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Valentine Valley #4
A Promise at Bluebell Hill
Welcome to Valentine Valley, where romance blooms and love captivates even the most guarded of hearts . . .
From the moment Secret Service agent Travis Beaumont strides into the town and through the door of Monica Shaw's flower shop, she feels a sizzle of attraction. After years of putting everyone else's needs first, Monica is ready to grab hold of life. If she can just persuade the ultimate protector to let his own walls down for once . . .
The President's son is getting married in Valentine Valley, and Travis should be avoiding all distractions . . . not fantasizing about a forthright, sexy-as-hell florist. Especially when she's keeping secrets that could jeopardize his assignment. But just this once, Travis is tempted to put down the rulebook and follow his heart—right to Monica's door.
Roses are red, violets are blue, and in Valentine Valley, love will always find you.
From the moment Secret Service agent Travis Beaumont strides into the town and through the door of Monica Shaw's flower shop, she feels a sizzle of attraction. After years of putting everyone else's needs first, Monica is ready to grab hold of life. If she can just persuade the ultimate protector to let his own walls down for once . . .
The President's son is getting married in Valentine Valley, and Travis should be avoiding all distractions . . . not fantasizing about a forthright, sexy-as-hell florist. Especially when she's keeping secrets that could jeopardize his assignment. But just this once, Travis is tempted to put down the rulebook and follow his heart—right to Monica's door.
Roses are red, violets are blue, and in Valentine Valley, love will always find you.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 25, 2014
61 people are currently reading
433 people want to read
About the author
Emma Cane
17 books419 followersEmma Cane grew up reading and soon discovered that she liked to write passionate stories of teenagers in space. Her love of “passionate stories” has never gone away, although today she concentrates on the heartwarming characters of Valentine Valley, her fictional small town in the Colorado Rockies.
Now that her three children are grown, Emma loves spending time crocheting and singing (although not necessarily at the same time), and hiking and snowshoeing alongside her husband Jim and their rambunctious dog Uma.
Emma also writes USA Today bestselling historical romances under the name Gayle Callen.
Now that her three children are grown, Emma loves spending time crocheting and singing (although not necessarily at the same time), and hiking and snowshoeing alongside her husband Jim and their rambunctious dog Uma.
Emma also writes USA Today bestselling historical romances under the name Gayle Callen.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
September 3, 2014
Such a fun book. Monica is the local florist who has spent her whole life in Valentine Valley. Travis is the Secret Service agent who has come to town to get ready for a presidential visit. The president's son is marrying a local girl and it's Travis's job to make sure everything goes smoothly. As he goes around town checking out the local businesses, he meets Monica. There is an instant attraction between them, but he has to maintain his focus so he can do his job. Monica feels the attraction too and would like to get to know him better.
Monica is a fun character. She's independent, loves her business, and active in her community, especially environmental issues. She's the kind of person who puts others' needs ahead of her own, but she's starting to wonder when it will be her turn to find love. Monica is intrigued by Travis and his stoic demeanor. She'd like a chance to get him to loosen up a little. I really loved seeing her interactions with him at the beginning as she tried hard to get reactions from him. It was fun to see them teasing each other.
Travis is former military and it's easy to see the influence it has had on his life. It has also contributed to his tendency to keep his emotions locked up. There's a great scene at the beginning where Travis is talking to a local veteran and Monica overhears something that gives her a little more insight into who he is. Because she knows almost everyone, Travis finds himself going to Monica frequently for information and introductions. They start to build a friendship, but their attraction is always simmering just below the surface. Though they try to stick to business as usual they aren't very successful at staying away from each other. The more time they spend together the deeper they fall for each other, though neither wants to admit it. Neither really sees a way to have a true relationship.
Adding to the complications of Monica and Travis trying to be together are the antics of the ladies of the Widow's Boarding House. These women are also very active in the community. Their current cause is that of trying to prevent the shutting down of a local archaeological dig. They feel that having the president coming to town is the perfect opportunity to get their message out and have planned a protest. As a participant Monica is torn about what to do. Travis has heard rumors of the protest, but nobody is talking to him about it, including Monica. She wants to tell him, but she has a loyalty to her friends also and doesn't want to chance that the protest will be shut down. This creates some tension between Travis and Monica because both want trust from the other, but are wary of doing the trusting themselves. By the time the protest comes around Travis has made some interesting discoveries about himself. The changes he has gone through have made him a person who is much more open to the idea of a happy future. I loved how this all becomes obvious during the protest. The event itself was fantastic and fit the town and the widows perfectly. I loved everyone's reactions to it.
Monica is a fun character. She's independent, loves her business, and active in her community, especially environmental issues. She's the kind of person who puts others' needs ahead of her own, but she's starting to wonder when it will be her turn to find love. Monica is intrigued by Travis and his stoic demeanor. She'd like a chance to get him to loosen up a little. I really loved seeing her interactions with him at the beginning as she tried hard to get reactions from him. It was fun to see them teasing each other.
Travis is former military and it's easy to see the influence it has had on his life. It has also contributed to his tendency to keep his emotions locked up. There's a great scene at the beginning where Travis is talking to a local veteran and Monica overhears something that gives her a little more insight into who he is. Because she knows almost everyone, Travis finds himself going to Monica frequently for information and introductions. They start to build a friendship, but their attraction is always simmering just below the surface. Though they try to stick to business as usual they aren't very successful at staying away from each other. The more time they spend together the deeper they fall for each other, though neither wants to admit it. Neither really sees a way to have a true relationship.
