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Bluegrass #1
My Bluegrass Baby
A brand-new novel in an original series from popular romance author Molly Harper! When Sadie and Josh compete for the same Kentucky Tourism Commission job, sparks fly - turns out Kentucky really is for lovers.
Sadie Hutchins loves her job at the Kentucky Tourism Commission. Not only could her co-workers double as the cast of Parks and Recreation, but she loves finding the unusual sites, hidden gems, and just-plain-odd tourist attractions of her home state. She’s a shoo-in for the director’s job when her boss retires at the end of the year…until hotshot Josh Vaughn shows up to challenge her for the position.
Josh is all sophisticated polish while Sadie’s country comfort, and the two have very different ideas of what makes a good campaign. So when their boss pits them against each other in a winner-takes-all contest, they’re both willing to fight dirty if it means getting what they want. But it turns out what Josh and Sadie want could be each other - and Josh’s kisses are the best Kentucky attraction Sadie’s found yet!
©2012 Molly Harper White (P)2013 Audible, Inc.
Sadie Hutchins loves her job at the Kentucky Tourism Commission. Not only could her co-workers double as the cast of Parks and Recreation, but she loves finding the unusual sites, hidden gems, and just-plain-odd tourist attractions of her home state. She’s a shoo-in for the director’s job when her boss retires at the end of the year…until hotshot Josh Vaughn shows up to challenge her for the position.
Josh is all sophisticated polish while Sadie’s country comfort, and the two have very different ideas of what makes a good campaign. So when their boss pits them against each other in a winner-takes-all contest, they’re both willing to fight dirty if it means getting what they want. But it turns out what Josh and Sadie want could be each other - and Josh’s kisses are the best Kentucky attraction Sadie’s found yet!
©2012 Molly Harper White (P)2013 Audible, Inc.
Audible Audio
First published December 17, 2012
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About the author
Molly Harper
61 books8,140 followersMolly Harper is the author of more than 40 romance titles including the Half-Moon Hollow series, the Mystic Bayou, the Starfall Point series, and her first murder mystery, A PROPOSAL TO DIE FOR. She lives in Michigan with her family. For more information, go to www.mollyharper.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 302 reviews
November 5, 2016
This is a lovely story about two people fighting for the same job, and in the meantime falling in love 
I had so much fun reading this! The writing style is witty and funny and I thoroughly enjoyed myself :D I know I'll be reading more from this author, most definitely
The story
Sadie has worked so hard on the Derby tourism campaign, and she knows that a promotion is coming soon after it. The promotion does come, but not for her
Josh just moved to Kentucky and got Sadie's job, so they're basically enemies right from the start
Their boss gives them a challenge, they both have to think of a great program for an upcoming event, and whoever has more votes will get the job.
They will fight dirty
And they will work together
They will hate each other
And they will not be able to keep their hands off each other
I really liked the whole idea, the enemies to friends/lovers thing :D It was done really well, and written in a funny way that I just couldn't stop reading until I finished the book :)
Loved all the jibes and stings they made at each other, the little sabotages that were so funny :DDDDDDD
The characters
I liked both of them actually
Josh is a posh guy, all metrosexual and stuff, but as we find out more about him we get that he's not all that :D At the beginning he seems more like the bad guy because he got the job Sadie was hoping for, but as it goes on, you get that he's just trying to move on with his life and work as best as he can :)
There is sexual attraction right from the beginning, but they ignore it and decide to hate each other's guts :D Well, Sadie pretty much decides that, and Josh just follows the lead :DDDDD
Loved the scene when they were locked in the cubboard
, and the War enactment thing, that was fun :DDD
But the BEST scene was when they went at the ventriloquism Museum
Loved it!
A lovely book and I'm so glad I got the chance to read it :)
*ARC courtesy of Pocket Star via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review*
I had so much fun reading this! The writing style is witty and funny and I thoroughly enjoyed myself :D I know I'll be reading more from this author, most definitely
The story
Sadie has worked so hard on the Derby tourism campaign, and she knows that a promotion is coming soon after it. The promotion does come, but not for her
Josh just moved to Kentucky and got Sadie's job, so they're basically enemies right from the start
Their boss gives them a challenge, they both have to think of a great program for an upcoming event, and whoever has more votes will get the job.
They will fight dirty
And they will work together
They will hate each other
And they will not be able to keep their hands off each other
I really liked the whole idea, the enemies to friends/lovers thing :D It was done really well, and written in a funny way that I just couldn't stop reading until I finished the book :)
Loved all the jibes and stings they made at each other, the little sabotages that were so funny :DDDDDDD
The characters
I liked both of them actually
Josh is a posh guy, all metrosexual and stuff, but as we find out more about him we get that he's not all that :D At the beginning he seems more like the bad guy because he got the job Sadie was hoping for, but as it goes on, you get that he's just trying to move on with his life and work as best as he can :)
There is sexual attraction right from the beginning, but they ignore it and decide to hate each other's guts :D Well, Sadie pretty much decides that, and Josh just follows the lead :DDDDD
Loved the scene when they were locked in the cubboard
, and the War enactment thing, that was fun :DDDBut the BEST scene was when they went at the ventriloquism Museum
Loved it!A lovely book and I'm so glad I got the chance to read it :)
*ARC courtesy of Pocket Star via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review*
September 9, 2015
Written September, 14 2014
3 Stars - N*I*C*E, NICE, Nice, nice - Yeah, a nice one
An Molly Harper 5:28 hours m/f audiobook well narrated by Amanda Ronconi.
I read How to Flirt with a Naked Werewolf (4 stars) a year ago. That was a "light" PNR romance and it was a both cute, witty and well written, so it was with great hope I started this one.
One word describes this book perfectly: NICE
I'm maybe a bit dissapointed. It isn't anything wrong with this story, and this narrator Ms Ronconi is allright she as well. But I missed the feeling. I didn't feel anything ...more than some small smiles now and then.
More in the chick lit genre than a steamy romance. That's okay with me, if I just get something —like a lot of funny jokes, witty bantering, good fights, fun events, some exiting drama, deep emotions, or whatever— that catches my interest. That was not the case here. My Blugrass Baby is well made according to the "nice-novel-manual" but doesn't stand out in any way.
Back to my ...
~ and my nails looks great now BTW.
***********************************************************
It all starts with:
Sadie Hutchins loves her job at the Kentucky Tourism Commission. She is a workaholic and she loves finding unusual sites, hidden gems, and just-plain-odd tourist attractions of her loved home state. She’s the future given candidate for the director’s job when he, her boss, retires at the end of the year. Everything is good and Sadie enjoys her job and knows that she's good.
...Then appears the goodlooking hotshot Josh Vaughn. Sadie has a challenger for the desired position.
The competition for the manager's job starts - and competed hard with all means. Even with the ugly and less usual collegial methods in an office.
Of course there are some admiring glances there too. But most of all, we learn a lot about how a tourist in Kentucky, U.S. can soend their days during a visit. ~ I'm a bit tempted by now. (?!?!)
Here I come Kentucky! Your tourist information works great.
I so much WANT & NEED to own one of these big beautiful hats and visit the yearly famous Kentucky Derby in Louisville (...some sunny spring day in May).
I feel all this pleasure of standing there (and waving) in a new stylish summer dress, with a fantastic huge hat in pink, sipping on a glass of sparkling wine. (...just look)
***********************************************************
I liked these two MC's but maybe I like Sadie's best buddy and very serviceable assistant best in the end. This lush, fast-mouthed and mischievous Kelsey girl is just amazing. Will it be a book about her as well?
