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Coyote Canyon #1
Talulah's Back in Town: A Novel
Sometimes the past we leave behind leads us right where we belong.
Talulah Barclay doesn't like complications. Unfortunately, they seem to love her. Fourteen years after leaving her fiancé at the altar, Talulah returns to her hometown of Coyote Canyon, Montana, to settle her great-aunt's estate. As she'd feared, her “runaway bride” reputation is waiting right where she left it, and her ex's best friend, Brant, isn't about to let her slip by unnoticed.
Brant has always been a loyal friend, but Talulah's decision to run isn't the only thing he hasn't forgotten. He remembers more about Talulah than he cares to admit. Vividly. And it's increasingly difficult to ignore her now, especially when they find themselves in close quarters. Talulah has no plans to stay in town after she fixes up her aunt's Victorian farmhouse, even if the unbridled sparks with Brant give her a good reason to linger. Besides, bailing on relationships is kind of her thing. But a lot has changed since Talulah last turned tail—maybe her heart has changed, too?
Talulah Barclay doesn't like complications. Unfortunately, they seem to love her. Fourteen years after leaving her fiancé at the altar, Talulah returns to her hometown of Coyote Canyon, Montana, to settle her great-aunt's estate. As she'd feared, her “runaway bride” reputation is waiting right where she left it, and her ex's best friend, Brant, isn't about to let her slip by unnoticed.
Brant has always been a loyal friend, but Talulah's decision to run isn't the only thing he hasn't forgotten. He remembers more about Talulah than he cares to admit. Vividly. And it's increasingly difficult to ignore her now, especially when they find themselves in close quarters. Talulah has no plans to stay in town after she fixes up her aunt's Victorian farmhouse, even if the unbridled sparks with Brant give her a good reason to linger. Besides, bailing on relationships is kind of her thing. But a lot has changed since Talulah last turned tail—maybe her heart has changed, too?
431 pages, Library Binding
First published August 22, 2023
345 people are currently reading
1298 people want to read
About the author
Brenda Novak
238 books6,964 followersIt was a shocking experience that jump-started Brenda Novak’s bestselling author career.
“I caught my day-care provider drugging my children with cough syrup and Tylenol to get them to sleep while I was away,” Brenda says. “It was then that I decided that I needed to do something from home.”
However, writing was the last profession she expected to undertake. In fact, Brenda swears she didn’t have a creative bone in her body. In school, math and science were her best subjects, and when it came time to pick a major in college, she chose business.
Abandoning her academic scholarship to Brigham Young University at the age of 20 in order to get married and start a family, Brenda dabbled in commercial real estate, then became a loan officer.
“When I first got the idea to become a novelist, it took me five years to teach myself the craft and finish my first book,” Brenda admits. “I learned how to write by reading what others have written. The best advice for any would-be author: read, read, read….”
Brenda sold her first book, and the rest is history. Now a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, she continues to publish two or three novels a year, in a variety of genres.
Brenda and her husband, Ted, live in Sacramento and are the proud parents of five children—three girls and two boys. Now that they are empty-nesters, she spends her free time babysitting her two grandchildren.
When she’s not with her family or writing, Brenda is usually raising money for diabetes research. To date, she's raised almost $2.6 million. Her youngest son, Thad, has diabetes, and Brenda is determined to help him and others like him. She also enjoys traveling, watching sporting events and biking--she rides an amazing 20 miles every day!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-...
“I caught my day-care provider drugging my children with cough syrup and Tylenol to get them to sleep while I was away,” Brenda says. “It was then that I decided that I needed to do something from home.”
However, writing was the last profession she expected to undertake. In fact, Brenda swears she didn’t have a creative bone in her body. In school, math and science were her best subjects, and when it came time to pick a major in college, she chose business.
Abandoning her academic scholarship to Brigham Young University at the age of 20 in order to get married and start a family, Brenda dabbled in commercial real estate, then became a loan officer.
“When I first got the idea to become a novelist, it took me five years to teach myself the craft and finish my first book,” Brenda admits. “I learned how to write by reading what others have written. The best advice for any would-be author: read, read, read….”
Brenda sold her first book, and the rest is history. Now a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, she continues to publish two or three novels a year, in a variety of genres.
Brenda and her husband, Ted, live in Sacramento and are the proud parents of five children—three girls and two boys. Now that they are empty-nesters, she spends her free time babysitting her two grandchildren.
When she’s not with her family or writing, Brenda is usually raising money for diabetes research. To date, she's raised almost $2.6 million. Her youngest son, Thad, has diabetes, and Brenda is determined to help him and others like him. She also enjoys traveling, watching sporting events and biking--she rides an amazing 20 miles every day!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 431 reviews
October 19, 2023
the setup…
Talulah Barclay returns to Coyote Canyon, Montana fourteen years after having left her fiancé at the altar. She’s there to settle her recently deceased great Aunt Phoebe’s estate and is anticipating a less than warm reception. She’s right about that but her ex’s best friend Brant Elway extends her some kindness at the request of a neighbor. Things heat up between the two rather quickly, creating quite a mess there and back at home in Seattle with her business partner/almost beau.
the heart of the story…
Talulah co-owns a dessert diner in Seattle with Paul who she agreed to try “dating” a couple of weeks before leaving. She’s not serious (he is) and with two other failed engagements behind her, Talulah’s developed a “runaway bride” reputation. Even she doesn’t trust her heart but the feelings for Brant feel different, despite it making them the talk of the town and having people in this small town take sides. To say things got messy is quite an understatement.