Adding to the complications of Monica and Travis trying to be together are the antics of the ladies of the Widow's Boarding House. These women are also very active in the community. Their current cause is that of trying to prevent the shutting down of a local archaeological dig. They feel that having the president coming to town is the perfect opportunity to get their message out and have planned a protest. As a participant Monica is torn about what to do. Travis has heard rumors of the protest, but nobody is talking to him about it, including Monica. She wants to tell him, but she has a loyalty to her friends also and doesn't want to chance that the protest will be shut down. This creates some tension between Travis and Monica because both want trust from the other, but are wary of doing the trusting themselves. By the time the protest comes around Travis has made some interesting discoveries about himself. The changes he has gone through have made him a person who is much more open to the idea of a happy future. I loved how this all becomes obvious during the protest. The event itself was fantastic and fit the town and the widows perfectly. I loved everyone's reactions to it.
April 30, 2014
The entire series so far has been the perfect blend of small town goodness similar to RaeAnne Thayne’s books and the cowboys found in many of Linda Lael Millers’ books. I have really enjoyed this series so far so I knew that I needed to read A Promise at Bluebell Hill as soon as I could.
Now the different of this book and the others in the series is that this one didn’t have a main character that is a cowboy, he is in fact a Secret Service agent. While he isn’t my perfect hero material, Travis Beaumont is it for Monica Shaw the owner of the local flower shop. I really enjoyed the chemistry these two have and the whole plot about the President’s son is getting married really adds a nice depth to this charming book.
A Promise at Bluebell Hill is the fourth in the Valentine Valley series and it can be read as a standalone. The book does mention several past characters from the earlier books as this is a small town series and everyone seems to know each other. I would recommend you read this series ion order; you will get more enjoyment out of it if you do. The next book in this series is called Sleigh Bells in Valentine Valley and is due to be released October 2014.
Now the different of this book and the others in the series is that this one didn’t have a main character that is a cowboy, he is in fact a Secret Service agent. While he isn’t my perfect hero material, Travis Beaumont is it for Monica Shaw the owner of the local flower shop. I really enjoyed the chemistry these two have and the whole plot about the President’s son is getting married really adds a nice depth to this charming book.
A Promise at Bluebell Hill is the fourth in the Valentine Valley series and it can be read as a standalone. The book does mention several past characters from the earlier books as this is a small town series and everyone seems to know each other. I would recommend you read this series ion order; you will get more enjoyment out of it if you do. The next book in this series is called Sleigh Bells in Valentine Valley and is due to be released October 2014.
July 13, 2017
A sweet little read that is sure to charm it's way into your heart! I love these characters so much, they have a special way of pulling you into their world and making you feel like you belong! Another can't miss story from Ms. Cane!
March 3, 2018
This is a stand alone but also part of a series about Valentine Valley. This is Monica's story. She is a florist with a seemingly checkered past who falls for the hot secret service agent. Of course the widows are also up to the ears in a protest with the president in town,
March 6, 2018
Monica's story. The secret service comes to Valentine to prepare for the President's son's wedding. Monica is determined to help Travis relax and enjoy. Travis thinks that he must avoid all distractions even the sexy florist.
Maybe a 3.5 for the female President.
Maybe a 3.5 for the female President.
November 25, 2019
I was debating between a 4 and 5.
I love this series so I like to know all the details, some of the references were being lost on me, until I realized I skipped the half books.
I love the widows and their plots. This one was the best widows adventure yet!
I love this series so I like to know all the details, some of the references were being lost on me, until I realized I skipped the half books.
I love the widows and their plots. This one was the best widows adventure yet!
May 24, 2021
Monica did not expect to fall in love with Seceret service agent that was on the advance crew for the president to come to town for her son's secet wedding. But she does. Question is will he stay or go on to the next town and leave her behind.
May 15, 2018
Romance is alive and well even when the secret service is involved. This is a great read, and I really enjoyed the storyline. A little predictable however.
December 7, 2018
Why was this so boring?
June 6, 2020
Valentine Valley #4 - Had It - Read It - 2014
June 27, 2021
Another Awesome Story
I love this storyline. It is a great family scene. I would recommend this story to everyone. It was another great read.
I love this storyline. It is a great family scene. I would recommend this story to everyone. It was another great read.
January 2, 2022
Cute, light romance. Nice read for holiday
April 26, 2023
Fun book
December 14, 2023
I'm giving it a 4 out of 5 for the sole reason that my man managed to land an "upside-down kiss", like, I didn't even know those existed.
March 28, 2014
3.75 stars
A PROMISE AT BLUEBELL HILL (Valentine Valley #4) by Emma Cane
About the book: Release Date February 25, 2014
Welcome to Valentine Valley, where romance blooms and love captivates even the most guarded of hearts . . .
From the moment Secret Service agent Travis Beaumont strides into the town and through the door of Monica Shaw's flower shop, she feels a sizzle of attraction. After years of putting everyone else's needs first, Monica is ready to grab hold of life. If she can just persuade the ultimate protector to let his own walls down for once . . .
The President's son is getting married in Valentine Valley, and Travis should be avoiding all distractions . . . not fantasizing about a forthright, sexy-as-hell florist. Especially when she's keeping secrets that could jeopardize his assignment. But just this once, Travis is tempted to put down the rulebook and follow his heart—right to Monica's door.
Roses are red, violets are blue, and in Valentine Valley, love will always find you.
REVIEW: A PROMISE AT BLUEBELL HILL is the fourth full-length instalment in Emma Cane’s Valentine Valley series focusing on a tight knit group of friends and family in and around Valentine Valley, Colorado. This is florist Monica Shaw and Secret Service agent Travis Beaumont’s story. Although this is the fourth instalment, it can be read as a stand alone without too much difficulty although I would suggest for your complete enjoyment, reading the series from the beginning as many of the references are interconnected from previous storylines. A Promise At Blue Bell Hill fast forwards the series approximately six to seven months.
The focus of the storyline is on the impending nuptials of the US President’s son with one of Valentine Valley’s own. Travis is the lead agent preparing for the president’s visit and must be on guard for any and all potential threats to the first family. Travis finds himself irrevocably drawn to Monica once he has entered her shop and their mutual attraction fuels the gossip in the small town of Valentine Valley. As the storyline builds, so too, do the secrets between our couple-Monica’s past and Travis’s true intent.
