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A Perfect Pairing
This heartwarming novel set in the idyllic small-town of Firefly Lake explores the sisterly friendship between a group of women and a second chance at love—perfect for fans of Jill Shalvis and Jenny Hale.
Natasha Baldwin loves her life. As top realtor in her hometown of Firefly Lake, she has a good job and even better friends. Really, Tasha has only two never pursuing her dream career…and how things ended with Antonio Hayes years ago. So when an opportunity arises to show off her passion for interior design, Tasha’s excited—and a little nervous. But with the support of her girlfriends at their biweekly supper club, she’s eager to dive in…until she discovers that Antonio is her new project partner.
Teaming up with her ex is less than ideal, but with all eyes in town on her new project, Tasha knows now is not the time to let her messy past with Antonio impact her future. Yet working with Antonio immediately sparks bittersweet memories…and the same undeniable, irresistible chemistry even after all their years apart. Then, just as Natasha realizes that the life and love she’s waited for are within reach, her big break comes around, and she must decide what she truly wants…
Natasha Baldwin loves her life. As top realtor in her hometown of Firefly Lake, she has a good job and even better friends. Really, Tasha has only two never pursuing her dream career…and how things ended with Antonio Hayes years ago. So when an opportunity arises to show off her passion for interior design, Tasha’s excited—and a little nervous. But with the support of her girlfriends at their biweekly supper club, she’s eager to dive in…until she discovers that Antonio is her new project partner.
Teaming up with her ex is less than ideal, but with all eyes in town on her new project, Tasha knows now is not the time to let her messy past with Antonio impact her future. Yet working with Antonio immediately sparks bittersweet memories…and the same undeniable, irresistible chemistry even after all their years apart. Then, just as Natasha realizes that the life and love she’s waited for are within reach, her big break comes around, and she must decide what she truly wants…
336 pages, Paperback
Published August 8, 2023
18 people are currently reading
3764 people want to read
About the author
Sheryl Lister
69 books279 followersSheryl Lister has enjoyed reading and writing for as long as she can remember. She writes contemporary and inspirational romance and romantic suspense. She been nominated for an Emma Award and RT Reviewer’s Choice Award and named BRAB’s 2015 Best New Author. When she’s not reading, writing or playing chauffeur, Sheryl can be found on a date with her husband or in the kitchen creating appetizers and bite-sized desserts.
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October 15, 2023
Review coming soon.
July 20, 2023
Natasha Baldwin and Antonio Hayes were high school sweethearts with every intent to tie the knot after college. They say that distance makes the heart grow fonder. But in Natasha’s case, Antonio’s distant college attendance just bred insecurities. And with that, led Natasha to end her relationship with Antonio.
A number of years have passed since the breakup. And although Natasha’s passion and degree were in interior design, Natasha became a successful realtor in her hometown. Little did Natasha know that her life would eventually intersect with Antonio’s on a collaborative construction project. A project that would be a boon for her interior design skills. But would the past breakup with Antonio affect everything that she’s worked so hard for?
A Perfect Pairing was a wonderful second chance at romance novel since it also incorporated family, friendships, and more. There’s a little heat in the romance aspect, but nothing really steamy or outwardly explicit.
Unlike other second chance romance novels, there wasn’t the back and forth make up, breakup, and make up which was a relief. I didn’t get any whiplash from reading this novel. Whew!
There are quite a number of characters, and I think that it helped that I read Lister’s prior novel, A Table for Two, since there were a several carryovers. But, Lister manages to flesh out her characters in a way that makes for easy identification, regardless.
Entertaining, engaging, and fun, A Perfect Pairing concluded with a perfect ending. Five Stars. As an added bonus (like Lister’s prior novel,) there are a couple of recipes at the end.
I received a DRC from Forever (GCP.) The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
A number of years have passed since the breakup. And although Natasha’s passion and degree were in interior design, Natasha became a successful realtor in her hometown. Little did Natasha know that her life would eventually intersect with Antonio’s on a collaborative construction project. A project that would be a boon for her interior design skills. But would the past breakup with Antonio affect everything that she’s worked so hard for?
A Perfect Pairing was a wonderful second chance at romance novel since it also incorporated family, friendships, and more. There’s a little heat in the romance aspect, but nothing really steamy or outwardly explicit.
Unlike other second chance romance novels, there wasn’t the back and forth make up, breakup, and make up which was a relief. I didn’t get any whiplash from reading this novel. Whew!
There are quite a number of characters, and I think that it helped that I read Lister’s prior novel, A Table for Two, since there were a several carryovers. But, Lister manages to flesh out her characters in a way that makes for easy identification, regardless.
Entertaining, engaging, and fun, A Perfect Pairing concluded with a perfect ending. Five Stars. As an added bonus (like Lister’s prior novel,) there are a couple of recipes at the end.
I received a DRC from Forever (GCP.) The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
April 26, 2025
A Perfect Pairing by Sheryl Lister (2023)
Firefly Lake #2
+326-page Kindle Ebook story pages 1-322
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Featuring: Fictional Small-Town Northern California, Realtor, Characters From Previous Book, Supper Club, Food, Girlfriends, Second Chance Trope - High School Sweethearts/Exes, Homecoming Trope, Forced Proximity Trope, Workplace Setting, Home Renovations, Divorcé, Sex-Detailed, Gossip, Ambitions, Recipes - Shortcut Peach Cobbler, Hot-Water Cornbread
Rating as a movie: NC-17 for sexual content
Songs for the soundtrack: "Good Time" by Leela James, "Fly As Me" by Silk Sonic, "At Last" by Etta James, "Forever In Love" by Kenny G., "Brown Skin" by India.Arie, "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star" by Jane Taylor, "This Little Light of Mine" by Harry Dixon Loes, "If Only for One Night" by Luther Vandross, "Let's Groove" by Earth, Wind & Fire, "Rock With You" by Michael Jackson
Memorable Quotes: Antonio leaned closer and saw she had four large chocolate-dipped strawberries. They looked professionally made. “These are the ones Serenity made?” “Yep. Gorgeous, aren’t they? If she retired from nursing today, she’d give Ms. Ida’s a run for her money.” She bit into one and snaked her tongue out to catch the juice. The sight instantly aroused him, and he had to turn away. “These are my weakness. It’s like the perfect pairing.” She held out the container. “Here, try one. Oh, and don’t forget these have been soaked in champagne.” “Are you sure? I know you already had to give most of them to your clients.” “I’m sure. I usually don’t share them,” she said laughingly, “but you offered to buy me more, so I’ll make an exception. This time.” Antonio chuckled and reached for one covered in milk chocolate. “I appreciate your generosity.” He bit into it, chewed for a moment, and had to admit she was right about it being the perfect pairing. The subtle champagne taste took it over the top. “Okay, these are good. I’ve never had them with the alcohol.” He polished off the rest in two bites. “You should taste the ones in whiskey. They’re potent, but oh so good.” Natasha took another bite. This time a small piece of white chocolate lingered at the corner of her mouth.
