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Green Valley Heroes #4
Peaches and Dreams
Marly Rivers is not crazy. No matter what everyone says. They may think her dream is foolish, but she plans to prove them all wrong—one jar of moonshine at a time.
Single dad Wade Kelley is just fine. No matter what his best friend Jed says. He doesn’t need a woman in his life. But when his son Jake breaks a jar of moonshine, he sets something in motion that neither Wade nor Marly are prepared for.
A friendly favor turns into late nights, long dinners, and a romp in the woods. And in a deer stand too. By the time Wade realizes he’s fallen hard and deep for Mad Marly, it may be too late to tell her. When she falls into real and sudden danger with poachers, he may not even be able to save her.
‘Peaches and Dreams’ is a full-length contemporary romance and can be read as a standalone. Book #4 in the Green Valley Heroes series, Green Valley Chronicles, Penny Reid Book Universe.
Single dad Wade Kelley is just fine. No matter what his best friend Jed says. He doesn’t need a woman in his life. But when his son Jake breaks a jar of moonshine, he sets something in motion that neither Wade nor Marly are prepared for.
A friendly favor turns into late nights, long dinners, and a romp in the woods. And in a deer stand too. By the time Wade realizes he’s fallen hard and deep for Mad Marly, it may be too late to tell her. When she falls into real and sudden danger with poachers, he may not even be able to save her.
‘Peaches and Dreams’ is a full-length contemporary romance and can be read as a standalone. Book #4 in the Green Valley Heroes series, Green Valley Chronicles, Penny Reid Book Universe.
347 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 21, 2023
299 people are currently reading
1036 people want to read
About the author
Juliette Cross
50 books4,725 followersFor upcoming news and releases, sign-up here: http://eepurl.com/XeKIn
JULIETTE is a multi-published author of paranormal and contemporary romance, including the best-selling STAY A SPELL series. As a native of Louisiana, she lives in the heart of Cajun country with her husband, four kids, and sundry animals. When she isn’t working on her next project, she enjoys binge-watching her favorite shows with her husband and a glass (or two) of red wine or whiskey.
Follow JULIETTE on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliettecro...
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JULIETTE is a multi-published author of paranormal and contemporary romance, including the best-selling STAY A SPELL series. As a native of Louisiana, she lives in the heart of Cajun country with her husband, four kids, and sundry animals. When she isn’t working on her next project, she enjoys binge-watching her favorite shows with her husband and a glass (or two) of red wine or whiskey.
Follow JULIETTE on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliettecro...
Follow JULIETTE on FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/juliettecros...
Follow JULIETTE on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Juliette__Cross
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 185 reviews
Want to read
September 22, 2023
The time has come!!! The Smartypants Romance Fall Launch is UPON YOU! We are so excited to kick things off with Juliette Cross (who is amazing) and her single-dad Green Valley romantic comedy. This book is steamy and funny and DELIGHTFUL. And it's over in Kindle Unlimited. Happy Reading, Reiders!
★★Grab your copy TODAY!★★
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3rWYK7p
Amazon UK: https://bit.ly/3KC9s9M
Amazon CA: https://bit.ly/3DRHMdm
Amazon AU: https://bit.ly/3QA6xCG
Audiobook: Coming in October
★ ★ BLURB ★ ★
Marly Rivers is not crazy. No matter what everyone says. They may think her dream is foolish, but she plans to prove them all wrong—one jar of moonshine at a time.
Single dad Wade Kelley is just fine. No matter what his best friend Jed says. He doesn’t need a woman in his life. But when his son Jake breaks a jar of moonshine, he sets something in motion that neither Wade nor Marly are prepared for.
A friendly favor turns into late nights, long dinners, and a romp in the woods. And in a deer stand too. By the time Wade realizes he’s fallen hard and deep for Mad Marly, it may be too late to tell her. When she falls into real and sudden danger with poachers, he may not even be able to save her.
‘Peaches and Dreams’ is a full-length contemporary romance and can be read as a standalone. Book #4 in the Green Valley Heroes series, Green Valley Chronicles, Penny Reid Book Universe.
September 10, 2023
Peaches and Dreams is the latest small town romance by Juliette Cross and I absolutely adored this one! This is a standalone part of the Green Valley Heroes books (I’ve only read Juliette’s 2 books in this series and haven’t been lost). This is the epitome of a grumpy/sunshine, opposites attract, single dad, small town romance and I loved it!
We did briefly see Marly and Wade in Parks and Provocation, as their best friends are the couple of that book. Marly runs the Kiss-n-Tell podcast with her friend Lola (heroine of Parks and Provocation) and Wade is childhood best friends with Jed (hero of Parks and Provocation). Marly works at a moonshine store but has dreams of winning this year’s local moonshine competition and eventually opening her own moonshine distillery. She hits up Wade for help in getting her connected to his grandfather who used to make his own moonshine. Along the way Marly and Wade start to realize there is mutual attraction between them!
I just adored these two together. Marly is so much fun and always teasing and flirting with Wade. Wade is the total opposite of her personality, but he’s so pulled to Marly. I loved how he’s always prepared for anything and takes care of those he loves. Marly gives him a hard time by teasingly calling him “Daddy Bear”. It was super cute seeing his son Jake and how he gets close with Marly and how much Wade wants to be a good dad to him. I just loved this whole read: the small town charm, the moonshine process, Wade’s grandparents, Lola and Jed appearances, the moonshine cabin, the deer stand visit 🔥, their banter and passion…it was all just so good!