As the town of Valentine Valley prepares for the upcoming visit of the president and the wedding of the year, the reader is re-introduced to many of the previous storyline characters. We get another glimpse at the Valentine Valley’s feisty Widow’s Boarding house ladies; the gang at Tony’s Tavern; and all of the couples who fell in love in Valentine Valley.
Emma Cane writes a wonderful storyline about two people who met under auspicious circumstances-they were obviously destined to meet-but life and everything it has to offer will ensure that what they have is only a temporary thing. As the date nears for the president’s arrival, the ladies of the Widow’s Boarding house have other plans for welcoming the president and her family. Plans will be made, lines will be drawn and family will be pitted against one another.
The relationship between Monica and Travis is slow to build as they play around one another throughout most of the storyline. In this, I did not feel the connection between our leading couple. There was something missing in the ‘love’ department-perhaps it was Travis’s cold, brooding, dark Secret Service exterior –or Monica’s ‘laissez faire’ attitude about the entire relationship. The relationship took second place to the secondary storyline regarding the upcoming presidential visit and the plans the elder members of Valentine Valley had put into motion.
A PROMISE AT BLUEBELL HILL is a story that pulls together all of Valentine Valley’s lovers and friends. It is a story about a building romance between two people from different walks of life; a story about family, discovering the truth and, knowing when to let go. The world building continues throughout each instalment with the re-introduction of old friends, new lovers and future stories. Emma Cane weaves a story about a small town in Valentine Valley, Colorado and all of the romance it has to offer.
Copy supplied by the author.
www.thereadingcafe.com
A PROMISE AT BLUEBELL HILL (Valentine Valley #4) by Emma Cane
About the book: Release Date February 25, 2014
Welcome to Valentine Valley, where romance blooms and love captivates even the most guarded of hearts . . .
From the moment Secret Service agent Travis Beaumont strides into the town and through the door of Monica Shaw's flower shop, she feels a sizzle of attraction. After years of putting everyone else's needs first, Monica is ready to grab hold of life. If she can just persuade the ultimate protector to let his own walls down for once . . .
The President's son is getting married in Valentine Valley, and Travis should be avoiding all distractions . . . not fantasizing about a forthright, sexy-as-hell florist. Especially when she's keeping secrets that could jeopardize his assignment. But just this once, Travis is tempted to put down the rulebook and follow his heart—right to Monica's door.
Roses are red, violets are blue, and in Valentine Valley, love will always find you.
REVIEW: A PROMISE AT BLUEBELL HILL is the fourth full-length instalment in Emma Cane’s Valentine Valley series focusing on a tight knit group of friends and family in and around Valentine Valley, Colorado. This is florist Monica Shaw and Secret Service agent Travis Beaumont’s story. Although this is the fourth instalment, it can be read as a stand alone without too much difficulty although I would suggest for your complete enjoyment, reading the series from the beginning as many of the references are interconnected from previous storylines. A Promise At Blue Bell Hill fast forwards the series approximately six to seven months.
The focus of the storyline is on the impending nuptials of the US President’s son with one of Valentine Valley’s own. Travis is the lead agent preparing for the president’s visit and must be on guard for any and all potential threats to the first family. Travis finds himself irrevocably drawn to Monica once he has entered her shop and their mutual attraction fuels the gossip in the small town of Valentine Valley. As the storyline builds, so too, do the secrets between our couple-Monica’s past and Travis’s true intent.
As the town of Valentine Valley prepares for the upcoming visit of the president and the wedding of the year, the reader is re-introduced to many of the previous storyline characters. We get another glimpse at the Valentine Valley’s feisty Widow’s Boarding house ladies; the gang at Tony’s Tavern; and all of the couples who fell in love in Valentine Valley.
Emma Cane writes a wonderful storyline about two people who met under auspicious circumstances-they were obviously destined to meet-but life and everything it has to offer will ensure that what they have is only a temporary thing. As the date nears for the president’s arrival, the ladies of the Widow’s Boarding house have other plans for welcoming the president and her family. Plans will be made, lines will be drawn and family will be pitted against one another.
The relationship between Monica and Travis is slow to build as they play around one another throughout most of the storyline. In this, I did not feel the connection between our leading couple. There was something missing in the ‘love’ department-perhaps it was Travis’s cold, brooding, dark Secret Service exterior –or Monica’s ‘laissez faire’ attitude about the entire relationship. The relationship took second place to the secondary storyline regarding the upcoming presidential visit and the plans the elder members of Valentine Valley had put into motion.
A PROMISE AT BLUEBELL HILL is a story that pulls together all of Valentine Valley’s lovers and friends. It is a story about a building romance between two people from different walks of life; a story about family, discovering the truth and, knowing when to let go. The world building continues throughout each instalment with the re-introduction of old friends, new lovers and future stories. Emma Cane weaves a story about a small town in Valentine Valley, Colorado and all of the romance it has to offer.
Copy supplied by the author.
www.thereadingcafe.com
March 9, 2014
Amanda‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
Review copy provided for an honest review
4 STARS
A Promise at Bluebell Hill is another great addition to the Valentine Valley series by Emma Cane. I believe that the Valentine Valley series is one of those best kept secrets out there because with each book she writes the stories get better and better. She packs a whole lot in under 300 pages and it’s good to go back to a small town in Colorado and catch up on all the inhabitants and see what’s new. This story is about Monica Shaw the local florist and Secret Service Agent Travis Beaumont. He’s come to town to prepare for the President’s arrival because her son is getting married to a local girl. Travis is strictly by the books kind of a guy and when he meets Monica there is an instant attraction. Can he keep his professional distance or will he give in to the attraction? Monica feels it too and she wants Travis to loosen up a bit and enjoys himself if he can.
