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Brothers of Lucky Seven Ranch #3
Meeting at the Altar
I signed up to marry a stranger on reality TV. Turns out, the bride is someone I know. And I'm pretty sure she still hates me for what happened between us in high school...
I knew the terms: marry a stranger on the spot, handpicked by “experts” just for me.
But that’s not what’s happening.
My bride is no stranger. And she’s wearing a black dress reminiscent of the one she wore the last time we spoke … at prom.
Surely she’s gotten over what happened at prom by now.
Except ... it only takes me about five minutes to realize she hasn’t. And now, I’m married to the one woman I did wrong in my life.
But she still trembles at my touch.
Either this is about to be the biggest mistake of my life, or the greatest second chance in history.
And all of America gets to watch it...
Meeting at the Altar is a sweet, small-town, second chance, marriage of convenience RomCom full of sizzling chemistry while keeping the bedroom door closed. It's the third standalone story in Kristine W. Joy's series following the Brothers of Lucky Seven Ranch.
I knew the terms: marry a stranger on the spot, handpicked by “experts” just for me.
But that’s not what’s happening.
My bride is no stranger. And she’s wearing a black dress reminiscent of the one she wore the last time we spoke … at prom.
Surely she’s gotten over what happened at prom by now.
Except ... it only takes me about five minutes to realize she hasn’t. And now, I’m married to the one woman I did wrong in my life.
But she still trembles at my touch.
Either this is about to be the biggest mistake of my life, or the greatest second chance in history.
And all of America gets to watch it...
Meeting at the Altar is a sweet, small-town, second chance, marriage of convenience RomCom full of sizzling chemistry while keeping the bedroom door closed. It's the third standalone story in Kristine W. Joy's series following the Brothers of Lucky Seven Ranch.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2023
248 people are currently reading
1505 people want to read
About the author
Kristine W. Joy
19 books360 followersKristine W. Joy is an Amazon Bestselling Author who loves creating sweet and swoony stories full of sizzling chemistry and laugh-out-loud banter. She prefers her coffee iced and her kisses hot. When she's not dreaming up romance novels or writing from a cozy coffee shop in Northern California, she is spending time with her hubby and two young sons. Becoming a published author was a lifelong dream. Becoming a momma was the inspiration to make it a reality.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 240 reviews
July 13, 2023
What happens when you go on a reality tv show to get married to a stranger, but then discover at the altar that you actually do know each other? A whole lot of crazy fun and swoon, that's what.
Bailey and Sawyer have a past and it didn't end well. In a second chance of sorts, they have the opportunity to get reacquainted after saying "I do" and the premise of this story was wonderful. I'm a fan of reality tv type books and this one was so interesting. I hated the producer, as she added whole dimensions of drama that varied between embarrassing, uncomfortable, awkward, and unbelievable, but watching Bailey and Sawyer navigate through the challenges was rewarding.
I wanted some parts to be a little deeper than surface level, with a little more flow, but overall, I was swept away. The romance is swoony and the story line entertaining.
Content: mild+ romance (some innuendo, make outs, kissing with some tongue description, closed door/implied for married couple)
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
Bailey and Sawyer have a past and it didn't end well. In a second chance of sorts, they have the opportunity to get reacquainted after saying "I do" and the premise of this story was wonderful. I'm a fan of reality tv type books and this one was so interesting. I hated the producer, as she added whole dimensions of drama that varied between embarrassing, uncomfortable, awkward, and unbelievable, but watching Bailey and Sawyer navigate through the challenges was rewarding.
I wanted some parts to be a little deeper than surface level, with a little more flow, but overall, I was swept away. The romance is swoony and the story line entertaining.
Content: mild+ romance (some innuendo, make outs, kissing with some tongue description, closed door/implied for married couple)
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
July 13, 2023
I love reality TV shows, so the plot of this book was right up my alley. I love Sawyer! He was the most perfect MMC, so thoughtful and caring towards Bailey. Leslie was the perfect villain that you loved to hate. I did enjoy her baby challenge though 😂
Definitely pick this up if you’re looking for a quick, sweet fun romcom!
All opinions are my own, and a huge thank you to Kristine W. Joy for the ARC 💖
Definitely pick this up if you’re looking for a quick, sweet fun romcom!
All opinions are my own, and a huge thank you to Kristine W. Joy for the ARC 💖
July 2, 2023
I was so in love with all the characters. I loved the married at first sight premise and the enemies to lovers, second chance romance, grumpy meets sunshine tropes.
* I received an ARC from the author.
* I received an ARC from the author.