Thank you to the author for an ARC, all thoughts in this review are my own. Peaches and Dreams has a pub date of September 21, 2023.
We did briefly see Marly and Wade in Parks and Provocation, as their best friends are the couple of that book. Marly runs the Kiss-n-Tell podcast with her friend Lola (heroine of Parks and Provocation) and Wade is childhood best friends with Jed (hero of Parks and Provocation). Marly works at a moonshine store but has dreams of winning this year’s local moonshine competition and eventually opening her own moonshine distillery. She hits up Wade for help in getting her connected to his grandfather who used to make his own moonshine. Along the way Marly and Wade start to realize there is mutual attraction between them!
I just adored these two together. Marly is so much fun and always teasing and flirting with Wade. Wade is the total opposite of her personality, but he’s so pulled to Marly. I loved how he’s always prepared for anything and takes care of those he loves. Marly gives him a hard time by teasingly calling him “Daddy Bear”. It was super cute seeing his son Jake and how he gets close with Marly and how much Wade wants to be a good dad to him. I just loved this whole read: the small town charm, the moonshine process, Wade’s grandparents, Lola and Jed appearances, the moonshine cabin, the deer stand visit 🔥, their banter and passion…it was all just so good!
Thank you to the author for an ARC, all thoughts in this review are my own. Peaches and Dreams has a pub date of September 21, 2023.
Want to read
September 21, 2023★★Live in KU★★
It’s here!!! ‘Peaches and Dreams’ by Juliette Cross is LIVE in Kindle Unlimited! We are thrilled to have this amazing small town romance kick off our 2023 Fall Launch!
★★Grab your copy TODAY!★★
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3rWYK7p
Amazon UK: https://bit.ly/3KC9s9M
Amazon CA: https://bit.ly/3DRHMdm
Amazon AU: https://bit.ly/3QA6xCG
Audiobook: Coming in October!
★★BLURB★★
Marly Rivers is not crazy. No matter what everyone says. They may think her dream is foolish, but she plans to prove them all wrong—one jar of moonshine at a time.
Single dad Wade Kelley is just fine. No matter what his best friend Jed says. He doesn’t need a woman in his life. But when his son Jake breaks a jar of moonshine, he sets something in motion that neither Wade nor Marly are prepared for.
A friendly favor turns into late nights, long dinners, and a romp in the woods. And in a deer stand too. By the time Wade realizes he’s fallen hard and deep for Mad Marly, it may be too late to tell her. When she falls into real and sudden danger with poachers, he may not even be able to save her.
‘Peaches and Dreams’ is a full-length contemporary romance and can be read as a standalone. Book #4 in the Green Valley Heroes series, Green Valley Chronicles, Penny Reid Book Universe.
September 21, 2023
Absolute sweetness, as always. These characters make me so happy. This story had me smirking and smiling the whole way through.
There was so much warmth and sass in Marley and gruff kindness in Wade. And plenty dirty talking between them both! 🥵
I love Marley's unique love of distilling moonshine. What a fun and quirky hobby she's hoping to turn into more.
I adored Wade and his son, Jake. I'd say I fell for Jake first. That charming first scene with him and Marley sets a great tone. 🥰
I loved the low drama and open communication (after some opening hesitation) between them both. Wade knows any woman he wants has to want his son, too, and thankfully, Marley is all in.
This was perfect Fall vibes and I highly recommend if you like:
🍑Bearded Single Daddies
🍑Dirty talking heroes AND heroines
🍑Secluded Moonshine shacks
🍑Deer stand shenanigans
🍑Corny jokes
🍑Heartfelt kisses
🍑A few good spanks 😉
As always, I'm here for anything JC writes for me. I love all her stories and I always walk away wanting more.
5 stars
3.5 on my spice scale
There was so much warmth and sass in Marley and gruff kindness in Wade. And plenty dirty talking between them both! 🥵
I love Marley's unique love of distilling moonshine. What a fun and quirky hobby she's hoping to turn into more.
I adored Wade and his son, Jake. I'd say I fell for Jake first. That charming first scene with him and Marley sets a great tone. 🥰
I loved the low drama and open communication (after some opening hesitation) between them both. Wade knows any woman he wants has to want his son, too, and thankfully, Marley is all in.
This was perfect Fall vibes and I highly recommend if you like:
🍑Bearded Single Daddies
🍑Dirty talking heroes AND heroines
🍑Secluded Moonshine shacks
🍑Deer stand shenanigans
🍑Corny jokes
🍑Heartfelt kisses
🍑A few good spanks 😉
As always, I'm here for anything JC writes for me. I love all her stories and I always walk away wanting more.
5 stars
3.5 on my spice scale
March 30, 2024
Peaches and Dreams is a small town, opposites attracts, single dad romance. Marley River is wild while Wade Kelley is a rule follower. Both pinned for each other, but their romance gorgeously unfolded as Marley helped Wade relax while he helped her pay attention to details like remembering her cellphone. Wade was a protective hero, but not in an overbearing way.He also helped her get her moonshine making business up and running. There was no ow/om drama, not even with Wade’s ex-wife who wanted Marley and Wade to succeed as a couple. Each loved and accepted each other for who they are. I loved their connection, how their relationship grew into love, and Marley’s relationship with Wade’s son. The pacing was perfect, the spice level was perfect, and it had everything I look for in a small town romance! There is also no third act break up!