the narration…
McFadden had a host of characters to give voice and she delivered strongly. She’s a wonderful storyteller and this one had lots of drama and angles. I’m glad I held out for the audio edition.
the bottom line…
Talulah made a lot of questionable decisions but her heart was always in the right place. She took it on the chin and accepted responsibility for the broken hearts she left behind years before. Small town dynamics can be wicked but I liked how most gave her a second chance. Everything about the story felt realistic, even when I wanted a different outcome. I loved the romance, drama, messiness and the spirit of redemption. It had everything I was hoping for and now I’m anxious to return to this town.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
Talulah Barclay returns to Coyote Canyon, Montana fourteen years after having left her fiancé at the altar. She’s there to settle her recently deceased great Aunt Phoebe’s estate and is anticipating a less than warm reception. She’s right about that but her ex’s best friend Brant Elway extends her some kindness at the request of a neighbor. Things heat up between the two rather quickly, creating quite a mess there and back at home in Seattle with her business partner/almost beau.
the heart of the story…
Talulah co-owns a dessert diner in Seattle with Paul who she agreed to try “dating” a couple of weeks before leaving. She’s not serious (he is) and with two other failed engagements behind her, Talulah’s developed a “runaway bride” reputation. Even she doesn’t trust her heart but the feelings for Brant feel different, despite it making them the talk of the town and having people in this small town take sides. To say things got messy is quite an understatement.
the narration…
McFadden had a host of characters to give voice and she delivered strongly. She’s a wonderful storyteller and this one had lots of drama and angles. I’m glad I held out for the audio edition.
the bottom line…
Talulah made a lot of questionable decisions but her heart was always in the right place. She took it on the chin and accepted responsibility for the broken hearts she left behind years before. Small town dynamics can be wicked but I liked how most gave her a second chance. Everything about the story felt realistic, even when I wanted a different outcome. I loved the romance, drama, messiness and the spirit of redemption. It had everything I was hoping for and now I’m anxious to return to this town.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
March 25, 2024
Talulah’s Back in Town by Brenda Novak is the first book in the new contemporary romance Coyote Canyon series. As with a lot of romance series each book of the Coyote Canyon series will change the main characters so they all could be read as a standalone if choosing to do so. There are however glances of the previous characters in the later books of the series so they are best read from the beginning.
Talulah Barclay grew up in Coyote Canyon but left shortly after high school. Talulah had thought she was going to be beginning her life with her high school sweetheart and had planned a whole wedding. On the day of that wedding though she knew that wasn’t her path and left her fiance at the altar.
Now Talulah has returned to clear out her aunt’s house after her passing and help plan the funeral. The first person Talulah has a run in with in town is her ex’s best friend, Brant. Brant of course brings up the failed wedding but when he finds out Talulah is staying without air conditioning her swings by to help her out and the two can’t fight their attraction even with the past coming between them.
Brenda Novak quickly became one of the favorite go to authors several years back and have never been disappointed by one of her stories. Talulah’s Back in Town was no exception to that as I quickly fell into the story and got to know the town and characters. Fitting for the heat wave setting of the story the characters also wasted no time getting steamy but still plenty of time in the story to root for their HEA afterwards too. Great start to the Coyote Canyon series and will be looking forward to continuing the series!
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Talulah Barclay grew up in Coyote Canyon but left shortly after high school. Talulah had thought she was going to be beginning her life with her high school sweetheart and had planned a whole wedding. On the day of that wedding though she knew that wasn’t her path and left her fiance at the altar.
Now Talulah has returned to clear out her aunt’s house after her passing and help plan the funeral. The first person Talulah has a run in with in town is her ex’s best friend, Brant. Brant of course brings up the failed wedding but when he finds out Talulah is staying without air conditioning her swings by to help her out and the two can’t fight their attraction even with the past coming between them.
Brenda Novak quickly became one of the favorite go to authors several years back and have never been disappointed by one of her stories. Talulah’s Back in Town was no exception to that as I quickly fell into the story and got to know the town and characters. Fitting for the heat wave setting of the story the characters also wasted no time getting steamy but still plenty of time in the story to root for their HEA afterwards too. Great start to the Coyote Canyon series and will be looking forward to continuing the series!
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
August 9, 2023
This female lead has plenty of issues!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This is an interesting story that has so many negatives going against the main characters. But yet the author finds a wonderful balance when it comes to their growing connection.
Pulling in the small-town dynamic is the focus that Novak is using with this story. When everyone knows everyone in a small town, getting forgiven for a wrong that may have been committed, or perceived to be wrong, is darn near impossible.
When Talulah comes back to town, she is opening the floodgates for gossip and just plain meanness to come to her. Novak crafted her to be strong, at least on the outside, but a good friend to others, when she can show herself to the world.
Brant is a wonderful support and strong friend that is willing to stand by her in so many ways. Their growing trust and care for each other is a delicate process that has to slowly develop to protect other balances in town and between them too. I love that he cared about her the way he did. Definitely a dreamy hottie!
Novak developed this story with care and compassion for others while showing that yes, people have issues, but sometimes we don’t always know what is going on inside them. Talulah had issues, but I ended up cheering her on toward the end for a wonderful HEA, leaving you anticipating more!
Talulah’s Back in Town is a complex story with characters that have issues, but despite it all, allows for a growing romance full of tenderness, smexy times, and forgiveness. It is a little heartbreaking but also heartwarming! Novak always crafts stories that make me devour them!
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/talulahs-bac...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This is an interesting story that has so many negatives going against the main characters. But yet the author finds a wonderful balance when it comes to their growing connection.
Pulling in the small-town dynamic is the focus that Novak is using with this story. When everyone knows everyone in a small town, getting forgiven for a wrong that may have been committed, or perceived to be wrong, is darn near impossible.