November 15, 2023
This was such a great premise for a book, two people agree to get matched and immediately get married on a reality TV show. Sawyer and Bailey sign up for the show and end up getting matched. The match is revealed live on TV. The only problem is that they know each other, they have a history, and it is not a good one.
They are forced to live together and confront their past. Sawyer was a bit stubborn, and perhaps obtuse and I appreciated his maturity in the book, his ability to openly communicate.
This definitely starts off as enemies to lovers which is my favorite trope. I personally enjoy the enemies part of those stories the most and therefore wish there was a bit more fighting/angst/frustration in the beginning but I did really love these two together.
This is a sweet clean fun romcom. I loved the challenges from the reality show, especially the baby 🤭The grand gestures (yes more than 1) were pretty darn sweet too. I love me a grand gesture.
I highly recommend this book for anyone wanting to put a smile on their face. You just can't help it! It's a super quick read, longer than a novella but similar in feel.
This is book 3 in the Brothers of Lucky Seven Ranch series but completely stands on its own. I definitely want to read the prior books and all those yet to come ❤️
They are forced to live together and confront their past. Sawyer was a bit stubborn, and perhaps obtuse and I appreciated his maturity in the book, his ability to openly communicate.
This definitely starts off as enemies to lovers which is my favorite trope. I personally enjoy the enemies part of those stories the most and therefore wish there was a bit more fighting/angst/frustration in the beginning but I did really love these two together.
This is a sweet clean fun romcom. I loved the challenges from the reality show, especially the baby 🤭The grand gestures (yes more than 1) were pretty darn sweet too. I love me a grand gesture.
I highly recommend this book for anyone wanting to put a smile on their face. You just can't help it! It's a super quick read, longer than a novella but similar in feel.
This is book 3 in the Brothers of Lucky Seven Ranch series but completely stands on its own. I definitely want to read the prior books and all those yet to come ❤️
July 31, 2023
Let’s just say I did NOT enjoy this mess of a story 😬
I cannot even with this book. So first off Bailey holds a grudge against Sawyer for a trivial thing that happened years ago. She can’t forgive and let go because, oh he hasn’t apologized 🙄🤦🏻♀️ Once he finally realizes what her deal is and apologizes, everything is sunshine and rainbows. Suddenly people shouldn’t be judging Sawyer for the way he acted when he was younger, never mind the fact that that’s exactly what Bailey was doing for the first good bit of the story.
Can we please not do the whole “eyes rolling to the back of the head over food” thing again 🙄🤦🏻♀️
Leslie was the actual worst. Not even an ounce of professionalism was shown at any point in time. How was she even part of the TV show crew?!
The only slightly redeeming thing in this book were the kisses. Those were 🔥
I appreciate the author allowing me to read the ARC of this book. Sadly it was just not for me.
I cannot even with this book. So first off Bailey holds a grudge against Sawyer for a trivial thing that happened years ago. She can’t forgive and let go because, oh he hasn’t apologized 🙄🤦🏻♀️ Once he finally realizes what her deal is and apologizes, everything is sunshine and rainbows. Suddenly people shouldn’t be judging Sawyer for the way he acted when he was younger, never mind the fact that that’s exactly what Bailey was doing for the first good bit of the story.
Can we please not do the whole “eyes rolling to the back of the head over food” thing again 🙄🤦🏻♀️
Leslie was the actual worst. Not even an ounce of professionalism was shown at any point in time. How was she even part of the TV show crew?!
The only slightly redeeming thing in this book were the kisses. Those were 🔥
I appreciate the author allowing me to read the ARC of this book. Sadly it was just not for me.
July 22, 2024
How did I even find this book? Why did I finish it? I don’t know. It was short. Some bits were interesting. The concept of “married at first sight” mixed with “second chances” was interesting.
But far too much kissing and noticing and kissing. I’ll pass.
But far too much kissing and noticing and kissing. I’ll pass.
July 2, 2023
Overall rating: 4/5 stars
Plot: 4/5
Spice: relatively low/clean which gets 5/5 for me
Characters: 4/5 I liked the main characters, but I felt they could have been developed a little more earlier in book. The first third read more like a novella than a full length book.
MC: Bailey and Sawyer
Key subjects/tropes: sweet and clean, forced proximity, reality TV, marriage of convenience, second chance romance, past grudge/hurt
In series: yes, this is the third book in the Brothers of Lucky Seven Ranch series, all by the same author, but can be read as a stand-alone.
Overall review: I enjoyed the characters and overall storyline. I’m a fan of really “blind” marriage dating shows, so I enjoyed the references to that.
***I received a free ARC copy from the author in exchange for an honest review; all opinions stated in this review are my own ***
Plot: 4/5
Spice: relatively low/clean which gets 5/5 for me
Characters: 4/5 I liked the main characters, but I felt they could have been developed a little more earlier in book. The first third read more like a novella than a full length book.