September 13, 2023
I LOVED this cute, fun, steamy contemporary romance with characters that felt real to me in every way!
Marly was such a sassy fireball that immediately had Wade snapping at attention. She was everything a grumpy hero could ever need and more. I loved that she brought him out of his disgruntled outlook and into a whole new way of living life.
In the process of trying to not let Crazy Marley affect him, Wade did the complete opposite and fell fast and hard. He was such a strong alpha male with his protective ways. It hit all the right spots for me. I love when a hero is ferocious in his protection and that was exactly what Wade was.
This is filled with lots of fun and laughter, great friends and characters that made me feel like I was a part of the small community. There was a time or two the angst ratcheted up and my heartstrings were definitely pulled or I feared for what might happen. It was perfectly written and had a nice meaty feel to it all. This is a book that I would highly recommend for any reason when looking for a quality romance.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
Marly was such a sassy fireball that immediately had Wade snapping at attention. She was everything a grumpy hero could ever need and more. I loved that she brought him out of his disgruntled outlook and into a whole new way of living life.
In the process of trying to not let Crazy Marley affect him, Wade did the complete opposite and fell fast and hard. He was such a strong alpha male with his protective ways. It hit all the right spots for me. I love when a hero is ferocious in his protection and that was exactly what Wade was.
This is filled with lots of fun and laughter, great friends and characters that made me feel like I was a part of the small community. There was a time or two the angst ratcheted up and my heartstrings were definitely pulled or I feared for what might happen. It was perfectly written and had a nice meaty feel to it all. This is a book that I would highly recommend for any reason when looking for a quality romance.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
September 5, 2023
Juliette Cross’s second installment in the Green Valley Heroes series finds free spirited Marley Rivers falling for strait-laced, single dad Wade Kelley and his precocious son Jake. While Marly is known around town as “Mad Marly” for always seeming to be flying by the seat of her pants, she has plans (despite her father’s plans for her) of opening her own moonshine distillery; which is encouraged by Wade’s grandfather when he gives her free reign to use his old cabin and still for her specialty moonshine.
Wade has a great relationship with his unusually bright son, but doesn’t feel that he’s doing the best for Jake. Marly helps Wade step out of his comfort zone and see things differently as the sparks flare between them.
There were lots of laughs and a few tears shed during this book. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Peaches and Dreams
Wade has a great relationship with his unusually bright son, but doesn’t feel that he’s doing the best for Jake. Marly helps Wade step out of his comfort zone and see things differently as the sparks flare between them.
There were lots of laughs and a few tears shed during this book. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Peaches and Dreams
September 7, 2023
Juliette Cross slays small town romance every time!
I really loved reading this installment in the smartypants romance, Green Valley series. In my opinion, Juliette does just as good a job as Penny Reid at creating characters in the GV realm.
Marly is wild, spontaneous, and a little irreverent - however she is driven to achieve her dream. Wade is grumpy, stoic, and likes routine. Marly is determined to win this year's moonshine competition and open her own, small distillery. She knows that people think she’s crazy, but she’s not. She’s just a little odd. Wade is focused on being the best dad he can be. As a single father, he’s concerned that he’s not connecting with his son and doesn’t quite know how to do that. Marly and Wade happen to collide and through a series of moonshine-related events, start to spend more time together, realizing that their impressions of each other aren’t quite right.
I would say this is a low conflict romance and a very fast read. The external conflict, poachers, is frequently in the backdrop of the book as Wade is a wildlife resources agent but really kicks into gear towards the end of the book. I appreciate that the relationship conflict isn’t dragged out. They have a fight and then they talk and resolve it, as real life couples do.
Again, I loved it and will always grab a Juliette Cross small town romance.
Tropes: single dad, grumpy/sunshine, opposites attract, dirty talk, “Daddy Bear”
I really loved reading this installment in the smartypants romance, Green Valley series. In my opinion, Juliette does just as good a job as Penny Reid at creating characters in the GV realm.
Marly is wild, spontaneous, and a little irreverent - however she is driven to achieve her dream. Wade is grumpy, stoic, and likes routine. Marly is determined to win this year's moonshine competition and open her own, small distillery. She knows that people think she’s crazy, but she’s not. She’s just a little odd. Wade is focused on being the best dad he can be. As a single father, he’s concerned that he’s not connecting with his son and doesn’t quite know how to do that. Marly and Wade happen to collide and through a series of moonshine-related events, start to spend more time together, realizing that their impressions of each other aren’t quite right.
I would say this is a low conflict romance and a very fast read. The external conflict, poachers, is frequently in the backdrop of the book as Wade is a wildlife resources agent but really kicks into gear towards the end of the book. I appreciate that the relationship conflict isn’t dragged out. They have a fight and then they talk and resolve it, as real life couples do.
Again, I loved it and will always grab a Juliette Cross small town romance.
Tropes: single dad, grumpy/sunshine, opposites attract, dirty talk, “Daddy Bear”
September 10, 2023
Format - E ARC
Rating- ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Spice- 🌶 🌶 🌶
Series- Green Valley Hero’s #4
Troupes- Forced Proximity, grumpy/sunshine, single dad, found family
Representation-
CW- car accident, threats of murder
So So So happy to be back in Green Valley! This time with a sunshiney moonshiner heroine with big dreams and surly single dad wild life ranger literal hero. Juliette is checking off all of my must have boxes!