“Enough about Antonio and me. What’re all these fabulous creations that smell so heavenly?” Thankfully, her friends took the hint and let the subject drop. “I kind of liked the appetizer theme we did last year and wanted to do it again.” Serenity pointed as she spoke. “We have two kinds of bruschetta—chicken, bacon, and ranch, and beef tenderloin with caramelized onions and mushrooms—pastry-wrapped asparagus with Parmesan, spinach dip with sliced baguette, and shrimp cocktail. Of course, dessert will include those strawberries and chocolate cups.”
“Not for two or three weeks. Dana’s out of town, and she pretty much threatened me if I had it without her. But when she returns, I’m thinking of doing an old Sunday dinner theme—fried pork chops, macaroni and cheese, candied yams, and collard greens,” Serenity said. Natasha pointed her fork Serenity’s way. “If you’re making greens, I know there had better be some hot-water cornbread with it. Antonio, I’m telling you it’s to die for. So crunchy on the outside, tender inside… So good.” “Girl, you know I got you. You just can’t eat all of it.” “Hey, you snooze, you lose.” She bit into a rib and hummed because it was so good.
She held it out to him, and he bit into it. The flavors exploded on his tongue. “You’re right. This one is a little more potent, but it’s so good.” Natasha polished off the rest and reached for another one. “See, I told you. It’s the perfect pairing.” She let him take the first bite, then finished it. “I agree. Just like us.” A shy smile played around the corners of her gorgeous lips. “Yeah, like us.”
My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🍓🥂🏠🏗👩🏿❤️👨🏾
My thoughts:🔖Page 32 of 326 CHAPTER 4 - I don't know why it is not listed as such, this is definitely a series. It has everything you need to be a series ¹same town, ²same characters, ³same club, ³continues where the previous book stopped, and has updates.
🔖88 CHAPTER 9 - This is better than what I remember of Book 1. It's worth losing sleep over. Hopefully, I'll be done before bedtime.
🔖107 CHAPTER 11 - Gurl!!! Everything about this story is awesome except for the reason she dropped him 15 years ago. Communication needs a break from these romance stories, find a new scapegoat already.
🔖143 CHAPTER 15 - I rather hear about the food over the romance.
🔖194 CHAPTER 20 - This little girl is a mess.
This was better than the first book, which I gave 5 stars, I don’t know why I put off reading this gem. The story was fantastic I want to be a part of this supper club. The recipes at the end of the book were the exact ones that I wanted.
Recommend to others: Yes! This is a nearly perfect culinary small-town romance.
Firefly Lake
1. A Table for Two (2022)
2. A Perfect Pairing (2023)
3. A Promise of Forever (2025)
Firefly Lake #2
+326-page Kindle Ebook story pages 1-322
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Featuring: Fictional Small-Town Northern California, Realtor, Characters From Previous Book, Supper Club, Food, Girlfriends, Second Chance Trope - High School Sweethearts/Exes, Homecoming Trope, Forced Proximity Trope, Workplace Setting, Home Renovations, Divorcé, Sex-Detailed, Gossip, Ambitions, Recipes - Shortcut Peach Cobbler, Hot-Water Cornbread
Rating as a movie: NC-17 for sexual content
Songs for the soundtrack: "Good Time" by Leela James, "Fly As Me" by Silk Sonic, "At Last" by Etta James, "Forever In Love" by Kenny G., "Brown Skin" by India.Arie, "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star" by Jane Taylor, "This Little Light of Mine" by Harry Dixon Loes, "If Only for One Night" by Luther Vandross, "Let's Groove" by Earth, Wind & Fire, "Rock With You" by Michael Jackson
Memorable Quotes: Antonio leaned closer and saw she had four large chocolate-dipped strawberries. They looked professionally made. “These are the ones Serenity made?” “Yep. Gorgeous, aren’t they? If she retired from nursing today, she’d give Ms. Ida’s a run for her money.” She bit into one and snaked her tongue out to catch the juice. The sight instantly aroused him, and he had to turn away. “These are my weakness. It’s like the perfect pairing.” She held out the container. “Here, try one. Oh, and don’t forget these have been soaked in champagne.” “Are you sure? I know you already had to give most of them to your clients.” “I’m sure. I usually don’t share them,” she said laughingly, “but you offered to buy me more, so I’ll make an exception. This time.” Antonio chuckled and reached for one covered in milk chocolate. “I appreciate your generosity.” He bit into it, chewed for a moment, and had to admit she was right about it being the perfect pairing. The subtle champagne taste took it over the top. “Okay, these are good. I’ve never had them with the alcohol.” He polished off the rest in two bites. “You should taste the ones in whiskey. They’re potent, but oh so good.” Natasha took another bite. This time a small piece of white chocolate lingered at the corner of her mouth.
“Enough about Antonio and me. What’re all these fabulous creations that smell so heavenly?” Thankfully, her friends took the hint and let the subject drop. “I kind of liked the appetizer theme we did last year and wanted to do it again.” Serenity pointed as she spoke. “We have two kinds of bruschetta—chicken, bacon, and ranch, and beef tenderloin with caramelized onions and mushrooms—pastry-wrapped asparagus with Parmesan, spinach dip with sliced baguette, and shrimp cocktail. Of course, dessert will include those strawberries and chocolate cups.”
“Not for two or three weeks. Dana’s out of town, and she pretty much threatened me if I had it without her. But when she returns, I’m thinking of doing an old Sunday dinner theme—fried pork chops, macaroni and cheese, candied yams, and collard greens,” Serenity said. Natasha pointed her fork Serenity’s way. “If you’re making greens, I know there had better be some hot-water cornbread with it. Antonio, I’m telling you it’s to die for. So crunchy on the outside, tender inside… So good.” “Girl, you know I got you. You just can’t eat all of it.” “Hey, you snooze, you lose.” She bit into a rib and hummed because it was so good.
She held it out to him, and he bit into it. The flavors exploded on his tongue. “You’re right. This one is a little more potent, but it’s so good.” Natasha polished off the rest and reached for another one. “See, I told you. It’s the perfect pairing.” She let him take the first bite, then finished it. “I agree. Just like us.” A shy smile played around the corners of her gorgeous lips. “Yeah, like us.”