When Talulah comes back to town, she is opening the floodgates for gossip and just plain meanness to come to her. Novak crafted her to be strong, at least on the outside, but a good friend to others, when she can show herself to the world.
Brant is a wonderful support and strong friend that is willing to stand by her in so many ways. Their growing trust and care for each other is a delicate process that has to slowly develop to protect other balances in town and between them too. I love that he cared about her the way he did. Definitely a dreamy hottie!
Novak developed this story with care and compassion for others while showing that yes, people have issues, but sometimes we don’t always know what is going on inside them. Talulah had issues, but I ended up cheering her on toward the end for a wonderful HEA, leaving you anticipating more!
Talulah’s Back in Town is a complex story with characters that have issues, but despite it all, allows for a growing romance full of tenderness, smexy times, and forgiveness. It is a little heartbreaking but also heartwarming! Novak always crafts stories that make me devour them!
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/talulahs-bac...
August 21, 2023
Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
TALULAH’S BACK IN TOWN (Coyote Canyon Book #1) by Brenda Novak is an enchanting small-town contemporary romance set in Montana featuring a runaway bride returning home after fourteen years. This is the first book in this small-town romance series, and I am looking forward to returning to Coyote Canyon again and again.
Talulah is now a successful partner in a bakery/café in Seattle since leaving her hometown boyfriend at the alter fourteen years ago. She has returned to settle her great aunt’s estate and attend the birth of her new niece only to discover her reputation has not improved. Talulah works hard on her relationship issues and tries to be honest with any man she is involved with, but she also hates confrontation and disappointing people, so her relationships get out of her control, she panics and runs.
Brant is Talulah’s ex-fiancé’s best friend and while he should be the last person to get involved with Talulah, there is now some sort of attraction that was not there before. As Brant and Talulah’s relationship grows it causes problems with not only those who never forgave her for leaving, but also with her business partner back in Seattle.
There are plenty of obstacles, but has Talulah finally found the one?
This is an entertaining romance with a hero and heroine who communicate honestly with each other throughout the story. They discuss feelings, friendships, careers, and finances which you do not normally find in a romance. Since this is the first book in the series, there are many character introductions and connections, but they flowed effortlessly onto the page and became a part of the group without slowing the pace of the story. There are explicit sex scenes, but they are not gratuitous or long. I really enjoyed Brant and Talulah’s romance and I am looking forward to seeing who Ms. Novak will bring together next in Coyote Canyon.
I recommend this small-town contemporary romance.
TALULAH’S BACK IN TOWN (Coyote Canyon Book #1) by Brenda Novak is an enchanting small-town contemporary romance set in Montana featuring a runaway bride returning home after fourteen years. This is the first book in this small-town romance series, and I am looking forward to returning to Coyote Canyon again and again.
Talulah is now a successful partner in a bakery/café in Seattle since leaving her hometown boyfriend at the alter fourteen years ago. She has returned to settle her great aunt’s estate and attend the birth of her new niece only to discover her reputation has not improved. Talulah works hard on her relationship issues and tries to be honest with any man she is involved with, but she also hates confrontation and disappointing people, so her relationships get out of her control, she panics and runs.
Brant is Talulah’s ex-fiancé’s best friend and while he should be the last person to get involved with Talulah, there is now some sort of attraction that was not there before. As Brant and Talulah’s relationship grows it causes problems with not only those who never forgave her for leaving, but also with her business partner back in Seattle.
There are plenty of obstacles, but has Talulah finally found the one?
This is an entertaining romance with a hero and heroine who communicate honestly with each other throughout the story. They discuss feelings, friendships, careers, and finances which you do not normally find in a romance. Since this is the first book in the series, there are many character introductions and connections, but they flowed effortlessly onto the page and became a part of the group without slowing the pace of the story. There are explicit sex scenes, but they are not gratuitous or long. I really enjoyed Brant and Talulah’s romance and I am looking forward to seeing who Ms. Novak will bring together next in Coyote Canyon.
I recommend this small-town contemporary romance.
August 30, 2023
4.5 Stars
Talulah’s back in her hometown to sort through her great-aunt’s house, getting it ready for sale after her death. She hadn’t been looking forward to coming back after she left her fiancé at the alter fourteen years ago shattering one of her best friendships and becoming the talk of the town.
I don’t think I’ve ever read a “runaway bride” romance, didn’t really think it would appeal to me. I’ve wondered how someone could let it get to that point, knowing they had cold feet and doubts, but for Talulah it boiled down to trying to please everyone. Hoping her feelings would change or deepen enough before the wedding so she wouldn’t have to disappoint anyone. Unfortunately, by the time she broke it off it caused more damage than if she would’ve done it right when she started having doubts, but she didn’t trust her gut instincts.
Now Talulah makes it clear up front to any potential love interests that she’s commitment phobic. She’d like to be able to fall in love, settle down and have a family, but the thought of commitment gives her hives! That is until she returns home and circumstances lead her to falling in with Brant Elway, the best friend of her ex-fiancé. Yep, it’s messy and normally I’d be running the other way from a story like this, but it was sooo good! Talulah and Brant had off-the-charts chemistry (this was hot stuff!) and deepening emotional bond. I just loved how naturally they fit as a couple! They just had to figure out the details.
I’m fairly new to Brenda Novak’s writing, having only read two of her stories in the past, both more on the women’s fiction side with a bit of romance and suspense. This is my first full on romance by her and I loved it! I was mesmerized by the story from page one!
A copy was kindly provided by MIRA in exchange for an honest review.