I LIKE - Well kind of...
*********
It's Election Day
3 Stars - N*I*C*E, NICE, Nice, nice - Yeah, a nice one
An Molly Harper 5:28 hours m/f audiobook well narrated by Amanda Ronconi.
I read How to Flirt with a Naked Werewolf (4 stars) a year ago. That was a "light" PNR romance and it was a both cute, witty and well written, so it was with great hope I started this one.
One word describes this book perfectly: NICE
I'm maybe a bit dissapointed. It isn't anything wrong with this story, and this narrator Ms Ronconi is allright she as well. But I missed the feeling. I didn't feel anything ...more than some small smiles now and then.
More in the chick lit genre than a steamy romance. That's okay with me, if I just get something —like a lot of funny jokes, witty bantering, good fights, fun events, some exiting drama, deep emotions, or whatever— that catches my interest. That was not the case here. My Blugrass Baby is well made according to the "nice-novel-manual" but doesn't stand out in any way.
Back to my ...
~ and my nails looks great now BTW.
***********************************************************
It all starts with:
‘If one is going to spend her afternoon singing hymns to the great porcelain goddess, she might as well do it in a really plush ladies room. Stupid fear of public speaking.’
Sadie Hutchins loves her job at the Kentucky Tourism Commission. She is a workaholic and she loves finding unusual sites, hidden gems, and just-plain-odd tourist attractions of her loved home state. She’s the future given candidate for the director’s job when he, her boss, retires at the end of the year. Everything is good and Sadie enjoys her job and knows that she's good.
...Then appears the goodlooking hotshot Josh Vaughn. Sadie has a challenger for the desired position.
The competition for the manager's job starts - and competed hard with all means. Even with the ugly and less usual collegial methods in an office.
Of course there are some admiring glances there too. But most of all, we learn a lot about how a tourist in Kentucky, U.S. can soend their days during a visit. ~ I'm a bit tempted by now. (?!?!)
Here I come Kentucky! Your tourist information works great.
I so much WANT & NEED to own one of these big beautiful hats and visit the yearly famous Kentucky Derby in Louisville (...some sunny spring day in May).
I feel all this pleasure of standing there (and waving) in a new stylish summer dress, with a fantastic huge hat in pink, sipping on a glass of sparkling wine. (...just look)
***********************************************************
I liked these two MC's but maybe I like Sadie's best buddy and very serviceable assistant best in the end. This lush, fast-mouthed and mischievous Kelsey girl is just amazing. Will it be a book about her as well?
I LIKE - Well kind of...
*********
It's Election Day 
January 24, 2013
3/5 Stars
My Bluegrass Baby is a contemporary romance that’s loaded with a cast of fun, quirky characters. Sadie and Josh are rivals for the same job and Ms. Harper dishes up the laughs as these two opponents go all out to win the prized position.
Sadie Hutchins loves her job as assistant director for the Kentucky Tourism Commission. As her boss’s retirement quickly approaches she’s looking forward to moving up to the director’s spot. It’s a sure thing until the Commissioner brings in hotshot Josh Vaughn from Atlanta to fill the position. Sadie is saved when her boss steps in and issues a challenge; each is to provide a campaign to promote Kentucky with the winner getting the director’s position. The fun begins as they compete for the prize.
Sadie is more down home country whereas Josh is big city polished and they each have very different views on promoting tourism for the state. And while it’s all out war there’s no mistaking the heat that’s brewing in the south. It’s soon evident that opposites really do attract.
Both Sadie and Josh are very likable and the talented Ms. Harper made them feel more like friends than characters on a page. A quick, fun read that I enjoyed from beginning to end. The pranks Sadie and her secretary, Kelsey, pull on Josh had me laughing out loud. I could hardly wait to find out the winner and how it would affect their budding relationship. I loved the snarky humor that's woven throughout and now I look forward to more by this author!
ARC courtesy of Pocket Star via Edelweiss
My Bluegrass Baby is a contemporary romance that’s loaded with a cast of fun, quirky characters. Sadie and Josh are rivals for the same job and Ms. Harper dishes up the laughs as these two opponents go all out to win the prized position.
Sadie Hutchins loves her job as assistant director for the Kentucky Tourism Commission. As her boss’s retirement quickly approaches she’s looking forward to moving up to the director’s spot. It’s a sure thing until the Commissioner brings in hotshot Josh Vaughn from Atlanta to fill the position. Sadie is saved when her boss steps in and issues a challenge; each is to provide a campaign to promote Kentucky with the winner getting the director’s position. The fun begins as they compete for the prize.
Sadie is more down home country whereas Josh is big city polished and they each have very different views on promoting tourism for the state. And while it’s all out war there’s no mistaking the heat that’s brewing in the south. It’s soon evident that opposites really do attract.
Both Sadie and Josh are very likable and the talented Ms. Harper made them feel more like friends than characters on a page. A quick, fun read that I enjoyed from beginning to end. The pranks Sadie and her secretary, Kelsey, pull on Josh had me laughing out loud. I could hardly wait to find out the winner and how it would affect their budding relationship. I loved the snarky humor that's woven throughout and now I look forward to more by this author!
ARC courtesy of Pocket Star via Edelweiss
February 22, 2013
4 Fun Stars! Love this author's witty voice!
I love Molly Harper's sense of humor and once again it shined in My Bluegrass Baby. You can't help but fall in love with her quirky characters as they fall in love with each other. She adds to the story by introducing us to many note-worthy secondary characters, that bring an extra layer of depth to the book, and additional fun. Many times I found myself wiping tears from my eyes, I was laughing so hard. I'm a fan of her paranormal books, but she is no less talented when it comes to writing in the contemporary setting. I know that when I want to be left smiling after reading, all I have to do is pick up a Molly Harper book!
**ARC courtesy of Pocket Star Publishing via Edelweiss**
I love Molly Harper's sense of humor and once again it shined in My Bluegrass Baby. You can't help but fall in love with her quirky characters as they fall in love with each other. She adds to the story by introducing us to many note-worthy secondary characters, that bring an extra layer of depth to the book, and additional fun. Many times I found myself wiping tears from my eyes, I was laughing so hard. I'm a fan of her paranormal books, but she is no less talented when it comes to writing in the contemporary setting. I know that when I want to be left smiling after reading, all I have to do is pick up a Molly Harper book!
**ARC courtesy of Pocket Star Publishing via Edelweiss**
October 25, 2012
This book was so much fun.
When you were like this the whole time reading, you knew you made the right choice by chucking all other books aside. I have always loved MH's writing. The characters in her books were either a bit wild or a lot crazy. And either one would guaranteed to crack me the hell up.
Sadie and Josh were rivals going after the same job position. And the story revolved around them butting heads to top each other to get the job. I liked Sadie quirkiness (all MH's heroines were extraordinarily quirky) but I especially loved Kelsey, Sadie's assistant. That girl has one twisted sense of humour.
Sadie's moment:
"Ms. Hutchins? Great hat." He smirked.
Kiss my secondhand Manolos. You look like Justin Bieber's bastard brother. I hope Gina gives you an incurable rash.
Those are all things I could have said.
Kelsey's moment:
"And correct me if I'm wrong, but are you not the same person who went into his PowerPoint presentation today and took all of the L's out of his 'public's?"
"He's going to do a speech on 'pubic funding'. I was provoked." Kelsey snickered.
I enjoyed this immensely and would have rated it a 5star if the smexings more hotter and made longer. Still, I had a great fun. Have I mentioned that I love MH? I love MH.