MC: Bailey and Sawyer
Key subjects/tropes: sweet and clean, forced proximity, reality TV, marriage of convenience, second chance romance, past grudge/hurt
In series: yes, this is the third book in the Brothers of Lucky Seven Ranch series, all by the same author, but can be read as a stand-alone.
Overall review: I enjoyed the characters and overall storyline. I’m a fan of really “blind” marriage dating shows, so I enjoyed the references to that.
***I received a free ARC copy from the author in exchange for an honest review; all opinions stated in this review are my own ***
August 14, 2023
Meeting at the Altar was such a surprisingly lovely read! Kristine W. Joy nailed it! Not only does it have one of the most unique premises I’ve come across in a long time, it has complicated relationships, unwavering best friends, wise fathers, and, most importantly, a love story that sucks you in from the first page!
What do you do when your love life seems dry as a desert with no signs of improving? Sign up to be on a reality tv show, obviously.
Meeting at the Altar requires participants to marry a compatible stranger at their very first meeting. Don’t worry, the show makes sure the participants are compatible based on a ridiculous amount of surveys, questionnaires, likes/dislikes, etc. Bailey Morgan and Sawyer Lewis are just like every other couple on the show. Except for the fact that they already know each other. And have a history.
Read if you like:
🎥 Second Chance at Love
🎥 Reality TV
🎥 Supportive Best Friends
🎥 Antiques
🎥 Empowered Women
🎥 Crazed Producers
🎥 High School History
🎥 Putting Effort into Relationships
🎥 Small Town Stories
🎥 Wearing Black to a Wedding
🎥 Cuckoo Clocks and Nets
Content/Triggers: This story is delightful in storyline and dialogue! It contains mild romance as well as off page references to activities appropriate for a married couple.
Thank you to the author of the advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
What do you do when your love life seems dry as a desert with no signs of improving? Sign up to be on a reality tv show, obviously.
Meeting at the Altar requires participants to marry a compatible stranger at their very first meeting. Don’t worry, the show makes sure the participants are compatible based on a ridiculous amount of surveys, questionnaires, likes/dislikes, etc. Bailey Morgan and Sawyer Lewis are just like every other couple on the show. Except for the fact that they already know each other. And have a history.
Read if you like:
🎥 Second Chance at Love
🎥 Reality TV
🎥 Supportive Best Friends
🎥 Antiques
🎥 Empowered Women
🎥 Crazed Producers
🎥 High School History
🎥 Putting Effort into Relationships
🎥 Small Town Stories
🎥 Wearing Black to a Wedding
🎥 Cuckoo Clocks and Nets
Content/Triggers: This story is delightful in storyline and dialogue! It contains mild romance as well as off page references to activities appropriate for a married couple.
Thank you to the author of the advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 21, 2023
Ok this is the first book I’ve read by this author and I finished it in 1 day and I am FLOORED. I loved this book and every sweet moment and how both the male and female main characters were so well developed. Loved this read!
July 1, 2023
When I first read the blurb, I found the premise to be interesting…then a teaser came out talking about something happening at prom causing the protagonists to hate each other, my gears were turning and I was relentless in trying to gain any information from the author, she remained stoic and tight lipped! Honestly, it was all for the best! Kristine set up the world around Bailey, Sawyer, and (cue the eye roll) Leslie perfectly! Marrying a stranger on TV is one thing, but suddenly realizing that your future spouse has a bitter hatred for you because you messed up big time is another! Yay, congrats you are married to the one woman you did the most emotional damaged to! More than the initial tension between the protagonists was the frustration of the overly flirtatious producer in charge of handling the couple!
It didn’t take the protagonists to work through their grievance from their past and let old/new feelings rise to the surface! Being forced to be on camera and “play cute” or “hype up the drama” wasn’t ideal since both, Bailey and Sawyer, are both so tender hearted, genuine people. Leslie is the epitome of the antagonist you love to hate from the very beginning and despite her constant advances it blew up in her face as it only made the couple stronger! The swoony kisses helped them out too! Those can anyone a complete puddle! The grand gestures that were acted out made you root for the success of the couple in the present and their future if they allowed themselves it!
Having no prior knowledge on this series, this can serve as a stand alone, but makes me very intrigued to read the previous books and excited to see what the fourth installment, that’s currently being written, is all about! Bravo!
All opinions are my own and I was gifted this as an ARC copy!