Travis is just doing his job in preparation for the President’s arrival but he feels that things aren’t all what they seem. He catches wind that there is a protest brewing about a local archeological dig being shut down to make way for a resort pool. His investigation leads him to meeting all the locals especially the 3 elderly widows who make it a habit of protesting and protecting the small town of Valentine. Those ladies really are something with all the creative ways they conduct their business. Of course they recruit Monica to help with the protest planning. She feels a little torn keeping it a secret from Travis but her loyalty is for the women, who are surrogate grandmothers to her, and have known them all her life. She doesn’t know Travis all too well to trust him yet but really would love to eventually.
The character of Monica is one of my favorites in this series. She’s lived in Valentine her whole life and has known what she’s wanted to do with her life from a very early age. She’s independent, a businesswoman and an environmental activist. She has put other people’s feelings and wants before her own time and time again, and wonders if she will find her one love just like all her other good friends in town. She knows Travis is only here for a short time so she tries to convince herself that a fling with him will be enough. Travis knows it too and fights his attraction to her but can’t help himself when she is so irresistible. When they do get together their loves scenes are a bit mild but you can feel the heat for one another.
One side story in this book is the tension between Monica’s parents who are dealing with empty nest syndrome. Her mother Janet is a little lost and doesn’t know what to do which causes Monica to show concern. They each are dealing with it in their own way and it takes a little meddling from Monica to shed some light on her behalf. Travis also is dealing with some trust and protectiveness issues he’s had in the past with his sister and ex-wife, and it comes into play with his feelings for Monica. There is never a dull moment in this story because it kept me engrossed and entertained for the whole book. I love catching up with old characters from previous books to see what life is like for them now and the ending is quite delightful.
A Promise at Bluebell Hill may be the 4th book (4 novels and 2 short stories) in this series but definitely can be read as a stand-alone story. I do hope that you go back and read the others as well to fully enjoy the other characters and their stories. If you are a fan of Toni Blake or Susan Mallery and their small town stories you will love reading about Valentine Valley.
Review copy provided for an honest review
4 STARS
A Promise at Bluebell Hill is another great addition to the Valentine Valley series by Emma Cane. I believe that the Valentine Valley series is one of those best kept secrets out there because with each book she writes the stories get better and better. She packs a whole lot in under 300 pages and it’s good to go back to a small town in Colorado and catch up on all the inhabitants and see what’s new. This story is about Monica Shaw the local florist and Secret Service Agent Travis Beaumont. He’s come to town to prepare for the President’s arrival because her son is getting married to a local girl. Travis is strictly by the books kind of a guy and when he meets Monica there is an instant attraction. Can he keep his professional distance or will he give in to the attraction? Monica feels it too and she wants Travis to loosen up a bit and enjoys himself if he can.
Travis is just doing his job in preparation for the President’s arrival but he feels that things aren’t all what they seem. He catches wind that there is a protest brewing about a local archeological dig being shut down to make way for a resort pool. His investigation leads him to meeting all the locals especially the 3 elderly widows who make it a habit of protesting and protecting the small town of Valentine. Those ladies really are something with all the creative ways they conduct their business. Of course they recruit Monica to help with the protest planning. She feels a little torn keeping it a secret from Travis but her loyalty is for the women, who are surrogate grandmothers to her, and have known them all her life. She doesn’t know Travis all too well to trust him yet but really would love to eventually.
The character of Monica is one of my favorites in this series. She’s lived in Valentine her whole life and has known what she’s wanted to do with her life from a very early age. She’s independent, a businesswoman and an environmental activist. She has put other people’s feelings and wants before her own time and time again, and wonders if she will find her one love just like all her other good friends in town. She knows Travis is only here for a short time so she tries to convince herself that a fling with him will be enough. Travis knows it too and fights his attraction to her but can’t help himself when she is so irresistible. When they do get together their loves scenes are a bit mild but you can feel the heat for one another.
One side story in this book is the tension between Monica’s parents who are dealing with empty nest syndrome. Her mother Janet is a little lost and doesn’t know what to do which causes Monica to show concern. They each are dealing with it in their own way and it takes a little meddling from Monica to shed some light on her behalf. Travis also is dealing with some trust and protectiveness issues he’s had in the past with his sister and ex-wife, and it comes into play with his feelings for Monica. There is never a dull moment in this story because it kept me engrossed and entertained for the whole book. I love catching up with old characters from previous books to see what life is like for them now and the ending is quite delightful.
A Promise at Bluebell Hill may be the 4th book (4 novels and 2 short stories) in this series but definitely can be read as a stand-alone story. I do hope that you go back and read the others as well to fully enjoy the other characters and their stories. If you are a fan of Toni Blake or Susan Mallery and their small town stories you will love reading about Valentine Valley.
March 24, 2014
Monica is born and bred from a small town. She always knew that she would stay in the town and own her flower shop as long as she could. She is the type of person that likes to put others happiness above her own. She has done protests for things that she strongly believes about. However she never thought that a stranger coming to her little town would turn her world upside down.
Travis is a secret service agent in town to scope out the president’s son’s wedding. He always thought that his job was everything to hm. It was always first in his life therefore he had no time for a personal life. Being an ex-military man, he also took protecting people seriously. He just never thought that by doing his job that he would meet someone who would change his way of thinking. He did not think that for once in his life he would change how he thought about his job and his life.
Throughout the book both Monica and Travis tried to avoid each other and just go about their everyday jobs and lives. Since Monica knew just about everyone in her town Travis went to her to help him get a feel of the town and its people. Monica didn’t really mind because the more she was with him the more attracted she got to him.
Since they both knew that Travis was going to leave once his job was over they decided to act on their attraction for each other knowing that it was just a fling. But the more they were together the more they were attracted to each other and the more they fell in love with each other. The major issue is that he would still be leaving after the week is out.
By the end of the book Travis realized that Monica meant more to him then his job did. He admitted to himself and to her that he had fallen in love with her and could no9t do the whole long distance relationship thing. Monica admitted that she loved him and wanted to be with him n anyway she could. So Travis left to change his job description and promised to be back. Monica promised to wait.