When you were like this the whole time reading, you knew you made the right choice by chucking all other books aside. I have always loved MH's writing. The characters in her books were either a bit wild or a lot crazy. And either one would guaranteed to crack me the hell up.
Sadie and Josh were rivals going after the same job position. And the story revolved around them butting heads to top each other to get the job. I liked Sadie quirkiness (all MH's heroines were extraordinarily quirky) but I especially loved Kelsey, Sadie's assistant. That girl has one twisted sense of humour.
Sadie's moment:
"Ms. Hutchins? Great hat." He smirked.
Kiss my secondhand Manolos. You look like Justin Bieber's bastard brother. I hope Gina gives you an incurable rash.
Those are all things I could have said.
Kelsey's moment:
"And correct me if I'm wrong, but are you not the same person who went into his PowerPoint presentation today and took all of the L's out of his 'public's?"
"He's going to do a speech on 'pubic funding'. I was provoked." Kelsey snickered.
I enjoyed this immensely and would have rated it a 5star if the smexings more hotter and made longer. Still, I had a great fun. Have I mentioned that I love MH? I love MH.
November 5, 2015
My Bluegrass Baby is a delightful contemporary filled with southern charm, laughter, romance, and smart humor. Molly Harper has a wonderfully witty voice that always makes me laugh out loud and this one is no exception.
Sadie Hutchins loves working at the Kentucky Tourism Commission as the assistant director. She’s saucy, boldly smart, independent, and might love her job a little much. She has put all her time and focus into her career, which leaves her no room for a social life. Now that the director is retiring at the end of the year, she is up for a promotion to become the new director. And, just when she thought she had the job in the bag, Josh Vaughn swoops in and takes it right out from under her. The uptight, sexy suit and tie wearing, hot shot thinks he is going to take Sadie’s job from her. But Sadie is not going to roll over and make this easy on him.
When these two begin to butt heads in the office with their difference of opinions, and start to cause inner office problems, the current director decides to pit them against each other. They soon become rivals to see who is the best man or woman for the job.
Sadie uses her witty, southern charm to promote her campaign while Josh is more of a stick with the facts, books, and sophistication to promote his. In order to get the job, these two end up battling it out trying to win the affections of the office staff and pranking one another with chairs falling apart, mail getting lost on the way to the mail room, and an incident with puppets. Poor Josh.
As these two duel it out, the sexual tension begins to rise. Sadie begins to realize there is more to Josh than just being a prickly, uptight, pain in her rear. He’s playful, witty, and totally sexy in a Union officer’s uniform. And Josh is wonderfully perfect for Sadie as well, with the way he keeps her on her toes by challenging her and adding excitement to her life she didn’t realize she was missing. I loved this quirky, crazy couple. And when the attraction grows stronger, they finally realize they can no longer keep their hands to themselves, and buttons start to fly off their clothes.
If Molly Harper writes it, I will read it. I love her snarky humor and how her characters are always just a little bit crazy and sassy. I hope she has plans to write more stories about these fabulous characters because I would definitely love to get a story with Kelsey and Charles.
Rating: B+
-- A Romantic Book Affairs Review
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January 10, 2013
Molly Harper is currently my top "buy immediately" author. I have yet to give any of her books less than four stars and I don't think that trend will end any time soon. Certainly not with this book.
My Bluegrass Baby is a contemporary romance without any supernatural elements at all. I say that descriptively, rather than proscriptively. Josh and Sadie have great chemistry from the beginning, starting with a classic romantic trope of meeting, having an instant connection, and then finding that he's been used to thwart her next career advancement by being appointed head of the Kentucky Tourism Commission when she had been told she had a lock on the job, already.
The usual resentment follows naturally, but that's the end of Harper making this book follow the typical path of the romantic comedy. While the plot abounds with misunderstandings and reconciliations, it isn't driven by them, nor do the characters ever seem unreasonable in their prejudices (or in overcoming them). There was never a point where I thought "Geez, if they'd get over themselves already and just talk things out, all of this would resolve in fifteen minutes." Indeed, there are a couple of places where they do just that—sit down and talk things out (and only once under duress. Heh).
Add Harper's fantastic comedic instinct and her grasp of small-town dynamics and you have a novel that is as hard to put down as it is embarrassing to read in public (because of all the guffawing—or is that a personal problem?). Really, if you like your romance with a healthy sprinkling of comedy, you have to give Harper a try. And this book is as good a place to start as any.
A note about Steamy: There's steam, here, but it's really light.
My Bluegrass Baby is a contemporary romance without any supernatural elements at all. I say that descriptively, rather than proscriptively. Josh and Sadie have great chemistry from the beginning, starting with a classic romantic trope of meeting, having an instant connection, and then finding that he's been used to thwart her next career advancement by being appointed head of the Kentucky Tourism Commission when she had been told she had a lock on the job, already.
The usual resentment follows naturally, but that's the end of Harper making this book follow the typical path of the romantic comedy. While the plot abounds with misunderstandings and reconciliations, it isn't driven by them, nor do the characters ever seem unreasonable in their prejudices (or in overcoming them). There was never a point where I thought "Geez, if they'd get over themselves already and just talk things out, all of this would resolve in fifteen minutes." Indeed, there are a couple of places where they do just that—sit down and talk things out (and only once under duress. Heh).
Add Harper's fantastic comedic instinct and her grasp of small-town dynamics and you have a novel that is as hard to put down as it is embarrassing to read in public (because of all the guffawing—or is that a personal problem?). Really, if you like your romance with a healthy sprinkling of comedy, you have to give Harper a try. And this book is as good a place to start as any.
A note about Steamy: There's steam, here, but it's really light.
November 27, 2012
Rating: B++ ... Heat: Sweet
-- A Romantic Book Affairs Review.
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Move over Parks and Recreation—there is a newer, funnier and sweeter show in town! Or, er, book? Either way, My Bluegrass Baby turns the Kentucky Tourism Commission’s department into a rom-com that is full of outrageously hilarious antics and more sexual tension than you can shake a stick at.
Sadie Hutchins is sweet and sassy and smart. Independent and maybe a tad lonely, she has been all work and no play her entire adult life. Putting all of her focus on her career and an upcoming promotion to director. That is, until Josh Vaughn shows up and stomps all over her dreams. Cool and prickly, with a tendency to come across standoffish and… priggish, Josh’s appearance at the Kentucky Tourism Commission ruffles everyone’s feathers. Especially Sadie’s.
Josh and Sadie quickly become rivals for a position she was told was already hers. And, oh, they put the Hatfield’s and McCoy’s to shame. Those two duel it out at the workplace like a showdown at the O.K. Corral. And it is Funny. As. Heck. We’re talking hijinks, pranks, and mayhem to the n’th degree.
And just like to sticks rubbing together, the friction is bound to catch fire. Because Josh isn’t quite what he seems. Underneath is a totally different dude. And even though Sadie riles him up like no other, she also brings out the lighter, more carefree side of Mr. Vaughn. And Josh challenges Sadie like no one else ever has, making her grow and expand outside her comfort zone. And also, maybe, adding some fun and levity to her otherwise structured life.
My Bluegrass Baby is witty and sharp and matches my sense of humor to a T. I love the mix of pop culture and slightly nerdy references. Miz Harper had me at Game of Thrones and won me completely with Star Wars. And Sadie’s voice as our narrator tied it all together in a merry little bow.
Oh! And there is even a very, very delightful scene for the historical romance lovers out there. It will met your pantaloons. Just sayin’.