It didn’t take the protagonists to work through their grievance from their past and let old/new feelings rise to the surface! Being forced to be on camera and “play cute” or “hype up the drama” wasn’t ideal since both, Bailey and Sawyer, are both so tender hearted, genuine people. Leslie is the epitome of the antagonist you love to hate from the very beginning and despite her constant advances it blew up in her face as it only made the couple stronger! The swoony kisses helped them out too! Those can anyone a complete puddle! The grand gestures that were acted out made you root for the success of the couple in the present and their future if they allowed themselves it!
Having no prior knowledge on this series, this can serve as a stand alone, but makes me very intrigued to read the previous books and excited to see what the fourth installment, that’s currently being written, is all about! Bravo!
All opinions are my own and I was gifted this as an ARC copy!
July 4, 2023
Meeting at the Alter is a reality TV show that uses experts to pair a couple who meet, well, at the alter.
Bailey is in desperate need of the 300k that you win for staying married for longer that 89 days. Her business is in jeopardy if she doesn't come up with the funds to buy the building.
Sawyer has no luck in love and lets his brother and sister in law talk him into joining the show because he is lonely and a bit jealous of their love.
Bailey and Sawyer grew up together and after he lied to her at their Prom they haven't spoken again. Now they are paired together. Bailey is determined to make it work for the money, Sawyer is determined to make it work to win back his lost love.
I loved the flow or this story, it never seemed forced. It is so full of heart. I really enjoyed the family dynamics. And it is so funny! The bird and the robot were hilarious. Did they ever fix the clock?!?!
Also their dates were so sweet, minus the horseback ride.
The villain, yes I am calling her a villain is so awful. She is the ultimate mean girl who wants your man.
This is the 3rd in the Brothers of Lucky Seven Ranch, but admittedly I haven't read the first 2! I will be going back because I have to read more about the other brothers! I really enjoyed Kristine's writing style, it feels like a warm hug.
I received this ARC from the author, this is my honest review.
Bailey is in desperate need of the 300k that you win for staying married for longer that 89 days. Her business is in jeopardy if she doesn't come up with the funds to buy the building.
Sawyer has no luck in love and lets his brother and sister in law talk him into joining the show because he is lonely and a bit jealous of their love.
Bailey and Sawyer grew up together and after he lied to her at their Prom they haven't spoken again. Now they are paired together. Bailey is determined to make it work for the money, Sawyer is determined to make it work to win back his lost love.
I loved the flow or this story, it never seemed forced. It is so full of heart. I really enjoyed the family dynamics. And it is so funny! The bird and the robot were hilarious. Did they ever fix the clock?!?!
Also their dates were so sweet, minus the horseback ride.
The villain, yes I am calling her a villain is so awful. She is the ultimate mean girl who wants your man.
This is the 3rd in the Brothers of Lucky Seven Ranch, but admittedly I haven't read the first 2! I will be going back because I have to read more about the other brothers! I really enjoyed Kristine's writing style, it feels like a warm hug.
I received this ARC from the author, this is my honest review.
July 12, 2023
4.5 stars!!
this book was adorable. i saw other people saying that kristine joys writing feels like a warm hug and now i know exactly what they mean! this book was so sweet and cute and i smiled through the whole thing.
i’m really starting to fall in love with the second chance romance trope the more i read it. even though this book wasn’t a second chance romance i think bailey was still giving him a second chance for what he did to her to high school. i loved sawyer his character was perfect and i love how thoughtful and caring he was towards bailey. my favorite part of the story was when he recreated prom for bailey and set everything up to make up for what he did in high school. that part had me SWOONING.
i also LOVE the marriage of convenience trope and i love how this book revolved around a game show bringing them together. i think that was something totally different and i loved it!
i also loved the small town setting i think that is perfect for summer reads. i can’t wait to go back and read the first and second books as well!
thank you so much to kristine joy for sending me a copy of this series! you are seriously the sweetest!!
this book was adorable. i saw other people saying that kristine joys writing feels like a warm hug and now i know exactly what they mean! this book was so sweet and cute and i smiled through the whole thing.
i’m really starting to fall in love with the second chance romance trope the more i read it. even though this book wasn’t a second chance romance i think bailey was still giving him a second chance for what he did to her to high school. i loved sawyer his character was perfect and i love how thoughtful and caring he was towards bailey. my favorite part of the story was when he recreated prom for bailey and set everything up to make up for what he did in high school. that part had me SWOONING.
i also LOVE the marriage of convenience trope and i love how this book revolved around a game show bringing them together. i think that was something totally different and i loved it!
i also loved the small town setting i think that is perfect for summer reads. i can’t wait to go back and read the first and second books as well!
thank you so much to kristine joy for sending me a copy of this series! you are seriously the sweetest!!