My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🍓🥂🏠🏗👩🏿❤️👨🏾
My thoughts:🔖Page 32 of 326 CHAPTER 4 - I don't know why it is not listed as such, this is definitely a series. It has everything you need to be a series ¹same town, ²same characters, ³same club, ³continues where the previous book stopped, and has updates.
🔖88 CHAPTER 9 - This is better than what I remember of Book 1. It's worth losing sleep over. Hopefully, I'll be done before bedtime.
🔖107 CHAPTER 11 - Gurl!!! Everything about this story is awesome except for the reason she dropped him 15 years ago. Communication needs a break from these romance stories, find a new scapegoat already.
🔖143 CHAPTER 15 - I rather hear about the food over the romance.
🔖194 CHAPTER 20 - This little girl is a mess.
This was better than the first book, which I gave 5 stars, I don’t know why I put off reading this gem. The story was fantastic I want to be a part of this supper club. The recipes at the end of the book were the exact ones that I wanted.
Recommend to others: Yes! This is a nearly perfect culinary small-town romance.
Firefly Lake
1. A Table for Two (2022)
2. A Perfect Pairing (2023)
3. A Promise of Forever (2025)
June 1, 2023
I received a free copy of, A Perfect Pairing, by Sheryl Lister, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Natasha is a realtor in Firefly Lake, she is happy until she has to work with her ex Antonio., the one who got away. Will they be able to work together stress free? This is a delightful story of Natasha and Antonio.
July 28, 2023
A very nice small town, second chance romance. Natasha Baldwin loves being a successful realtor in her hometown of Firefly Lake. She has a passion for interior design but selling houses pays her bills. By being the top realtor at her company she gets to be the exclusive lister for some new condos that are going to be built. She just doesn’t expect her old boyfriend Antonio Hayes is going to be the builder. Antonio has made money working in finance in NYC and has now returned to his hometown to be near family. When his uncle, who own the construction company, wants to retire and is giving Antonio the business. Now he is going to have to get along with Natasha her dropped him with a letter during their first year in college.
This is sweet, has heat and nice side characters. It was great for a summer afternoon read. The difference in ratings for me often is if I connect emotionally with characters or am I moved to laughter or tears during the story. This didn’t connect today for me emotionally but I enjoyed the story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review. (3.5 Stars)
This is sweet, has heat and nice side characters. It was great for a summer afternoon read. The difference in ratings for me often is if I connect emotionally with characters or am I moved to laughter or tears during the story. This didn’t connect today for me emotionally but I enjoyed the story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review. (3.5 Stars)
August 21, 2023
I love a second chance romance, especially when it involves a first love, so I really wanted to like this one more than I did. I did not like that there were some underlying tones of misogyny with the ex wife character being portrayed as a power and money hungry woman while the main love interest was being portrayed as a small town girl who is down to earth and “not like other girls”. There is a quote in the book where the female main character literally says: Some women are so ridiculous. It felt very odd to have the misogynist undertones with the ex wife character, but then the author also has the female main character as a girl’s girl with a group of close friends. I also just felt the dialogue was forced a lot of the time, and the story felt forced too. The conflicts that came up just didn’t feel super organic to me. I finished this whole book because I really wanted it to get better for me but just never did. The one thing I did like about this book was the descriptions of food, and the recipes included in the back, but the misogyny, forced dialogue and stilted plot just didn’t work for me at all.
August 28, 2023
A sweet romance with a slight bit of spice telling the story of a second chance romance. High school to college sweethearts who ended in heartbreak find themselves working closely together after many years apart. They have lived more, lost more and are more mature. Are they strong enough to get over the heartbreak from years past or will they continue on the path of loneliness and work? The characters were wonderfully compelling and drew you into their story. I was cheering them on from the beginning and am hopeful that we'll get to visit them again in future stories as this author wove a compelling group of characters that could easily allow one of the other friends to step into the limelight as main character. If you know me at all, you know that I am a series addict so would love to come back to visit this world again and again!
February 18, 2024
Second chance is my holy grail trope. Give me second chance and small town you’re almost guaranteed to be a hit for me and I adored this book! It’s soft girl era, gentle love personified.
Antonio is chef’s kiss perfection. I am absolutely sold on the fact that he’d do anything for Natasha! The lake, Ms. Velda’s house, the names in the tree, the necklace with his promise ring. Ugh I was swooning. Even as adults they had an innocence to their love that I really enjoyed. Finding their way back after heartbreak without the long, drawn out, unnecessary drama. Just two grown people talking about the past, offering up forgiveness, and moving on. They’re both smart, ambitious, patient. I just can’t say enough about how much I enjoyed this one.
I loved the supper club, the romance, ugh and Noelle! A Perfect Pairing is for you when you’re in the mood for a feel good read. The love story was sensitive and passionate plus the imagery was on point the whole way through!
Antonio is chef’s kiss perfection. I am absolutely sold on the fact that he’d do anything for Natasha! The lake, Ms. Velda’s house, the names in the tree, the necklace with his promise ring. Ugh I was swooning. Even as adults they had an innocence to their love that I really enjoyed. Finding their way back after heartbreak without the long, drawn out, unnecessary drama. Just two grown people talking about the past, offering up forgiveness, and moving on. They’re both smart, ambitious, patient. I just can’t say enough about how much I enjoyed this one.
I loved the supper club, the romance, ugh and Noelle! A Perfect Pairing is for you when you’re in the mood for a feel good read. The love story was sensitive and passionate plus the imagery was on point the whole way through!
October 5, 2023
2.5 stars. This was fine but honestly I was bored out of my mind and found myself really skimming. The premise of this book is that 2 exes have to come back together to work on a new construction project. She's a realtor/interior designer, he's taking over his grandpa's construction company so boom- back together. They hate each other for about 4 seconds because of prior hurts, then magically they decide to try after so many years. I hate when stories flip on a dime and I didn't feel any chemistry. This got a little steamier than I like but its relatively mild. I just felt no connection to the characters and most of them were pretty flat. The female friendship element is severely lacking and this was definitely just okay.
August 8, 2023
Tasha is looking forward to showing everyone what she can do when it come to interior design. She has always dreamed of making this her career and it looks like that dream might just be coming true. The shine dulls a bit when she learns that she will have to work with her ex on this new dream project. The two didn't work out and both harbor bitter feelings toward each other. She doesn't want this opportunity to pass her by though so she knows the two must have a serious talk. Follow along and find out if the once lovers can leave the past behind and move forward. Will past hurts win or will the two realize that they belong together?