Talulah’s back in her hometown to sort through her great-aunt’s house, getting it ready for sale after her death. She hadn’t been looking forward to coming back after she left her fiancé at the alter fourteen years ago shattering one of her best friendships and becoming the talk of the town.
I don’t think I’ve ever read a “runaway bride” romance, didn’t really think it would appeal to me. I’ve wondered how someone could let it get to that point, knowing they had cold feet and doubts, but for Talulah it boiled down to trying to please everyone. Hoping her feelings would change or deepen enough before the wedding so she wouldn’t have to disappoint anyone. Unfortunately, by the time she broke it off it caused more damage than if she would’ve done it right when she started having doubts, but she didn’t trust her gut instincts.
Now Talulah makes it clear up front to any potential love interests that she’s commitment phobic. She’d like to be able to fall in love, settle down and have a family, but the thought of commitment gives her hives! That is until she returns home and circumstances lead her to falling in with Brant Elway, the best friend of her ex-fiancé. Yep, it’s messy and normally I’d be running the other way from a story like this, but it was sooo good! Talulah and Brant had off-the-charts chemistry (this was hot stuff!) and deepening emotional bond. I just loved how naturally they fit as a couple! They just had to figure out the details.
I’m fairly new to Brenda Novak’s writing, having only read two of her stories in the past, both more on the women’s fiction side with a bit of romance and suspense. This is my first full on romance by her and I loved it! I was mesmerized by the story from page one!
A copy was kindly provided by MIRA in exchange for an honest review.
September 8, 2023
What an amazing story! A heartwarming story that will melt your heart. It will make you laugh and cry. I loved every minute of it and I am looking forward to the next book.
August 17, 2023
Thank you Brenda Novak for allowing me to read and review an ARC for your first book in your new series. This is my first time to review a Brenda book. I feel so honored.
All I can say is Bravo! Great job! Congratulations on a winner in your new series
I do recommend this book to others who love a great love story. But then Brenda Novak never disappoints.
All I can say is Bravo! Great job! Congratulations on a winner in your new series
I do recommend this book to others who love a great love story. But then Brenda Novak never disappoints.
August 21, 2023
This is a lighthearted romp through the fields of romance, featuring a runaway bride who returns to town and is not exactly welcomed there. Talulah ran away from marrying Charlie fourteen years previously and now that she has returned to Coyote Canyon to settle her aunt’s estate, just about everyone is snarky to her. There are a few exceptions and that’s when the fun begins. This story includes realistically dynamic and lovable characters. I was particularly fond of Jane, a neighbor who lends Talulah assistance whenever possible and seems to be intuitive about when she is needed. There is a budding romance starting between Talulah and a former friend, too, but they may or may not make it as a couple since Talulah lives up to her reputation as one afraid to go down the aisle and take the vows. The humorous banter between the characters kept the story moving at a good pace as well as an underlying mystery about who would want to deliberately harm Talulah. I enjoyed the sparks flying, both from competitors and lovers, and really enjoyed the small-town feel that was present throughout the book. Coyote Canyon seemed realistically flawed, with people who like to meddle with their advice and others who just want to look on and take bets about the outcome. With dynamic and realistically portrayed characters and a charming setting, this book combines romance, a little mystery and a lot of life lessons in a well-written and intricate story about a young woman who has to find herself before she can let herself love.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
August 20, 2023
Talulah’s great aunt has passed away. So, she must return to Coyote. This is not where she wants to be. She left her fiancé, Charlie, at the alter 14 years ago and ran away. And she knows, no one in this small town has forgotten. She also knows she must make amends.
Brenda Novak always has some of the best characters. I swear, I knew everyone in this book! And I loved Talulah! She is just struggling to survive and stay afloat. Then she has to go back to her home town. And BOY, did she make some mistakes there when she was young. She wants to make things right, but as you can guess, it is not as easy as she expected.
Enter Brant. Brant is Charlie’s best friend. Talulah and Brant have never really seen eye to eye. Now, after all these years, these two have a connection. You can just imagine what the town AND Charlie have to say about this!
Need a small town romance….THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today!
I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.
Brenda Novak always has some of the best characters. I swear, I knew everyone in this book! And I loved Talulah! She is just struggling to survive and stay afloat. Then she has to go back to her home town. And BOY, did she make some mistakes there when she was young. She wants to make things right, but as you can guess, it is not as easy as she expected.
Enter Brant. Brant is Charlie’s best friend. Talulah and Brant have never really seen eye to eye. Now, after all these years, these two have a connection. You can just imagine what the town AND Charlie have to say about this!
Need a small town romance….THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today!
I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.
September 4, 2023
Well, this reminds me of her earlier series Silver Springs and Whiskey Creek. The only difference here is Brenda Novak has toned down the explicit sex scenes. So, for me that was easier to read. But the book was just about a man and her feelings towards him with tiny bits of details thrown in.
The writing was good but it was very predictable. I personally think her stand alone books are so much better than her series books, except for the Evelyn Talbot series. Now I enjoyed that series except for the last book, it felt rushed.
This is the first book in a new series so hopefully it will get better as the series progresses.
Plus, it was about her aunt’s funeral and planning that and the people who know me, know that my daughter just passed away unexpectedly and we just had her funeral so I really don’t want to read about funerals right now if that makes sense.
The writing was good but it was very predictable. I personally think her stand alone books are so much better than her series books, except for the Evelyn Talbot series. Now I enjoyed that series except for the last book, it felt rushed.
This is the first book in a new series so hopefully it will get better as the series progresses.