Miz Harper has such a fun and humorous way of telling a story, of unfolding a romance. You never know what you're going to read next. It might make you pee your pants. Or cry or swoon. No telling. And every single character manages to stand out. They all have distinct personalities that I can’t help but completely adore. I can’t wait to read more of Sadie, Josh, and the gang.
(And at $1.99 this a downright steal! Seriously.)
Favorite Quote:
“UST?” I repeated as Kelsey flopped into the chair in front of my desk.
”Unresolved sexual tension. You two have more UST than you can shake a stick at.”
”You know, I’ve never understood that expression. Who walks around shaking sticks at things?”
”I can’t believe this conversation is actually talking place.” Kelsey sighed, dropping her head to the table.
-- A Romantic Book Affairs Review.
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January 9, 2013
ARC courtesy of Pocket Star Publishing via Edelweiss
I think I've found a go to author for a guaranteed good read. This is my second Molly Harper book, and both have been solid, sweet, funny as hell contemporary romances. I've not yet delved into her paranormal romance, but I imagine it's much the same.
Sadie is on her way to taking over her boss's job upon his retirement. In fact, everything is set up for her takeover except for the signing of paperwork. So when Josh is brought in to be the new replacement, Sadie is understandably...pissed off!! Not only is he a stranger amidst the family-like surroundings of the Kentucky Tourism Commission, but he readily admits that this job is just a stepping stone to something bigger and better for him.
Sadie's boss and father figure sees and understands Sadie's hurt and anger over this development. After all, she's put years into her job with the expectation of promotion at the end of the rainbow. So he essentially gives her another chance to win back the favor of those in the higher up positions. The State Fair of Kentucky is to be the sounding board for both Josh and Sadie's marketing skills, and the common people will decide who does the better job. And the twist? Second place gets to become assistant to their opponent!
****************GAME. ON.*******************
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A hilarious rat race of sabotage and tomfoolery ensues. Sadie and Josh couldn't be more opposite in terms of personality or the angle that each of them takes on the job. Josh is traditional and fairly conservative, while Sadie...is not. I just loved Sadie! She's quirky and fun but not an airheaded bimbo. She's smart and focused on her career, and along with being spitting mad, she's also devastated at the possibility of giving it up to a man who doesn't really want it anyway.
Josh comes across as pretty unfeeling at first. It took me quite a bit to warm up to him. He just seemed so out of place, and his stodgy behavior and lack of sympathy for the woman he is trying to displace rubbed me the wrong way. But Molly Harper won me over when the hilarity starts. Sadie and Josh expose each other's weaknesses and in turn keep learning more and more about each other. It's that dang opposites attract conundrum, but paired with being rivals for the same position, there just doesn't seem to be a way out.
Set in the misunderstood state of Kentucky, we are introduced to a rich culture that is not only hillbillies and moonshine. It is apparent that Molly Harper loves this state and loves to share her love of it. Of course, Josh and Sadie get to have a fascinating squabble at the Kentucky Derby.
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and have a bit of a run in with a few puppets that leaves a lasting impression and initiates a turning point in their feud.
Molly Harper is funny, funny, funny!!! Without crude potty humor or overtly sexual tension, she gives a contemporary romance that kept me chuckling the entire time I read it. Fairly PG love scenes and a mild language keep this story light and fun. I loved it!
I think I've found a go to author for a guaranteed good read. This is my second Molly Harper book, and both have been solid, sweet, funny as hell contemporary romances. I've not yet delved into her paranormal romance, but I imagine it's much the same.
Sadie is on her way to taking over her boss's job upon his retirement. In fact, everything is set up for her takeover except for the signing of paperwork. So when Josh is brought in to be the new replacement, Sadie is understandably...pissed off!! Not only is he a stranger amidst the family-like surroundings of the Kentucky Tourism Commission, but he readily admits that this job is just a stepping stone to something bigger and better for him.
Sadie's boss and father figure sees and understands Sadie's hurt and anger over this development. After all, she's put years into her job with the expectation of promotion at the end of the rainbow. So he essentially gives her another chance to win back the favor of those in the higher up positions. The State Fair of Kentucky is to be the sounding board for both Josh and Sadie's marketing skills, and the common people will decide who does the better job. And the twist? Second place gets to become assistant to their opponent!
****************GAME. ON.*******************
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"/>A hilarious rat race of sabotage and tomfoolery ensues. Sadie and Josh couldn't be more opposite in terms of personality or the angle that each of them takes on the job. Josh is traditional and fairly conservative, while Sadie...is not. I just loved Sadie! She's quirky and fun but not an airheaded bimbo. She's smart and focused on her career, and along with being spitting mad, she's also devastated at the possibility of giving it up to a man who doesn't really want it anyway.
Josh comes across as pretty unfeeling at first. It took me quite a bit to warm up to him. He just seemed so out of place, and his stodgy behavior and lack of sympathy for the woman he is trying to displace rubbed me the wrong way. But Molly Harper won me over when the hilarity starts. Sadie and Josh expose each other's weaknesses and in turn keep learning more and more about each other. It's that dang opposites attract conundrum, but paired with being rivals for the same position, there just doesn't seem to be a way out.
Set in the misunderstood state of Kentucky, we are introduced to a rich culture that is not only hillbillies and moonshine. It is apparent that Molly Harper loves this state and loves to share her love of it. Of course, Josh and Sadie get to have a fascinating squabble at the Kentucky Derby.
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"/>[image error]
"/>and have a bit of a run in with a few puppets that leaves a lasting impression and initiates a turning point in their feud.
Molly Harper is funny, funny, funny!!! Without crude potty humor or overtly sexual tension, she gives a contemporary romance that kept me chuckling the entire time I read it. Fairly PG love scenes and a mild language keep this story light and fun. I loved it!
December 13, 2012
4.5 Stars
Sadie loves Kentucky and she loves her job promoting Kentucky. So when she is passed over for the promotion to director of the Kentucky Tourism Commission and a flashy PR man from Atlanta is brought in to fill the job there is some understandable tension. They find themselves constantly at odds with each other and as the office starts to take sides the retiring director decides to put an end to the tension. He orders them both to come up with a campaign to promote Kentucky and the winner will get the job.
Josh and Sadie have very different views on how best to promote Kentucky. Josh is all about the Derby and Bourbon distilleries, while Sadie is all about the quirky side of Kentucky. But despite their professional differences they are attracted to each other and find themselves growing closer.
My Bluegrass Baby is great fun. It has elements of romance, chick-lit and travelogue all rolled into a quirky book about a woman who loves Kentucky just a little more than is healthy. It has Molly Harper’s trademark snarky sense of humor and will sit very comfortably on a book shelf right along side And One Last Thing, her other foray into chick-lit.
Many thanks to Pocket Star Books (Simon & Schuster) and Edelweiss for providing me with this ARC
"You are heading down a very dangerous path, Sadie. If this promotion was the One Ring, you would be Gollum. If it was the white whale, you would be Ahab. If it was the Iron Throne, I'm pretty sure you would be a Lannister, and nothing good ever happens to a Lannister."
Sadie loves Kentucky and she loves her job promoting Kentucky. So when she is passed over for the promotion to director of the Kentucky Tourism Commission and a flashy PR man from Atlanta is brought in to fill the job there is some understandable tension. They find themselves constantly at odds with each other and as the office starts to take sides the retiring director decides to put an end to the tension. He orders them both to come up with a campaign to promote Kentucky and the winner will get the job.
