What do you think?
Rate this book
Acorn Hills #1
Bittersweet
Bittersweet is the story of the owner of a Fortune 500 consulting company and the ups and downs of every day life in the fictitious Pacific Northwest town of Acorn Hills. Jake Evans, CEO and savvy businessman, had it all...a great job, money to burn and the perfect girlfriend, but his wandering eye seemed to always get him in trouble. From Jake and Jillian to Denise and David, Ginger and Jordan and Richard Dempsey, this introduction into the Acorn Hills series gives you a glimpse into the lives of this very close knit circle of friends. They have known each other since grade school and are a very integral part of each other, proving that real friendships truly CAN last a lifetime.
218 pages, Paperback
First published October 4, 2013
43 people are currently reading
228 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
November 24, 2018
I am not really sure how to review this book. It wasn't terrible but it wasn't brilliant either. As the first book in the sseries, there was a lot of info dumping each time a new , and I guess, main series character was introduced, like their whole history in a nutshell but done in sucha way that it too you a minute to work out where n the time line this story was actually taking place.
This instalment itself didn't really seem like a story in and of itself but more like a snap shot of a period of these characters lives with the main focus being on Jillian, Jake and Richard from the moment Jillian finds out Jake has been cheating on her and for most of the rest of the subsequent year.
As I read this specifically for a challenge, I honestly cannot see myself reaching for book 2 any time soon unless of course i need it for another challenge.
At the end of the day it was a relatively easy, quick and mildly entertaining read soI give it 3 stars...just
This instalment itself didn't really seem like a story in and of itself but more like a snap shot of a period of these characters lives with the main focus being on Jillian, Jake and Richard from the moment Jillian finds out Jake has been cheating on her and for most of the rest of the subsequent year.
As I read this specifically for a challenge, I honestly cannot see myself reaching for book 2 any time soon unless of course i need it for another challenge.
At the end of the day it was a relatively easy, quick and mildly entertaining read soI give it 3 stars...just
January 6, 2019
Bittersweet takes the reader to Acorn Hills with a cast of characters who are flawed and totally human. You know these people, weep for their mistakes and cheer their triumphs. Jake is the consummate womanizer and while Jillian loves him, she's not fool enough to cling to a man who can't be faithful. With the help of friends like Ginger, Jordan, and Richard, Jillian finds the strength to stand on her own. Will Jake become a better man before it's too late? Ms. Augustine pens an amazing story here that will leave you wanting to revisit this town again to learn more about its residents, their secrets, and what she may share about them in future books.
November 22, 2013
I'm normally not a romance novel reader, but I knew anything my friend Grace wrote would be worth my time. I did have troubles getting into the first couple of chapters because the characters were a bit negative for me, but by the end, my attention was there. The author is very descriptive and you can definitely "see" the settings through her eyes, especially the descriptions of the main character's flower business. You should give it a shot!
December 8, 2013
I was very excited when I was lucky enough to win a copy of Bittersweet as a prize in a contest. I am always so thrilled to find new to me authors.To me a new author creates another wonderful world for me to step into. I have found a lot of new favorite authors by chance and Grace Augustine is now on that list. She is a very talented lady that has written an very enthralling story.
Grace Augustine has written interesting and charismatic characters that I really enjoyed meeting. She also has created a fun town full of businesses that are described so well you feel like you could walk right into Tuners and have a drink or stop by Richard's Relics and browse his wonderful inventory.
Jake Evans is a successful CEO full of ambition to make his company even better. He has a wonderful girlfriend Jillian, but he also has a fondness for the playboy lifestyle he has always lived. Jake is charming and handsome which can sometimes successfully get this man in some serious trouble. In his own way I liked Jake, he's not a bad guy just a REALLY BAD boyfriend.
Jillian has a wonderful circle of friends that own and run some of the most well described businesses I have ever read about. I loved all her friends and how they have each other's back always! I love series books that are written around a group. I can't wait to see what Ms. Augustine has in store for the next book in the Acorn Hills series. I do know that it most certainly be will be on my must read list as soon as possible.
I have once again found myself another WONDERFUL new author that has totally captured my attention with just one book. I can't wait to see where this series leads and what wonderful stories Grace Augustine has in store for us really lucky readers.