Marly and Wade make a very unlikely paring when we first meet them but in all good opposites attract stories it quickly becomes clear who explosive these two will be. I love Marly she’s sweet and caring but totally sure about what she wants in life. Wade is the grumpy mountain single dad we all drool after. He’s got a soft center that’s been burned before and he’s not even looking for love when Marly basically smacks him in the face wither awesomeness.
I love the banter, his grandparents that adopt Marly, and our favorite residences of Green Valley! I love that he has an ex named Stephanie and that there are cameos a plenty from the other books in the series! Juliette delivers on it all and her signature extra spicy seasoning!
Throw in of Big game hunters poachers wandering the great smoky mountain, and some light suspense and this is an awesome addition to Green Valley!
I can’t wait for more in this series, I have a feeling we will be learning more about a certain Peach farmer soon! 😉
Rating- ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Spice- 🌶 🌶 🌶
Series- Green Valley Hero’s #4
Troupes- Forced Proximity, grumpy/sunshine, single dad, found family
Representation-
CW- car accident, threats of murder
So So So happy to be back in Green Valley! This time with a sunshiney moonshiner heroine with big dreams and surly single dad wild life ranger literal hero. Juliette is checking off all of my must have boxes!
Marly and Wade make a very unlikely paring when we first meet them but in all good opposites attract stories it quickly becomes clear who explosive these two will be. I love Marly she’s sweet and caring but totally sure about what she wants in life. Wade is the grumpy mountain single dad we all drool after. He’s got a soft center that’s been burned before and he’s not even looking for love when Marly basically smacks him in the face wither awesomeness.
I love the banter, his grandparents that adopt Marly, and our favorite residences of Green Valley! I love that he has an ex named Stephanie and that there are cameos a plenty from the other books in the series! Juliette delivers on it all and her signature extra spicy seasoning!
Throw in of Big game hunters poachers wandering the great smoky mountain, and some light suspense and this is an awesome addition to Green Valley!
I can’t wait for more in this series, I have a feeling we will be learning more about a certain Peach farmer soon! 😉
September 4, 2023
This was my first foray into Green Valley and I absolutely loved it there!!
Marly Rivers is a wonderful character who is unapologetically herself. She has a huge heart, and dreams of making her own moonshine distillery.
Wade Kelley is a grumpy wildlife resource officer with a 7 year old son who keeps him on his toes.
Several things I loved about this book were Marly being herself and Wade accepting every part of her. Marly gently pushing Wade’s comfort zones without crossing boundaries. Marly loving Jake. The spice. Scooter and Pooter.
Tropes:
-Grumpy/sunshine
-Single dad
Marly Rivers is a wonderful character who is unapologetically herself. She has a huge heart, and dreams of making her own moonshine distillery.
Wade Kelley is a grumpy wildlife resource officer with a 7 year old son who keeps him on his toes.
Several things I loved about this book were Marly being herself and Wade accepting every part of her. Marly gently pushing Wade’s comfort zones without crossing boundaries. Marly loving Jake. The spice. Scooter and Pooter.
Tropes:
-Grumpy/sunshine
-Single dad
October 6, 2023
I love Juliette Cross’ small town romances! This was a super cute and quick read for me, which a lot of swoon (and steam.) The single dad trope is honestly an ick for me but I feel like Juliette Cross did a good job balancing that character for me so I didn’t grind my teeth every time this child was on page. Still not a realistic kid, but I’ll take Daddy Bear Wade and his genius son anyway.
September 3, 2023
Juliette Cross knocked it out of the park with "Peaches and Dreams"! I absolutely adored every aspect of this book. Her writing style is consistently amazing, and the town of Green Valley with its supporting characters provided the perfect backdrop for 'Mad Marley' and 'Daddy Bear' to discover their connection. It's a beautiful example of opposites attracting and finding that perfect complement to your life.
Marley is an incredibly unique and endearing character. I found myself wanting to be her best friend. She's a delightful blend of silliness and childlike wonder, confidence in her choices, honesty, and sensuality. Her immediate connection with Jake was heartwarming.
And then there's Wade Kelly, the growly single dad who's always prepared. He's the kind of dad who cares deeply and worries about messing up but goes above and beyond to make his son happy. His gradual attraction to Marley, starting with their encounter involving broken moonshine, was beautifully depicted. It's clear that he couldn't resist her charm, especially seeing how well she connected with Jake.
If you're a fan of small-town settings, single dads, opposites attracting, strong yet quirky female characters, and rugged lumberjack-like male leads, "Peaches and Dreams" is an absolute must-read!
October 9, 2023
Grumpy x Sunshine
Single dad
Moonshine shenanigans
Spice
Fall vibes
“You’re my true north, I’ll always find you.”
Grumpy x sunshine is one of my favorite tropes and this book was bite your lip grumpy perfection!! Marly is full of life!! Wade is definitely a Growly Grumpy daddy bear! I could totally see him as a bear shifter in an alternate world. Let’s talk smut!! Juliette Cross knows her stuff! This book had that perfect combo of dirty talk, clitature and romance. Marly and Wade really compliment each other. She pushes him outside of his shell and he comforts and takes care of her in the little things in life, sexy protective vibes all the way!! They both have insecurities to overcome. I haven’t read any of the other Green valley books and I hadn’t hear of smarty pants romance books before. Now I’m diving in!! Starting first with the rest of green valley.
Single dad
Moonshine shenanigans
Spice
Fall vibes
“You’re my true north, I’ll always find you.”
Grumpy x sunshine is one of my favorite tropes and this book was bite your lip grumpy perfection!! Marly is full of life!! Wade is definitely a Growly Grumpy daddy bear! I could totally see him as a bear shifter in an alternate world. Let’s talk smut!! Juliette Cross knows her stuff! This book had that perfect combo of dirty talk, clitature and romance. Marly and Wade really compliment each other. She pushes him outside of his shell and he comforts and takes care of her in the little things in life, sexy protective vibes all the way!! They both have insecurities to overcome. I haven’t read any of the other Green valley books and I hadn’t hear of smarty pants romance books before. Now I’m diving in!! Starting first with the rest of green valley.
September 17, 2023
Juliette Cross just knows how to get me hooked in a book. I was unsure if I was going to be into the Mad Marly thing. People/Characters who act wild for no clear reason usually make me nervous. But when we uncover the parts of her personality that give reason for why she has this nickname, it makes you love her more.
She is working hard to get her finances and plans in place to open her own moonshine distillery and enlists the help of straight laced- by the book Wade. He helps her, she is good for him. Sparks fly...IN GREEN VALLEY. And that's enough for me. lol
She is working hard to get her finances and plans in place to open her own moonshine distillery and enlists the help of straight laced- by the book Wade. He helps her, she is good for him. Sparks fly...IN GREEN VALLEY. And that's enough for me. lol
September 21, 2023
*Sigh*
Who doesn’t love the big, burly grumpy and chaotic sunshine trope?! Mad Marly and Wade are the perfect match. 💕
Who doesn’t love the big, burly grumpy and chaotic sunshine trope?! Mad Marly and Wade are the perfect match. 💕
September 10, 2023
Steam: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes: 𝐠𝐫𝐮𝐦𝐩𝐲/𝐬𝐮𝐧𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐞, 𝐨𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭, 𝐬𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐨𝐰𝐧, 𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐝
Ahh, this book is every grumpy/sunshine lovers dream. Wade is the grumpiest of grumps and my absolute favorite. Marly is just a delight with her wit and mischievousness.
Wade really doesn’t know what to do with Marly and her big personality. She enjoys making him feel unsettled by flirting and calling him 𝒅𝒂𝒅𝒅𝒚 𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒓. And wow, he IS a daddy bear. All growly and grouchy 😮💨
“𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐲, 𝐏𝐚𝐩𝐚 𝐁𝐞𝐚𝐫.”
“𝐃𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭,” 𝐈 𝐠𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐜𝐤.
“𝐎𝐤𝐚𝐲. 𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐃𝐚𝐝𝐝𝐲 𝐁𝐞𝐚𝐫?”
“𝐃𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐞𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫.”
𝐒𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝, 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐞𝐲𝐞𝐬 𝐬𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐞𝐝 𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐟-𝐜𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐬 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐥𝐦𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐲, “𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐃𝐚𝐝𝐝𝐲?” 𝐁𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐧𝐨 𝐰𝐚𝐲 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭.”
There isn’t a daddy kink in this book but that doesn’t mean Wade doesn’t give off total daddy vibes 😏
Marly wants to open her own moonshine business and to help, she needs to win the Green Valley Amateur Moonshine Contest. So when she finds out Wade’s grandfather is an old time moonshiner, she seizes the opportunity to meet him and get his advice. This really opens the door to Wade and Marly’s spending time together. Wade starts helping her and she is quickly changing her opinion of Wade.
“𝐒𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐝𝐢𝐝 𝐦𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐠𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐜𝐡𝐲, 𝐮𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐖𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐊𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐲 𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐠𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐥𝐲, 𝐬𝐞𝐱𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬?”
Wade has such a mouth on him but I was so surprised by Marly. She kills it with her dirty talk and it riles Wade right up! The spice is top notch 🔥
“𝐋𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐰𝐞 𝐟𝐢𝐭 𝐭𝐨𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫,” 𝐡𝐞 𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐦𝐞. “𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐟𝐞𝐞𝐥 𝐬𝐨 𝐠𝐨𝐨𝐝. 𝐒𝐨 𝐟*𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐠𝐨𝐨𝐝, 𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭.”
I loved everything about this book. Wade with his rules, his protectiveness of Marly, and his love for his son. Marly with her brightness, sly teasing, and charm. They are truly opposites and balance each other out perfectly! Thank you for the eARC!
Tropes: 𝐠𝐫𝐮𝐦𝐩𝐲/𝐬𝐮𝐧𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐞, 𝐨𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭, 𝐬𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐨𝐰𝐧, 𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐝
Ahh, this book is every grumpy/sunshine lovers dream. Wade is the grumpiest of grumps and my absolute favorite. Marly is just a delight with her wit and mischievousness.
Wade really doesn’t know what to do with Marly and her big personality. She enjoys making him feel unsettled by flirting and calling him 𝒅𝒂𝒅𝒅𝒚 𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒓. And wow, he IS a daddy bear. All growly and grouchy 😮💨
“𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐲, 𝐏𝐚𝐩𝐚 𝐁𝐞𝐚𝐫.”
“𝐃𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭,” 𝐈 𝐠𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐜𝐤.
“𝐎𝐤𝐚𝐲. 𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐃𝐚𝐝𝐝𝐲 𝐁𝐞𝐚𝐫?”
“𝐃𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐞𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫.”
𝐒𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝, 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐞𝐲𝐞𝐬 𝐬𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐞𝐝 𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐟-𝐜𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐬 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐥𝐦𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐲, “𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐃𝐚𝐝𝐝𝐲?” 𝐁𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐧𝐨 𝐰𝐚𝐲 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭.”
