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Starrycard Creek Bachelors #2

The Birthday Card Boyfriend

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Isabelle's not in the market for a relationship—not even close. But she can't stop thinking about her one-night stand with a stranger on his birthday.

The rules were simple: one night of passion, no names, and all the cake.

Kieran wasn't looking for anything more than a fling.

And then he saw Isabelle and found his birthday wish.

What he didn't expect was for his mystery woman to stroll into his hometown of Starrycard Creek, Colorado, as . . .

His rival.

Now, he’s stuck with her night and day.

As they battle over the future of the town, the stakes become higher when a ruthless developer eyes the quaint mountain abode and jeopardizes everything Kieran and Isabelle hold dear.

The locals say love is always in the cards in Starrycard Creek. When it comes to Isabelle and Kieran, one thing is clear. What started as a one-night stand might be the twist of fate that saves the town and sparks a love story that could last a lifetime.

434 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 28, 2024

364 people are currently reading
492 people want to read

About the author

Krista Sandor

32 books2,841 followers
USA Today Bestselling Author Krista Sandor writes steamy contemporary romance with toe-curlingly hot heroes and heroines you'll want as your best friends.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
Profile Image for Patricia (Spellbound Stories Trish) .
2,842 reviews119 followers
March 28, 2024
I am laughing and crying all at the same time! The love woven in these pages is unlike any other I have read. The sweetness and absolute perfection of what love is!

Krista Sandor has written a masterpiece of what can happy when the magic of love and fate are involved. I am such a form believer of the healing of love and this series just solidifies how beautiful love can be when you just open your heart.

Izzy and Kieran hit it off and let’s just say that fireworks go off everytime these two are in a room together. Their instant attraction and undeniable fire are felt immediately. Seriously 5 chili peppers of heat because these two…..fan the flames each time they are together. Kieren believes love isn’t in his future but the man who speaks in number and absolutes has more love inside him than any other ever could. The way him and Izzy love is strong and limitless. My gosh I love these two so much. They are quirky, cute and absolutely hilarious.

I don’t know where to start with explaining the story other than to say get ready, because this one was an epic journey and one I couldn’t get enough of. The storyline was an epic adventure and I loved every step of it.

A very poignant and heartwarming love story from the very start.
Profile Image for The Devon Book Dragon.
47 reviews11 followers
April 22, 2024
This book is freaking adorable!
The journey Kieran takes to understand his feelings and how to communicate them is brilliant. I love the way he manages to explain how he is feeling in a way that is insanely romantic but also practical and factual.
Izzy is hilariously clutzy! The llamas, the curtsies, the word vomit 🤣 she cracked me up on so many occasions!
I loved the way they called each other by their nicknames throughout and I thought it showed exactly how they felt.
Starrycard Creek is the exact kind of small town craziness I love!
And the butterflies! It was all so magical.
And yes, I learnt how to make paper rings because of this book…
Profile Image for Lindsey Adams.
1,110 reviews22 followers
July 12, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 🌶️🌶️🌶️

I love it when I can read a book that is part of a series, but don't have to start from book 1 to understand the overall series. Interconnected stand alones within series are some of my favorite. I will definitely be going and reading Book 1 of this series though, don't get me wrong!
Krista Sandor's story was well written and researched. Often authors will say their book represents people on the spectrum, but in reading it is easy to see they did not do their research. Not only did Krista research, but she made sure to represent the MMC on the spectrum including mannerisms, quirks, ticks, and inner monologues. It was really well done in my opinion.

Izzy and Kiernan explode off the pages in how they meet, how their attraction burns fierce from the beginning, and how their lives continue to weave around each other. Their chemistry is tangible, their frustration is felt, and the tension is real!!!

Krista provides an entertaining story and one that I couldn't put down. As the first book I read of hers, I have already added more of her works to my TBR and will be reading them soon!!

As always, review trigger warnings before reading.

Tropes:
🍰Hero on the Autism Spectrum
🍰Mountain Town
🍰Family Business
🍰Small Town Romance
🍰One Night Stand, Becomes Real Thing
🍰Quirky Large Family
🍰Town Legend about Falling in Love
🍰Found Family and Save the Town
🍰Forced Proximity
🍰HEA
Profile Image for Michele Del Rey.
3,009 reviews30 followers
March 30, 2024
This second chance romance was really good. Two people wanting no strings find more. This book pulled me in and I was hooked. Reading about these two navigating their relationship was awesome.
Profile Image for Jenn the Readaholic.
2,183 reviews72 followers
March 10, 2024
As I’ve come to expect and love, the cornball humor is here. But it’s also tinged with some true hilarity, oodles of emotions I didn’t see coming, and connections galore. Some of them are easily seen and some are followed without too much dancing around the main event, but some others are far less obvious until spelled out in the best ways.