January 26, 2024
A perfect pairing indeed 🤭
Natasha & Antonio were so adorable! This gives you all the sappy sweet hallmark movie vibes. A small town + forced proximity with childhood exes, sign me up. The town was gossiping and getting their lives as they cheered on this relationship (and maybe made a few bets to boot).
The friends & family dynamics were top tier as well. I loved how they shown up for their loved ones. Antonio’s grandfather who has Alzheimer’s really touched a special place in my heart 💜 Tonio’s grandparents deserved it all.
“If we’re fortunate, we grow into adulthood and get a second chance to do things right.”
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this ARC. All thoughts are my own.
Natasha & Antonio were so adorable! This gives you all the sappy sweet hallmark movie vibes. A small town + forced proximity with childhood exes, sign me up. The town was gossiping and getting their lives as they cheered on this relationship (and maybe made a few bets to boot).
The friends & family dynamics were top tier as well. I loved how they shown up for their loved ones. Antonio’s grandfather who has Alzheimer’s really touched a special place in my heart 💜 Tonio’s grandparents deserved it all.
“If we’re fortunate, we grow into adulthood and get a second chance to do things right.”
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this ARC. All thoughts are my own.
August 4, 2023
I had to wear a bib while reading because I was drooling over Antonio!
The man was so sweet and his words were like molten lava, pouring over the pages.
Natasha made a young dumb mistake but she has second chance with the man who captured her heart years before.
Besides Antonio, my favorite character was Grandma Nora! Her smack down during the dinner scene was classic!
Add the nosy town and the supportive friends and it’s an enrapturing read.
I didn’t come up for air until the final page.
Thanks to NetGalley and Forever for the early copies.
The man was so sweet and his words were like molten lava, pouring over the pages.
Natasha made a young dumb mistake but she has second chance with the man who captured her heart years before.
Besides Antonio, my favorite character was Grandma Nora! Her smack down during the dinner scene was classic!
Add the nosy town and the supportive friends and it’s an enrapturing read.
I didn’t come up for air until the final page.
Thanks to NetGalley and Forever for the early copies.
August 8, 2023
This was such a sweet, low stakes romance. I say low stakes because while there was drama, it was nothing extreme and there was no drawn out third act breakup. 🙌🏾 It was the perfect palette cleanser and summer read.
Read if you enjoy:
💖 small town
💖 second chance
💖 forced proximity
💖 close friend groups
Thank you to @readforeverpub for an early copy! All opinions are my own.
Read if you enjoy:
💖 small town
💖 second chance
💖 forced proximity
💖 close friend groups
Thank you to @readforeverpub for an early copy! All opinions are my own.
June 18, 2023
Thanks Netgalley for allowing me to read this book. Natasha loves her job but is excited with a new opportunity. The only issue is that she will be working with Antonio. This was a good book.
August 4, 2023
All I am going to say is run and get your copy of this must read. Just look at that cover.
August 10, 2023
I enjoy a good second-chance romance. Give me a couple who were once teenage sweethearts everyone in town was sure would marry but now, several years later, are enemies forced to work together? Now that is my kind of complication.
I love multi-layered characters who obviously belong together but have years of emotional baggage between them to first overcome. I appreciated the gradual pace Lister set for these two. Their relationship journey felt realistic and relatable. The underlying desire between them was obvious but not rushed. I liked the way they communicated, once Antonio got over himself and started to listen. Both had been very young when they broke up the first time. Their feelings were genuine but a whole lot of growth and communication was necessary - even after reuniting - before they could move forward. I really did love the communication in their story.
I adored Antonio's grandmother, her unabashed matchmaking, and the poignant direction her part of the story took. Antonio's relationship with her and the lengths he went to in his quest to help both her and the community spoke volumes about his values as well as the goodness of his heart and endeared him to Natasha (and me) even more.
Natasha and her tight group of friends are so important to these books. Their support of one another is friendship goals and their regular (homemade) dinners at Serenity's Supper Club had me drooling more than a few times. I'm looking forward to trying some of the included recipes, especially the Hot-Water Cornbread. My taste buds are dancing just thinking about it!
If you enjoy charming small towns with a host of good-hearted but meddling characters, matchmaking grannies, a close-knit group of friends, drool-worthy food, and heart-tugging romance, I recommend giving Sheryl Lister's A Perfect Pairing as well as the first Firefly Lake book, A Table for Two a try. I enthusiastically recommend both.
*ARC received from publisher via NetGalley. Fair and unbiased review.
I love multi-layered characters who obviously belong together but have years of emotional baggage between them to first overcome. I appreciated the gradual pace Lister set for these two. Their relationship journey felt realistic and relatable. The underlying desire between them was obvious but not rushed. I liked the way they communicated, once Antonio got over himself and started to listen. Both had been very young when they broke up the first time. Their feelings were genuine but a whole lot of growth and communication was necessary - even after reuniting - before they could move forward. I really did love the communication in their story.
I adored Antonio's grandmother, her unabashed matchmaking, and the poignant direction her part of the story took. Antonio's relationship with her and the lengths he went to in his quest to help both her and the community spoke volumes about his values as well as the goodness of his heart and endeared him to Natasha (and me) even more.
Natasha and her tight group of friends are so important to these books. Their support of one another is friendship goals and their regular (homemade) dinners at Serenity's Supper Club had me drooling more than a few times. I'm looking forward to trying some of the included recipes, especially the Hot-Water Cornbread. My taste buds are dancing just thinking about it!
If you enjoy charming small towns with a host of good-hearted but meddling characters, matchmaking grannies, a close-knit group of friends, drool-worthy food, and heart-tugging romance, I recommend giving Sheryl Lister's A Perfect Pairing as well as the first Firefly Lake book, A Table for Two a try. I enthusiastically recommend both.
*ARC received from publisher via NetGalley. Fair and unbiased review.
June 3, 2023
Ms. Lister is one of my favorite authors and I am always excited to read her work. "A Perfect Pairing," by Sheryl Lister is so amazingly good. I was so in love with "A Table for Two" and the Supper Club members, so I knew Natasha story would be amazing. The pairing of a lost love with her personality was a mixture I didn't know I needed.
Natasha and Antonio were high school sweethearts. Throughout the story, it shows that it was a truly genuine and pure love that could grow into forever. Sadly it ends when they go off to college. When we are young it is so easy to let people get in our heads and cause issues in relationships due immaturity and insecurities.