Bittersweet is the first book in the Acorn Hills series. If you enjoy a nice romantic story with some drama, a few unexpected turns, a fun group of characters, and a well written story line, Then I think you should give this one a try. If you get a chance to read this book, I hope you will stop by to let me know what you thought of it. I think you will enjoy it, I know I certainly did.
Grace Augustine has written interesting and charismatic characters that I really enjoyed meeting. She also has created a fun town full of businesses that are described so well you feel like you could walk right into Tuners and have a drink or stop by Richard's Relics and browse his wonderful inventory.
Jake Evans is a successful CEO full of ambition to make his company even better. He has a wonderful girlfriend Jillian, but he also has a fondness for the playboy lifestyle he has always lived. Jake is charming and handsome which can sometimes successfully get this man in some serious trouble. In his own way I liked Jake, he's not a bad guy just a REALLY BAD boyfriend.
Jillian has a wonderful circle of friends that own and run some of the most well described businesses I have ever read about. I loved all her friends and how they have each other's back always! I love series books that are written around a group. I can't wait to see what Ms. Augustine has in store for the next book in the Acorn Hills series. I do know that it most certainly be will be on my must read list as soon as possible.
I have once again found myself another WONDERFUL new author that has totally captured my attention with just one book. I can't wait to see where this series leads and what wonderful stories Grace Augustine has in store for us really lucky readers.
Bittersweet is the first book in the Acorn Hills series. If you enjoy a nice romantic story with some drama, a few unexpected turns, a fun group of characters, and a well written story line, Then I think you should give this one a try. If you get a chance to read this book, I hope you will stop by to let me know what you thought of it. I think you will enjoy it, I know I certainly did.
May 19, 2014
This was such a treat for me to read such a delightful novel that I trully enjoyed and all in one sitting. I could also tell as I read along that the author trully put her heart and soul in this novel which made it even more of a treasure to read. The down to earth place I am transported to could be like any town I grew up in called Acorn Hills where I am introduced to many characters that she has brought to life. It goes from couple to couple giving insight to each. It also shows how them as being a great bunch that really cares for each other plus they have known each other since school. True friendship is a large part of this novel the lasting kind not the fly by night that seems to rampant any more because no one seems to know what or how it really is for the most part. Feelings come alive in this novel thanks to the gift of the author to be able to do that squeezing that emotion also from me the reader. Of course as in real life there is one you love to hate also in here in this group. Love the best thing also about this novel that life does not stop after a certain point in life in is meant to keep on living regardless what comes along. The flow of the story has you going along through the workings of this great bunch but it also carries with it all fascites - life and death. That is why I say what I do that this treasure was well worth the read because it contained life and love with characters you can sink your teeth into. Also happily it does not end here oh no there is more to be discovered by visiting Acorn Hills again as she continues to delight us with more from here.
March 21, 2015
I love it when I find a book where the main characters are over fifty. The characters in Bittersweet have been friends for years and so know each other intimately and are very protective of each other. Grace Augustine has developed the characters really well and you get to know each one as individuals. Jillian is a lovely sweet and giving person who struggles to understand the mean side of Jake; who is of course a bad man and you just cannot get to like him. There are great surprising twists in the plot that keeps you hooked on the story. I'm glad that the story continues in the next in the series. I like characters with substance and that is what Grace Augustine delivers. I can't believe it is her debut novel. looking out for the next books. I am late in my discovery so need to catch up.
February 9, 2016
I was given a complimentary copy for an honest review by author Grace Augustine. This is book 1 of the Acorn Hills series by the author.
Jillian Halloran has lived in Acorn Hills all her life and now being a single parent she thinks she has found love again with Jake Evans but her worls is shattered when she learns the truth about their relationship. Now she is left to pick up the pieces and try to live again. Jake Evans came back to Acorn Hills when his father died. He made the company grow over the last few years thanks to some good investments. But Jake is a horndog and when his "girlfriend" finds out he has cheated on her he finds himself alone but not for long.
This reminds me of Falcon Crest, Dallas and Knots Landing all rolled into 1. This is a series I can't wait to read the next book from.
Jillian Halloran has lived in Acorn Hills all her life and now being a single parent she thinks she has found love again with Jake Evans but her worls is shattered when she learns the truth about their relationship. Now she is left to pick up the pieces and try to live again. Jake Evans came back to Acorn Hills when his father died. He made the company grow over the last few years thanks to some good investments. But Jake is a horndog and when his "girlfriend" finds out he has cheated on her he finds himself alone but not for long.