There isn’t a daddy kink in this book but that doesn’t mean Wade doesn’t give off total daddy vibes 😏
Marly wants to open her own moonshine business and to help, she needs to win the Green Valley Amateur Moonshine Contest. So when she finds out Wade’s grandfather is an old time moonshiner, she seizes the opportunity to meet him and get his advice. This really opens the door to Wade and Marly’s spending time together. Wade starts helping her and she is quickly changing her opinion of Wade.
“𝐒𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐝𝐢𝐝 𝐦𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐠𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐜𝐡𝐲, 𝐮𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐖𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐊𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐲 𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐠𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐥𝐲, 𝐬𝐞𝐱𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬?”
Wade has such a mouth on him but I was so surprised by Marly. She kills it with her dirty talk and it riles Wade right up! The spice is top notch 🔥
“𝐋𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐰𝐞 𝐟𝐢𝐭 𝐭𝐨𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫,” 𝐡𝐞 𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐦𝐞. “𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐟𝐞𝐞𝐥 𝐬𝐨 𝐠𝐨𝐨𝐝. 𝐒𝐨 𝐟*𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐠𝐨𝐨𝐝, 𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭.”
I loved everything about this book. Wade with his rules, his protectiveness of Marly, and his love for his son. Marly with her brightness, sly teasing, and charm. They are truly opposites and balance each other out perfectly! Thank you for the eARC!
September 13, 2023
This book was AWESOME! It’s my first time reading a Juliette Cross novel and I loved it! The little boy reminds me of Luke from Heartless! I absolutely MELTED the first time Jake was on page! This book was sexy and spicy too! I’m excited for my next Juliette book!
September 7, 2023
I received an ARC from @smartypantsromance today.
This was a sweet love story. It was great to get to see old characters as well. I enjoyed it and definitely recommend it.
This was a sweet love story. It was great to get to see old characters as well. I enjoyed it and definitely recommend it.
October 6, 2023
So fucking cute I fucking loved it and even tho im firmly a DINK a single dad romance HITS when done right.
September 22, 2023
Single-Dad romance, SAY NO MORE!
I honestly couldn’t wait to get my hands on this book, I absolutely ADORED Marley & Wade in Parks and Provocation and was so happy they got their own book. — can be read alone, but would recommend reading Green Valley Heroes Book 2 first.
Let’s get real, this is a book if you want sizzling sexual tension from the get go. Paired with a giddy sweet feeling whenever Marley & Jake (Wade’s Son) have any type of interaction. (Jake stole the show from the beginning and I LOVED his character)
I picked this book up and it was so addicting that I honestly didn’t put it down until I finished. (Juliette’s writing is the Peanut Butter to my Jelly) perfection!
Wade, a major rule follower & single dad is a Wildlife rescue ranger whose only goal in life is making sure his son has everything he needs. We find out that he struggles with feeling like he’s not enough for his gifted son and worries he will never connect with him on that level.
He’s also never been in that deep, soul crushing love. Give off “Major Grumpy Vibes” who needs to control everything. (Even in the bedroom *wink wink)
Marley, a free spirit, fly by the seat of her pants, only ever speaks her mind (no filter) & child at heart….is finally recognizing that her dream job would be to open up her own distillery and turning her love of making moonshine into a reality. All she wants to do is win a local moonshine making contest to help validate she’s on the right path.
And who by chance has a Grandpa that mastered in making moonshine for years??? That’s right, none other than sexy as hell, Wade. — so you can imagine all the amazing meet-cutes between Wade & Marley surrounding her love of the craft.
…handyman meets flirtatious wild woman.
- opposites attract
- grumpy/sunshine
- small town romance
- high school fantasies
- dirty talk galore
- mountain cabin getaways
100% binge worthy & FILLED with the most straightforward steamy sensual scenes! If you’re in need of a love story that makes you clutch your pearls, pick this up. SOOOO GOOD!!!
I honestly couldn’t wait to get my hands on this book, I absolutely ADORED Marley & Wade in Parks and Provocation and was so happy they got their own book. — can be read alone, but would recommend reading Green Valley Heroes Book 2 first.
Let’s get real, this is a book if you want sizzling sexual tension from the get go. Paired with a giddy sweet feeling whenever Marley & Jake (Wade’s Son) have any type of interaction. (Jake stole the show from the beginning and I LOVED his character)
I picked this book up and it was so addicting that I honestly didn’t put it down until I finished. (Juliette’s writing is the Peanut Butter to my Jelly) perfection!
Wade, a major rule follower & single dad is a Wildlife rescue ranger whose only goal in life is making sure his son has everything he needs. We find out that he struggles with feeling like he’s not enough for his gifted son and worries he will never connect with him on that level.
He’s also never been in that deep, soul crushing love. Give off “Major Grumpy Vibes” who needs to control everything. (Even in the bedroom *wink wink)
Marley, a free spirit, fly by the seat of her pants, only ever speaks her mind (no filter) & child at heart….is finally recognizing that her dream job would be to open up her own distillery and turning her love of making moonshine into a reality. All she wants to do is win a local moonshine making contest to help validate she’s on the right path.
And who by chance has a Grandpa that mastered in making moonshine for years??? That’s right, none other than sexy as hell, Wade. — so you can imagine all the amazing meet-cutes between Wade & Marley surrounding her love of the craft.
…handyman meets flirtatious wild woman.