Many years pass by and Antonio moves back home. Antonio coming back to town was just what Natasha needed. He is such a grouch to her and she knows she hurt him, but feels her should be past it. She definitely needed him to move past it when they start working together.
Overall I love Antonio's character and what he brings. He is an amazing guy, godson, brother, son, UNCLE, and Grandson.
Proximity helps them to open up and talk about what went wrong. The rekindling was instantaneous and I loved it. The towns input and shenanigans was hilarious. But, it shows everyone knew they were meant to be.
I enjoyed catching up with the town's people, but the visit from the Hunter's was a special treat. Serenity and Gabe's surprise was awesome too!! Even though there were hiccups along the journey, per romantic drama goes, it was well worth the ending.
This was a quick and easy read. I was happy for the sweetness, shock factor, and comedy along the way, but loved to see that true love always prevail!! This amazing title hasn't even been released and I'm already ready for the next one.
Thank you Ms. Lister, Forever Publishing, and Netgalley for this amazing ARC in exchange for my humble and honest review.
Natasha and Antonio were high school sweethearts. Throughout the story, it shows that it was a truly genuine and pure love that could grow into forever. Sadly it ends when they go off to college. When we are young it is so easy to let people get in our heads and cause issues in relationships due immaturity and insecurities.
Many years pass by and Antonio moves back home. Antonio coming back to town was just what Natasha needed. He is such a grouch to her and she knows she hurt him, but feels her should be past it. She definitely needed him to move past it when they start working together.
Overall I love Antonio's character and what he brings. He is an amazing guy, godson, brother, son, UNCLE, and Grandson.
Proximity helps them to open up and talk about what went wrong. The rekindling was instantaneous and I loved it. The towns input and shenanigans was hilarious. But, it shows everyone knew they were meant to be.
I enjoyed catching up with the town's people, but the visit from the Hunter's was a special treat. Serenity and Gabe's surprise was awesome too!! Even though there were hiccups along the journey, per romantic drama goes, it was well worth the ending.
This was a quick and easy read. I was happy for the sweetness, shock factor, and comedy along the way, but loved to see that true love always prevail!! This amazing title hasn't even been released and I'm already ready for the next one.
Thank you Ms. Lister, Forever Publishing, and Netgalley for this amazing ARC in exchange for my humble and honest review.
August 7, 2023
Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Publication date: August 8, 2023
A Perfect Pairing is the second novel in the Firefly Lake series by Sheryl Lister. I was provided a copy of the first book last year and was so pleased to be continuing this small town story.
Natasha Baldwin is the top Realtor in her small town of Firefly Lake. The small town she grew up in, now lives and works and spends time with a great group of friends. The only smudge on her past is the guy that got away.
Antonio Hayes is tired of the NYC business life. Working 50-60 hour work weeks, avoiding his ex wife and missing his hometown. Antonio, once the small town basketball hero, head back home to take over his uncle construction company and build a life in Firefly Lake. If only he could avoid his high school sweetheart, the one who broke his heart years ago.
Natasha and Antonio are forced to work together on a large construction project. At first things are extremely tense and it’s not clear if these two will be able to clear the air and manage to work together on the project.
After calling an unsteady truce, Natasha and Antonio realize the actually work really well together. There is also no denying the clear attraction between them.
What happens when the one that got away is standing right in front of you? Can Natasha and Antonio get over the past and plan a future together?
I really enjoyed Natasha and Antonio’s story. This was similar to the first book in that there was no misunderstanding that causes angst for a good portion of the book. It’s a bit predictable but the supporting characters and the clear chemistry between the two main characters made this a 4 star read for me. This one is a bit spicier than the first one if I recall but not outrageously so.
#NetGalley #aperfectpairing #sheryllister
Publication date: August 8, 2023
A Perfect Pairing is the second novel in the Firefly Lake series by Sheryl Lister. I was provided a copy of the first book last year and was so pleased to be continuing this small town story.
Natasha Baldwin is the top Realtor in her small town of Firefly Lake. The small town she grew up in, now lives and works and spends time with a great group of friends. The only smudge on her past is the guy that got away.
Antonio Hayes is tired of the NYC business life. Working 50-60 hour work weeks, avoiding his ex wife and missing his hometown. Antonio, once the small town basketball hero, head back home to take over his uncle construction company and build a life in Firefly Lake. If only he could avoid his high school sweetheart, the one who broke his heart years ago.
Natasha and Antonio are forced to work together on a large construction project. At first things are extremely tense and it’s not clear if these two will be able to clear the air and manage to work together on the project.
After calling an unsteady truce, Natasha and Antonio realize the actually work really well together. There is also no denying the clear attraction between them.
What happens when the one that got away is standing right in front of you? Can Natasha and Antonio get over the past and plan a future together?
I really enjoyed Natasha and Antonio’s story. This was similar to the first book in that there was no misunderstanding that causes angst for a good portion of the book. It’s a bit predictable but the supporting characters and the clear chemistry between the two main characters made this a 4 star read for me. This one is a bit spicier than the first one if I recall but not outrageously so.
#NetGalley #aperfectpairing #sheryllister
February 2, 2024
Book Review: A Perfect Pairing
Stars: 4 x 5
Author: Sheryl Lister @sheryllister
Publisher:. @foreverbooks
Thank you @netgalley for this ARC.
Natasha and Antonio were going to get married after college. They had been together since high school. The marriage did not happen as Natasha broke it off because Antonio’s distant college led to her having many question and insecurities.
As a few years have passed, Natasha is now a successful Realtor in their hometown of Firelake. She finished college with a degree in interior design. Natasha’s company has the listing for some new condominiums being built. Little did she know that Antonio would be the builder on this project. Antonio was living in NYC and working in finance but his uncle wants to retire and the business to Antonio which is why he has come home. Antonio’s uncle is going to teach him all he needs to know for the business. Natasha is set to meet with Antonio as the project builder. As their worlds collide again will they be able to make a go of it again or will they drop it? Will this be a second change romance or will the past be to much to get over.
What sweet cozy second chance romance this book was. It has a bit of everything, love, friendship, turmoil, spiciness etc. The characters were wonderful and very like able just as all the supporting characters and the townsfold.
#aperfectpairing #bibliophile #aperfectparingbook #romance
#bookstagram #instabook #bookphotography #bookporn #igbooks #ilovereading #bookhaul #bookhoarder #bookaddiction #bookstoread #whattoread #fortheloveofbooks #bookblogging #bookpics #weekendreads #bookrecs #booknerdproblems #bookpictures #bookstagram #amreading #booksbooksbooks #instablog #booknerds #bookphotos #bibliophile
Stars: 4 x 5
Author: Sheryl Lister @sheryllister
Publisher:. @foreverbooks
Thank you @netgalley for this ARC.