Plus, it was about her aunt’s funeral and planning that and the people who know me, know that my daughter just passed away unexpectedly and we just had her funeral so I really don’t want to read about funerals right now if that makes sense.
August 15, 2023
Brenda Novak has been one of my top favorite authors for years. The new Coyote Canyon series is so good, and I’m so excited for the rest in the series.
Brenda has a way of creating fictional worlds that come to life. I love her power of weaving redemption and emotion in her characters and she’s not afraid to tear things up ugly. But don’t worry…with every good romance, she folds it all back together with a happily ever after. She’s one of the most powerful authors out there.
Brenda has a way of creating fictional worlds that come to life. I love her power of weaving redemption and emotion in her characters and she’s not afraid to tear things up ugly. But don’t worry…with every good romance, she folds it all back together with a happily ever after. She’s one of the most powerful authors out there.
September 23, 2023
Rating 4.5 Stars
Talulah fled Coyote Canyon after leaving her groom at the alter, leaving behind her past and the fallout of her actions. Now she was back to arrange her great aunt's funeral and tie up loose ends. She wasn't exactly welcomed back with open arms, but comfort and acceptance came from a very unlikely source making Talulah rethink her opinion of Coyote Canyon.
At first I had to wonder about Talulah. Not only did she run from her wedding in Coyote Canyon, but she repeated this two more time. I almost believed the story her ex was spreading, but as I got to know Talulah, I understood that she really didn't mean to cause harm. She was actually a very nice people-pleaser type, but lacked the ability to let the people in her life down, including her romantic parters with who she was honest about her commitment issues.
Her love interest was perfect and lovely, but quite scandalous in the grand scheme of small town life. Who knew her ex's best friend would be the man to make her want to commit? It would seem unlikely given their history, but the heart wants what the heart wants.
It's interesting to watch the dynamic between two commitment phobes slowly change, but I live for stuff like that. I love the idea that our perfect match is out there somewhere, and I was overjoyed that Talulah and Brant found that in each other. Yes, it was messy, but this union was worth the trouble.
Speaking of the trouble, I thought people were a bit too hard on Talulah. It had been FOURTEEN years. Her ex's family really needed to move on. This was not a fresh wound by any means, and Talulah had already paid the price and done her time for the crime. She deserved to move on and find her someone.
Overall, I had a wonderful time getting to know Talulah as I rooted for her HEA. I am very excited about this series and cannot wait to return to Coyote Canyon.
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Talulah fled Coyote Canyon after leaving her groom at the alter, leaving behind her past and the fallout of her actions. Now she was back to arrange her great aunt's funeral and tie up loose ends. She wasn't exactly welcomed back with open arms, but comfort and acceptance came from a very unlikely source making Talulah rethink her opinion of Coyote Canyon.
At first I had to wonder about Talulah. Not only did she run from her wedding in Coyote Canyon, but she repeated this two more time. I almost believed the story her ex was spreading, but as I got to know Talulah, I understood that she really didn't mean to cause harm. She was actually a very nice people-pleaser type, but lacked the ability to let the people in her life down, including her romantic parters with who she was honest about her commitment issues.
Her love interest was perfect and lovely, but quite scandalous in the grand scheme of small town life. Who knew her ex's best friend would be the man to make her want to commit? It would seem unlikely given their history, but the heart wants what the heart wants.
It's interesting to watch the dynamic between two commitment phobes slowly change, but I live for stuff like that. I love the idea that our perfect match is out there somewhere, and I was overjoyed that Talulah and Brant found that in each other. Yes, it was messy, but this union was worth the trouble.
Speaking of the trouble, I thought people were a bit too hard on Talulah. It had been FOURTEEN years. Her ex's family really needed to move on. This was not a fresh wound by any means, and Talulah had already paid the price and done her time for the crime. She deserved to move on and find her someone.
Overall, I had a wonderful time getting to know Talulah as I rooted for her HEA. I am very excited about this series and cannot wait to return to Coyote Canyon.
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August 18, 2023
A good small town story of second change, of accepting change and of how the past can still be seen as the only way to define someone.
A well plotted and compelling story that made me root for the characters
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
A well plotted and compelling story that made me root for the characters
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
August 10, 2024
Brenda Novak has written some really moving, heartfelt stories. This was not one of them. This book seemed to have been written by a completely different author than the Brenda Novak I’m used to…
August 26, 2023
Talulah's Back in Town in the first book in a new series, Coyote Canyon, by one of my must read authors, Brenda Novak. Talulah Barclay left Coyote Canyon behind fourteen years ago when she realized she wasn't ready to settle down and get married. Unfortunately, she left her fiancé at the altar. She traveled to Europe and around the US and finally settled in Washington State and opened her own restaurant with a friend she met in culinary school. Now her great-aunt has died and with her parents away on a mission trip, she is the only one to empty the house and be there for the funeral. Talulah's reputation as the runaway bride is still intact in the small town, but she has a few allies, one being Brant, her ex's best friend. As Brant and Talulah spend time together, they develop unexpected feelings toward one another. With several roadblocks, including the fact that Talulah has a fear of commitment, breaking three engagements in the past, the distance between their homes, Brant's friendship with her ex Charlie, and more, will this pair be able to find their happily ever after?