July 12, 2023
I have never watched even one episode of reality television featuring dating or marriage, but I do love reading books about them! This book reminded me of some of my favorites in that subgenre, and was just so fun. They were supposed to be strangers, but instead they were almost highschool sweethearts torn apart by his mistake.
If I thought I loved the premise, I love the execution even more! The hero is reminiscent of Mr. Darcy, being eligible (before he's married, of course) on paper, but not in possession of a whole lot of people skills. And the heroine is just trying to keep her business afloat without going off on her new husband on television. The chemistry between these two was palpable, and the banter was on point. The book was a really fun escape from reality, and I only wish it was longer.
Note to more sensitive readers: there are a few innuendos.
I would recommend this book for romcom readers who love this genre anywhere as much as I do.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
If I thought I loved the premise, I love the execution even more! The hero is reminiscent of Mr. Darcy, being eligible (before he's married, of course) on paper, but not in possession of a whole lot of people skills. And the heroine is just trying to keep her business afloat without going off on her new husband on television. The chemistry between these two was palpable, and the banter was on point. The book was a really fun escape from reality, and I only wish it was longer.
Note to more sensitive readers: there are a few innuendos.
I would recommend this book for romcom readers who love this genre anywhere as much as I do.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
July 1, 2023
Meeting at the Altar hooked me from the beginning and I read it in one day.
This is the third book in a series but can be easily read as a standalone.
It’s a second chance reality tv show married at first sight romance. Clean besides kissing with other things implied.
Bailey signed up to get married on a realty tv show to a stranger because she needed the prize money. Turns out the groom wasn’t a stranger after all; he already broke Baileys heart once. Now she has to be married to Sawyer for 89 days before getting the prize money.
Things start out rough for these two especially with cameras following them around and a producer trying to ruin the relationship/give them unnecessary couple challenges.
I really loved these characters though and how deeply they felt for one another. I loved that these two didn’t have a breakup towards the end; just a little pushing away that was fixed quickly.
The ending was perfect for these two plus another couple got a HEA as well.
This is the third book in a series but can be easily read as a standalone.
It’s a second chance reality tv show married at first sight romance. Clean besides kissing with other things implied.
Bailey signed up to get married on a realty tv show to a stranger because she needed the prize money. Turns out the groom wasn’t a stranger after all; he already broke Baileys heart once. Now she has to be married to Sawyer for 89 days before getting the prize money.
Things start out rough for these two especially with cameras following them around and a producer trying to ruin the relationship/give them unnecessary couple challenges.
I really loved these characters though and how deeply they felt for one another. I loved that these two didn’t have a breakup towards the end; just a little pushing away that was fixed quickly.
The ending was perfect for these two plus another couple got a HEA as well.
July 2, 2023
The building Bailey’s business is in is about to go on the market. She really wants to buy it and expand her business. The problem is she doesn’t have the money. Her friend talks her into being on a reality TV show where you marry a complete stranger that you’ve been matched up with.
She has her doubts but is determined to go through with it. She only has to be married over 89 days to get $300,000 in prize money. Just what she needs to make her business dreams come true!
When the day comes and she meets her groom she’s surprised to find she knows him. He broke her heart and humiliated her over ten years ago and she has never spoken to him since.
This is a very cute enemies to lovers, small town, closed door, second chance romance. The two main characters are so cute and fun to follow through this journey. Throw in a jealous show producer who does everything she can to break them up and it’s great drama. You’ll want to take a chance and see how it all turns out.
She has her doubts but is determined to go through with it. She only has to be married over 89 days to get $300,000 in prize money. Just what she needs to make her business dreams come true!
When the day comes and she meets her groom she’s surprised to find she knows him. He broke her heart and humiliated her over ten years ago and she has never spoken to him since.
This is a very cute enemies to lovers, small town, closed door, second chance romance. The two main characters are so cute and fun to follow through this journey. Throw in a jealous show producer who does everything she can to break them up and it’s great drama. You’ll want to take a chance and see how it all turns out.
July 14, 2023
Against the Odds
Bailey and Sawyer each sign up to be on a reality tv show where they will meet their new spouse at the altar. Bailey has high hopes for a happy marriage and the prize money will help save her business. Sawyer doesn’t need money, he wants love. They’re supposed to meet a stranger at the altar, but Bailey and Sawyer are not strangers, and Bailey would rather have a stranger than a man who hurt and embarrassed her in high school.
Take Bailey’s emotional walls, and a producer who seems to want things to fall apart more than she wants a happy ending, and Sawyer and Bailey have their work cut out for them! I hated producer, Leslie, with a passion, loved Sawyer’s brothers, and enjoyed the sparks that flew between Bailey and Sawyer once they got out of their own way. This is a cute story that reads like a movie and really comes to life.
Bailey and Sawyer each sign up to be on a reality tv show where they will meet their new spouse at the altar. Bailey has high hopes for a happy marriage and the prize money will help save her business. Sawyer doesn’t need money, he wants love. They’re supposed to meet a stranger at the altar, but Bailey and Sawyer are not strangers, and Bailey would rather have a stranger than a man who hurt and embarrassed her in high school.
Take Bailey’s emotional walls, and a producer who seems to want things to fall apart more than she wants a happy ending, and Sawyer and Bailey have their work cut out for them! I hated producer, Leslie, with a passion, loved Sawyer’s brothers, and enjoyed the sparks that flew between Bailey and Sawyer once they got out of their own way. This is a cute story that reads like a movie and really comes to life.
July 1, 2023
“I’ll always believe in you, Bailey.”
As a person who loves going antiquing and thrifting- I loved this book! It was a quick and easy read for me- very easy to follow! I did not read the first two and I did not find that to be a problem with understanding this book! I felt you could read this and understand the story without missing anything!
If you like second chance, enemies to lovers, closed-door and small town romance- I would recommend this book!
I find this book very cute and charming! It had me smiling and laughing! Sawyer is so cute when he gets nervous! Bailey was honestly so relatable- I absolutely loved the characters!
Thank you so much for sending me an arc in exchange for my honest opinion!
As a person who loves going antiquing and thrifting- I loved this book! It was a quick and easy read for me- very easy to follow! I did not read the first two and I did not find that to be a problem with understanding this book! I felt you could read this and understand the story without missing anything!
If you like second chance, enemies to lovers, closed-door and small town romance- I would recommend this book!
I find this book very cute and charming! It had me smiling and laughing! Sawyer is so cute when he gets nervous! Bailey was honestly so relatable- I absolutely loved the characters!
Thank you so much for sending me an arc in exchange for my honest opinion!
July 1, 2023
Reading Bailey and Sawyers story is just a lovely read. Bailey and Sawyer have so much history and Bailey certainly isn't pleased to see its him shes been set up to marry on a tv reality show. Ten years of hurt of him lying and rejecting her for prom and then totally ignoring her. Can these two actually make the eighty nine days to win or will the both decided it's best to just walk away. It was so lovely to be back with the Lewis family and reading about how the family is growing. The characters are so charming and believable that the book just draws you in. I was lucky enough to get this book as an ARC copy and this is my own honest opinion and review. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have.
July 5, 2023
This is my first Rom Com by Kristine W. Joy and let’s just say, I’m a fan!!
Meeting at the Alter is such a fun second chance romance about Sawyer and Bailey!
Bailey really needs the money the money that she can win by going on a reality TV show called Meeting at the Alter, marrying the man the show deems perfect for her, and staying married for 89 days! Little does she know, the man she’s about to marry is someone from her past!
I really enjoyed Bailey’s independent personality and her desire to create her own success. I loved how sweet Sawyer was and how hard he worked to let Bailey know his true feelings for her.
Seriously, such a cute book!
Meeting at the Alter is such a fun second chance romance about Sawyer and Bailey!
Bailey really needs the money the money that she can win by going on a reality TV show called Meeting at the Alter, marrying the man the show deems perfect for her, and staying married for 89 days! Little does she know, the man she’s about to marry is someone from her past!
I really enjoyed Bailey’s independent personality and her desire to create her own success. I loved how sweet Sawyer was and how hard he worked to let Bailey know his true feelings for her.
Seriously, such a cute book!
July 13, 2023
This book was okay, but I just felt that something was missing. I don't like the idea of a marriage/dating reality TV show. It makes the story unique and different, but I just don't really like that theme. The characters had chemistry, and the romance was clean. I also thought that the main characters fell in love very quickly. It happened so fast that it wasn't very believable. This book would be good for romantic comedy lovers to read.
I received an ARC and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received an ARC and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 12, 2024
A cute, closed-door, semi-second-chance romance where our H/h are reality show contestants that must get married when they meet. Only they've met before: he stood her up at high school prom, and she's still holding a grudge. Will they stay married long enough to win the cash prize for sticking it out? Duh.
Short, good communication, low angst. I had a big project wrapping up at work this week, and this was perfect since I couldn't focus on anything more intense.
Short, good communication, low angst. I had a big project wrapping up at work this week, and this was perfect since I couldn't focus on anything more intense.
July 30, 2023
Synopsis:
Bailey and Sawyer participate in a reality show that marries two strangers, matched by experts. But the only problem is, they're not strangers, in fact Bailey can't believe she's married to the man who broke her heart in the past. How will they make this marriage work?