Natasha and Antonio were going to get married after college. They had been together since high school. The marriage did not happen as Natasha broke it off because Antonio’s distant college led to her having many question and insecurities.
As a few years have passed, Natasha is now a successful Realtor in their hometown of Firelake. She finished college with a degree in interior design. Natasha’s company has the listing for some new condominiums being built. Little did she know that Antonio would be the builder on this project. Antonio was living in NYC and working in finance but his uncle wants to retire and the business to Antonio which is why he has come home. Antonio’s uncle is going to teach him all he needs to know for the business. Natasha is set to meet with Antonio as the project builder. As their worlds collide again will they be able to make a go of it again or will they drop it? Will this be a second change romance or will the past be to much to get over.
What sweet cozy second chance romance this book was. It has a bit of everything, love, friendship, turmoil, spiciness etc. The characters were wonderful and very like able just as all the supporting characters and the townsfold.
#aperfectpairing #bibliophile #aperfectparingbook #romance
#bookstagram #instabook #bookphotography #bookporn #igbooks #ilovereading #bookhaul #bookhoarder #bookaddiction #bookstoread #whattoread #fortheloveofbooks #bookblogging #bookpics #weekendreads #bookrecs #booknerdproblems #bookpictures #bookstagram #amreading #booksbooksbooks #instablog #booknerds #bookphotos #bibliophile
August 1, 2023
We are back in idyllic Firefly Lake, California, and this time the wonderfully talented Sheryl Lister captivates her readers in another engaging story that is centered around second chance love, and the love of mouth-watering, good food shared with friends. The couple highlighted in this story is Natasha Baldwin and Antonio Hayes. Natasha is the top realtor in Firefly Lake, and Antonio Hayes, takes over the reality company where Natasha works. This reunion of former sweethearts is not very pleasant at first. There are a lot of hard and unforgiving feelings that are still present. Yet, the couple must put their personal feelings aside to get the job done for a special town project.
To help make this story so special is the appearance of Cedric and Lorenzo Hunter (The Hunters of Sacramento) and Malcolm Gray (Grays of Los Angeles) who lend their support and cash to the Firefly Lake project. Great connection! The Epilogue is a perfect HEA for our “perfect pair” and comes with a new house. You’ll get that when you read the story. One more thing. When you read this story, makes sure you have a snack nearby. The food is to die for! The recipes at the end are a bonus addition to the book.
I enjoyed this entertaining second chance at love story set in one of my favorite fictional towns, Firefly Lake. Mouth-watering food, sweet, passionate love, and an awesome cast of characters, all blend together to make an engrossing, memorable story. I recommend A PERFECT PAIRING for your reading pleasure. It’s a great summer read.
To help make this story so special is the appearance of Cedric and Lorenzo Hunter (The Hunters of Sacramento) and Malcolm Gray (Grays of Los Angeles) who lend their support and cash to the Firefly Lake project. Great connection! The Epilogue is a perfect HEA for our “perfect pair” and comes with a new house. You’ll get that when you read the story. One more thing. When you read this story, makes sure you have a snack nearby. The food is to die for! The recipes at the end are a bonus addition to the book.
I enjoyed this entertaining second chance at love story set in one of my favorite fictional towns, Firefly Lake. Mouth-watering food, sweet, passionate love, and an awesome cast of characters, all blend together to make an engrossing, memorable story. I recommend A PERFECT PAIRING for your reading pleasure. It’s a great summer read.
August 8, 2023
Natasha Baldwin has always had a passion for interior design, but until her business takes off, she is a realtor in her hometown of Firefly Lake. She loves her life and being close to her best friends. When she is approached to sell a house that she has fond memories of, she wishes she could buy it herself but settles for helping to fix it up and find the perfect family. Everything is on course until her ex comes back to town. Not only is he staying, he now is running the only contractor company in town. How is Natasha going to keep her cool and her feelings to herself when he is the only man she has ever loved?
Antonio is back in Firefly Lake and is at a crossroads. He has spent years in finance and needs a break. When an old family friend offers him his construction company, Antonio quickly accepts as building things has always been his passion. When he finds out he will be working along side Natasha, things get complicated quickly. Can he keep their relationship strictly business or will his feelings for her ruin it all?
I adored this novel by Sheryl Lister and loved Natasha’s and Antonio’s story. It was also fun to revisit the characters from the first novel in the series, A Table for Two. I would love to join them for their supper club dinners and hang out with them all. The story is fun, full of small town antics, friendship and second chances. My thanks to Forever Publishing for my advanced copy which I voluntarily read and reviewed. If you are looking for a sweet small town romance series, this is the one for you.
Antonio is back in Firefly Lake and is at a crossroads. He has spent years in finance and needs a break. When an old family friend offers him his construction company, Antonio quickly accepts as building things has always been his passion. When he finds out he will be working along side Natasha, things get complicated quickly. Can he keep their relationship strictly business or will his feelings for her ruin it all?
I adored this novel by Sheryl Lister and loved Natasha’s and Antonio’s story. It was also fun to revisit the characters from the first novel in the series, A Table for Two. I would love to join them for their supper club dinners and hang out with them all. The story is fun, full of small town antics, friendship and second chances. My thanks to Forever Publishing for my advanced copy which I voluntarily read and reviewed. If you are looking for a sweet small town romance series, this is the one for you.
August 5, 2023
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley and am voluntarily posting a review. All opinions are my own.
A Perfect Pairing continues Sheryl Lister’s small-town Supper Club romances (although I haven’t seen them billed as an official series anywhere, and the books work as standalones). And while I found the first one a bit underwhelming, this one was an improvement. The things I enjoyed remained consistent, like the friendships among the community in town and the cozy, idyllic setting, but I found myself much more invested in the romance.
Natasha and Antonio were high school sweethearts whose relationship ended on a bad note years ago. This story grasps the appeal of the second-chance romance, with both Natasha and Antonio having grown and matured since this high-school relationship, while still carrying a torch for each other. The time that has passed allows them to address what went wrong between them, even if there are some wounds, especially on his end…however, they never felt like they were unjustified or petty. And I loved how they ultimately also helped each other accomplish their career goals, with Natasha being a realtor with a passion for interior design, and Antonio being in construction.
This was a solid read, and I’m now looking forward to the next installment. If you’re looking for a lighthearted small-town second-chance romance, I’d recommend checking this one out!