- opposites attract
- grumpy/sunshine
- small town romance
- high school fantasies
- dirty talk galore
- mountain cabin getaways
100% binge worthy & FILLED with the most straightforward steamy sensual scenes! If you’re in need of a love story that makes you clutch your pearls, pick this up. SOOOO GOOD!!!
September 15, 2023
Yes!!! This book was so incredibly cute with just the right amount of smokin hot. I mean...hello single hot dad that is all rustic alpha.
I fell so in love with Marly in the second installation of this series. She had absolutely no filter, but has the heart of a goddess. She looks like one too. While helping Lola with her dating podcast and working in the "moonshine" shop, it was only a matter of time before she had her own desires. Not only has she had her heart set on a new project, but one particular man keeps showing up in her life. It's about time something changes, right?
Wade is Jed's best friend (also from the second book in this series). He's divorced and has an amazing young boy who he so clearly adores. He's had to concentrate on his son and work for so long, that he's forgotten that he needs to take care of himself as well. In fact, he hasn't really had the desire to do that. That is until Mad Marly started paying a little more attention to him....AND his son. Now he can't stop thinking about her. But is it too soon after the divorce and can he make room in his life for her? There's only one way to find out.
I love how these two have known each other since high school, but never really looked at each other romantically until recently. The comfort level between the two is so nice, especially since Marly has no boundary lines and just makes herself fit into anyone's life. This really is a feel good story that will keep you interested all the way to the end.
I fell so in love with Marly in the second installation of this series. She had absolutely no filter, but has the heart of a goddess. She looks like one too. While helping Lola with her dating podcast and working in the "moonshine" shop, it was only a matter of time before she had her own desires. Not only has she had her heart set on a new project, but one particular man keeps showing up in her life. It's about time something changes, right?
Wade is Jed's best friend (also from the second book in this series). He's divorced and has an amazing young boy who he so clearly adores. He's had to concentrate on his son and work for so long, that he's forgotten that he needs to take care of himself as well. In fact, he hasn't really had the desire to do that. That is until Mad Marly started paying a little more attention to him....AND his son. Now he can't stop thinking about her. But is it too soon after the divorce and can he make room in his life for her? There's only one way to find out.
I love how these two have known each other since high school, but never really looked at each other romantically until recently. The comfort level between the two is so nice, especially since Marly has no boundary lines and just makes herself fit into anyone's life. This really is a feel good story that will keep you interested all the way to the end.
September 29, 2023
4.4 🌟's
ugh juliette never misses with her small town, contemporary rom - this was so good eeeeee the perfect chaotic heroine to our grumpy, single-dad hero :) and ofc the spice was hawt :))
ugh juliette never misses with her small town, contemporary rom - this was so good eeeeee the perfect chaotic heroine to our grumpy, single-dad hero :) and ofc the spice was hawt :))
September 10, 2023
People may call her Mad Marly and think she's crazy, especially her father, but Marly is determined to prove everyone wrong. She's not crazy, she is a dreamer. Her dream is to use the money her grandma left her and open her own boutique distillery. She knows that if she wins the moonshine competition it will put her on the map and she will live her dream. She needs to concoct the perfect moonshine.
Wade Kelley is the polar opposite of Marly - a single dad to the gifted Jake, he's responsibility personified. He feels he could do more for his kid. He needs to have everything under control. Marly is a whirlwind he doesn't know how to handle.
Opposites attract and Wade and Marly (who are best friends with people who are engaged) are in each other's circle. When Wade realizes that he can help Marly with her dream, he offers her the use of his grandpa's cabin/distillery in the woods, as it comes with spring water that will elevate her product. A favor here, a favor there and sparks fly. Moonshine will never taste better and life will never be brighter.
I'm always in awe of how expertly Juliette mixes humor, steam and all the feels. It's lovely to see Marly loosening up the tense and reserved Wade and it's beautiful how he SEES her. The tender moments between father and son are precious and just want them to be one happy family.
It can be totally read as a standalone but, if you read Parks and Provocation, Lola and Jed appear here too (they are the best friends mentioned before).
If you like a small town romance, quirky characters, with small town shenanigans, a teeny weeny dose of suspense near the end, don't miss this one. I absolutely loved going back to Green Valley.
Thank you, Juliette, for the opportunity of reading this early.
Wade Kelley is the polar opposite of Marly - a single dad to the gifted Jake, he's responsibility personified. He feels he could do more for his kid. He needs to have everything under control. Marly is a whirlwind he doesn't know how to handle.
Opposites attract and Wade and Marly (who are best friends with people who are engaged) are in each other's circle. When Wade realizes that he can help Marly with her dream, he offers her the use of his grandpa's cabin/distillery in the woods, as it comes with spring water that will elevate her product. A favor here, a favor there and sparks fly. Moonshine will never taste better and life will never be brighter.
I'm always in awe of how expertly Juliette mixes humor, steam and all the feels. It's lovely to see Marly loosening up the tense and reserved Wade and it's beautiful how he SEES her. The tender moments between father and son are precious and just want them to be one happy family.
It can be totally read as a standalone but, if you read Parks and Provocation, Lola and Jed appear here too (they are the best friends mentioned before).
If you like a small town romance, quirky characters, with small town shenanigans, a teeny weeny dose of suspense near the end, don't miss this one. I absolutely loved going back to Green Valley.
Thank you, Juliette, for the opportunity of reading this early.