I enjoyed this fun, contemporary romance and am already looking forward to the next book in the series. Coyote Canyon is a typical small town, where everyone knows each other and their business. Talulah was a great character. She figured out what she wanted or didn't want, even as a teenager, and went for it. She was determined to get the job done for her family and great-aunt and get out of town, but finally finding someone she has real and serious feelings for put brakes on that plan. She is loyal, caring, a hard worker and she admits, someone who finds it hard to say no. Brant was a swoon-worthy hero, who came to Talulah's aid more than once. He was also a caring person which made them a good fit. Charlie is a character who I didn't like much at all. He was a stalker, angry, vengeful person who was holding a fourteen year old grudge, and I felt bad for him, he was not a happy person at all. Other characters in town took sides and that added to the angst in the story. One trope I dislike is the miscommunication one, and I was so happy to see that these characters were good at sharing their feelings, and what obstacles there were to their relationship. There were a couple of times they kept secrets, but all was shared and they eventually work things out. I am happily recommending Talulah's Back in Town to anyone who enjoys a contemporary romance with great characters. (there is a bit of open door romance, but it is minimal).
I enjoyed this fun, contemporary romance and am already looking forward to the next book in the series. Coyote Canyon is a typical small town, where everyone knows each other and their business. Talulah was a great character. She figured out what she wanted or didn't want, even as a teenager, and went for it. She was determined to get the job done for her family and great-aunt and get out of town, but finally finding someone she has real and serious feelings for put brakes on that plan. She is loyal, caring, a hard worker and she admits, someone who finds it hard to say no. Brant was a swoon-worthy hero, who came to Talulah's aid more than once. He was also a caring person which made them a good fit. Charlie is a character who I didn't like much at all. He was a stalker, angry, vengeful person who was holding a fourteen year old grudge, and I felt bad for him, he was not a happy person at all. Other characters in town took sides and that added to the angst in the story. One trope I dislike is the miscommunication one, and I was so happy to see that these characters were good at sharing their feelings, and what obstacles there were to their relationship. There were a couple of times they kept secrets, but all was shared and they eventually work things out. I am happily recommending Talulah's Back in Town to anyone who enjoys a contemporary romance with great characters. (there is a bit of open door romance, but it is minimal).
August 28, 2023
The runaway bride
A lovely story of a woman who is afraid she will be committed to marrying a man she loves and have his babies. I enjoyed all the ups and downs of how a small town where Tallulah had grown up and left her fiancee at the alter until fourteen years later when she comes back home to settle her aunt's estatei totally this story and can't wait to read the next one. I have enjoyed Brenda Novel's over the years and this new series does not disapoint. Thank you for another great story Brend
A lovely story of a woman who is afraid she will be committed to marrying a man she loves and have his babies. I enjoyed all the ups and downs of how a small town where Tallulah had grown up and left her fiancee at the alter until fourteen years later when she comes back home to settle her aunt's estatei totally this story and can't wait to read the next one. I have enjoyed Brenda Novel's over the years and this new series does not disapoint. Thank you for another great story Brend
August 11, 2023
Note: This review is for an ARC and is my unbiased opinion.
It's been a while since I've read a book by Brenda Novak. She used to write some of my favorite romance novels and then kind of broke off into women's fiction. I don't have a problem with women's fiction, I just enjoyed her romance novels more. Which leads me to Talulah's Back in Town. It's the first book in Novak's new contemporary romance series Coyote Canyon. I was excited to find out if I would love it as much as I have loved some of her book series, like Whiskey Creek. Spoiler: I did!
Talulah's Back in Town was a fun read. The runaway bride aspect of the story could have been cliche, but it made this romance unique. Talulah didn't just ditch one groom at the alter but three. Over the years, she's come to terms with her commitment issues. She has emotionally grown while she's been away. Talulah knew her faults and wanted to be true to herself as well as others. I don't often see female characters like hers who struggle with commitment in romance novels very often, so it was a nice change. I loved how she met her match in Brant.
The last person Talulah expects to bond with when she returns to Coyote Creek is her ex-fiancé's best friend Brant. They have never gotten along in the past, but time changes things. Now, there's an attraction and connection that wasn't there before. I loved how Brant listened to Talulah and made his own mind up about her. He knew what he wanted and wasn't scared to fight for it. He also didn't suffer fools.
Brant and Talulah end up in this forbidden, hidden friends with benefits type situation. They're trying to hide it from her ex and his best friend, Charlie. Charlie adds an interesting piece to the story because he's still not over Talulah and her ditching him at the altar. To make things even more tense, Charlie's sister was one of Talulah's best friends. She's also unhappy with Talulah's return. It makes things messy for Brant and Talulah's growing relationship. That's not the end of things that stand in their way either. Talulah's also has a business partner who is pushing for more with her. It all made for an interesting and entertaining story. I enjoyed how Brant and Talulah worked through everything that came their way. They did an excellent job communicating with each other - something I don't find often in books.
I loved this book and the only thing I might have wished was different was that it had been in first person instead of third. That's just a personal preference, though. I'm really excited to continue reading more books in this series.
You can find this review and others like it at A Novel Glimpse .
It's been a while since I've read a book by Brenda Novak. She used to write some of my favorite romance novels and then kind of broke off into women's fiction. I don't have a problem with women's fiction, I just enjoyed her romance novels more. Which leads me to Talulah's Back in Town. It's the first book in Novak's new contemporary romance series Coyote Canyon. I was excited to find out if I would love it as much as I have loved some of her book series, like Whiskey Creek. Spoiler: I did!
Talulah's Back in Town was a fun read. The runaway bride aspect of the story could have been cliche, but it made this romance unique. Talulah didn't just ditch one groom at the alter but three. Over the years, she's come to terms with her commitment issues. She has emotionally grown while she's been away. Talulah knew her faults and wanted to be true to herself as well as others. I don't often see female characters like hers who struggle with commitment in romance novels very often, so it was a nice change. I loved how she met her match in Brant.
The last person Talulah expects to bond with when she returns to Coyote Creek is her ex-fiancé's best friend Brant. They have never gotten along in the past, but time changes things. Now, there's an attraction and connection that wasn't there before. I loved how Brant listened to Talulah and made his own mind up about her. He knew what he wanted and wasn't scared to fight for it. He also didn't suffer fools.
Brant and Talulah end up in this forbidden, hidden friends with benefits type situation. They're trying to hide it from her ex and his best friend, Charlie. Charlie adds an interesting piece to the story because he's still not over Talulah and her ditching him at the altar. To make things even more tense, Charlie's sister was one of Talulah's best friends. She's also unhappy with Talulah's return. It makes things messy for Brant and Talulah's growing relationship. That's not the end of things that stand in their way either. Talulah's also has a business partner who is pushing for more with her. It all made for an interesting and entertaining story. I enjoyed how Brant and Talulah worked through everything that came their way. They did an excellent job communicating with each other - something I don't find often in books.
I loved this book and the only thing I might have wished was different was that it had been in first person instead of third. That's just a personal preference, though. I'm really excited to continue reading more books in this series.
You can find this review and others like it at A Novel Glimpse .
February 6, 2024
4.5/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶️
4/5❤️🔥
✨ HERE FOR THE GOSSIP ✨
This small-town romance had me laughing out loud. The utter mayhem that little miss Talulah brings to Coyote Canyon in a matter of hours is hilarious, wildly entertaining, and complete perfection - to my Gemini heart's delight. I wasn't expecting to devour this book in a day but I couldn't help myself. I just had to know what was going to happen next.
Talulah isn't exactly desperate for a man's affection but unfortunately, she's been attracting men that aren't what she's looking for. Story of every single woman's life, right? Unfortunately, she has a terrible habit of realizing this AT the alter. Habit being, 3 times in the past. So, she's become a bit of a commitment phobe, to keep her and any man around her safe.
She owns this and even though she goes back home and is harassed and talked about by every member of her small town, she knows who she is and it's admirable.
Things I loved:
🍰 She owns a desert diner in Seattle (where I live!)
🤠 He's a rancher in Montana
🍰 She's a super strong and independent and looking for a man who not only appreciates it but respects it
🤠 He falls first(!) and doesn't think too hard about it, just goes with it, despite her history with his BFF/ex-fiance
🍰 You'll want to be friends with her. She's relatable, completely comfortable in her skin, and makes a killer carrot cake
🤠 He's got 3 brothers looking for love 😉😉😉
🍰 The initial get-together had me literally squealing.
This is my first real Brenda Novak book and she's stolen my heart with these characters. I'm so happy to see there are two more in this series.
2/5 🌶️
4/5❤️🔥
✨ HERE FOR THE GOSSIP ✨
This small-town romance had me laughing out loud. The utter mayhem that little miss Talulah brings to Coyote Canyon in a matter of hours is hilarious, wildly entertaining, and complete perfection - to my Gemini heart's delight. I wasn't expecting to devour this book in a day but I couldn't help myself. I just had to know what was going to happen next.
Talulah isn't exactly desperate for a man's affection but unfortunately, she's been attracting men that aren't what she's looking for. Story of every single woman's life, right? Unfortunately, she has a terrible habit of realizing this AT the alter. Habit being, 3 times in the past. So, she's become a bit of a commitment phobe, to keep her and any man around her safe.
She owns this and even though she goes back home and is harassed and talked about by every member of her small town, she knows who she is and it's admirable.
Things I loved:
🍰 She owns a desert diner in Seattle (where I live!)
🤠 He's a rancher in Montana
🍰 She's a super strong and independent and looking for a man who not only appreciates it but respects it
🤠 He falls first(!) and doesn't think too hard about it, just goes with it, despite her history with his BFF/ex-fiance
🍰 You'll want to be friends with her. She's relatable, completely comfortable in her skin, and makes a killer carrot cake
🤠 He's got 3 brothers looking for love 😉😉😉
🍰 The initial get-together had me literally squealing.
This is my first real Brenda Novak book and she's stolen my heart with these characters. I'm so happy to see there are two more in this series.
August 13, 2023
Wow! Brenda Novak has iced the cake with the first installment of her new Coyote Canyon series! The memories of Talulah’s backing out of her first wedding at the alter have not dimmed in the small Montana town, even after 14 years of her working and living in Seattle. If it hadn’t been for her great Aunt’s passing and having to clean out and sell the old house, Talulah would still have been in Seattle baking at the Dessert Diner she and her business partner Paul owned. But the first person she runs into is Brent, who had been best man at the first wedding she had walked away from. Talulah is forced to come to grips with her growing attraction to Brent, her fears of failing, her desire to find love and her need to trust herself while dealing with her former fiancé’s resentful family. Once I started reading it I was hard pressed to put it down. Loved the ending, and can’t wait for the next book in the series.
August 20, 2023
This is a great summer read. A tad soap-operatic but I enjoyed every minute of it :) Looking forward to book two "The Talk of Coyote Canyon."
Thank you to the author for the early review copy.
Thank you to the author for the early review copy.
September 11, 2023
Tallulah's Back In Town was so good. Her aunt died and she leaves her Diner in Seattle to go back to her home town to settle her aunt's home and plan her funeral. She has not been back since was a run away bride, and after all these years the town has not forgotten.
December 11, 2023
Loved this romance.