This reminds me of Falcon Crest, Dallas and Knots Landing all rolled into 1. This is a series I can't wait to read the next book from.
March 29, 2015
I was gifted this book in exchange for an honest review.
Bittersweet is the first book in the Acorn Hill Series by Grace Augustine. This books gives us a glimpse into the series. It introduces us to each of the couples and how they all intermingle with each other. This book is almost like a prologue to the series.
Other than there being a bit of repetitiveness, this was well written. It makes you eager to get on to the next book, to get into these characters lives. I think it is probably important, to read this book first and get all of the back stories.
I give Bittersweet 4 stars
Bittersweet is the first book in the Acorn Hill Series by Grace Augustine. This books gives us a glimpse into the series. It introduces us to each of the couples and how they all intermingle with each other. This book is almost like a prologue to the series.
Other than there being a bit of repetitiveness, this was well written. It makes you eager to get on to the next book, to get into these characters lives. I think it is probably important, to read this book first and get all of the back stories.
I give Bittersweet 4 stars
April 6, 2014
If you have ever read any of Debbie Macomber' s or Robyn Carr's or Kathleen Brooks' s books then you will love Acorn Hills! This book steps it up a notch and really takes you there and fills you in on the finest of details. You will grasp each person in this book as your own neighbor or shop owner or friend. Truly a circle of members to get to know more about. Excellent start to this captivating series.
January 6, 2014
I began reading this book at noon on a rainy Saturday afternoon and finished it at 3pm, wishing there was more to read! I loved my getaway to Acorn Hills and the characters that I met there. Grace throws you right into their world and makes you feel like you have been transported for a visit. Looking forward to the next book and to see what awaits this group of friends. Curious to see what happens with Jillian and Richard.
November 26, 2014
Bittersweet is a wonderful, heartwarming story from debut author, Grace Augustine. It is the story about the everyday lives of the people in the quaint town of Acorn Hills. The reader discovers their history, losses, dreams, regrets and loves. I was definitely left wanting more, and wonder if Jillian will ever realize what is right in front of her. I enjoyed being immersed in the town of Acorn Hills and look forward to more from this author and her picturesque town.
April 19, 2014
There is life after 50. The characters in this story of Acorn Hills are very well drawn. I enjoyed the story and I'm not going to give away the ending. A good read for sure. I was given this book for an honest review and liked it well enough to purchase the second in the series.
April 28, 2016
I loved this book, a man you loved to hate, the friend you loved to love, the girl they both wanted and yet.... You think you know where it is going and then there is a slight twist to the story that just makes you say just one more page tonight. Love it. Thanks!!!
January 10, 2022
Jillian finds a note on her boyfriend's desk and realizes that he's been cheating on her. He admits it and says he's more than a one woman man. She kicks him out of her condo and her friends help her try to get over Jake. Jake moves on with a much younger woman and seems happy. Jake is having health issues, but puts off going to the doctor. Jillian has a lot of friends and one friend that would like to be more. Interesting book!
April 29, 2018
I read this to the bitter end and regret wasting my time. Thank goodness it was a free read. Have the rest of this recommended series but will be deleting them.
If I wanted to read about a tom catting manwhore I would.
Thought this was a romance. Nope. Load of crap. Even at the end it was painful to realise he had taken advantage and impregnated a young woman.
If I wanted to read about a tom catting manwhore I would.
Thought this was a romance. Nope. Load of crap. Even at the end it was painful to realise he had taken advantage and impregnated a young woman.
April 6, 2014
If you have ever read any of Debbie Macomber's or Robyn Carr's or Kathleen Brooks's books then you will love Acorn Hills! This book steps it up a notch and really takes you there and fills you in on the finest of details. You will grasp each person in this book as your own neighbor or shop owner or friend. Truly a circle of members to get to know more about. Excellent start to this captivating series.
January 17, 2016
Should I move to Acorn Hills?
Life in Acorn Hills is anything but boring! Was nice to read a book with "older" characters instead of the twenty something crowd. Jake and Jillian sure have a crazy relationship...more Jake than Jillian, but overall I like this book. Defiantly did not see the ending coming!
Life in Acorn Hills is anything but boring! Was nice to read a book with "older" characters instead of the twenty something crowd. Jake and Jillian sure have a crazy relationship...more Jake than Jillian, but overall I like this book. Defiantly did not see the ending coming!
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews