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Secret Wishes #1
Kissing the Maid of Honor
Kissing her best friend's brother never felt so right…
Sela Sullivan is resolved to be the best maid of honor ever, even if it means tolerating the best man. Insufferable, too-handsome Luke Watters is not only the guy who humiliated her at a kissing booth in high school, but he also happens to be her best friend’s older brother. Positive he’s the same arrogant jock, Sela vows to focus on her duties and steer clear of the frustrating—and frustratingly tempting—Luke.
As a world-renowned extreme-sports photographer, Luke is used to undertaking life-risking adventures. But risking his heart for the beautiful Sela Sullivan, who clearly still hates him for his rejection all those years ago? He didn’t see that coming. Sela inspires a passion he’s never known, and the more time they spend together, the more he craves her. But can he prove to the maid of honor he’s become a man of honor?
Sela Sullivan is resolved to be the best maid of honor ever, even if it means tolerating the best man. Insufferable, too-handsome Luke Watters is not only the guy who humiliated her at a kissing booth in high school, but he also happens to be her best friend’s older brother. Positive he’s the same arrogant jock, Sela vows to focus on her duties and steer clear of the frustrating—and frustratingly tempting—Luke.
As a world-renowned extreme-sports photographer, Luke is used to undertaking life-risking adventures. But risking his heart for the beautiful Sela Sullivan, who clearly still hates him for his rejection all those years ago? He didn’t see that coming. Sela inspires a passion he’s never known, and the more time they spend together, the more he craves her. But can he prove to the maid of honor he’s become a man of honor?
230 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 13, 2013
51 people are currently reading
1878 people want to read
About the author
Robin Bielman
31 books1,557 followersUSA Today bestselling author Robin Bielman lives in Southern California with her awesome family and her very cute dog, Harry. She writes fun, flirty romantic fiction with one goal in mind: to leave you with a smile on your face. When not attached to her laptop, she loves to read, go to the beach, and frequent coffee shops with friends. She also dreams of traveling to faraway places and loves to connect with readers. Keep in touch on social! xoxo
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews
September 6, 2016
My Rating: ❤❤❤❤
This book was provided by the publisher for an honest review.
Kissing the Maid of Honor was my first every read by Robin Bielman but it won't be last. The story was funny, engaging, and sweetly sexy. Lovers of Harlequin romances will appreciate the gentle romance in this story. But never fear serious passion lovers, although there was no steaming up the pages with tons of sex, the story was very sexy with the undercurrent of desire running between the characters, Luke and Sela.
I truly enjoyed the story the journey that Bielman carried Luke and Sela on to get to their happily ever after. In their youth they experienced a false start because of Luke's fear which caused him to cruely insult Sela. But, what a world of difference ten years made. Luke returns home for his sister Vanessa's wedding and encounters...or re-encounters, rather...Sela after not having seen her for several years. But Sela isn't his best friends little sister or even his sister's best friend anymore. She is a woman that he wants with a raging desire. The push and pull nature of their coming together was also very sweet because it allowed them to get to know each other as adults.
I teared up a bit at the sad moment when Sela lost her young patient and Luke tenderly consoled her and told her:
Ms. Bielman did an amazing job weaving together this tale of an unexpected romance with an unlikely pair. Brava!
VERY GOOD: The characteristics of a 4 star book include: a great story; I loved the characters; and there was an interesting plot and unique story elements; there may have been a few odd things kept the story from being amazing. I would read it again and I would recommend it to a friend.My Thoughts:
This book was provided by the publisher for an honest review.
Kissing the Maid of Honor was my first every read by Robin Bielman but it won't be last. The story was funny, engaging, and sweetly sexy. Lovers of Harlequin romances will appreciate the gentle romance in this story. But never fear serious passion lovers, although there was no steaming up the pages with tons of sex, the story was very sexy with the undercurrent of desire running between the characters, Luke and Sela.
I truly enjoyed the story the journey that Bielman carried Luke and Sela on to get to their happily ever after. In their youth they experienced a false start because of Luke's fear which caused him to cruely insult Sela. But, what a world of difference ten years made. Luke returns home for his sister Vanessa's wedding and encounters...or re-encounters, rather...Sela after not having seen her for several years. But Sela isn't his best friends little sister or even his sister's best friend anymore. She is a woman that he wants with a raging desire. The push and pull nature of their coming together was also very sweet because it allowed them to get to know each other as adults.
I teared up a bit at the sad moment when Sela lost her young patient and Luke tenderly consoled her and told her:
You live with an awareness that most people don't. This connectedness with the things and people that exist around you. You don't just go through the motions. You resonate compassion and unconditional love.The moment undid me because it was so absolutely what Sela needed to hear at the time.
Ms. Bielman did an amazing job weaving together this tale of an unexpected romance with an unlikely pair. Brava!
May 28, 2013
4.5 Sweet Stars
Desperate times called for wishing wells.
Or so Sela thinks...
Sela Sullivan resolved to be the best maid of honor to her best friend's upcoming wedding even if it means tolerating the best man. The best man, by the way, is the bride's big brother who also happens to be her older brother's best friend.
Sela and Luke had a history in high school. No, they weren't high school sweethearts. Not even close. In fact, Luke figured in Sela's most embarrassing moment during that time, which included a kissing booth. He was a jock, she was a nerd. He was popular, she wasn't. She had a crush on him, he doesn't return the feeling. You need to read the book to get the whole story but you get the gist.
Hence, she vowed to stay away from him and to help her make that happen, she turned to the guardians of Cascade's own wishing well to help her. Tough luck! The guardians of the well wasn't up to helping her stay away. In fact, more and more, she and Luke seems to be gravitating towards each other.
This was my first book from Robin Bielman, and I may have found another author whose books I would keep an eye on. I really loved this one. I loved the premise of the book and it was set on a small town. I'm a sucker for those kinds of books.
I loved the family dynamics, the friendships and the rivalries in this kind of small town settings. And this book delivers on all counts. That said, I was a bit annoyed at their respective families for interfering. Yeah, Luke wasn't known for staying in one place for long and Sela might not be cut out for a fling but really! They are both consenting adults and they are both attracted to each other. They did change their tune in the end.
Another thing I loved about this book is the chemistry between Luke and Sela. The sexual tension was palpable but no graphic sex scenes here. Sorry, smut lovers. But as I said, the sexual tension was there and it was enough for me. This book is proof that you don't need to be overly graphic in order to achieve sexual tension.
Overall, this book did it for me. It was sweet, funny with the right amount tension to make it a very enjoyable read.
Desperate times called for wishing wells.
Or so Sela thinks...
Sela Sullivan resolved to be the best maid of honor to her best friend's upcoming wedding even if it means tolerating the best man. The best man, by the way, is the bride's big brother who also happens to be her older brother's best friend.
Sela and Luke had a history in high school. No, they weren't high school sweethearts. Not even close. In fact, Luke figured in Sela's most embarrassing moment during that time, which included a kissing booth. He was a jock, she was a nerd. He was popular, she wasn't. She had a crush on him, he doesn't return the feeling. You need to read the book to get the whole story but you get the gist.
Hence, she vowed to stay away from him and to help her make that happen, she turned to the guardians of Cascade's own wishing well to help her. Tough luck! The guardians of the well wasn't up to helping her stay away. In fact, more and more, she and Luke seems to be gravitating towards each other.
This was my first book from Robin Bielman, and I may have found another author whose books I would keep an eye on. I really loved this one. I loved the premise of the book and it was set on a small town. I'm a sucker for those kinds of books.
I loved the family dynamics, the friendships and the rivalries in this kind of small town settings. And this book delivers on all counts. That said, I was a bit annoyed at their respective families for interfering. Yeah, Luke wasn't known for staying in one place for long and Sela might not be cut out for a fling but really! They are both consenting adults and they are both attracted to each other. They did change their tune in the end.
Another thing I loved about this book is the chemistry between Luke and Sela. The sexual tension was palpable but no graphic sex scenes here. Sorry, smut lovers. But as I said, the sexual tension was there and it was enough for me. This book is proof that you don't need to be overly graphic in order to achieve sexual tension.
Overall, this book did it for me. It was sweet, funny with the right amount tension to make it a very enjoyable read.
May 27, 2013
Desperate times called for wishing wells
Good luck with that! Sela’s the maid of honor in her best friend’s upcoming wedding and her wishing well wish is to stay as far away from Luke, best man and brother of the bride, as possible. Luke’s been her secret crush for most of her life and he’s also the cause of her most humiliating teenage moment.
What was Luke supposed to do? Ten years ago his sister’s best friend paid five bucks for some high school kissing booth action and lets just stay the experience made his jeans a little snugger in the fly, to use a fairly bad romance novel euphemism. To deflect the attention away from his ever hardening crotch he announced, loudly and with feeling, that kissing Sela was akin to kissing a corpse. Now home for three weeks of wedding festivities, Luke can’t help but notice how hot Sela turned out to be or how sweet and funny she is. She can’t possibly remember the kissing booth fiasco, can she? Oh Luke, you naïve but studly SOB.
Honestly I wasn’t expecting much when I started this story. I requested it because I love any kind of friends to lovers, crush on best friend’s sibling kind of story and I’m happy to say I was pleasantly surprised by this book. All of the characters, but Sela especially, were well written and unexpectedly entertaining. Sela’s a complete smart ass and she didn’t hesitate to share this talent with Luke and that made for more than a few funny moments. The sexual tension between these two was intense, especially for a romance lacking any real love scenes.
My only real issue with Kissing the Maid of Honor was the ending. I’m a little tired of history repeating itself kind of misunderstandings and everything tied itself up way too quickly. Luke’s long term solutions to the problems standing in the way of their HEA just didn’t seem to fit with the rest of the story.
Overall I enjoyed this book. Is it going to blow away readers with its sheer awesomeness? Probably not. Sometimes all you want is a well written contemporary romance and I’d say this book delivers that.
3.5 Stars
ARC provided by the publisher via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review
Good luck with that! Sela’s the maid of honor in her best friend’s upcoming wedding and her wishing well wish is to stay as far away from Luke, best man and brother of the bride, as possible. Luke’s been her secret crush for most of her life and he’s also the cause of her most humiliating teenage moment.
What was Luke supposed to do? Ten years ago his sister’s best friend paid five bucks for some high school kissing booth action and lets just stay the experience made his jeans a little snugger in the fly, to use a fairly bad romance novel euphemism. To deflect the attention away from his ever hardening crotch he announced, loudly and with feeling, that kissing Sela was akin to kissing a corpse. Now home for three weeks of wedding festivities, Luke can’t help but notice how hot Sela turned out to be or how sweet and funny she is. She can’t possibly remember the kissing booth fiasco, can she? Oh Luke, you naïve but studly SOB.
Honestly I wasn’t expecting much when I started this story. I requested it because I love any kind of friends to lovers, crush on best friend’s sibling kind of story and I’m happy to say I was pleasantly surprised by this book. All of the characters, but Sela especially, were well written and unexpectedly entertaining. Sela’s a complete smart ass and she didn’t hesitate to share this talent with Luke and that made for more than a few funny moments. The sexual tension between these two was intense, especially for a romance lacking any real love scenes.
My only real issue with Kissing the Maid of Honor was the ending. I’m a little tired of history repeating itself kind of misunderstandings and everything tied itself up way too quickly. Luke’s long term solutions to the problems standing in the way of their HEA just didn’t seem to fit with the rest of the story.
Overall I enjoyed this book. Is it going to blow away readers with its sheer awesomeness? Probably not. Sometimes all you want is a well written contemporary romance and I’d say this book delivers that.
3.5 Stars
ARC provided by the publisher via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review
April 23, 2014
Part of me doesn't quite know how to feel about this. It started off pretty cute. It was light, it was fun, I was enjoying myself. And then it became all about accidental touches that sent sparks through their bodies.
Um, no. I hate this concept.
And even though Sela was supposed to dislike Luke for how he treated her in high school, she couldn't stop staring at his body or thinking about kissing him or blah blah blah. All you're experiencing is lust. Get a control on your hormones, girl.
Basically the more I got to know the characters the more I disliked them. I thought Sela needed to have more self respect and stay away from a guy who continually acted like an arrogant, bossy ass.
On top of that I thought Sela's best friend Vanessa was incredibly self involved. All she seemed to care about was her perfect wedding day, forget the best friend who was bending over backward for her.
The ending improved a little bit, but at that point nothing could have really salvaged this.
Um, no. I hate this concept.
And even though Sela was supposed to dislike Luke for how he treated her in high school, she couldn't stop staring at his body or thinking about kissing him or blah blah blah. All you're experiencing is lust. Get a control on your hormones, girl.
Basically the more I got to know the characters the more I disliked them. I thought Sela needed to have more self respect and stay away from a guy who continually acted like an arrogant, bossy ass.
On top of that I thought Sela's best friend Vanessa was incredibly self involved. All she seemed to care about was her perfect wedding day, forget the best friend who was bending over backward for her.
The ending improved a little bit, but at that point nothing could have really salvaged this.
July 12, 2013
I loved it!
It's very sweet, very nice love story.
I like to read friends to lover contents in romance books. So a book includes that kind of story, I'm in! I was not sure if I like this one but it's the best ever I've read to friends to lover and best man-made of honor concept.
The progress of the story, the family, friends, relationships and love that grew between them, all of them written very well.
I will definitely follow the author and will read other books too.
It's very sweet, very nice love story.
I like to read friends to lover contents in romance books. So a book includes that kind of story, I'm in! I was not sure if I like this one but it's the best ever I've read to friends to lover and best man-made of honor concept.
The progress of the story, the family, friends, relationships and love that grew between them, all of them written very well.
I will definitely follow the author and will read other books too.
May 23, 2013
Short review: Loved it! Seriously, this is the kind of story I would DIE to see made into a movie :-D Sela was the kind of heroine I would love to have as a best friend and I instantly fell for Luke he was charming and so sexy and sweet! *sighs* A heart-warming and sweet story with so many butterflies and sizzling sexual tension/attraction, can't wait to read the next stories in the series, Robin Bielman delivers another keeper. I loved all the characters and would love to live with them in Cascade. If only I didn't have to wait so long to read the next books... ;-)
Detailed review:
You might remember that one of the best revelations of 2013 was discovering Robin Bielman when I read her short novella, Yours at Midnight. I loved her captivating writing style and was very much looking forward to her next novel, which I’m doubly happy to report is here since not only is it part of a series (yay!) but it is also a wedding romance, a sub-genre I just love! (double yay!)
Kissing the Maid of Honor is the first in the Secret Wishes series and it is the kind of story I would LOVE to see made into a movie!
The story opens with our heroine, Sela, making a wish to survive the next couple of weeks and the wedding of her best friend without having to spend much time with the older brother of said friend due to a mortifying crush and the most memorable high school humiliation she had to suffer thanks to him. But Lady Luck not only doesn’t grant Sela her wish but makes everything in her power to thrust Luke, who is even more handsome and irresistible than ever, in Sela’s path.
Seriously I loved everything about this story. Sela was so lovable, kind and relatable, the kind of heroine I wish I had as a best friend, while Luke was simply irresistibly sexy and sweet. Not only was he handsome, but he was tender, thoughtful charming and warm-hearted, the lethal combination lol Their chemistry was terrific, Robin Bielman sure knew how to up the sexual tension between these two, the air was sizzling nonstop whenever they got together either through their bickering or because of their attraction. I just loved their playfulness
“You…” Sela pursed her lips together and shook her head.
“Me what?” He moved around her and took an apple out of the fridge.
(You look too good for words and smell like heaven and I want to run my fingers through your hair and press my body against yours and ask you to do things to me no one has ever done before. )
“… You’re annoying.”
“That’s the best you’ve got?”
I especially loved that the development of their romantic relationship was realistic and credible.
"How had she let this happen? How had she let her heart get involved? At first she’d been lured by the vulnerable side he’d shared with her at the hospital. She’d defy any girl not to be smitten with that. Next had been the banter that turned from annoying to playful to flirtatious. The scorching looks across the room. He’d helped her be more adventurous, and she had helped him get over his accident. The connectivity between them had snapped her wariness and made her uncontrollably crazy about him. But the kicker was his apology and how he’d admitted to feelings for her, too."
But trust me when I say that besides Sela and Luke there are so many other things to appreciate in Kissing the Maid of Honor, like the crazy, adorable and quirky secondary characters:
“I can take it from here.” She exchanged her helmet for the gasoline container in his hand.
“I’m sure you can, but what kind of gentleman would I be if I left you alone on the side of the road?”
“Do not play that chivalry crap with me. We both know the only thing I need to worry about at this time of night in this town are the nosy neighbors.”
“Does Mrs.Finnegan still patrol?” The seventy-something great-grandmother had been the first female police officer in Cascade and even though she’d retired years ago, she’d always taken it upon herself to keep an eye out for “riffraff.”
“She never leaves her house without binoculars around her neck, a water gun in her pocket, and a mug of hot tea in case a stakeout is required.”
the fluent and captivating writing style, Robin Bielman’s chuckle-out loud humour:
"[He] pressed the buzzer for Sela’s apartment. He tightened his hold on the brown paper bag in his arm.
“Hello?” One word and his muscles grew taut.
“Hey, it’s Luke. I’ve got a special delivery.” She didn’t know he was coming and he hoped that enticed her to let him up even if she was busy.
“Luke who?” He smiled like a damn teenager.
“Luke, omigod, Luke, don’t stop, Luke. Ring a bell?” The door buzzed."
and the heart-warming affection and love between the tight-knit community of family and friends. Cascade was a small town I wouldn’t mind living in, especially if I got to meet these characters in real life :-D
"Amidst applause and shouts of good wishes, she met Luke in the middle of the dance floor. He kissed her like no one else was in the room. “Damn you’ve got an irresistible mouth,” he said, coming up for air. That mischievous gleam sparkled in his impossibly green eyes. “You should hold it against me more often.”"
Verdict: Kissing the Maid of Honor was a lovely start to Robin Bielman’s new small town romance: it was heart-warming, sweet and funny, the only compliant/request I have is that it could have been a bit sexier (after so much tension and sizzle between Sela and Luke I would have enjoyed to see the explosions ;-). With characters you’ll fall in love with, a romance that will make you sigh, Kissing the Maid of Honor is a novel not to be missed!
I give Kissing the Maid of Honor 5 stars!
Plot: 9/10
Characters: 10/10 - I just loved them!
Writing: 9/10 there was a lot of sexual tension between Luke and Selaand I would have liked to read more about how those sparks ignited
Ending: 8/10 - It was cute, though happened a bit quickly
Cover: 10/10 - just perfect!
Kissing the Maid of Honor was a lovely introduction to the series and I can't wait to read the next ones, another keeper from Robin Bielman!
Detailed review:
You might remember that one of the best revelations of 2013 was discovering Robin Bielman when I read her short novella, Yours at Midnight. I loved her captivating writing style and was very much looking forward to her next novel, which I’m doubly happy to report is here since not only is it part of a series (yay!) but it is also a wedding romance, a sub-genre I just love! (double yay!)
Kissing the Maid of Honor is the first in the Secret Wishes series and it is the kind of story I would LOVE to see made into a movie!
The story opens with our heroine, Sela, making a wish to survive the next couple of weeks and the wedding of her best friend without having to spend much time with the older brother of said friend due to a mortifying crush and the most memorable high school humiliation she had to suffer thanks to him. But Lady Luck not only doesn’t grant Sela her wish but makes everything in her power to thrust Luke, who is even more handsome and irresistible than ever, in Sela’s path.
Seriously I loved everything about this story. Sela was so lovable, kind and relatable, the kind of heroine I wish I had as a best friend, while Luke was simply irresistibly sexy and sweet. Not only was he handsome, but he was tender, thoughtful charming and warm-hearted, the lethal combination lol Their chemistry was terrific, Robin Bielman sure knew how to up the sexual tension between these two, the air was sizzling nonstop whenever they got together either through their bickering or because of their attraction. I just loved their playfulness
“You…” Sela pursed her lips together and shook her head.
“Me what?” He moved around her and took an apple out of the fridge.
(You look too good for words and smell like heaven and I want to run my fingers through your hair and press my body against yours and ask you to do things to me no one has ever done before. )
“… You’re annoying.”
“That’s the best you’ve got?”
I especially loved that the development of their romantic relationship was realistic and credible.
"How had she let this happen? How had she let her heart get involved? At first she’d been lured by the vulnerable side he’d shared with her at the hospital. She’d defy any girl not to be smitten with that. Next had been the banter that turned from annoying to playful to flirtatious. The scorching looks across the room. He’d helped her be more adventurous, and she had helped him get over his accident. The connectivity between them had snapped her wariness and made her uncontrollably crazy about him. But the kicker was his apology and how he’d admitted to feelings for her, too."
But trust me when I say that besides Sela and Luke there are so many other things to appreciate in Kissing the Maid of Honor, like the crazy, adorable and quirky secondary characters:
“I can take it from here.” She exchanged her helmet for the gasoline container in his hand.
“I’m sure you can, but what kind of gentleman would I be if I left you alone on the side of the road?”
“Do not play that chivalry crap with me. We both know the only thing I need to worry about at this time of night in this town are the nosy neighbors.”
“Does Mrs.Finnegan still patrol?” The seventy-something great-grandmother had been the first female police officer in Cascade and even though she’d retired years ago, she’d always taken it upon herself to keep an eye out for “riffraff.”
“She never leaves her house without binoculars around her neck, a water gun in her pocket, and a mug of hot tea in case a stakeout is required.”
the fluent and captivating writing style, Robin Bielman’s chuckle-out loud humour:
"[He] pressed the buzzer for Sela’s apartment. He tightened his hold on the brown paper bag in his arm.
“Hello?” One word and his muscles grew taut.
“Hey, it’s Luke. I’ve got a special delivery.” She didn’t know he was coming and he hoped that enticed her to let him up even if she was busy.
“Luke who?” He smiled like a damn teenager.
“Luke, omigod, Luke, don’t stop, Luke. Ring a bell?” The door buzzed."
and the heart-warming affection and love between the tight-knit community of family and friends. Cascade was a small town I wouldn’t mind living in, especially if I got to meet these characters in real life :-D
"Amidst applause and shouts of good wishes, she met Luke in the middle of the dance floor. He kissed her like no one else was in the room. “Damn you’ve got an irresistible mouth,” he said, coming up for air. That mischievous gleam sparkled in his impossibly green eyes. “You should hold it against me more often.”"
Verdict: Kissing the Maid of Honor was a lovely start to Robin Bielman’s new small town romance: it was heart-warming, sweet and funny, the only compliant/request I have is that it could have been a bit sexier (after so much tension and sizzle between Sela and Luke I would have enjoyed to see the explosions ;-). With characters you’ll fall in love with, a romance that will make you sigh, Kissing the Maid of Honor is a novel not to be missed!
I give Kissing the Maid of Honor 5 stars!
Plot: 9/10
Characters: 10/10 - I just loved them!
Writing: 9/10 there was a lot of sexual tension between Luke and Selaand I would have liked to read more about how those sparks ignited
Ending: 8/10 - It was cute, though happened a bit quickly
Cover: 10/10 - just perfect!
Kissing the Maid of Honor was a lovely introduction to the series and I can't wait to read the next ones, another keeper from Robin Bielman!
June 7, 2013
As a teenager Sela had a massive crush on Luke but when he publicly humiliated her at high school she swore to stay as far away from him as possible. Luckily his job as an extreme sports photographer has keeps him away from their home town and their paths haven't crossed in years. Now his sister Vanessa is getting married though and although Sela is determined to be a wonderful maid of honor for her best friend she is dreading having to face Luke again. Luke didn't mean to hurt Sela but the intensity of their first kiss shocked him and he reacted badly. Now he is home for a few weeks and he is starting to remember how much fun they used to have and he is even more drawn to the beautiful woman she has grown into. He never planned on settling down but he finds himself wanting to prove to Sela how much he has changed and convince her to give him a second chance.
I love small town romances, you know, the ones with a selection of quirky characters that are set somewhere that everyone knows everyone else's business and that are about families who love to meddle in each other's love lives! Give me a light hearted story with plenty of humour, a lot of romance and at least a little bit of spice and I'm happy so it's no wonder that Kissing the Maid of Honor hit the spot perfectly. I already knew I loved Robin Bielman's writing style from reading Yours at Midnight so I jumped at the chance of reviewing the first book in her new series and I'm really glad I did. I don't think I've ever read a romance novel that starts with the heroine making a wish that she will never have to see the hero again but I knew from that moment that fate had plans for Sela and Luke and they didn't involve keeping them apart!
Sela is the kind of woman you'd want to be friends with, she is sweet, kind and caring which shows not just in her personal life but also in her job as a nurse. Luke is an adrenaline junkie who loves taking risks and living life on the edge but after a nasty accident he has become more wary and needs time to recover both in mind and body. He is drawn to Sela from the beginning but is wary of getting involved with his best friend's little sister which is the main reason he reacted so badly to their kiss when they were in high school. Sela was heartbroken by Luke's rejection after they kissed and her reputation was ruined for the rest of her time at high school which made it very difficult for her to move on with somebody else. I don't think Luke ever realised quite how much he had hurt her and although he did apologise for his actions I think I would have liked Sela to have made him grovel just a little bit more before she accepted the apology. That was my one slight niggle with the story though and I loved seeing them get to know each other again after spending so much time apart. They can't deny the attraction between them and they are both irresistibly drawn to each other. The banter between them was great and fun and they have off the charts chemistry, I just wish their story had been written with a hotter spice level because it was a shame to miss out on the action after such a fabulous build up!
Overall Kissing the Maid of Honor was a brilliant start to the Secret Wishes series and I can't wait to carry on reading the books. I had a feeling that Shane's book would be next and I'm excited that Robin Bielman confirmed that for me (Erin's story will be book 3). This is a series I'm definitely looking forward to continuing and I'd highly recommend it to contemporary romance fans.
I love small town romances, you know, the ones with a selection of quirky characters that are set somewhere that everyone knows everyone else's business and that are about families who love to meddle in each other's love lives! Give me a light hearted story with plenty of humour, a lot of romance and at least a little bit of spice and I'm happy so it's no wonder that Kissing the Maid of Honor hit the spot perfectly. I already knew I loved Robin Bielman's writing style from reading Yours at Midnight so I jumped at the chance of reviewing the first book in her new series and I'm really glad I did. I don't think I've ever read a romance novel that starts with the heroine making a wish that she will never have to see the hero again but I knew from that moment that fate had plans for Sela and Luke and they didn't involve keeping them apart!
Sela is the kind of woman you'd want to be friends with, she is sweet, kind and caring which shows not just in her personal life but also in her job as a nurse. Luke is an adrenaline junkie who loves taking risks and living life on the edge but after a nasty accident he has become more wary and needs time to recover both in mind and body. He is drawn to Sela from the beginning but is wary of getting involved with his best friend's little sister which is the main reason he reacted so badly to their kiss when they were in high school. Sela was heartbroken by Luke's rejection after they kissed and her reputation was ruined for the rest of her time at high school which made it very difficult for her to move on with somebody else. I don't think Luke ever realised quite how much he had hurt her and although he did apologise for his actions I think I would have liked Sela to have made him grovel just a little bit more before she accepted the apology. That was my one slight niggle with the story though and I loved seeing them get to know each other again after spending so much time apart. They can't deny the attraction between them and they are both irresistibly drawn to each other. The banter between them was great and fun and they have off the charts chemistry, I just wish their story had been written with a hotter spice level because it was a shame to miss out on the action after such a fabulous build up!
Overall Kissing the Maid of Honor was a brilliant start to the Secret Wishes series and I can't wait to carry on reading the books. I had a feeling that Shane's book would be next and I'm excited that Robin Bielman confirmed that for me (Erin's story will be book 3). This is a series I'm definitely looking forward to continuing and I'd highly recommend it to contemporary romance fans.
July 10, 2013
Review posted at: Swept Away By Romance
3 stars!
The blurb on this book hooked me from the get-go and I knew I had to read this book. In some ways it definitely lived up to my expectations, and in other ways it ended up being a disappointment.
Sela Sullivan has had a “thing” for Luke Watters since she was a kid. Luke was her brother’s best friend and her best friend’s brother (you may need to read that tongue-tying sentence a few times to get it ☺!) Things went south for her when she paid money to kiss Luke at the high school kissing booth and in return Luke publically embarrassed her by critiquing her ability to kiss. Of course, we learn that Luke didn’t mean what he said, and was really protecting him self against the feelings that his best friend’s sister inspired.
Fast-forward 10 years. Sela is back in town for her best friend’s wedding, and GUESS who’s the best man? None other than the drop dead gorgeous, single, and widely successful sports photographer Luke Watters! Sparks immediately fly between these old acquaintances and the chemistry between these characters was VERY well written.
Another bonus to this story is that Sela works as a pediatric nurse, and this had a ton of meaning to me personally. It added depth to the story, and to her character, as she deals with the emotion of taking care of sick children.
I really liked this story and both Sela and Luke. The reason I didn’t rate this higher is that the sexual tension is so well written and when these characters finally do something about their attraction, this book fades to black. No sexy times under the sheets in this book. Nothing. I didn’t realize this until it was too late. I got to the end of the book and had to go back to make sure I hadn’t missed it!
If you are interested in sweet romances without all the spice, this would be a perfect choice. I read it on the beach, and it was a perfect beach read. It’s just a bummer it didn’t have more spice!
3 stars!
The blurb on this book hooked me from the get-go and I knew I had to read this book. In some ways it definitely lived up to my expectations, and in other ways it ended up being a disappointment.
Sela Sullivan has had a “thing” for Luke Watters since she was a kid. Luke was her brother’s best friend and her best friend’s brother (you may need to read that tongue-tying sentence a few times to get it ☺!) Things went south for her when she paid money to kiss Luke at the high school kissing booth and in return Luke publically embarrassed her by critiquing her ability to kiss. Of course, we learn that Luke didn’t mean what he said, and was really protecting him self against the feelings that his best friend’s sister inspired.
Fast-forward 10 years. Sela is back in town for her best friend’s wedding, and GUESS who’s the best man? None other than the drop dead gorgeous, single, and widely successful sports photographer Luke Watters! Sparks immediately fly between these old acquaintances and the chemistry between these characters was VERY well written.
Another bonus to this story is that Sela works as a pediatric nurse, and this had a ton of meaning to me personally. It added depth to the story, and to her character, as she deals with the emotion of taking care of sick children.
I really liked this story and both Sela and Luke. The reason I didn’t rate this higher is that the sexual tension is so well written and when these characters finally do something about their attraction, this book fades to black. No sexy times under the sheets in this book. Nothing. I didn’t realize this until it was too late. I got to the end of the book and had to go back to make sure I hadn’t missed it!
If you are interested in sweet romances without all the spice, this would be a perfect choice. I read it on the beach, and it was a perfect beach read. It’s just a bummer it didn’t have more spice!
May 14, 2013
3.5 Stars
Can you say sexual tension? Holy MOSES! The sexual tension between Sela Sullivan and Luke Watters is thick. This made for a great story!
Sela is best friends with Luke’s younger sister and Luke is best friends with Sela’s older brother. That being said, any relationship they may want to have with each other is OFF LIMITS! Sela is also the maid of honor in her best friends wedding.
Sela and Luke are funny together. They constantly challenge each other. Luke & Sela have an undeniable attraction to each other. Sela is just trying to get through the wedding and then she can be rid of the handsome and pesky Luke.
At some point they stop trying to fight it, which is where things get interesting. I love the story line and how witty these two are together. Overall, this was a very charming story.
Can you say sexual tension? Holy MOSES! The sexual tension between Sela Sullivan and Luke Watters is thick. This made for a great story!
Sela is best friends with Luke’s younger sister and Luke is best friends with Sela’s older brother. That being said, any relationship they may want to have with each other is OFF LIMITS! Sela is also the maid of honor in her best friends wedding.
Sela and Luke are funny together. They constantly challenge each other. Luke & Sela have an undeniable attraction to each other. Sela is just trying to get through the wedding and then she can be rid of the handsome and pesky Luke.
At some point they stop trying to fight it, which is where things get interesting. I love the story line and how witty these two are together. Overall, this was a very charming story.
May 24, 2013
I received my e-book copy from Entangled with the promise for an honest review.
Kissing the Maid of Honor was a truly well written sweet story. I enjoyed the various relationships between all the characters. The friendships and sibling relationships were so realistic and relatable. I laughed and smiled while reading this book. It was such an honest and endearing journey of love between Sela and Luke. I like how they tried to stay away from each other only to realize it was no use. It had me hooked from the beginning and I had to keep reading.
I have read all Ms. Bielman's books and thoroughly enjoyed each one. I am hoping their is a second book to this one showcasing Sela's brother, Shane.
Kissing the Maid of Honor was a truly well written sweet story. I enjoyed the various relationships between all the characters. The friendships and sibling relationships were so realistic and relatable. I laughed and smiled while reading this book. It was such an honest and endearing journey of love between Sela and Luke. I like how they tried to stay away from each other only to realize it was no use. It had me hooked from the beginning and I had to keep reading.
I have read all Ms. Bielman's books and thoroughly enjoyed each one. I am hoping their is a second book to this one showcasing Sela's brother, Shane.
May 17, 2013
I straight up loved Kissing the Maid of Honor. Ms. Bielman writes from the heart and it shows. Her characters are real people I want to sit down and pass the time of day with. I love getting lost in a story and I really did get lost in Kissing the Maid of Honor.
Sela has promised to be the maid of honor to her best friend Vanessa. She's dismayed to find the man she'll be partnered with will be none other than her high-school crush, Vanessa's brother, Luke Watters who's back in town after ten years away. Luke never forgot the kissing booth of their youth when Sela's perfect lips molded against his. Unexpected and very real emotions caused him to throw out a line that crushed Sela. She's his best friends sister! He can't have feelings for her. He leaves not long after for college and to forge a life for himself away from the town his forefathers founded.
As the wedding approaches, Sela and Luke spend time together and we see the sparks fly. The dialogue between them sparkles. Luke and Sela fight their growing attraction, each knowing it will only last until the wedding, when Luke will return to his adventurer photographer lifestyle. Luke isn't a settling down, small town boy, and I have to say I could happily live in the small town of Cascade, Oregon with Sela and her friend's as my family. Sela stole my heart with her compassion, her love of life and her gentle nature but she knows her own mind and she speaks it. I loved her.