I adored reading this book. T made me feel that love can come to you when you least expect it or not want it. The author had a way of making you feel sympathetic to her characters. She is an amazing writer and I cannot wait to read more.
Travis is a secret service agent in town to scope out the president’s son’s wedding. He always thought that his job was everything to hm. It was always first in his life therefore he had no time for a personal life. Being an ex-military man, he also took protecting people seriously. He just never thought that by doing his job that he would meet someone who would change his way of thinking. He did not think that for once in his life he would change how he thought about his job and his life.
Throughout the book both Monica and Travis tried to avoid each other and just go about their everyday jobs and lives. Since Monica knew just about everyone in her town Travis went to her to help him get a feel of the town and its people. Monica didn’t really mind because the more she was with him the more attracted she got to him.
Since they both knew that Travis was going to leave once his job was over they decided to act on their attraction for each other knowing that it was just a fling. But the more they were together the more they were attracted to each other and the more they fell in love with each other. The major issue is that he would still be leaving after the week is out.
By the end of the book Travis realized that Monica meant more to him then his job did. He admitted to himself and to her that he had fallen in love with her and could no9t do the whole long distance relationship thing. Monica admitted that she loved him and wanted to be with him n anyway she could. So Travis left to change his job description and promised to be back. Monica promised to wait.
I adored reading this book. T made me feel that love can come to you when you least expect it or not want it. The author had a way of making you feel sympathetic to her characters. She is an amazing writer and I cannot wait to read more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 11, 2014
Received a copy of ARC in return of a honest review.
Monica Shaw runs a flower shop, and unlike her twin sister, doesn't need the glamour of the city lights to satisfy her, all she needs is her small town home and the charming people that live within its boundaries. A stranger comes into town, acting strange but she feels a attraction to him that she doesn't fully understand. Travis Beaumont is a secret service agent, and with the President's son having his wedding in Valentine, its his job to prepare for her arrival, even with the beautiful distraction of Monica Shaw. Travis has his own past and has served in the military for years, and has always wanted a command. But when he meets Monica his perspective on his life changes. He starts to see that the little things in life matter just as much as the big ones. When a tender love starts to blossom between these two Travis will have to make a choice his job and career as a secret service agent, one he has dedicated his whole life to or choosing the love he has for Monica and sharing his life with her....
A Promise At Bluebell Hill is the most recent addiction to the Valentine Valley series. This latest installment just might be my favorite one so far. Its a charming and emotional driven romance that completely won me over from the first chapter. In the beginning you start to see how sparks fly between these two even though both of them don't see a future together. As the time of the wedding day draws closer though, Monica and Travis's bond to each other only becomes that much stronger, and its almost heartbreaking watching them struggle with finding their HEA. Of course I knew it had to happen, but you wonder how it does and it does happen in such a delightful way. One of my favorite aspects of this story was trying to find out the way they make a future together. I could barely put this one down, I was so intrigued by their dilemma and wondering how these two would make it work.
From beginning to end this author totally enthralls the reader with a beautiful love story that will win your heart! SENSATIONAL!!
Monica Shaw runs a flower shop, and unlike her twin sister, doesn't need the glamour of the city lights to satisfy her, all she needs is her small town home and the charming people that live within its boundaries. A stranger comes into town, acting strange but she feels a attraction to him that she doesn't fully understand. Travis Beaumont is a secret service agent, and with the President's son having his wedding in Valentine, its his job to prepare for her arrival, even with the beautiful distraction of Monica Shaw. Travis has his own past and has served in the military for years, and has always wanted a command. But when he meets Monica his perspective on his life changes. He starts to see that the little things in life matter just as much as the big ones. When a tender love starts to blossom between these two Travis will have to make a choice his job and career as a secret service agent, one he has dedicated his whole life to or choosing the love he has for Monica and sharing his life with her....
A Promise At Bluebell Hill is the most recent addiction to the Valentine Valley series. This latest installment just might be my favorite one so far. Its a charming and emotional driven romance that completely won me over from the first chapter. In the beginning you start to see how sparks fly between these two even though both of them don't see a future together. As the time of the wedding day draws closer though, Monica and Travis's bond to each other only becomes that much stronger, and its almost heartbreaking watching them struggle with finding their HEA. Of course I knew it had to happen, but you wonder how it does and it does happen in such a delightful way. One of my favorite aspects of this story was trying to find out the way they make a future together. I could barely put this one down, I was so intrigued by their dilemma and wondering how these two would make it work.
From beginning to end this author totally enthralls the reader with a beautiful love story that will win your heart! SENSATIONAL!!
March 5, 2014
Three Stars
I thought this was cute romance but really nothing spectacular… I thought that the plot sounded very interesting and exciting but, honestly, it fell a little shot. Although Monica Shaw was really a cute and fun heroine I thought she and Secret Service agent Travis Beaumont had very little chemistry. Also, there are many characters from the previous books in the series that show up and although it was pleasant to hear about them, since I didn’t know their stories I wasn’t overly invested. Monica is thirty years old, all her friends are married, getting married or having children. Monica feels like it’s time for her to settle down and find a significant other as well. When Travis is in town she is drawn to him and immediately her interest is piqued. Travis is on an important mission, he is usually when I start a romance novel I want to see how the couple works their way to understanding and loving each other, but I had to fight to keep interested.
The hero and heroine left a little to be desired. Part of the reason was Travis, as fitting his profession, is very flat. He is not very expressive and there is very little outward emotions to him. It was interesting that Monica found this aspect of his personality intriguing. Granted Travis has a big job ahead of him and he needs to focus. He is very dedicated to his job. Apparently so dedicated that it cost him his first marriage. The reminders of his heartache keep him from allowing himself to get to emotionally involved.