A Perfect Pairing continues Sheryl Lister’s small-town Supper Club romances (although I haven’t seen them billed as an official series anywhere, and the books work as standalones). And while I found the first one a bit underwhelming, this one was an improvement. The things I enjoyed remained consistent, like the friendships among the community in town and the cozy, idyllic setting, but I found myself much more invested in the romance.
Natasha and Antonio were high school sweethearts whose relationship ended on a bad note years ago. This story grasps the appeal of the second-chance romance, with both Natasha and Antonio having grown and matured since this high-school relationship, while still carrying a torch for each other. The time that has passed allows them to address what went wrong between them, even if there are some wounds, especially on his end…however, they never felt like they were unjustified or petty. And I loved how they ultimately also helped each other accomplish their career goals, with Natasha being a realtor with a passion for interior design, and Antonio being in construction.
This was a solid read, and I’m now looking forward to the next installment. If you’re looking for a lighthearted small-town second-chance romance, I’d recommend checking this one out!
August 5, 2023
Natasha Baldwin is a realtor in her hometown of Firefly Lake. While she's very successful at her job, her real passion lies in interior design. There are some new condos that are being built in town and because of the success she's had at selling, she gets the opportunity to be the lister. Little does she know that a huge part of her past is about to come back into her life.
Antonio Hayes had been living in New York City working in finance where he was very successful, but he made the decision to move back home to be closer to his family. He's now going to be running the construction company that his uncle has owned previously since he's going to retire. The project he's going to be working on is the new condos in town, which means that he's going to have to work with the one person that broke his heart.
Natasha and Antonio had been in a serious relationship and had plans to spend the rest of their lives together until Natasha decided to end their relationship during their first year in college. Now the two of them are going to have to figure out how to work together on this very large and important project. Can they figure out how to do that? Will there still be sparks, and if so, can they make something work now?
This was a good second-chance, small-town romance and one that I would recommend picking up!
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
Antonio Hayes had been living in New York City working in finance where he was very successful, but he made the decision to move back home to be closer to his family. He's now going to be running the construction company that his uncle has owned previously since he's going to retire. The project he's going to be working on is the new condos in town, which means that he's going to have to work with the one person that broke his heart.
Natasha and Antonio had been in a serious relationship and had plans to spend the rest of their lives together until Natasha decided to end their relationship during their first year in college. Now the two of them are going to have to figure out how to work together on this very large and important project. Can they figure out how to do that? Will there still be sparks, and if so, can they make something work now?
This was a good second-chance, small-town romance and one that I would recommend picking up!
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
August 16, 2023
The hero and the heroine in this Sheryl Lister book were high school sweethearts. The end of that relationship didn't bring the closure that the couple needed, so years went by with the hero not wanting to be near the heroine whenever they meet. At the present time, the two are residing at their hometown, with the heroine as a successful career woman and the hero taking over his godfather's company. When they finally have the closure that they needed, there remains the close feelings they still have for each other. They began a romantic relationship, but they still face some personal issues to overcome before they have their happy ending.
This is the second Sheryl Lister book that I read. It features a wonderful Supper Club sisterhood and a heartwarming small-town setting. I enjoyed the strong successful characters that the couple have become, and there is a strong community vibe in this book. I always enjoyed a friends-to-lovers trope, and I can definitely feel it in the couple in this second-chance story. This book doesn't involve a lot of angst, yet it would have been nice if certain conversations were extended for better resolutions that would make the story not drag a bit in those areas of the book. Overall, an enjoyable Sheryl Lister book and I look forward to reading more of this series in the future.
** Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the revew copy. All opinions and thoughts in the review are my own. **
This is the second Sheryl Lister book that I read. It features a wonderful Supper Club sisterhood and a heartwarming small-town setting. I enjoyed the strong successful characters that the couple have become, and there is a strong community vibe in this book. I always enjoyed a friends-to-lovers trope, and I can definitely feel it in the couple in this second-chance story. This book doesn't involve a lot of angst, yet it would have been nice if certain conversations were extended for better resolutions that would make the story not drag a bit in those areas of the book. Overall, an enjoyable Sheryl Lister book and I look forward to reading more of this series in the future.
** Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the revew copy. All opinions and thoughts in the review are my own. **
August 8, 2023
I'm in my small town era and I'm loving it! Especially when I get to visit Firefly Lake again. Natasha is loving her life. She's a realtor and interior designer and just won the opportunity to work on the town's new condominium complex. Until she hears that she will be working with her former high school sweetheart Antonio. Going to different colleges put a strain on their relationship that led to Tasha ending things. Some of it was due to misunderstanding and miscommunication. The time apart nothing to their chemistry and attraction. After some awkward moments the two are able to work together to renovate and style the Ward home for sale as well as work on the plans for the condo complex. Soon they fall into a rhythm that puts aside the misgivings they had as young adults and embark on a journey to mend their relationship. The townspeople of Firefly Lake are like all other small town residents--meddling busybodies. But it's hard to be angry for too long because they just want that HEA for Antonio and Tasha. These two had some growing up to do and learning how to communicate their thoughts and feelings with each other. It was great to catch up with the characters from "A Table for Two" and see the supper club continue to bring Serenity, Tasha, and their friends together time and again.
I received an advancy copy of this book at my request and voluntarily left this review.
I received an advancy copy of this book at my request and voluntarily left this review.
August 1, 2023
It was my first Sheryl Lister book, and I enjoyed it.
Antonio Hayes has moved back to his hometown and reunited with his first love Natasha Baldwin. They were once the ‘it’ couple and the money was on them to get there getting happy ever after. It was not to be, but maybe they will get it this time. Natasha is in real estate and has a degree in design and Antonio has taken over his godfather’s construction business and the mayor has chosen them to be the team to work on a project together to build a new condominium complex in the town. Can they work together and put their past in the past and build a new beginning? With the town behind them and family and friends behind them, they have a chance.
This was my first book by Sheryl Lister and I enjoyed it. The couple and the town are wonderful, and I loved the family and close friendships the two had. I especially loved the relationship between Antonio and his grandmother. There was lots of humor and happy times and some very passionate and lovely moments too. On a whole the story will leave you with a warm feeling, and you might need a tissue or two while reading it.
I received a copy of this book through the publisher and Netgalley
Antonio Hayes has moved back to his hometown and reunited with his first love Natasha Baldwin. They were once the ‘it’ couple and the money was on them to get there getting happy ever after. It was not to be, but maybe they will get it this time. Natasha is in real estate and has a degree in design and Antonio has taken over his godfather’s construction business and the mayor has chosen them to be the team to work on a project together to build a new condominium complex in the town. Can they work together and put their past in the past and build a new beginning? With the town behind them and family and friends behind them, they have a chance.