If you're looking for real characters written with love, laughter and heartwarming poignancy then I highly recommend this book.
This is the first Bliss I've read from Robin Bielman and I can't wait for her next. I hope it's Shane's story. He had me laughing out loud.
Five Stars!
Sela has promised to be the maid of honor to her best friend Vanessa. She's dismayed to find the man she'll be partnered with will be none other than her high-school crush, Vanessa's brother, Luke Watters who's back in town after ten years away. Luke never forgot the kissing booth of their youth when Sela's perfect lips molded against his. Unexpected and very real emotions caused him to throw out a line that crushed Sela. She's his best friends sister! He can't have feelings for her. He leaves not long after for college and to forge a life for himself away from the town his forefathers founded.
As the wedding approaches, Sela and Luke spend time together and we see the sparks fly. The dialogue between them sparkles. Luke and Sela fight their growing attraction, each knowing it will only last until the wedding, when Luke will return to his adventurer photographer lifestyle. Luke isn't a settling down, small town boy, and I have to say I could happily live in the small town of Cascade, Oregon with Sela and her friend's as my family. Sela stole my heart with her compassion, her love of life and her gentle nature but she knows her own mind and she speaks it. I loved her.
If you're looking for real characters written with love, laughter and heartwarming poignancy then I highly recommend this book.
This is the first Bliss I've read from Robin Bielman and I can't wait for her next. I hope it's Shane's story. He had me laughing out loud.
Five Stars!
May 13, 2013
Okay, so…full disclosure…I loved Ms. Bielman’s Ever After novellas, “Worth the Risk,” and “Yours At Midnight,” but I’d never read a Bliss before and I wasn’t sure a sweet love story with a closed door on the sexytimes was really going to satisfy me. Turns out I was wrong to doubt! This “enemies to lovers” story conveys all the heart, heat and emotion anybody could ask for, without turning me fifty shades of red while I sat in the pediatrician’s office with my e-reader.
Don’t let the Bliss imprint fool you. In "Kissing the Maid of Honor," the sexual tension between maid of honor Sela Sullivan and bride’s older brother Luke Watters is hot. Sparks fly between Sela and Luke as they’re thrown together for Luke’s sister Vanessa’s wedding and try to get beyond their painful and awkward high-school interactions. But the scenes, the interactions, and the dialogue are so real, and so vivid-- nothing felt restrained or glossed over. Not just with regard to the sexy scenes, but overall. There’s a bachelorette party with games and other…accoutrements…as naughty and hilarious as anything you’ll find this side of Vegas, baby! I could identify with Sela and her reluctance to interact with, much less fall for, a guy who trampled her heart in high school. At the same time, I rooted for Luke, because he wasn't the same emotionally stunted jock-ass Sela remembered.
"Kissing the Maid of Honor" is not your mama’s Harlequin. It’s modern, and classy and oh-so-satisfying. Pure Bliss.
I will definitely be checking out more Bliss titles, but Ms. Bielman belongs in my auto-buy category no matter what line she writes for.
Don’t let the Bliss imprint fool you. In "Kissing the Maid of Honor," the sexual tension between maid of honor Sela Sullivan and bride’s older brother Luke Watters is hot. Sparks fly between Sela and Luke as they’re thrown together for Luke’s sister Vanessa’s wedding and try to get beyond their painful and awkward high-school interactions. But the scenes, the interactions, and the dialogue are so real, and so vivid-- nothing felt restrained or glossed over. Not just with regard to the sexy scenes, but overall. There’s a bachelorette party with games and other…accoutrements…as naughty and hilarious as anything you’ll find this side of Vegas, baby! I could identify with Sela and her reluctance to interact with, much less fall for, a guy who trampled her heart in high school. At the same time, I rooted for Luke, because he wasn't the same emotionally stunted jock-ass Sela remembered.
"Kissing the Maid of Honor" is not your mama’s Harlequin. It’s modern, and classy and oh-so-satisfying. Pure Bliss.
I will definitely be checking out more Bliss titles, but Ms. Bielman belongs in my auto-buy category no matter what line she writes for.
May 20, 2013
Funny, sexy and heartwarming by turns, Robin Bielman's latest -- Kissing the Maid of Honor -- is a romantic treat from beginning to end! As a reader, I found myself really rooting for Sela and Luke, enjoying the steamy chemistry between them, feeling their anguish at the mistakes they'd made in the past, and falling in love with their wonderful small-town community, too. Lucky for us, this book is the first in a trilogy, and I'm already looking forward to the next "Secret Wishes" novel!
May 21, 2013
Loved the book! The hero really had to work for his HEA, and what woman wouldn't like that?
September 3, 2016
Sela Sullivan is very happy to be her best friend’s maid of honor and she is determined to do anything she can to realize every wish of the bride. But when she discovers that the guy who broke her heart ten years before is going to be the best man, her strength of will starts to waver and her heart as well. Furthermore, Luke Watters is her best friend’s older brother and her brother’s best friend.
How do you know you are really enjoying a book? Personally, I understand that when I cannot think anything but the story I am reading, or the characters keep coming to my mind while I am doing other things. That is exactly what happened with “Kissing the maid of honor”. Robin Bielman wrote a story about love, friendship, family that enthralled me from the beginning to the end. I loved every page and I had a very good time during my reading.
When someone we love makes us miserable, the only thing we want to do is getting him/her out of our mind. This is what Sela Sullivan tries to do. She even trusts a wishing well, anything to stay away from Luke Watters. Sela is a normal girl. She is a nurse, she likes writing. She loves her friends and she has a very sweet nature. A lot of girls can empathize with her because her life is simple, almost ordinary. Luke, on the other hand, likes to live on the edge. He is a photographer, he likes extreme sports and he combined these passions to earn his living. What can happen when two people like them meet again after ten years? When Luke sees Sela his heart stops. She is very different from the shy fifteen-year-old girl he kissed by chance in high school and the most difficult thing to accept is that Sela seems not to care about his attentions and glances. After all, he is the guy who made her suffer in front of the entire school and you cannot trust bad boys, can you?
I spent four amazing days laughing with all the characters, moving deeply with Mrs. Bielman’s words and wishing all of Sela and Luke’s dreams would come true. I really enjoyed this story and the idea that true love maybe exists gives me hope for the future. Sometimes reality is different from what we imagine and some surprises are worth the wait!
I recommend this book to everyone who likes to live on the edge, who enjoys being in love and is fond of love, or simply every person who loves romance, secrets and weddings. This is a very fun and entertaining novel you really want not to miss. I would like to end in style by quoting a sentence of the text that I loved:
“ Life is short. Sometimes you have to live for today and not worry about tomorrow.”
Everybody should follow this advice. So, what are you waiting for? Get a copy of this book and read it!
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars.
How do you know you are really enjoying a book? Personally, I understand that when I cannot think anything but the story I am reading, or the characters keep coming to my mind while I am doing other things. That is exactly what happened with “Kissing the maid of honor”. Robin Bielman wrote a story about love, friendship, family that enthralled me from the beginning to the end. I loved every page and I had a very good time during my reading.
When someone we love makes us miserable, the only thing we want to do is getting him/her out of our mind. This is what Sela Sullivan tries to do. She even trusts a wishing well, anything to stay away from Luke Watters. Sela is a normal girl. She is a nurse, she likes writing. She loves her friends and she has a very sweet nature. A lot of girls can empathize with her because her life is simple, almost ordinary. Luke, on the other hand, likes to live on the edge. He is a photographer, he likes extreme sports and he combined these passions to earn his living. What can happen when two people like them meet again after ten years? When Luke sees Sela his heart stops. She is very different from the shy fifteen-year-old girl he kissed by chance in high school and the most difficult thing to accept is that Sela seems not to care about his attentions and glances. After all, he is the guy who made her suffer in front of the entire school and you cannot trust bad boys, can you?
I spent four amazing days laughing with all the characters, moving deeply with Mrs. Bielman’s words and wishing all of Sela and Luke’s dreams would come true. I really enjoyed this story and the idea that true love maybe exists gives me hope for the future. Sometimes reality is different from what we imagine and some surprises are worth the wait!
I recommend this book to everyone who likes to live on the edge, who enjoys being in love and is fond of love, or simply every person who loves romance, secrets and weddings. This is a very fun and entertaining novel you really want not to miss. I would like to end in style by quoting a sentence of the text that I loved:
“ Life is short. Sometimes you have to live for today and not worry about tomorrow.”
Everybody should follow this advice. So, what are you waiting for? Get a copy of this book and read it!
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars.
May 14, 2013
Robin Bielman has become an auto-read author for me. I know that with her books I will get a lot of emotion from her characters and a heartwarming story. The plot in Kissing the Maid of Honor is well constructed and the set-up of characters for more books in the series is done very well. Sela and Luke are characters the reader can relate to and support. Sometimes I tend to pick a side - hero vs. heroine, but in this story I was really rooting for both them. The romance throughout the story was slow to build which made it even better when they did finally give in and go for it.
One of the things I like about Bliss books is that they are very clean romances. There is implied intimacy, but no descriptions. Thus, all the passion and love the characters show is done outside the bedroom and Robin shows this very well. There are just enough kisses, touches, looks, and words that draw you in as a reader to help you understand the deep feelings Luke and Sela have for one another. While I do like to read hot and steamy books I also like to balance those out with sweet books like Kissing the Maid of Honor.
There were many times throughout the story that I assumed a plot line was going to go a specific way, but it didn't. I like to be surprised, even in contemporary romances when you know the hero is going to get the heroine and live happily ever after. The twists in this book were true to the characters of the story, so while I was surprised, it was not out of character for Luke or Sela to respond a certain way. In keeping true to characters, one aspect of the book that made the story feel more realistic, was when Vanessa worried that Luke and Sela getting together would equal unwanted drama for her wedding. I think every bride would feel like this even if they don't want to admit it. Because, really, when you are the bride, it is YOUR day. You don't want unnecessary drama, so I thought that honesty from Vanessa brought some realism into a fictional story. As for the other characters, I enjoyed Shane (Sela's brother) and Erin (Luke's sister) a lot. Shane seems like a wild one and I look forward to reading about him in the next story.
It is hard to convey everything I liked about Kissing the Maid of Honor without giving away spoilers. You just need to read it for yourself and experience the laughter and tears that Luke and Sela go through in finding their happy ever after. If you are looking for a clean, classy, contemporary romance, I highly recommend you try Kissing the Maid of Honor!
One of the things I like about Bliss books is that they are very clean romances. There is implied intimacy, but no descriptions. Thus, all the passion and love the characters show is done outside the bedroom and Robin shows this very well. There are just enough kisses, touches, looks, and words that draw you in as a reader to help you understand the deep feelings Luke and Sela have for one another. While I do like to read hot and steamy books I also like to balance those out with sweet books like Kissing the Maid of Honor.
There were many times throughout the story that I assumed a plot line was going to go a specific way, but it didn't. I like to be surprised, even in contemporary romances when you know the hero is going to get the heroine and live happily ever after. The twists in this book were true to the characters of the story, so while I was surprised, it was not out of character for Luke or Sela to respond a certain way. In keeping true to characters, one aspect of the book that made the story feel more realistic, was when Vanessa worried that Luke and Sela getting together would equal unwanted drama for her wedding. I think every bride would feel like this even if they don't want to admit it. Because, really, when you are the bride, it is YOUR day. You don't want unnecessary drama, so I thought that honesty from Vanessa brought some realism into a fictional story. As for the other characters, I enjoyed Shane (Sela's brother) and Erin (Luke's sister) a lot. Shane seems like a wild one and I look forward to reading about him in the next story.
It is hard to convey everything I liked about Kissing the Maid of Honor without giving away spoilers. You just need to read it for yourself and experience the laughter and tears that Luke and Sela go through in finding their happy ever after. If you are looking for a clean, classy, contemporary romance, I highly recommend you try Kissing the Maid of Honor!
May 5, 2013
This was a pleasure to read. Robin Bielman has given us a book that is written well, has a great storyline, characters who are endearing, humour, romance and heartwarming moments combined with those that pull on the heartstrings a little.
Sela and Luke were both wonderful easy to love realistic characters. Sela, a nurse is a homebird; she’s kind, compassionate, caring, has never left her hometown and is determined to be the best Maid of Honour her best-friend Vanessa could wish for. Luke is her complete opposite: he’s travelled the world as a sports photographer, enjoys the more extreme of sports and dates like-minded women. Not only is he Vanessa’s big-brother, Sela’s brother Shane’s best-friend and the Best Man, he’s also the guy who, ten years previously, declared to his team-mates that Sela, who had a huge high-school crush on him, ‘kissed like a corpse’. Needless to say there’s a touch of dislike there, her hurt has never gone away, nor can she forgive him. But Luke has returned home with a secret and Sela works it out...
Even though I had an idea where the story was heading with the whole best man-maid of honour-who-can’t-avoid-each-other scenario, there were lots of little surprises thrown in, the sparks flew between Sela and Luke and they complimented each other perfectly. I swooned over Luke, I smiled those little happy smiles at all the lovely heartwarming moments yet at times I wanted to shout at the pair of them to get their act together! There’s plenty of build up and ‘almost moments’ between them but when it comes down to the steamy stuff, it’s all left to your imagination. And it has fabulous secondary characters who all are integral to the story.
This most definitely a book that I wouldn't hesitate to recommend and I hope Robin Bielman gives us further books in the series as I would love to see more of Shane, who brought humour pretty much every time he opened his mouth.
I received this book as an ARC from the publisher for an honest and unbiased opinion.
Sela and Luke were both wonderful easy to love realistic characters. Sela, a nurse is a homebird; she’s kind, compassionate, caring, has never left her hometown and is determined to be the best Maid of Honour her best-friend Vanessa could wish for. Luke is her complete opposite: he’s travelled the world as a sports photographer, enjoys the more extreme of sports and dates like-minded women. Not only is he Vanessa’s big-brother, Sela’s brother Shane’s best-friend and the Best Man, he’s also the guy who, ten years previously, declared to his team-mates that Sela, who had a huge high-school crush on him, ‘kissed like a corpse’. Needless to say there’s a touch of dislike there, her hurt has never gone away, nor can she forgive him. But Luke has returned home with a secret and Sela works it out...
Even though I had an idea where the story was heading with the whole best man-maid of honour-who-can’t-avoid-each-other scenario, there were lots of little surprises thrown in, the sparks flew between Sela and Luke and they complimented each other perfectly. I swooned over Luke, I smiled those little happy smiles at all the lovely heartwarming moments yet at times I wanted to shout at the pair of them to get their act together! There’s plenty of build up and ‘almost moments’ between them but when it comes down to the steamy stuff, it’s all left to your imagination. And it has fabulous secondary characters who all are integral to the story.
This most definitely a book that I wouldn't hesitate to recommend and I hope Robin Bielman gives us further books in the series as I would love to see more of Shane, who brought humour pretty much every time he opened his mouth.
I received this book as an ARC from the publisher for an honest and unbiased opinion.
May 20, 2015
Kissing the Maid of honor by Robin Bielman was a nice, straight and clean romance novel.
Well there is Sela - she works as a nurse and she is her best friend's, Vanessa's, maid of honor.
There is also Vanessa's brother, Luke, who works as a photographer, who travels around a world and takes photos of extreme athletes in extreme situations and he is kind of a daredevil himself.
Some ten years ago, Sela kissed Luke in Kissing booth and Luke reacted like teenager boy who kissed his best friends little sister and he liked it - he called her corpse lips and this name stuck with Sela through all her highschool. She is still furious with Luke because of that, but Luke has no idea, he thinks she has forgotten it, even if he does feel kind of bad because of it.
So when Luke comes home to his sister wedding, Sela makes a wish in wishing well, to stay away from him. But the well does it's best to deliver the exact opposite.
Everybody around them know how Sela feels about Luke and they all tell Luke to stay away from Sela, so Sela would not loose her best friend and Luke would not cost his sisters best friend and he would not loose his best friend, Sela's brother. But still, they keep pushing them together every chance they got. So during the weeks before the wedding Sela and Luke must go to dance classes together, to cake tasting together, Luke must give Sela a lift when her car has broken down and he takes her home on his motorbike, they get stranded in a storm on a bike and must spend night together in hotel's honeymoon suite ... So everybody says, stay away, but same time they push them together.
I guess you already know how the story ends, but it's fun to follow their road to it.
Like I said in the beginning - it was nice, straight and clean romance novel.
Well there is Sela - she works as a nurse and she is her best friend's, Vanessa's, maid of honor.
There is also Vanessa's brother, Luke, who works as a photographer, who travels around a world and takes photos of extreme athletes in extreme situations and he is kind of a daredevil himself.
Some ten years ago, Sela kissed Luke in Kissing booth and Luke reacted like teenager boy who kissed his best friends little sister and he liked it - he called her corpse lips and this name stuck with Sela through all her highschool. She is still furious with Luke because of that, but Luke has no idea, he thinks she has forgotten it, even if he does feel kind of bad because of it.
So when Luke comes home to his sister wedding, Sela makes a wish in wishing well, to stay away from him. But the well does it's best to deliver the exact opposite.
Everybody around them know how Sela feels about Luke and they all tell Luke to stay away from Sela, so Sela would not loose her best friend and Luke would not cost his sisters best friend and he would not loose his best friend, Sela's brother. But still, they keep pushing them together every chance they got. So during the weeks before the wedding Sela and Luke must go to dance classes together, to cake tasting together, Luke must give Sela a lift when her car has broken down and he takes her home on his motorbike, they get stranded in a storm on a bike and must spend night together in hotel's honeymoon suite ... So everybody says, stay away, but same time they push them together.
I guess you already know how the story ends, but it's fun to follow their road to it.
Like I said in the beginning - it was nice, straight and clean romance novel.
May 26, 2013
Kissing the Maid of Honor is a light, sweet, and romantic story. It only took me a few hours to read this story because I was immediately hooked and engrossed in the story. Sela Sullivan has a crush on her best friend Vanessa’s older brother since she was a young girl. In high school, Sela and Luke shared a kiss at a kissing booth. Unfortunately, Luke embarrasses Sela by saying hurtful words that he didn’t really mean. He very much enjoyed the kiss, but his best friend is Sela’s older (and very protective) brother, and he didn’t want to get on his bad side. Years later, Vanessa is getting married. Sela is her maid of honor, and Luke has to stand in as the best man. Luke has been away for years working as a photographer and rarely comes home. When he sees Sela, he is definitely blown away and very much wants to spend time with her even though he knows it is probably a bad idea.
Sela and Luke are wonderful characters in a wonderful story. I enjoyed the witty banter between the characters and the sexual tension. They kept saying how much they didn’t like each other, but it was obvious to everyone how much they truly did; and, no matter how hard they tried to stay away from each other, they kept getting thrown together, which they of course didn’t mind. I also enjoyed all of the supporting characters and hope there will be a story for Shane, Sela’s brother, and a story for Erin, Vanessa’s sister.
This was the first book I’ve read by Robin Bielman, and I definitely look forward to reading more.
*I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
Sela and Luke are wonderful characters in a wonderful story. I enjoyed the witty banter between the characters and the sexual tension. They kept saying how much they didn’t like each other, but it was obvious to everyone how much they truly did; and, no matter how hard they tried to stay away from each other, they kept getting thrown together, which they of course didn’t mind. I also enjoyed all of the supporting characters and hope there will be a story for Shane, Sela’s brother, and a story for Erin, Vanessa’s sister.
This was the first book I’ve read by Robin Bielman, and I definitely look forward to reading more.
*I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
July 25, 2013
Delightful romance that plucks the heart strings
Kissing the Maid of Honor is a sweet and endearing romance. Robin Bielman pens a tale of unrequited love that will warm the reader’s heart. It’s a delightful novel with engaging and likeable characters, and a story line that flows smoothly.
Sela Sullivan has had a crush on her best friend’s brother, Luke, for years. After being humiliated by Luke’s derogatory comment after the kiss they shared at the high school kissing booth, she learned to go on to become a respected pediatric nurse at the local hospital. Now she finds herself having to come face-to-face with the nemesis that she hasn’t seen in years. Not only does she have to confront him, but she also has to interact with him, as the maid of honor in his sister’s wedding.
Luke Walters has come home, after a ten year absence, for his sister’s wedding and finds himself partnered with his best friend’s sister, Sela. He never forgot the amazing kiss they shared at the high school kissing booth, or the remark he was forced to utter in order to save face in front of his friends. When he starts feeling things for Sela he has no right to feel because she’s his best friend’s sister, Luke finds himself in a dilemma.
This is an entertaining read that will have you sighing with pleasure. It has laughter, passion, strong family relationships, compassion, romance, and will hold your attention from the first page to the last. If you like sweet romances that pluck at the heart strings, then this novel is for you.
I received a copy of this book from Entangled Publishing
in exchange for my honest review.
Kissing the Maid of Honor is a sweet and endearing romance. Robin Bielman pens a tale of unrequited love that will warm the reader’s heart. It’s a delightful novel with engaging and likeable characters, and a story line that flows smoothly.
Sela Sullivan has had a crush on her best friend’s brother, Luke, for years. After being humiliated by Luke’s derogatory comment after the kiss they shared at the high school kissing booth, she learned to go on to become a respected pediatric nurse at the local hospital. Now she finds herself having to come face-to-face with the nemesis that she hasn’t seen in years. Not only does she have to confront him, but she also has to interact with him, as the maid of honor in his sister’s wedding.
Luke Walters has come home, after a ten year absence, for his sister’s wedding and finds himself partnered with his best friend’s sister, Sela. He never forgot the amazing kiss they shared at the high school kissing booth, or the remark he was forced to utter in order to save face in front of his friends. When he starts feeling things for Sela he has no right to feel because she’s his best friend’s sister, Luke finds himself in a dilemma.
This is an entertaining read that will have you sighing with pleasure. It has laughter, passion, strong family relationships, compassion, romance, and will hold your attention from the first page to the last. If you like sweet romances that pluck at the heart strings, then this novel is for you.
I received a copy of this book from Entangled Publishing
in exchange for my honest review.
May 20, 2013
I really enjoyed this book, I was able to connect with the characters a little more than I have been able to in the last couple of romance novels that I have read. This is a story about Sela and Luke, they have agreed to be the maid of honour and best man at Luke's sister Vanessa's wedding. Now normally this would not be a big deal at all, however, there is a history between these two as Sela has been Vanessa's best friend since they were young, and there was an embarrassing episode that Sela has still not forgiven Luke for.
Throughout the book we see them try and work together to make Vanessa's day perfect for her, and try to keep their distance otherwise until the wedding is over, so that they can both try and keep their sanity. Well, that does not seem to be the plan that the "fates" have in store for them, which really is bothering Sela because there is a famous wishing well in town, and when Vanessa's wish came true, she put a lot of faith in it, and made her own wish for Luke to stay away from her, and the exact opposite is happening.
I really liked the flow of this book, and the way that you see their relationship start to repair, and then move on from there. I found it to be very realistic, and because there was the previous history between the two main characters, I did not get that insta-love feeling, and I thought that it was very well written, I would highly recommend this one for a nice summer beach read as it can definitely be read in one day while lazing by the water, overall rating is a 4/5.
Throughout the book we see them try and work together to make Vanessa's day perfect for her, and try to keep their distance otherwise until the wedding is over, so that they can both try and keep their sanity. Well, that does not seem to be the plan that the "fates" have in store for them, which really is bothering Sela because there is a famous wishing well in town, and when Vanessa's wish came true, she put a lot of faith in it, and made her own wish for Luke to stay away from her, and the exact opposite is happening.
I really liked the flow of this book, and the way that you see their relationship start to repair, and then move on from there. I found it to be very realistic, and because there was the previous history between the two main characters, I did not get that insta-love feeling, and I thought that it was very well written, I would highly recommend this one for a nice summer beach read as it can definitely be read in one day while lazing by the water, overall rating is a 4/5.
June 30, 2013
Sela Sullivan is determined to be the best maid of honor ever, even if it means tolerating the best man. Luke Watters is not only the guy who humiliated her at a kissing booth in high school, but he also happens to be her best friend’s older brother. Positive he’s the same arrogant jock, Sela vows to focus on her duties and steer clear of the sexy man. She even drops a wish into a well to make it so they spend as little time together as possible. As a world-renowned extreme-sports photographer, Luke is used to risking his life. But risking his heart? Never. Especially to someone who so clearly hates him. But the more time they spend together, the more he craves her. But can he prove to the maid of honor he’s become a man of honor?
I fell in love with this book from the start. Quick wit, smooth writing, deft dialog, and lovable characters. The setting was great and the secondary characters were a wonderful addition. The plot was perfectly paced. The wishing well was just fabulous. The tension and snark between the hero and heroine was palpable and added apprehension and heat you can't ignore. The only downside was the internal conflict. Sela hated him for what he once did to her, and Luke had the typical can't commit mentality. External conflict was stronger. Neither deterred me from reading. Recommended.
I fell in love with this book from the start. Quick wit, smooth writing, deft dialog, and lovable characters. The setting was great and the secondary characters were a wonderful addition. The plot was perfectly paced. The wishing well was just fabulous. The tension and snark between the hero and heroine was palpable and added apprehension and heat you can't ignore. The only downside was the internal conflict. Sela hated him for what he once did to her, and Luke had the typical can't commit mentality. External conflict was stronger. Neither deterred me from reading. Recommended.
November 16, 2013
After I'd read HER ACCIDENTAL BOYFRIEND, the 2nd book in Robin Bielman's Secret Wishes series, I immediately purchased this 1st book. I finally got to read it!
OMG! It's absolutely a FABULOUS (note all the capitals!) read! I loved every single page and I didn't want it to ever end.
Since I finished it, I've actually gone back to it a few times just to re-read parts as the book gives me a happy high! This is a story I can see myself reading over and over.