Includes:
✨Marriage of Convenience
✨Introvert x Extrovert
✨Second Chance
✨Forced Proximity
✨Hallmark Vibes
✨Small Town
🌶️Heat Level:
Close Door
Light Innuendo
Attraction/Tension:🔥🔥🔥
My Opinion:
Second-chance stories are a tough trope for me, but I'm glad I stepped out of my comfort zone because this book brings it up in a light and sweet way. This book is very swoony, fast-paced and with a good world and secondary characters. I love how the characters are very relatable and natural, nothing over the top. Sawyer is a sweetheart and his effort and kindness won my heart. I look forward to reading the entire series.
*I received a free review copy of this book from the author. I was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions are my own.*
Bailey and Sawyer participate in a reality show that marries two strangers, matched by experts. But the only problem is, they're not strangers, in fact Bailey can't believe she's married to the man who broke her heart in the past. How will they make this marriage work?
Includes:
✨Marriage of Convenience
✨Introvert x Extrovert
✨Second Chance
✨Forced Proximity
✨Hallmark Vibes
✨Small Town
🌶️Heat Level:
Close Door
Light Innuendo
Attraction/Tension:🔥🔥🔥
My Opinion:
Second-chance stories are a tough trope for me, but I'm glad I stepped out of my comfort zone because this book brings it up in a light and sweet way. This book is very swoony, fast-paced and with a good world and secondary characters. I love how the characters are very relatable and natural, nothing over the top. Sawyer is a sweetheart and his effort and kindness won my heart. I look forward to reading the entire series.
*I received a free review copy of this book from the author. I was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions are my own.*
May 4, 2025
This was my first book by Kristen W. Joy and I was so excited to read it! It had a fun premise and was a cute, light read. Bailey agrees to a game show marriage where she must stay married for 89 days to earn a large sum of money so she can buy and expand her antique shop. Only she quickly finds out the person the show set her up with is no stranger but Sawyer, who she had a crush on in high school. He broke her heart when he broke their prom date. Sawyer is over what happened and ready to move forward but Bailey not so much. This is a little bit of a faster paced second chance romance with some very fun moments and some great kisses. I won’t be forgetting their pit stop anytime soon!
August 27, 2025
This one was sooooo good! I loved the plot and storyline. There was so much to love in this one. Bailey and Sawyer were enemies to more perfection!
I loved them both from the very beginning and I loved how their characters were developed throughout the story. I loved watching their romance unfold. They had this undeniable attraction toward one another. Bailey was snarky and strong. Jealous Bailey was great! Sawyer was chivalrous and kind with a tough exterior but I loved how Bailey was able to tear down those walls. I loved their "prom" date and the baby scenes... IYKYK LOL!!! And seeing the family again was so fun, I love this ranch world Kristine W Joy has created.
The side characters were definitely extra, especially Leslie and I loved the twist her character brought and the added drama. So many feelings for this woman 😡😂
This series is so fun and I love the cowboy romance aspect. The story is light and fun, with the amount of depth that I love.
I loved them both from the very beginning and I loved how their characters were developed throughout the story. I loved watching their romance unfold. They had this undeniable attraction toward one another. Bailey was snarky and strong. Jealous Bailey was great! Sawyer was chivalrous and kind with a tough exterior but I loved how Bailey was able to tear down those walls. I loved their "prom" date and the baby scenes... IYKYK LOL!!! And seeing the family again was so fun, I love this ranch world Kristine W Joy has created.
The side characters were definitely extra, especially Leslie and I loved the twist her character brought and the added drama. So many feelings for this woman 😡😂
This series is so fun and I love the cowboy romance aspect. The story is light and fun, with the amount of depth that I love.
August 30, 2023
rated g
Very cute story. Appropriate for all ages, would make a cute hallmark movie. Why must we write so many words in a review?
Very cute story. Appropriate for all ages, would make a cute hallmark movie. Why must we write so many words in a review?
July 15, 2023
OH I loved this fun marriage of convenience story! The characters were fun and you didn't need to read the first books...but now I will! I really loved the chemistry and the connection! Enjoy!
September 18, 2023
Y’all!! I can’t gush about this book enough! This book was an absolute gem!! I’ve been wanting to read a story by @kristinewjoy for a while, and this book had me hooked, line and sinker!
The second chance trope isn’t usually a fav of mine, but Kristine did it justice! Sawyer broke Bailey’s heart at their prom. He made a foolish mistake of trying to fit in and impress his friends and ghosted her. And she’s held onto the hurt since then.
Now years later, she’s trying to expand her antique store and to win the prize money to help her, goes on a reality TV show to marry a complete stranger, only he’s not a stranger after all….it’s Sawyer. Will this be a big mistake, or the second chance they both need to find true love?