August 5, 2023
This is the first book in a new series by Brenda Novak and a light cute story it is. Talulah has come back to her hometown to clean out her great Aunts house after her death, and deal with the funeral for her. But, Talulah left town 14 years ago after leaving her bridegroom, Charlie, at the altar and although his family should have gotten over it, there are still bad feelings with many people in the small town. In fact, Talulah has left 2 other grooms at the altar too. She runs into Brant who is Charlie’s best friend and sparks fly. Talulah has some major issues though, that complicate the relationship that she and Brant have. She lives in Seattle where she has a thriving bake shop with a male partner who want more from that relationship than she wants to give. Although there are many issues within this story, it was a fairly light romance but in Brenda Novak’s capable hands, the story really flows. We see different sides of all the issues, and I was happy with the HEA. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
July 17, 2023
Talulah has a reputation for leaving grooms (3 at last count) at the alter and being afraid to commit. She owns a dessert diner in Seattle but is back in her hometown of Coyote Canyon, where her first groom left at the alter lives, for her Aunt’s funeral and to get her house ready for sale. Charlie and his family are still very angry with her 14 years later. She runs into his best friend, Brant, and sparks fly!
An excellent, fun, romance read by one of my favorite authors! I loved the characters so much! Talulah, Brant, Ellen, and all the others are so likable (with the exception of Paul). It’s a light read with a little spice that I found to be engaging. I was so wrapped up in this one that I finished in a few hours! I can’t wait for the next one!
An excellent, fun, romance read by one of my favorite authors! I loved the characters so much! Talulah, Brant, Ellen, and all the others are so likable (with the exception of Paul). It’s a light read with a little spice that I found to be engaging. I was so wrapped up in this one that I finished in a few hours! I can’t wait for the next one!
March 12, 2024
Messy drama. Guys fighting over her, people calling her a whore, breaking without the entering. Kinda blame the guy for sleeping with a woman he KNOWS his best friend still obsess over. like the morning before he slept with her his best friend admitted stalking her social media. Tho the best friend is still wrong for being a freaking misogynistic pig. I also blame the partner for the situation he’s in. You asked her out until she gives in and now you’re surprised she’s not that into you?🤨 You have the right to be hurt but don’t be surprised if it impacts your business together. I hate how everyone was still mad about what a 18 year old did more than a decade ago. Like you’re adults now, get over it and she doesn’t have to refrained from sleeping with anyone. But all the guys were a little too obsess with her. Poor talulah (no sarcasm). Most of her problems were because of the guys in her life so… F*** Paul, Charlie and the only annoying woman Adevil (not sure that’s her name). Really entertaining, soap operaish, could be a movie.
3 stars cuz I didn’t like the lesson being you do whatever you want because of love. It should have been don’t respect people that don’t respect you. Like F*** everyone calling her a whore and a slut.
3 stars cuz I didn’t like the lesson being you do whatever you want because of love. It should have been don’t respect people that don’t respect you. Like F*** everyone calling her a whore and a slut.
August 26, 2023
As always 5 ⭐️ aren’t enough! Brenda has been my #1 favorite author since book 1! I was excited for the release of this book & when I saw that my name was written into the book (Brenda’s been known to incorporate her book group members into her novels)it made me love it even more,even if It’s just a bit part ;) After being known as “The Runaway Bride,a total of 3 times,Tahlulah finally gives her heart to her longtime cowboy friend Brant ,but not without getting grief from many people from her past. Thankfully they overcome & find their happily ever after. I was a big fan of the next door neighbor Ellen & hope to see more of her in the upcoming 2 books.
September 30, 2023
Loved Talulah what an awesome lady. Has she made some bad decisions? We all have. But coming back to town was hard but she knew she had to face people in Coyote Canyon eventually . She never expected the unexpected 😳 great story by the awesome Brenda Novak.
August 20, 2023
Talulah has not been back in her hometown since she left her fiancée Charlie at the altar. She has come home for her great aunt Phoebe's funeral and to clean out Phoebe's home. While having breakfast at a diner on her first week there, she runs into none other than Charlie best friend and best man at the wedding Brant who begins to taunt and tease her of what she has done.
This story has everything, a woman trying to fight her past demons of being known as the
"runaway bride" accepting past failures, growing, understanding and learning to be a better improve individual. I have to say Charlie and his sister Averil were quite annoying. How can a jilted groom be still mad after a decade has passed and Averil pining away for Brant knowing he has no interest at all in her. I always enjoy a small town story of the couple not allowing their community of family and friends to right their story. Thoroughly enjoyed this new series by Ms. Novak. Arc by netgalley.
This story has everything, a woman trying to fight her past demons of being known as the
"runaway bride" accepting past failures, growing, understanding and learning to be a better improve individual. I have to say Charlie and his sister Averil were quite annoying. How can a jilted groom be still mad after a decade has passed and Averil pining away for Brant knowing he has no interest at all in her. I always enjoy a small town story of the couple not allowing their community of family and friends to right their story. Thoroughly enjoyed this new series by Ms. Novak. Arc by netgalley.
September 5, 2023
Talulah has come back to town after her great aunt's death. This is the town where she left Charlie at the alter when she was 18. A lot of people in town still consider her The Runaway Bride. This includes Brant the first person to recognize her and the former best man at her wedding. He comes to help her, which leads to much more and it becomes them against his friends. Can they survive the few weeks they have together?
September 12, 2023
Talulah’s Back in Town by Brenda Novak was a cute read. Talulah comes back to Coyote Canyon after her Aunt Phoebe passed away. She was greeted by her Ex-Fiancé Charlie’s best friend Brant. Talulah is known as the Runaway Bride and Brant takes the chance to tease her. Her relationship with the small town and overcoming her reputation as she plans her Aunt’s Funeral and packs her house creates a cute story. Looking forward to book 2. Enjoy.
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