Josh and Sadie have very different views on how best to promote Kentucky. Josh is all about the Derby and Bourbon distilleries, while Sadie is all about the quirky side of Kentucky. But despite their professional differences they are attracted to each other and find themselves growing closer.
My Bluegrass Baby is great fun. It has elements of romance, chick-lit and travelogue all rolled into a quirky book about a woman who loves Kentucky just a little more than is healthy. It has Molly Harper’s trademark snarky sense of humor and will sit very comfortably on a book shelf right along side And One Last Thing, her other foray into chick-lit.
Many thanks to Pocket Star Books (Simon & Schuster) and Edelweiss for providing me with this ARC
December 1, 2015
Not my cuppa. Both characters annoyed me with their childish behaviors. I particularly don't enjoy reading about a narrow-minded, vindictive heroine who revels in humiliating others AND a stuck-up yet gullible hero who is too nice to push back. I secretly wished Josh would do something to balance the power but he didn't. It was as if he enjoyed(?) getting bullied, which should be fine if the author made it clear that he really did. For me, the switch of the f/m roles was fun at first but got stale real fast.
I liked the side chara, Kelsey, but not enough to continue with the series.
I liked the side chara, Kelsey, but not enough to continue with the series.
October 29, 2018
It seems like every book I try lately ends just where I’m most interested. Don’t any series stay with one couple rather than switching with every book? I just want to become attached to characters and then go on adventures with them, not meet new main characters every time I start a book.
November 17, 2012
Review Copy provided by Pocket Star and Edelweiss books
Three things, I had never considered prior to reading My Bluegrass Baby by the fantabulous Molly Harper – that I could claim programing my Tivo on my resume (I’m sure that parlays into something workplace related), the number of cartoon characters who run-around with no pants on (aka, the Pantless Pantheon) and Squirrel genitalia (as my friend Toni would say, its all about the nuts ; )
But when I reading Molly Harpers newest contemporary romance, all three of those things, plus many more were mentioned. There is just something quirky about the way she writes, that makes you feel right at home with the characters. I loved how she managed to work so many weird and wonderful facts about Kentucky in the book (but don’t worry, I’m not going to spoil the surprise for anyone, since you guys need to have a chance to read it). I do have to admit that I’m normally not a fan of workplace romance type books, it is just a trope that I normally don’t enjoy, but I think that Molly did a great job balancing the line between funny and the awkwardness that so often ensures in situations like that.
Overall, a solid 4 stars.
Three things, I had never considered prior to reading My Bluegrass Baby by the fantabulous Molly Harper – that I could claim programing my Tivo on my resume (I’m sure that parlays into something workplace related), the number of cartoon characters who run-around with no pants on (aka, the Pantless Pantheon) and Squirrel genitalia (as my friend Toni would say, its all about the nuts ; )
But when I reading Molly Harpers newest contemporary romance, all three of those things, plus many more were mentioned. There is just something quirky about the way she writes, that makes you feel right at home with the characters. I loved how she managed to work so many weird and wonderful facts about Kentucky in the book (but don’t worry, I’m not going to spoil the surprise for anyone, since you guys need to have a chance to read it). I do have to admit that I’m normally not a fan of workplace romance type books, it is just a trope that I normally don’t enjoy, but I think that Molly did a great job balancing the line between funny and the awkwardness that so often ensures in situations like that.
Overall, a solid 4 stars.
November 7, 2017
**2.75**
So one of the reasons I picked this up was because it was marketed for fans of Parks and Rec, which I love. But I’m coming to realize I should never trust things that are compared to things I love. It will never hold up in comparison.
This wasn’t bad, per se, just kind of...weak. While I appreciated a main character in an job more like the average joe (like me), I didn’t want to hear so much about the details of boring office work (I can say that because it is actually what I do ;)
And then the ending totally fell apart for me. Just none of it worked.
So one of the reasons I picked this up was because it was marketed for fans of Parks and Rec, which I love. But I’m coming to realize I should never trust things that are compared to things I love. It will never hold up in comparison.
This wasn’t bad, per se, just kind of...weak. While I appreciated a main character in an job more like the average joe (like me), I didn’t want to hear so much about the details of boring office work (I can say that because it is actually what I do ;)
And then the ending totally fell apart for me. Just none of it worked.
November 10, 2012
ORIGINAL POST
FANGS, WANDS & FAIRY DUST
MY BLUEGRASS BABY by Molly Harper
Have you ever had a job stolen out from under you?
MY BLUEGRASS BABY
by Molly Harper
Pocket Star, December 2012 (on or around 12/18)
eBook, 250 pages
ISBN-10: 1476706050
ISBN-13: 9781476706054
About $1.99
Provided by publisher for review purposes. No remuneration was exchanged and except as noted all opinions are my own.
Straight out, let me say I have loved anything by Molly Harper that I have ever read. Her books, for me are like a trip to Hawaii, if you don't have a good time it's not Hawaii at fault. This is of course based on one trip to Hawaii where I realized that if I wasn't enjoying perfect weather and great food that it was my problem.
Really, Molly's books just make me feel good. They're romantic with a little sexy time but nothing that makes me blush (although given what I often read that may not be a good measure). This book is no exception. I felt keenly for Sadie, by all rights a job that should have been hers gets pulled right out from under her. Blessed with a sweet candy crust over a snarky candy interior, she has a hard time keeping a good face on the situation. You know that snark is going to sneak out just like a laugh in the wrong circumstance.
This was a great short novella which I read over the course of a Sunday morning. I found it infinitely more interesting than the Sunday newspaper.
I loved the setting -- seriously, making a state job a fun and creative workplace is not easy. Having been a government worker, I can tell you creativity with little gratitude was the order of the day; fun it was not, and there was never a drop of romance in the air. That Molly can manage to create fun and romance in that environment is a testament to her skill as a story teller. And, Kentucky is obviously on my list of places to go as this was the first of two books I read this week in which Kentucky figured prominently. Molly's characters are fun, unique, and varied. She has always, in my experience, given a happy ending with the villain getting his just desserts. In this case I admit I wondered which way the story would go. Sadie is smart, pretty and snarky with the sensibilities of a practical joker who always feels really bad about having played the joke. The secretary, Kelsey is straight out of Mad Men. Josh is really too nice but manages to hide it for a while.
I am not going to pretend this is some kind of serious piece of "literature." Thanks goodness for that! This was fun, uplifting, and shucks, it made me happier at the end than I was at the beginning.
I highly recommend anything Molly has written and this one is a short must read if you like snarky women, and earnest young men. This is straight romance, no supernatural elements.
Perfect as holiday tension relief.
FANGS, WANDS & FAIRY DUST
MY BLUEGRASS BABY by Molly Harper
Have you ever had a job stolen out from under you?
MY BLUEGRASS BABY
by Molly Harper
Pocket Star, December 2012 (on or around 12/18)
eBook, 250 pages
ISBN-10: 1476706050
ISBN-13: 9781476706054
About $1.99
Provided by publisher for review purposes. No remuneration was exchanged and except as noted all opinions are my own.
Description
A brand-new novel in an original eBook series from popular romance author Molly Harper! When Sadie & Josh compete for the same Kentucky Tourism Commission job, sparks fly—turns out Kentucky really is for lovers.
Sadie Hutchins loves her job at the Kentucky Tourism Commission. Not only could her co-workers double as the cast of Parks & Recreation, but she loves finding the unusual sites, hidden gems, and just-plain-odd tourist attractions of her home state. She’s a shoo-in for the director’s job when her boss retires at the end of the year…until hotshot Josh Vaughn shows up to challenge her for the position.