September 20, 2023
I LOVED this book. Marley is a breath of fresh air. She is unapologetically a free spirit, who dreams of owing her own moonshine distillery. Wade, is the single dad, fire ranger who volunteers to help Marly in her moonshine mission. They soon find so much more in each other. Marly brings spontaneity and fun to Wade’s life and Wade brings just enough order to Marley’s.
This book was so much fun with just a hit of suspense, which was a nice surprise. The spice was HOT and the communication was top notch! Wade was about as swoony as you get and was not afraid to communicate!
If you’ve never visited Green Valley, it’s a whole universe that Penny Reid has created. It’s small town fun with lots of interconnected characters that lots of authors are a part of. You won’t be disappointed!
🧡Grumpy/sunshine
🧡Single dad
🧡Opposites attract
🧡Small town
🧡Swoon to spice
This book was so much fun with just a hit of suspense, which was a nice surprise. The spice was HOT and the communication was top notch! Wade was about as swoony as you get and was not afraid to communicate!
If you’ve never visited Green Valley, it’s a whole universe that Penny Reid has created. It’s small town fun with lots of interconnected characters that lots of authors are a part of. You won’t be disappointed!
🧡Grumpy/sunshine
🧡Single dad
🧡Opposites attract
🧡Small town
🧡Swoon to spice
September 18, 2023
I love Juliette Cross no matter what genre she's writing, her Stay A Spell Series is what got me hooked, but I absolutely adore Peaches and Dreams. Marly is chaotic and sweet with the biggest heart and big dreams. Wade is grumpy on the surface but a complete cinnamon roll for his friends and family, he brings a little bit of SBD energy. Jake is one of the cutest kids. A lot of times, in my opinion, some authors struggle to write kids that are realistic, Juliette nails it. I highly recommend this book, it's sweet, spicy, and has a little bit of adventure.
September 26, 2023
4.5/5 stars!! single dad, cozy fall vibes, small town, opposites attract, a grumpy single dad hero & a bubbly, flirty, charming heroine who is unapologetically herself. it was so fun, sweet, sexy, cozy, and just amazing 💕 absolutely perfect to read in the fall!
May 9, 2024
Not my fav of the series. I think the pacing was off, things were rushed / Wade’s character was inconsistent and it didn’t seem to work for me.
September 25, 2023
I really loved this next addition to the series by this author, her second book that I’ve read. The characters were so lovable, and I LOVED that Marly had two dachshunds! Although when she mentions the first time that she leaves them outside when she’s gone, I was a little upset by that, because large animals could come by and get them! But later in the story she did have the character mention that was something that she was worried about and how they could still go into a safe place when she was gone too. Whew! LOL! Yeah, I do get a bit involved with anything to do with dachshunds.
As I mentioned the characters were ones that I fell in love with from the start, including their families and friends. And while I’m sure I would probably not enjoy moonshine, all these different flavors sounded yummy and like things I would actually try. I mean I’d probably like the nonalcoholic one she made up for kids at the end of the story.
Another thing about the story that I liked is that we didn’t have to have the whole break up moment of drama at the end. We got to have a different type of drama, which I really really like when authors do that. All I know is that I’ve got to hurry up and get to the other books by this author that are sitting on my bookshelf waiting to be read!
As I mentioned the characters were ones that I fell in love with from the start, including their families and friends. And while I’m sure I would probably not enjoy moonshine, all these different flavors sounded yummy and like things I would actually try. I mean I’d probably like the nonalcoholic one she made up for kids at the end of the story.
Another thing about the story that I liked is that we didn’t have to have the whole break up moment of drama at the end. We got to have a different type of drama, which I really really like when authors do that. All I know is that I’ve got to hurry up and get to the other books by this author that are sitting on my bookshelf waiting to be read!
November 5, 2023
This was a deeply uneven read for me, with some parts being five star and some parts being one. So I met somewhere in the middle on my rating.
What worked for me:
I loved the single dad trope with the extra twist of Wade feeling inadequate because his son is so bright, he worries about being a smart enough parent. I think the plot could have leaned into that dynamic more, but I'm not mad at it.
I love a starchy/chaos couple, and this gave me all of that.
I'm always happy to be back in Green Valley
What didn't work for me:
The police brutality at the end? In 2023? Seriously?
Wade holds down Marly to force her to talk to him when she says no? In 2023?
Marly is called "mad" and "crazy" for being a bit of a free spirit, and I wish that Juliette had spent more time analyzing the misogyny of that. There is a little bit, but not nearly enough for my taste. Whenever it came up I found myself cringing.
The plot takes a twist in the third act to be fully romantic suspense, which I didn't see coming, though I did think that section was well written.
Anyway, I wish this had been better, and I'm sort of stunned at all the 5 star reviews.
What worked for me:
I loved the single dad trope with the extra twist of Wade feeling inadequate because his son is so bright, he worries about being a smart enough parent. I think the plot could have leaned into that dynamic more, but I'm not mad at it.
I love a starchy/chaos couple, and this gave me all of that.
I'm always happy to be back in Green Valley
What didn't work for me:
The police brutality at the end? In 2023? Seriously?
Wade holds down Marly to force her to talk to him when she says no? In 2023?
Marly is called "mad" and "crazy" for being a bit of a free spirit, and I wish that Juliette had spent more time analyzing the misogyny of that. There is a little bit, but not nearly enough for my taste. Whenever it came up I found myself cringing.
The plot takes a twist in the third act to be fully romantic suspense, which I didn't see coming, though I did think that section was well written.
Anyway, I wish this had been better, and I'm sort of stunned at all the 5 star reviews.
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