This was my first book by Sheryl Lister and I enjoyed it. The couple and the town are wonderful, and I loved the family and close friendships the two had. I especially loved the relationship between Antonio and his grandmother. There was lots of humor and happy times and some very passionate and lovely moments too. On a whole the story will leave you with a warm feeling, and you might need a tissue or two while reading it.
I received a copy of this book through the publisher and Netgalley
August 6, 2023
Sweet and beautiful second chance romance in a small town
For readers who like small-town romance and second chances, you must read this book. It was poignant, a little naughty and a lot wonderful. The author has spoken in an authentic ethnic voice in her characters, Natasha and Antonio along with all their friends and family. The word pictures are fantastic and compelling. I cried right along with Tasha in chapter 31. This book puts Ms. Lister on my want-to-read-more booklist.
Natasha is happy with her life although she has regrets, one of which has just come home to live, her former boyfriend Antonio. Things happen quickly in a small town and EVERYBODY will know about it before you get home! Antonio is given his Godfather’s business, Davenport Family Construction and Natasha has been asked to furnish the units in a new condominium building that he will build. Ugh! Can they make nice and avoid the pain they caused one another years ago? Then there are all the women in this small town who want to attract this hunk of a former basketball star. Oh, and don’t forget his ex-wife. Is she having second thoughts?
Thoroughly enjoyable book. Highly recommended for its passion, authenticity and touching story. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through NetGalley.
For readers who like small-town romance and second chances, you must read this book. It was poignant, a little naughty and a lot wonderful. The author has spoken in an authentic ethnic voice in her characters, Natasha and Antonio along with all their friends and family. The word pictures are fantastic and compelling. I cried right along with Tasha in chapter 31. This book puts Ms. Lister on my want-to-read-more booklist.
Natasha is happy with her life although she has regrets, one of which has just come home to live, her former boyfriend Antonio. Things happen quickly in a small town and EVERYBODY will know about it before you get home! Antonio is given his Godfather’s business, Davenport Family Construction and Natasha has been asked to furnish the units in a new condominium building that he will build. Ugh! Can they make nice and avoid the pain they caused one another years ago? Then there are all the women in this small town who want to attract this hunk of a former basketball star. Oh, and don’t forget his ex-wife. Is she having second thoughts?
Thoroughly enjoyable book. Highly recommended for its passion, authenticity and touching story. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through NetGalley.
July 1, 2023
This is the second book in the series, but it reads just fine as a stand alone. In this book the Supper Club is back and we get to learn more about Natasha. Natasha is a realtor, who wants to be an interior designer. Natasha is extremely excited to learn she gets to be realtor and interior designer to a big real estate project in town. However, her excitement is dimmed when she finds out her high school sweetheart is back in town and he will be the lead on building the project. Antonio is a former investment guy turned builder who was heartbroken when Natasha broke up with him via a letter. As Antonio and Natasha try to work together, it is clear there is a lot of tension and unresolved issues between them. This was such a fun second chance romance. I loved these characters, and enjoyed finding out that went wrong the first time and getting to see them reconnect as adults. It was also great to revisit the storylines of the other Supper Club members, and to get updates on their lives. I thoroughly enjoyed this heartwarming quick read, and can’t wait for the next book in this series! I received an ARC, and this is my honest review.
August 9, 2023
I haven’t read Sheryl Lister before, and I realize now how much I was missing out! I really enjoyed this great second chance, small town romance. I did understand going in this is a follow up, but didn’t read the first book. I didn’t feel too lost but now wish I’d read A Table For Two to get background on the town and the secondary/other characters, first. I will be going back soon, to read it!
I liked this book a lot more than I expected - I thought it was going to be more women’s fiction than standard contemporary romance, but it definitely was not… and was quite a bit steamier than I ever imagined! It far exceeded anything I thought going in and just for that it gets my great stamp of approval!!
A Perfect Pairing follows the continuation of the supper club from the first book, with Tasha (Natasha) finally being able to do some interior design work and not just real estate, and her long ago ex boyfriend Antonio (Tony), recently returned to Dragonfly Lake for a career and life change. The two end up teamed up as he’s now working construction on the project she’s doing the design for, so they’re forced together - in many ways, and have to face their past.
Everyone should grab a copy of this beautiful second chance love story!
I received an advance copy from NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing), and this is my honest feedback.
I liked this book a lot more than I expected - I thought it was going to be more women’s fiction than standard contemporary romance, but it definitely was not… and was quite a bit steamier than I ever imagined! It far exceeded anything I thought going in and just for that it gets my great stamp of approval!!
A Perfect Pairing follows the continuation of the supper club from the first book, with Tasha (Natasha) finally being able to do some interior design work and not just real estate, and her long ago ex boyfriend Antonio (Tony), recently returned to Dragonfly Lake for a career and life change. The two end up teamed up as he’s now working construction on the project she’s doing the design for, so they’re forced together - in many ways, and have to face their past.
Everyone should grab a copy of this beautiful second chance love story!
I received an advance copy from NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing), and this is my honest feedback.
September 10, 2023
Natasha Baldwin loves her life. As top realtor in her hometown of Firefly Lake, she has a good job and even better friends. Really, Tasha has only two never pursuing her dream career…and how things ended with Antonio Hayes years ago. So when an opportunity arises to show off her passion for interior design, Tasha’s excited—and a little nervous. But with the support of her girlfriends at their biweekly supper club, she’s eager to dive in…until she discovers that Antonio is her new project partner.
Teaming up with her ex is less than ideal, but with all eyes in town on her new project, Tasha knows now is not the time to let her messy past with Antonio impact her future. Yet working with Antonio immediately sparks bittersweet memories…and the same undeniable, irresistible chemistry even after all their years apart. Then, just as Natasha realizes that the life and love she’s waited for are within reach, her big break comes around, and she must decide what she truly wants…
This is one of my favorite second chance romance stories. Brilliantly written and you can't help but fall in love with the characters. Will recommend to others.
Teaming up with her ex is less than ideal, but with all eyes in town on her new project, Tasha knows now is not the time to let her messy past with Antonio impact her future. Yet working with Antonio immediately sparks bittersweet memories…and the same undeniable, irresistible chemistry even after all their years apart. Then, just as Natasha realizes that the life and love she’s waited for are within reach, her big break comes around, and she must decide what she truly wants…
This is one of my favorite second chance romance stories. Brilliantly written and you can't help but fall in love with the characters. Will recommend to others.
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