Josh is all sophisticated polish while Sadie’s country comfort, and the two have very different ideas of what makes a good campaign. So when their boss pits them against each other in a winner-takes-all contest, they’re both willing to fight dirty if it means getting what they want. But it turns out, what Josh and Sadie want could be each other—and Josh’s kisses are the best Kentucky attraction Sadie’s found yet! ( Simon and Schuster )
Straight out, let me say I have loved anything by Molly Harper that I have ever read. Her books, for me are like a trip to Hawaii, if you don't have a good time it's not Hawaii at fault. This is of course based on one trip to Hawaii where I realized that if I wasn't enjoying perfect weather and great food that it was my problem.
Really, Molly's books just make me feel good. They're romantic with a little sexy time but nothing that makes me blush (although given what I often read that may not be a good measure). This book is no exception. I felt keenly for Sadie, by all rights a job that should have been hers gets pulled right out from under her. Blessed with a sweet candy crust over a snarky candy interior, she has a hard time keeping a good face on the situation. You know that snark is going to sneak out just like a laugh in the wrong circumstance.
This was a great short novella which I read over the course of a Sunday morning. I found it infinitely more interesting than the Sunday newspaper.
I loved the setting -- seriously, making a state job a fun and creative workplace is not easy. Having been a government worker, I can tell you creativity with little gratitude was the order of the day; fun it was not, and there was never a drop of romance in the air. That Molly can manage to create fun and romance in that environment is a testament to her skill as a story teller. And, Kentucky is obviously on my list of places to go as this was the first of two books I read this week in which Kentucky figured prominently. Molly's characters are fun, unique, and varied. She has always, in my experience, given a happy ending with the villain getting his just desserts. In this case I admit I wondered which way the story would go. Sadie is smart, pretty and snarky with the sensibilities of a practical joker who always feels really bad about having played the joke. The secretary, Kelsey is straight out of Mad Men. Josh is really too nice but manages to hide it for a while.
I am not going to pretend this is some kind of serious piece of "literature." Thanks goodness for that! This was fun, uplifting, and shucks, it made me happier at the end than I was at the beginning.
I highly recommend anything Molly has written and this one is a short must read if you like snarky women, and earnest young men. This is straight romance, no supernatural elements.
Perfect as holiday tension relief.
September 2, 2014
First Thought:
Vampire, werewolf or just plain human, Molly Harper and Amanda Ronconi never fails to entertain me.
Why I listened:
Hello, it’s Harper and Ronconi.
The Story:
Saddie’s boss is getting ready to retire and what should have been a sure thing for Saddie to get his position turns into a funny romance where she has to work with her competition for the Director position with the Kentucky Tourism Commission, Josh.
And of course there is an attraction between Josh and Saddie at first site until they find out who the other person is and then it’s a race to see which one can out do the other in childish pranks. But once they realize that the pranks are getting in the way of their work they call a truce and let the best man/woman for the job win. All the while they are falling for each other.
Final Thought:
I liked the reference to Harper’s other contemporary romance, And One Last Thing. Which if you are a Harper fan you should really give that one a read as well. I’ve said it before but I’ll say it again. Paranormal or not the team of Molly Harper and Amanda Ronconi is on the top of my auto-audio-buy list.
Favorite Quote:
“Besides if we went to jail I would sell you for cigarettes.”
Vampire, werewolf or just plain human, Molly Harper and Amanda Ronconi never fails to entertain me.
Why I listened:
Hello, it’s Harper and Ronconi.
The Story:
Saddie’s boss is getting ready to retire and what should have been a sure thing for Saddie to get his position turns into a funny romance where she has to work with her competition for the Director position with the Kentucky Tourism Commission, Josh.
And of course there is an attraction between Josh and Saddie at first site until they find out who the other person is and then it’s a race to see which one can out do the other in childish pranks. But once they realize that the pranks are getting in the way of their work they call a truce and let the best man/woman for the job win. All the while they are falling for each other.
Final Thought:
I liked the reference to Harper’s other contemporary romance, And One Last Thing. Which if you are a Harper fan you should really give that one a read as well. I’ve said it before but I’ll say it again. Paranormal or not the team of Molly Harper and Amanda Ronconi is on the top of my auto-audio-buy list.
Favorite Quote:
“Besides if we went to jail I would sell you for cigarettes.”
July 13, 2013
Molly Harper always makes me laugh. It doesn't matter if she is writing about werewolves, vampires, infidelity, or potential job loss -- she has me nearly in tears because I am laughing. I would categorize My Bluegrass Baby as chick lit. It is fun, it is light, there is a smattering of romance and passion but the focus is on the main character, her job and her life.
So why only 3 stars? I read Molly Harper for the funny escape and the fantasy that the working girl will get everything back on track. My Bluegrass Baby did not disappoint in this respect but it just wasn't as funny as her other books and I saw the mix-up/crisis coming from page one and the resolution coming from the time of the mix-up/crisis. This isn't entirely a bad thing. My Bluegrass Baby is fun, light and short. It was a perfect escape.
For fans of chick lit, Molly Harper and people who like to laugh -- then I recommend listening to the audio of My Bluegrass Baby.
So why only 3 stars? I read Molly Harper for the funny escape and the fantasy that the working girl will get everything back on track. My Bluegrass Baby did not disappoint in this respect but it just wasn't as funny as her other books and I saw the mix-up/crisis coming from page one and the resolution coming from the time of the mix-up/crisis. This isn't entirely a bad thing. My Bluegrass Baby is fun, light and short. It was a perfect escape.
For fans of chick lit, Molly Harper and people who like to laugh -- then I recommend listening to the audio of My Bluegrass Baby.
didn-t-finish
April 16, 2015I think this may have two of the most unlikable characters I've ever read. Josh is an over the top douche beamed strait in from the days of clubs and rocks. Sadie was a spineless nincompoop who could only stand up for herself through childish pranks. Paired together in one of my least favorite romance tropes of all time they make a frustrating book. I'm done
January 9, 2013
I normally do not enjoy books with single POV usually but I found this book funny. Hero/Heroine become rivals for the same job, then the office shenanigans start. I even enjoyed the crazy romance.
November 6, 2012
This was the last book I'd read before my power came back and it was a great way to end my Sandy Reads. Harper has such a deft hand with humor and I was thoroughly amused. It's a homage of sorts to Parks and Rec, but just different enough that you don't feel like you're reading fanfic with the serial numbers filed off.
The state of Kentucky is as much a character as Sadie or Josh. I'm a native New Yorker so it was kinda cool to see the state from a marketing perspective. As a former bookseller, I was also tickled when Weird Kentucky: Your Travel Guide to Kentucky's Local Legends and Best Kept Secrets was mentioned. There's a whole Weird series and Weird New York was always a big seller around the holidays.
There's a cute throwaway line about how Josh tries to go without a tie for a day, but it freaked him out so he had to get his back-up tie from his car. It was just one sentence, but it was that moment when I was like, 'He is so adorable. Why can't I meet a guy like that?' I like Parks and Rec, but it's TV and the characters are obviously exaggerated for entertainment value. In My Bluegrass Baby, they read more like real people. Sadie is passionate about her job, but it's not like she has a Kentucky flag on her person. She didn't dream about doing this when she was ten years old. She stumbled into it and discovered where she was meant to be.
Since the story is told from Sadie's POV, Josh isn't as well-developed. He has his adorable moments (see: tie sentence), but the reader definitely doesn't get to know him as well as they do Sadie. The pacing was also a bit off, as the flow from event to event wasn't very smooth at times. On a whole, it was probably a 4.5 star read for me.