Overall, this was a cute romance. I like small town romances and this was definitely a small town romance. I think that fans of the Valentine Valley series will really like this book because there are a lot of stories about other characters that I assume made an appearance in other books. What I really liked was the creative plot behind the “romance”. The president (woman president at that) is going to be in town for her son’s wedding and Valentine Valley is about to have its world turned inside out as special agents take over their small town. Overall, not incredible but cute.
**ARC provided by Publisher**
I thought this was cute romance but really nothing spectacular… I thought that the plot sounded very interesting and exciting but, honestly, it fell a little shot. Although Monica Shaw was really a cute and fun heroine I thought she and Secret Service agent Travis Beaumont had very little chemistry. Also, there are many characters from the previous books in the series that show up and although it was pleasant to hear about them, since I didn’t know their stories I wasn’t overly invested. Monica is thirty years old, all her friends are married, getting married or having children. Monica feels like it’s time for her to settle down and find a significant other as well. When Travis is in town she is drawn to him and immediately her interest is piqued. Travis is on an important mission, he is usually when I start a romance novel I want to see how the couple works their way to understanding and loving each other, but I had to fight to keep interested.
The hero and heroine left a little to be desired. Part of the reason was Travis, as fitting his profession, is very flat. He is not very expressive and there is very little outward emotions to him. It was interesting that Monica found this aspect of his personality intriguing. Granted Travis has a big job ahead of him and he needs to focus. He is very dedicated to his job. Apparently so dedicated that it cost him his first marriage. The reminders of his heartache keep him from allowing himself to get to emotionally involved.
Overall, this was a cute romance. I like small town romances and this was definitely a small town romance. I think that fans of the Valentine Valley series will really like this book because there are a lot of stories about other characters that I assume made an appearance in other books. What I really liked was the creative plot behind the “romance”. The president (woman president at that) is going to be in town for her son’s wedding and Valentine Valley is about to have its world turned inside out as special agents take over their small town. Overall, not incredible but cute.
**ARC provided by Publisher**
February 26, 2014
This is the first book I've read in the Valentine Valley series, but it is actually #4 in sequence. A Promise at Bluebell Hill can be read as a standalone, but ultimately I think readers will enjoy getting to know the back story behind this small town group of activists, shop owners and close friends.
I loved:
The small town setting. Valentine Valley, Colorado has a homey feel. Its a timeless community where everyone knows each other.
The loyalty between the characters and the depth of relationships between family and friends. This is a feel good about women book.
That the two main characters were willing to settle down and commit to one another, putting high push careers and political differences aside. They recognized the importance of marriage and family.
The scenic backdrop of bluebell fields and mountains. It’s a romantic place we would all want to visit.
The exploration and resolution of marital problems between Monica’s parents. There is a good plot arc as we see empty nesters work out how to enjoy each other without being directly involved in each others hobbies.
The trade market price. A paperback for $5.
I Struggled With:
The heavy and descriptive romance scenes. I admit, I typically do not read adult romance unless it leaves details to the imagination. This one was a little too fast moving and TMI for me. It’s definitely an adult romance, not for children or teens.
The push at political agenda and correctness. It felt forced to have an activist group against big development and preservation of fossils, flag burning protests, a female President of the US all rolled into one small town novel.
Overall, for me as a reader, the good outweighed the bad and I would read the rest of the series. But it would mean skipping right over the pages with detailed love scenes. I prefer a clean read with tension instead of having it all spelled out.
I loved the writing and the well developed characters and I am glad to have found out such a place as Valentine Valley really exists!
I loved:
The small town setting. Valentine Valley, Colorado has a homey feel. Its a timeless community where everyone knows each other.
The loyalty between the characters and the depth of relationships between family and friends. This is a feel good about women book.
That the two main characters were willing to settle down and commit to one another, putting high push careers and political differences aside. They recognized the importance of marriage and family.
The scenic backdrop of bluebell fields and mountains. It’s a romantic place we would all want to visit.
The exploration and resolution of marital problems between Monica’s parents. There is a good plot arc as we see empty nesters work out how to enjoy each other without being directly involved in each others hobbies.
The trade market price. A paperback for $5.
I Struggled With:
The heavy and descriptive romance scenes. I admit, I typically do not read adult romance unless it leaves details to the imagination. This one was a little too fast moving and TMI for me. It’s definitely an adult romance, not for children or teens.
The push at political agenda and correctness. It felt forced to have an activist group against big development and preservation of fossils, flag burning protests, a female President of the US all rolled into one small town novel.
Overall, for me as a reader, the good outweighed the bad and I would read the rest of the series. But it would mean skipping right over the pages with detailed love scenes. I prefer a clean read with tension instead of having it all spelled out.
I loved the writing and the well developed characters and I am glad to have found out such a place as Valentine Valley really exists!
April 23, 2016
I give this 3.5-4 stars. Great town and sweet story. Great female characters who exude the meaning of friendship.Just lovely. I am definitely reading this series and am a new fan!