Sawyer was precious! He had a hard time expressing his feelings, but Bailey made it easy for him! She was his safe haven and place to come home to. I loved watching him woo her and do all the small gestures! Their little dates were the sweetest and had me swooning!
Bailey was strong and independent. She loved her antiques and her Aunt Jewel! She had a hard life growing up and I was so glad to see her finally have her HEA with Sawyer!! Their chemistry was great, and the kisses…Wowsa!!! Kristine can definitely write sizzling kiss scenes to make you blush, but still keep it clean!
Things I Loved:
Cuckoo clock
Aunt Jewel
Romantic night in🥰
The bath towel 😉🤣
The flirty banter
The truck kiss!🔥
The office kiss!🔥🔥🔥
Fake baby😂
Hot dad Sawyer😍
The top-secret date!!🥹
I can’t recommend this book enough! If you love marriage of convenience as much as I do then get this book now!! I can’t wait to go and read the first two books in this series, plus the one after this one!! Kristine just made her way into my auto-read list!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own!
The second chance trope isn’t usually a fav of mine, but Kristine did it justice! Sawyer broke Bailey’s heart at their prom. He made a foolish mistake of trying to fit in and impress his friends and ghosted her. And she’s held onto the hurt since then.
Now years later, she’s trying to expand her antique store and to win the prize money to help her, goes on a reality TV show to marry a complete stranger, only he’s not a stranger after all….it’s Sawyer. Will this be a big mistake, or the second chance they both need to find true love?
Sawyer was precious! He had a hard time expressing his feelings, but Bailey made it easy for him! She was his safe haven and place to come home to. I loved watching him woo her and do all the small gestures! Their little dates were the sweetest and had me swooning!
Bailey was strong and independent. She loved her antiques and her Aunt Jewel! She had a hard life growing up and I was so glad to see her finally have her HEA with Sawyer!! Their chemistry was great, and the kisses…Wowsa!!! Kristine can definitely write sizzling kiss scenes to make you blush, but still keep it clean!
Things I Loved:
Cuckoo clock
Aunt Jewel
Romantic night in🥰
The bath towel 😉🤣
The flirty banter
The truck kiss!🔥
The office kiss!🔥🔥🔥
Fake baby😂
Hot dad Sawyer😍
The top-secret date!!🥹
I can’t recommend this book enough! If you love marriage of convenience as much as I do then get this book now!! I can’t wait to go and read the first two books in this series, plus the one after this one!! Kristine just made her way into my auto-read list!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own!
July 18, 2023
This was a take on “Married at First Sight,” which is a show I absolutely love.
I honestly don’t have a ton of nice things to say about it, unfortunately. It wasn’t “bad,” it just wasn’t very good. The conflicts were super thin (the prom situation as well as the “hot female producer” trying to seduce Sawyer just didn’t work well IMO), the characters were immature (especially Bailey who processed things like she was a teenager) and I just felt like the dialogue and situations were kind of cheesy. I’m giving it 3 stars even though it was closer to a 2 for me because it’s just a preference issue.
I’m sure many people will love this book, but it just wasn’t for me.
I honestly don’t have a ton of nice things to say about it, unfortunately. It wasn’t “bad,” it just wasn’t very good. The conflicts were super thin (the prom situation as well as the “hot female producer” trying to seduce Sawyer just didn’t work well IMO), the characters were immature (especially Bailey who processed things like she was a teenager) and I just felt like the dialogue and situations were kind of cheesy. I’m giving it 3 stars even though it was closer to a 2 for me because it’s just a preference issue.
I’m sure many people will love this book, but it just wasn’t for me.
October 23, 2023
Fun romcom
A reality show wedding is not my favorite trope, but Kristine did a great job. I enjoyed the banter, Sawyer's character development, and the way he stepped up to woo his TV show wife, Bailey. I liked how they found common ground and became a team despite some opposition. I don't want to give any spoliers. Sawyer's family's support was great too.
This was a fun read, and I do recommend it for those who love a good romcom with all the feels.
Definitely want to read the next book!
A reality show wedding is not my favorite trope, but Kristine did a great job. I enjoyed the banter, Sawyer's character development, and the way he stepped up to woo his TV show wife, Bailey. I liked how they found common ground and became a team despite some opposition. I don't want to give any spoliers. Sawyer's family's support was great too.
This was a fun read, and I do recommend it for those who love a good romcom with all the feels.
Definitely want to read the next book!
January 11, 2026
4.5/5 this book definitely had a different vibe than the other two books but it still had the small town feel and i thought it was great!
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