Tessa is what every girl dreams of!! I can not wait to read Brandy’s next book!
𝑺𝒑𝒊𝒄𝒆: 🌶️🌶️
New to town Tessa is trying to learn where she fits in. She never felt like she fit in with her family growing up. Overbearing controlling judgemental parents have never been her cheerleader. Luke has been keeping a life long secret, but wants to fix that for his daughter. As a single dad he wants the best for his little girl. Little did he know he was about to walk into the library and his world would change. Tessa is a sunshine sweet girl who tries to see the good in everything. Growing up with judgmental parents has left her anxiety. These two have their own battles to fight, but with each other in their corner to cheer one another on their lives are instantly better. I loved reading this book. It was a slow burn, but had lots of depth and detail to it. Definitely with a spicy side to it. The patience and love Luke has for Tessa is what every girl dreams of!! I can not wait to read Brandy’s next book!
May 26, 2023
I am a sucker for single dad trope so the fact that Luke is overcoming his fear and seeking for help in order to be the best father for his daughter melted my heart!
Luke and Hannah are having the best father daughter relationship ever! I literally could visualize the hair braiding scene 😍😍
I also loved Tessa’s character a lot! She is courageous, loyal and sweet - the perfect addition to Luke’s family! 🥹
The book is sweet and a little bit spicy! I enjoyed the plot, the pace and the general vibe of the story! Would totally recommend if you are in a search of confident book boyfriend who knows what he wants and pursues his dreams (whether it is ability to read or a dream girl)! Luke totally fall into book boyfriend material category ❤️
Luke and Hannah are having the best father daughter relationship ever! I literally could visualize the hair braiding scene 😍😍
I also loved Tessa’s character a lot! She is courageous, loyal and sweet - the perfect addition to Luke’s family! 🥹
The book is sweet and a little bit spicy! I enjoyed the plot, the pace and the general vibe of the story! Would totally recommend if you are in a search of confident book boyfriend who knows what he wants and pursues his dreams (whether it is ability to read or a dream girl)! Luke totally fall into book boyfriend material category ❤️
May 25, 2023
I absolutely loved this book! It gave me all of the feels - I laughed, I cried, I fell in love. (I mean who wouldn’t fall in love with Luke Shipley and his precious daughter, Hannah.)
What I loved most about the book is how Luke and Tessa each had major obstacles to conquer. They helped each other overcome these and became better people because they had each other. It was a story where love truly does conquer all and makes life better. ❤️
What I loved most about the book is how Luke and Tessa each had major obstacles to conquer. They helped each other overcome these and became better people because they had each other. It was a story where love truly does conquer all and makes life better. ❤️
May 17, 2023
ARC review
A love story with a great build of characters. Just enough spice for the cutest couple I have read about in a while!
Small town boy, Luke, is illiterate and confesses this with his daughters kindergarten teacher. She then guides him to the library for an adult reading group.
City girl, Tessa, just moved to Bennett from Atlanta to follow her dream to be a librarian against her parents' wishes.
Luke falls head over heels for Tessa the very first time he meets her. He knows she is anxious about some things and takes it slow while waiting until she is ready.
A love story with a great build of characters. Just enough spice for the cutest couple I have read about in a while!
Small town boy, Luke, is illiterate and confesses this with his daughters kindergarten teacher. She then guides him to the library for an adult reading group.
City girl, Tessa, just moved to Bennett from Atlanta to follow her dream to be a librarian against her parents' wishes.
Luke falls head over heels for Tessa the very first time he meets her. He knows she is anxious about some things and takes it slow while waiting until she is ready.
May 20, 2023
I absolutely loved this book and was so impressed with it. I was hooked after the first two chapters. It was such a cute storyline and an easy read. You won’t be disappointed!
May 29, 2023
3.5 🥺🤩
May 7, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. The storyline was cute, and I loved how Tessa helped Luke with his confidence regarding his reading. All the relationships in this were great too, especially between Hannah and both Luke and Tessa. I was a little annoyed by how much Tessa kept thinking that nothing could happen between them, like why not? It just didn’t seem to have any good reasoning. And the 3rd act breakup was a tad annoying as well, I didn’t understand Tessa’s reaction at the table with her parents and why Luke dragged it out for so long. Other than that, the story was super cute and a nice read :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 27, 2023
“But I fell in love with a girl between the lines of the words she taught me to read.”
There are so many quotes I highlighted while devouring this book (seriously- I read 70% in one day and made myself stop so I could get some sleep), but THIS QUOTE ! Omg it’s my new favourite 😍📚
This book is perfect for us book lovers, Tessa works at the library as the children’s literacy director, and is the perfect person to help Luke with his secret problem. I absolutely loved the whole idea/premise behind this story and why the author wanted to write a book that focuses on adult literacy. Reading is such a powerful tool, and can literally change your life. This is proven repeatedly in this book. Also, Luke asks Tessa to read to him one night, and it was one of my favourite parts ♥️📚
This book will have you LITERALLY swooning over Luke, the MC. From how he was brave enough to reveal his secret, to advocating for himself in order so he could be a better father to his daughter, Hannah (okay, literal swoon right there 😍🫠), to how much he is absolutely gone for Tessa and how much he cares for her in all the small ways and big ways.
Tessa, is forging her own path in life, trying to disregard being a disappointment to her parents for not following in the career path they had laid out for her. But that’s easier said than done. Luke helps her to overcome her struggles, and by the end of the book, she has made some progress. Tessa, is also besties with Luke’s daughter, Hannah. Let me tell you, all the parts with Hannah (there’s a lot!) weee my favourites too because I loved seeing the relationship between Hannah and Tessa blossom, and seeing Luke being the best father to his little girl - will definitely make you fall in love with him ♥️
I could go on and on about how much I loved this book. Seriously, just go and read this book, and I dare you not to fall in love with all the characters ♥️
June 16, 2023
Such a cute book!! Took me a little bit to get in to, but got to a point where I couldn't put it down! I loved Luke and Tessa's story! Can't wait to read about Mel and Cordell next! 😉
June 7, 2023
I am not afraid to say that I cried🥹, this book was very wholesome and cute. I love their nicknames for each other - “ivy” and “handsome” - plus Luke’s daughter’s nickname too - “Jellybean”. I love their little rituals that they have like Luke kissing Tessa three times or Tessa and Hannah’s pinky swearing, little details like those are very well done. Plus the side characters like Mel and Cordell who are very well developed, which by the way, I really hope we get a book about them too.
June 3, 2023
This book was fantastic! I loved Luke and Tessa’s relationship. I loved how mental health was factored in. I love a good slow burn found family love story🫶🏼🫶🏼
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