There's a loose link to Harper's And One Last Thing..., but it's not a sequel by any means. I do hope Harper has plans to continue writing about these characters. I would love to see Kelsey get her man. A quick Google search reveals that Harper has an outdated website and that My Bluegrass Baby can be pre-ordered for $1.99. I really think it's worth the two bucks, especially if you like Parks and Rec.
The state of Kentucky is as much a character as Sadie or Josh. I'm a native New Yorker so it was kinda cool to see the state from a marketing perspective. As a former bookseller, I was also tickled when Weird Kentucky: Your Travel Guide to Kentucky's Local Legends and Best Kept Secrets was mentioned. There's a whole Weird series and Weird New York was always a big seller around the holidays.
There's a cute throwaway line about how Josh tries to go without a tie for a day, but it freaked him out so he had to get his back-up tie from his car. It was just one sentence, but it was that moment when I was like, 'He is so adorable. Why can't I meet a guy like that?' I like Parks and Rec, but it's TV and the characters are obviously exaggerated for entertainment value. In My Bluegrass Baby, they read more like real people. Sadie is passionate about her job, but it's not like she has a Kentucky flag on her person. She didn't dream about doing this when she was ten years old. She stumbled into it and discovered where she was meant to be.
Since the story is told from Sadie's POV, Josh isn't as well-developed. He has his adorable moments (see: tie sentence), but the reader definitely doesn't get to know him as well as they do Sadie. The pacing was also a bit off, as the flow from event to event wasn't very smooth at times. On a whole, it was probably a 4.5 star read for me.
There's a loose link to Harper's And One Last Thing..., but it's not a sequel by any means. I do hope Harper has plans to continue writing about these characters. I would love to see Kelsey get her man. A quick Google search reveals that Harper has an outdated website and that My Bluegrass Baby can be pre-ordered for $1.99. I really think it's worth the two bucks, especially if you like Parks and Rec.
June 26, 2017
Already a fan of Ms. Harper’s Jane Jameson and Half-Moon Hollow series (also narrated by Ms. Ronconi), I knew I needed to try her contemporary Bluegrass series. The first book sets up the world of Sadie Hutchins, the assistant director with the Kentucky Tourism Commission. While there are no vampires or shifters, I felt like she could have been friends with Jane and lived her world, as the quirky characters and silly shenanigans were very similar.
Sadie’s boss, Ray, is retiring, and she is ready to step into his shoes. She loves her job and cannot wait to take things to the next level. That is until Ray tells her big-city Josh was promised the job by the Commissioner himself. So Ray sets up a competition for the job, with the winner getting the promotion.
What seems like a difficult situation for a romance plot, the battle for the job creates hilarious situations and, eventually, a reason for Josh and Sadie to get together. I appreciated that they fought their mutual attraction for as long as possible for the sake of fairness and such. The pair’s back-and-forth nature was entertaining and created wonderful sexual tension. And when they finally gave into their passion, it was explosive. The fact that they were coworkers, and eventually one would be the others boss, was handled well, until the end, when it really became a bit unrealistic.
Amanda Ronconi has that perfect southern charm for her narrative voice. She varies her tone just enough to create a handful of characters. While the familiarly had me thinking of the Jane books, after a while I was in Sadie's story. The timbre and pace was familiar and comforting, wrapping me up in the story without lulling me to sleep.
Overall, My Bluegrass Baby is a delightful, happy romance with all of Ms. Harper's trademark humor. She creates the most interesting, unique characters and brings them to live via silly escapes and fast-paced banter. The story is an escape. It's joyous and full of life.
My Rating: B+
Narration: A-
Sadie’s boss, Ray, is retiring, and she is ready to step into his shoes. She loves her job and cannot wait to take things to the next level. That is until Ray tells her big-city Josh was promised the job by the Commissioner himself. So Ray sets up a competition for the job, with the winner getting the promotion.
What seems like a difficult situation for a romance plot, the battle for the job creates hilarious situations and, eventually, a reason for Josh and Sadie to get together. I appreciated that they fought their mutual attraction for as long as possible for the sake of fairness and such. The pair’s back-and-forth nature was entertaining and created wonderful sexual tension. And when they finally gave into their passion, it was explosive. The fact that they were coworkers, and eventually one would be the others boss, was handled well, until the end, when it really became a bit unrealistic.
Amanda Ronconi has that perfect southern charm for her narrative voice. She varies her tone just enough to create a handful of characters. While the familiarly had me thinking of the Jane books, after a while I was in Sadie's story. The timbre and pace was familiar and comforting, wrapping me up in the story without lulling me to sleep.
Overall, My Bluegrass Baby is a delightful, happy romance with all of Ms. Harper's trademark humor. She creates the most interesting, unique characters and brings them to live via silly escapes and fast-paced banter. The story is an escape. It's joyous and full of life.
My Rating: B+
Narration: A-
June 26, 2018
I did realize that this was a series, I know now, funny how that happens, I will look into her others in this series ... when I have read other books 1st though. I 1st found Molly Harper when I read (got hooked on) her Southern Eclectic series. This book is too cute as well. Funny thing is ... I had just finished listening to Judith Keim "Fat Fridays", saw I saw this was next in my Audible books and I started listening and I could immediately see that it was Molly's writing ...there is just something calm and fun about her style. I am really enjoying Molly's books … so fun to see them on Audible … I have the next book in the Southern Eclectic series waiting on me now … this includes Molly writing style … just the way she does describe events that her characters go through it is just too funny. not always fun for them … but for us the listening … I think Oh My Goodness … too too funny!! take a listen, fun times. ( ;
May 22, 2020
My Bluegrass Baby
Bluegrass, Book 1
I Picked Up This Book Because: I’m a fan of the author
The Characters:
Sadie Hutchins:
Joshua Vaughn:
The Story:
An enemies to lovers tale that took quite some time to grow on me. Sadie and Josh are fine characters but I never really felt a connection to them. I did eventually get fully on board with this couple. I especially enjoyed the scene with them locked in the supply closet.
Overall nothing wowed me about this story but it wasn’t the worst way to spend a few hours. I won’t be continuing the series due to availability and lack of interest.
The Random Thoughts:
3 Stars
Bluegrass, Book 1
I Picked Up This Book Because: I’m a fan of the author
The Characters:
Sadie Hutchins:
Joshua Vaughn:
The Story:
An enemies to lovers tale that took quite some time to grow on me. Sadie and Josh are fine characters but I never really felt a connection to them. I did eventually get fully on board with this couple. I especially enjoyed the scene with them locked in the supply closet.
Overall nothing wowed me about this story but it wasn’t the worst way to spend a few hours. I won’t be continuing the series due to availability and lack of interest.
The Random Thoughts:
3 Stars
August 26, 2020
While My Bluegrass Baby isn't the best story Molly Harper has written, it is still fun and entertaining. It might be in part due to it being a novella, with less room for character and story development. The humor feels less fresh and original. At the same time, a lot happens in the story and it has a satisfying ending.
I love the pairing of Harper with Amanda Ronconi as narrator. It's one of the best in the business. In this instance, however, Ronconi's narration seems less inspired than usual, especially for the one sex scene.
So overall enjoyable and worth the time, but not Harper's best effort.
I love the pairing of Harper with Amanda Ronconi as narrator. It's one of the best in the business. In this instance, however, Ronconi's narration seems less inspired than usual, especially for the one sex scene.