Years ago, Sela had a crush on Luke, her brother's best friend AND the brother of her own best friend. With those connections, Luke should have been off-limits relationship-wise anyway, but her feelings for him were publicly and embarrassingly squashed when he ruined her reputation by proclaiming after a shared kiss at their small town fair's kissing booth that he'd had better kisses from a corpse.
Now, Sela Sullivan is the Maid of Honor for her long-time best friend and Luke Watters is the best man at the same wedding. As the story begins, she is asking the town's wishing well to help her survive seeing Luke again so her best friend will have the best wedding and Sela can be the best Maid of Honor ever. We get to enjoy how that works out!
This is an absolutely lovely contemporary romance with a bit of HEAT... just the right combo.
AWESOME Read!
5 STARS!
OMG! It's absolutely a FABULOUS (note all the capitals!) read! I loved every single page and I didn't want it to ever end.
Since I finished it, I've actually gone back to it a few times just to re-read parts as the book gives me a happy high! This is a story I can see myself reading over and over.
Years ago, Sela had a crush on Luke, her brother's best friend AND the brother of her own best friend. With those connections, Luke should have been off-limits relationship-wise anyway, but her feelings for him were publicly and embarrassingly squashed when he ruined her reputation by proclaiming after a shared kiss at their small town fair's kissing booth that he'd had better kisses from a corpse.
Now, Sela Sullivan is the Maid of Honor for her long-time best friend and Luke Watters is the best man at the same wedding. As the story begins, she is asking the town's wishing well to help her survive seeing Luke again so her best friend will have the best wedding and Sela can be the best Maid of Honor ever. We get to enjoy how that works out!
This is an absolutely lovely contemporary romance with a bit of HEAT... just the right combo.
AWESOME Read!
5 STARS!
June 6, 2013
Posted on What I'm Reading
First off, I thought this story was sweet. I adore Sela and Luke. I think they were so cute together. I love how they were really going against the odds here. Here's why: Sela is best friend's with Luke's younger sister and Luke is best friend's Sela's older brother. Let's be honest there are so many friend codes that are being broken with these two coming together. But hey, how can you stop love?
Honestly, this is a feel good book. Something sappy and happy that will brighten anyones day. I love how they both try to keep each other at arms length, but that just doesn't work. Plus, you gotta love a small town setting where everybody knows your name and business.
I'm serious, when I say this is a feel good book it's a feel good book. This would be the essence of pure romance sweet and simple. Sometimes I love that and the Bliss line truly knows how to bring it. So, if you are looking for a romance that is pure, I would say grab yourself a copy of Kissing the Maid of Honor. I'm sure you will have that feel good feeling after your read this.
First off, I thought this story was sweet. I adore Sela and Luke. I think they were so cute together. I love how they were really going against the odds here. Here's why: Sela is best friend's with Luke's younger sister and Luke is best friend's Sela's older brother. Let's be honest there are so many friend codes that are being broken with these two coming together. But hey, how can you stop love?
Honestly, this is a feel good book. Something sappy and happy that will brighten anyones day. I love how they both try to keep each other at arms length, but that just doesn't work. Plus, you gotta love a small town setting where everybody knows your name and business.
I'm serious, when I say this is a feel good book it's a feel good book. This would be the essence of pure romance sweet and simple. Sometimes I love that and the Bliss line truly knows how to bring it. So, if you are looking for a romance that is pure, I would say grab yourself a copy of Kissing the Maid of Honor. I'm sure you will have that feel good feeling after your read this.
May 14, 2013
Kissing the Maid of Honor is a sweet story about past mistakes, forgiveness, change, and how even something you do as a kid can influence how you grow up. I felt personally connected to the story and its characters because the plot is relatable and sincere. The characters are flawed and all the more real for it. Luke is funny, deliciously sexy, and such a great match for Sela. I would be more than happy to nurse and comfort Luke :-p Sela is a caring person with so much to give and personal obstacles to overcome. The supporting characters, like Vanessa and Shane, gave the story depth and assisted in transitions well. Their characters had clearly defined personalities that sparked my interest. Particularly the interaction between Shane and a certain waitress (gotta love the hard to get girls). Once more I was really impressed by Robin’s writing and how she weaves her stories into such a fulfilling package. I felt like I did more than read a book. I had an experience. Don’t miss out on yours! I can’t wait to see what Robin has in store for us next!
August 30, 2013
Sela and Luke have a history, but not one either would like to repeat. As the maid of honor at her best friend's wedding, Sela has sworn to steer clear of Luke, but his role as best man, not to mention the sizzling attraction between them makes it difficult to stay away. Luke left behind his quiet hometown for an exciting, and often dangerous, career as an outdoor sports photographer. When Luke comes home for his sister's wedding, Sela, whose heart he broke when they were kids, is everywhere he turns—and impossible to resist. Luke seems to have fallen hard for Sela, but is she just a way for him to pass the time before he heads back to his exciting life?
I really enjoyed this fun, flirty, sweet, and sassy tale of forbidden love. The characters were likeable and well written from the first paragraph. I became so engrossed in Luke and Sela's story that I couldn't put it down-- I finished the book while stirring dinner on the stove! I look forward to Robin Bielman's next book!
I really enjoyed this fun, flirty, sweet, and sassy tale of forbidden love. The characters were likeable and well written from the first paragraph. I became so engrossed in Luke and Sela's story that I couldn't put it down-- I finished the book while stirring dinner on the stove! I look forward to Robin Bielman's next book!
March 5, 2019
Rating: 4.5 stars
This is one book that I would read again - especially once the series is over. You can go back and read all the books one right after the other. One hope I have is that Robin will go back and tell us Vanessa's story. I want to know how she came to make her wish at the famous Cascade wishing well.
This book would also make a great gift. Maybe you are getting ready for your own wedding. Not sure what to give your bride's maids? Your own maid of honor? If they love reading romances, why not give them the gift of this book. Maybe get some cake ideas. How can you go wrong?
I was happy to see that this is a part of a series. I tried to find out what book two will be about but I'm sorry to say that I couldn't find out anything. For now we'll just have to be patient.
This is one book that I would read again - especially once the series is over. You can go back and read all the books one right after the other. One hope I have is that Robin will go back and tell us Vanessa's story. I want to know how she came to make her wish at the famous Cascade wishing well.
This book would also make a great gift. Maybe you are getting ready for your own wedding. Not sure what to give your bride's maids? Your own maid of honor? If they love reading romances, why not give them the gift of this book. Maybe get some cake ideas. How can you go wrong?
I was happy to see that this is a part of a series. I tried to find out what book two will be about but I'm sorry to say that I couldn't find out anything. For now we'll just have to be patient.
June 7, 2013
Great read! He wasn't really a bully but he still had a reputation to maintain and good graces to keep with family...he was the kid she had grown up with. Her brother's best friend and she was his sister's best as well. So why would he ever want to admit that kissing HER in high school was the greatest thing EVER? They would have all thought him crazy -- or gotten mad and punched him.
Fast forward several years and damned if she hadn't become even more difficult to ignore.
This was a well-written and engaging story. Loved the hero. Luke Watters and heroine, Sela Sullivan. Luke's inability to admit his attraction at first made me want to knock him up the side of the head--ha.
Sela was interesting and smart. I would have liked to see her a little tougher but loved the banter between the two. Definitely a fun and feel good read.
Fast forward several years and damned if she hadn't become even more difficult to ignore.
This was a well-written and engaging story. Loved the hero. Luke Watters and heroine, Sela Sullivan. Luke's inability to admit his attraction at first made me want to knock him up the side of the head--ha.
Sela was interesting and smart. I would have liked to see her a little tougher but loved the banter between the two. Definitely a fun and feel good read.
May 12, 2013
Another sweet and charming read from Robin Bielman who is quickly becoming one of my favorite contemporary authors. I didn't want to put this book down. I was drawn in to the story and the chemistry between Luke and Sela from page one. I loved the banter between the two and loved the way their relationship progressed. I loved that it wasn't rushed and we were able to see them "fall" for one another. Both Luke and Sela were great characters and I really enjoyed their stories.
I seriously hope that this book is the beginning of a series because there are many characters that I would love to see more of, especially Shane.
I seriously hope that this book is the beginning of a series because there are many characters that I would love to see more of, especially Shane.
May 15, 2013
This was such a good book. Robin did such a good job. Sela like many other girls was hurt by a boy that she had a crush on. Luke like so many boys said things to get out of a sticky situation. How hard would it be if you were completely crushed by your best friends older brother? Sela has to decide if she can get over the awful things Luke said in high school. Luke must decide if he is ready to start a relationship that will mean him settling down when the adventurous life calls. I loved all of the characters and I hope that she follows it up with another family members story. Maybe Shane.
I wills definitely be reading other books by the authors.
I wills definitely be reading other books by the authors.
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