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Spoiler
Note to Self;Colorado
Monica Shaw(twin sis,30yo,florist,flower shop owner,activist,pal)+ Travis Beaumont(35yo,Secret Service agent,ex-Marine,divorced,bro,pal1),
Melissa Shaw(Missy,activist,twin sis,CNN reporter,30yo)+Royce Ames (lead advance secret service agent counter sniper team,pal1),Janet Shaw(mom,activist,doctor's receptionist)+Ben(dad),Dominic Shaw(Dom, bro,food broker),Gloria Valik(ranch secretary,Monica's aunt),Kelly Beaumont(31yo,younger sis,Marine,prosthetic leg),Mikayla Hunt(ex-wife,Presidential Protective Detail,Secret Service),Special Agent Nguyen(Secret Service),Emily Thalberg(Em,half sis0,bakery owner,pastry chef,pal)+Nate(rancher, bro),Whitney Winslow-Thalberg(lingerie chain owner,pal)+Josh(bro,ranch owner,leather artist)=Olivia(their baby), Brooke Thalberg(sis-in-law, riding school owner,pal)+Adam Desantis(ex-Marine,grandson,fiance),Heather Armstrong(catering co. owner,pal)+ Chris Sweet(Emily's bro0),Steph Sweet(teen,sis0,H.S. senior,bakery worker),Will Sweet(bro0),Theresa Sweet(cousin,sis2,inn hostess),Matt Sweet(cousin,bro2,landscaper,gay)+Ryan Garcia(Whitney's PA,gay),Daniel Sweet(bro0),Ashley Ludlow(lawyer,pal)+Jeremy Torres(President's son), President Alanna Torres(mother)+husband,Donna Ludlow(daughter-in-law),
Mrs.Ludlow(Connie,retired teacher,activist,widow),Mrs. Palmer(Renee, Adam's grandma,activist,widow),Mrs. Rosemary Thalberg(widow,activist, Emily's grandma-in-law),Mrs. Sweet(inn owner),Sandy Thalberg(mother-in-law),Karista(teen,sales associate,flower shop),Jessica Fitzjames (20's,reporter),Lisa(waitress,Deke's daughter), Deke Hutcheson (rancher,dad, veteran)+Brenda(rancher,activist),Tony De Luca(tavern owner,bartender),Scott Huang(Army veteran,prosthetic arm),Doc Ericson.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Spoiler
Note to Self;Colorado
Monica Shaw(twin sis,30yo,florist,flower shop owner,activist,pal)+ Travis Beaumont(35yo,Secret Service agent,ex-Marine,divorced,bro,pal1),
Melissa Shaw(Missy,activist,twin sis,CNN reporter,30yo)+Royce Ames (lead advance secret service agent counter sniper team,pal1),Janet Shaw(mom,activist,doctor's receptionist)+Ben(dad),Dominic Shaw(Dom, bro,food broker),Gloria Valik(ranch secretary,Monica's aunt),Kelly Beaumont(31yo,younger sis,Marine,prosthetic leg),Mikayla Hunt(ex-wife,Presidential Protective Detail,Secret Service),Special Agent Nguyen(Secret Service),Emily Thalberg(Em,half sis0,bakery owner,pastry chef,pal)+Nate(rancher, bro),Whitney Winslow-Thalberg(lingerie chain owner,pal)+Josh(bro,ranch owner,leather artist)=Olivia(their baby), Brooke Thalberg(sis-in-law, riding school owner,pal)+Adam Desantis(ex-Marine,grandson,fiance),Heather Armstrong(catering co. owner,pal)+ Chris Sweet(Emily's bro0),Steph Sweet(teen,sis0,H.S. senior,bakery worker),Will Sweet(bro0),Theresa Sweet(cousin,sis2,inn hostess),Matt Sweet(cousin,bro2,landscaper,gay)+Ryan Garcia(Whitney's PA,gay),Daniel Sweet(bro0),Ashley Ludlow(lawyer,pal)+Jeremy Torres(President's son), President Alanna Torres(mother)+husband,Donna Ludlow(daughter-in-law),
Mrs.Ludlow(Connie,retired teacher,activist,widow),Mrs. Palmer(Renee, Adam's grandma,activist,widow),Mrs. Rosemary Thalberg(widow,activist, Emily's grandma-in-law),Mrs. Sweet(inn owner),Sandy Thalberg(mother-in-law),Karista(teen,sales associate,flower shop),Jessica Fitzjames (20's,reporter),Lisa(waitress,Deke's daughter), Deke Hutcheson (rancher,dad, veteran)+Brenda(rancher,activist),Tony De Luca(tavern owner,bartender),Scott Huang(Army veteran,prosthetic arm),Doc Ericson.
March 31, 2014
3.5 Cocktails
Although this is the 4th book in Emma Cane's Valentine Valley series, it is the first I have read. This was a very sweet story. Even though I have read the books out of order, Cane did a good job of familiarizing me with the various characters and the setting of Valentine Valley. I felt like I was "up to speed" on what had happened in the previous books.
Monica and Travis are a cute couple (even before they know they'll be a couple!). While Monica is a Valentine Valley native and well established there, Cane is able to weave a story that brings Travis to the small Colorado town--albeit a little far-fetched. Travis is a stoic Secret Service agent in town to protect the president when she comes to Valentine Valley to attend her son's wedding to another VV native. Monica is interersted in Travis and as they get to know each other, she is able to bring out another side of him. They develop a personal relationship outside of their working relationship (she is the florist for the wedding and her apartment above her shop has the perfect vantage point for the agents to utilize).
Readers will enjoy being a part of their budding relationship. Especially as the former Marine & Secret Service Agent learns to let himself go a little and give in to love again. Monica and the other Valentine Valley characters are very endearing and readers will feel as though they know the citizens of this small town in real life.
Reviewed by Joelle for Cocktails and Books
Although this is the 4th book in Emma Cane's Valentine Valley series, it is the first I have read. This was a very sweet story. Even though I have read the books out of order, Cane did a good job of familiarizing me with the various characters and the setting of Valentine Valley. I felt like I was "up to speed" on what had happened in the previous books.
Monica and Travis are a cute couple (even before they know they'll be a couple!). While Monica is a Valentine Valley native and well established there, Cane is able to weave a story that brings Travis to the small Colorado town--albeit a little far-fetched. Travis is a stoic Secret Service agent in town to protect the president when she comes to Valentine Valley to attend her son's wedding to another VV native. Monica is interersted in Travis and as they get to know each other, she is able to bring out another side of him. They develop a personal relationship outside of their working relationship (she is the florist for the wedding and her apartment above her shop has the perfect vantage point for the agents to utilize).
Readers will enjoy being a part of their budding relationship. Especially as the former Marine & Secret Service Agent learns to let himself go a little and give in to love again. Monica and the other Valentine Valley characters are very endearing and readers will feel as though they know the citizens of this small town in real life.
Reviewed by Joelle for Cocktails and Books
March 6, 2014
*This book was given to me for a fair and honest review*
Monica is enjoying life in her hometown until Travis strolls into her flower shop and turns her world upside down. He has big secrets and tries to avoid falling for Monica. After finally giving into their attraction, his mysterious ways may finally tear them apart.
Emma Cane knows how to write hot male characters and spicy, sexy love scenes! Whoa!!! I love brooding, quiet, sexy male characters and Travis certainly did it for me. Monica was a spitfire that did not hold back and went after what she wanted – I LOVED HER!
The Valentine Valley series is fantastic. I love how characters are interwoven into every book (the Widows are my favorite characters, hands down). Although this is a series, each book can be read as a stand alone. I would recommend every single one. These will be great read for any romance lover in the upcoming spring and summer (even to heat up those cold winter nights ;-) ). Just the kind of steamy storyline that readers desire in the warm weather months!
Review originally published on Books Books Books Blog http://booksbooksbooksblog.com/2014/0...
Monica is enjoying life in her hometown until Travis strolls into her flower shop and turns her world upside down. He has big secrets and tries to avoid falling for Monica. After finally giving into their attraction, his mysterious ways may finally tear them apart.
Emma Cane knows how to write hot male characters and spicy, sexy love scenes! Whoa!!! I love brooding, quiet, sexy male characters and Travis certainly did it for me. Monica was a spitfire that did not hold back and went after what she wanted – I LOVED HER!
The Valentine Valley series is fantastic. I love how characters are interwoven into every book (the Widows are my favorite characters, hands down). Although this is a series, each book can be read as a stand alone. I would recommend every single one. These will be great read for any romance lover in the upcoming spring and summer (even to heat up those cold winter nights ;-) ). Just the kind of steamy storyline that readers desire in the warm weather months!
Review originally published on Books Books Books Blog http://booksbooksbooksblog.com/2014/0...
May 2, 2015
I just adore and absolutely love sitting down with a Valentine Valley book. It was great to read Monica's story, I think she's super cute! I liked how things unfolded with her and Travis, the way she stuck by her beliefs in activism not letting a man take precedence, furthermore, how her commitment and passion to saving the archaeological dig become one of the reasons Travis falls for her. This is ironic since he is a military man trained in Secret Service to follow all the rules. I'm excited to see what his future in VV will hold....I'm thinking maybe a cop or sheriff. I'm also hoping to read more about the arrival of Whitney and Josh's baby!! I can't believe she had the baby in the last chapter!! I'm also excited to read about Brooke and Adams wedding, although they hadn't set a date yet. It's nice to have a few cliff hangers, gives us readers something to look forward to.
March 9, 2015
A nice addition to the Valentine Valley series. In this installment the town is being turned up side down when a surprise wedding pops up which also brings the President to town. The lovely florist Monica Shaw will need to work very closely with the secret service detail but since the head of that detail is perfectly yummy Travis Beaumont, no problem!
This is a wonderfully written story and I always enjoy the crazy characters in this series. It left me slightly disappointed because Monica is such a warm lovely person, I would have liked her story to be a bit more romantic, but that's just me. I definitely recommend this one.
This is a wonderfully written story and I always enjoy the crazy characters in this series. It left me slightly disappointed because Monica is such a warm lovely person, I would have liked her story to be a bit more romantic, but that's just me. I definitely recommend this one.
April 7, 2014
What happens when a small town girl meets and marries the President's son? What if that wedding occurs in her hometown? This story is what happens! Though, the story isn't about the bride and groom, it's about the flower shop owner, Monica and a Secret Service Agent, Travis.
This story provides laughs, tears and romance. The Widows are a hoot. Monica and Travis are one of those couples that when you thing everything is against them, everything turns out just the way they were meant to be. I am afraid that I will give things away if I try to express anything about this story.
This story provides laughs, tears and romance. The Widows are a hoot. Monica and Travis are one of those couples that when you thing everything is against them, everything turns out just the way they were meant to be. I am afraid that I will give things away if I try to express anything about this story.
November 9, 2015
Seriously soft and fuzzy small town romance. Nice little read. Heroine owns a florist shop. Hero is the lead agent on a Secret Service team doing advance work in the town where the president's son will get married in 2 weeks. That's all the notice the heroine has that the bride, a girl she grew up with, wants her to do the flowers. And she's already noticed the hero looking things over in town. The conflict is light but not slight-- it carries importance to both hero and heroine. It's not an especially angsty story, which I'm sure was Cane's intent. It's what some might consider a comfort read-- but I like more angst with my comfort. I liked it.
April 1, 2015
The President's son and a young woman from Valentine Valley are due to be married in Valentine Valley-of all places!
Enter Secret Agent Travis Beaumont who is to make sure that everything is safe for the first family to arrive. When he visits Monica in her flower shop, just to check things out, things begin to sizzle.
And, you'll get a chuckle out of the three widows from the Widow's Boardinghouse-never a dull moment with them around.
Enter Secret Agent Travis Beaumont who is to make sure that everything is safe for the first family to arrive. When he visits Monica in her flower shop, just to check things out, things begin to sizzle.
And, you'll get a chuckle out of the three widows from the Widow's Boardinghouse-never a dull moment with them around.
June 7, 2015
Enjoyed the book. I was glad to see that Travis and Monica ended up together, and that Travis had enough of the Secret Service and was going to live in Valentine Valley and have a relationship with Monica. The president arriving, and her son getting married in town to Ashley was okay. I definitely enjoyed the elephant dressed up in ghillie gear to look like a mammoth. Never would have expected that!
September 30, 2015
This book started a bit slowly for me and I felt the end was a bit forced. The original situation (geographical gulf between female and male protagonists' everyday lives) was such that it was inevitable that someone was going to have to make a major change to their life for the romance to work out. That always bothers me because I have to wonder if it could really lead to "happily ever after" which is what we all want when we read a romance.
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