So overall enjoyable and worth the time, but not Harper's best effort.
August 11, 2018
~ 2.5 Stars ~ Extremely slow & dull. It was missing Ms Harper’s spark and humor.
February 17, 2019
As always, Molly writes a charming, whimsical love story. She never disappoints me with whatever genre she writes. Her characters are endearing and funny with the right amount of snark.
August 3, 2024
Easy listen very simple storyline. Not the ending I would’ve chosen but still happy.
October 7, 2013
My Review:
Overall... 4.50 star
Performance.... 4.75 star
Story... 4.50 star
This is a short book for an unabridged audio, but it is not short on story. I enjoyed every minute of it.
Sadie has been promised her boss's job. It's a done deal. He's retiring and has been training her to do it, but she gets blindsided when the state brings someone else in for the job. She's not happy. Her boss isn't happy. The only one that is happy is Josh, the new guy. But her boss comes up with a plan. They both need to come up with a marketing campaign for the KY State Fair and they will let the people of Kentucky decide who gets the job. Needless to say, things become VERY contentious in the Kentucky Tourism Department which is tough because this is a small, close-knit group of people.
For Sadie, these people and this job are her life. This is all she does from sun-up to sun-down. Her coworkers are her family and they have a very unusual work relationship. Throwing Josh into that mix upsets the balance of everything. He doesn't understand their eclectic group of people....he's most definitely the outsider.
But on the other hand is Josh and you can't help to feel for him too. He had no idea what he was walking into. He moved here for this job, thinking it was a done-deal. It's not his fault that he wasn't aware of the politics at work. He's had his own really rough road and his backstory is heartbreaking.
This book is a perfect example of why I love Molly Harper's books. It's witty and fun. I can't tell you how many times I laugh out loud when listening to them. Amanda Ronconi is the perfect narrator on M. Harper's books. She gets the humor and always uses the perfect inflections at just the right time. There is one scene in this book that is so cruel to Josh, but omg, it was so funny! I spent my whole day cleaning my house just so I could listen to this book all the way through in one sitting...yes, it's that good.
I highly recommend it and now am feeling like I should take a trip to Kentucky.
Overall... 4.50 star
Performance.... 4.75 star
Story... 4.50 star
This is a short book for an unabridged audio, but it is not short on story. I enjoyed every minute of it.
Sadie has been promised her boss's job. It's a done deal. He's retiring and has been training her to do it, but she gets blindsided when the state brings someone else in for the job. She's not happy. Her boss isn't happy. The only one that is happy is Josh, the new guy. But her boss comes up with a plan. They both need to come up with a marketing campaign for the KY State Fair and they will let the people of Kentucky decide who gets the job. Needless to say, things become VERY contentious in the Kentucky Tourism Department which is tough because this is a small, close-knit group of people.
For Sadie, these people and this job are her life. This is all she does from sun-up to sun-down. Her coworkers are her family and they have a very unusual work relationship. Throwing Josh into that mix upsets the balance of everything. He doesn't understand their eclectic group of people....he's most definitely the outsider.
But on the other hand is Josh and you can't help to feel for him too. He had no idea what he was walking into. He moved here for this job, thinking it was a done-deal. It's not his fault that he wasn't aware of the politics at work. He's had his own really rough road and his backstory is heartbreaking.
This book is a perfect example of why I love Molly Harper's books. It's witty and fun. I can't tell you how many times I laugh out loud when listening to them. Amanda Ronconi is the perfect narrator on M. Harper's books. She gets the humor and always uses the perfect inflections at just the right time. There is one scene in this book that is so cruel to Josh, but omg, it was so funny! I spent my whole day cleaning my house just so I could listen to this book all the way through in one sitting...yes, it's that good.
I highly recommend it and now am feeling like I should take a trip to Kentucky.
December 3, 2015
It's not a secret that I am a Molly Harper's fan. I adored her Naked Werewolf series and contemporary romance And One Last Thing .... I always pick Molly Harper's book when I need to have a good laugh and hang out with some interesting characters.
Sadly, the chemistry Molly and I used to have was not present while I read My Bluegrass Baby. Maybe my expectation were set too high, maybe you need to be from Kentucky to find the situations funny, ... well whatever happened this was just average chick-lit contemporary romance to me.
Sadie Hutchins is one step away from getting a promotion in tourism agency when big-city golden-boy Josh Vaughn sweeps in and gets it instead. After her complaint to the boss, she gets a second opportunity to prove herself - Josh and Sadie both have to make a ad for the Kentucky tourism and the best one wins.
There a lot of hostility and back-stabbing going on. All spiced up with unwanted attraction and sprinkled with fun facts about Kentucky's customs, events and traditions that I found the most interesting part of this novel.
My rating: 3 stars. If it was some other author, I may even give it 4 stars, but Molly Harper spoiled me - sorry but from her I expected better.
Will I be reading something else written by Molly Harper? Yes, I am counting this book as a fluke, so she still has a fan in me. :)
Disclaimer: I was given a free eBook by the publisher via Edelweiss in exchange for a honest review.
Sadly, the chemistry Molly and I used to have was not present while I read My Bluegrass Baby. Maybe my expectation were set too high, maybe you need to be from Kentucky to find the situations funny, ... well whatever happened this was just average chick-lit contemporary romance to me.
Sadie Hutchins is one step away from getting a promotion in tourism agency when big-city golden-boy Josh Vaughn sweeps in and gets it instead. After her complaint to the boss, she gets a second opportunity to prove herself - Josh and Sadie both have to make a ad for the Kentucky tourism and the best one wins.
There a lot of hostility and back-stabbing going on. All spiced up with unwanted attraction and sprinkled with fun facts about Kentucky's customs, events and traditions that I found the most interesting part of this novel.
My rating: 3 stars. If it was some other author, I may even give it 4 stars, but Molly Harper spoiled me - sorry but from her I expected better.
Will I be reading something else written by Molly Harper? Yes, I am counting this book as a fluke, so she still has a fan in me. :)
Disclaimer: I was given a free eBook by the publisher via Edelweiss in exchange for a honest review.
June 12, 2013
I listened to the audiobook version and it was fabulous. Amanda Ronconi is an excellent narrator for Molly Harper's books. There is a scene in which someone is talking while eating a sandwich, and she sounds like she has her mouth full and is pausing to chew and swallow. Excellent work.
This one features two marketing staff competing for the same job. Sadie has only ever worked there, and has been groomed for a promotion. Josh is an outsider who has flashy credentials and rubs Sadie in all the wrong ways. The book is very funny, with some great dialog and internal thought processes. There are some really cruel and inventive pranks as well.
Overall I'd give this 4.5 stars as I would have liked to see more fleshing out of Josh's character. We learn what motivates him, and see him change, but I didn't really feel I understood him, or his phobia. Also, at the end there is a little speech that I felt was a bit pat for the witty tone of the book. And while I am okay with the ending, I felt that there was at least one loose end.
This one features two marketing staff competing for the same job. Sadie has only ever worked there, and has been groomed for a promotion. Josh is an outsider who has flashy credentials and rubs Sadie in all the wrong ways. The book is very funny, with some great dialog and internal thought processes. There are some really cruel and inventive pranks as well.
Overall I'd give this 4.5 stars as I would have liked to see more fleshing out of Josh's character. We learn what motivates him, and see him change, but I didn't really feel I understood him, or his phobia. Also, at the end there is a little speech that I felt was a bit pat for the witty tone of the book. And while I am okay with the ending, I felt that there was at least one loose end.
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