Isabelle and Kieran definitely have chemistry. But it’s all in what they choose to do with it that makes this a story you won’t want to walk away from. Kieran is hiding things from everyone, but it takes one special person to see exactly what he’s so fearful of, and then prove that it’s not anything to be shamed for. And that might be my favorite part of this book. Isabelle pulls no punches when explaining how she already figured out his secret, and the relief felt by Kieran is palpable. But then when he thinks he’s messed it all up, McKenzie comes to the rescue and his entire family does what they do best. What’s that, you ask? Easy. Cause controlled chaos to make things right.

And that brings us to the blueberry mafia. I now insist that it must be a thing, if only because it’s hilarious and blueberries are fantastic. There’s so much to love about this family, this town, and this love that Kieran and Isabelle so richly deserve to have, but the blueberry mafia ties it all together from start to finish with a lovely aftertaste of victory. I promise.
Profile Image for Micheala Dawn.
229 reviews7 followers
March 25, 2024
I was sent this ARC for my review.

Non Spoiler Review:
If you love small town HEA, fun banter, surprises at every corner with spiciness and found family with meddlesome family members 🤣-then this book is for you. It can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend the first book “The Business Card Boyfriend” because those characters are mentioned in this book.
I also love how the author seemed to do her research on Autism which one of the main characters finds out he is on the spectrum.

Spoiler Review:

At first I wasn’t sure about the book because as I was at the beginning of the story, Izzy the FMC, was really annoying to me but reading on it became understandable as to why.
I was cracking up at the beginning because of Izzy making the Elder mad when she was in Peru and then being chased by alpacas.
Kieran is such a relatable character and not just because of him being in the spectrum of autism. I appreciate that the author did her research on it.
The other characters are so funny and lovable like Kenzie.
I also love the significance of the butterflies 🦋. The legend of Starrycard and falling in love was very well thought out.

This book makes me think of a Hallmark mixed in with a Passionflix movie but with more spiciness for those of you who know what I’m talking about. This is a good thing.

Some quotes from the book that stuck out to me because of humor, or the way they were said are:

- [ ] “If you want to make it out of this gift shop in one piece, I suggest you release my girlfriend’s wrist, or I’ll fucking break yours.”

- [ ] “This ring means you’re mine.”

- [ ] Dear Bloom, Thank you for making this my most unforgettable birthday. If birthday wishes came true, I’d wish for you. And please ice your elbow once a day for the next three days. Just fucking do it. -Your Birthday Card Boyfriend

- [ ] Kieran pulled the developer in an inch closer. “One final sentiment. Take your boots that you sure as hell didn’t wear to plant trees and get the hell out of my town hall.”

- [ ] “You got it, Uncle Kier,” the child replied, skipping down the aisle. What the hell did his sister feed that child? Espresso-laced fruit snacks?

- [ ] “You have to be strong when no family is looking out for you.”
- [ ] He schooled his features, but mischief danced in his eyes. “Put on some motherfucking pants, take two motherfucking ibuprofen tablets, and grab your motherfucking backpack. We’re going to track down some motherfucking butterflies.”

- [ ] He offered her that barely there grin. “Trust me, Bloom. Anybody who comes for you has to get through me.” She sighed. “When you put it like that, how can I say no.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Drey Blackbeak .
233 reviews11 followers
April 6, 2024
Por favor, lo poco que me gustaba al principio y lo bueno que fue al final. Es una maravilla de romance. Tiene escenas cringe, pero me da igual. Es precioso.

¿Y Kieran? Mucho decir que no sabe expresar sus sentimientos pero expresa su amor de una forma preciosa🥹 lo amo
Profile Image for Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog).
5,887 reviews213 followers
March 30, 2024




Amazon



Neither Isabelle nor Kieran believes in love. Kieran believes his recent autism diagnosis makes him incapable of it, and Isabelle doesn't want it and isn't looking for it. So when they meet and the sparks are instantaneous, all they can agree to is a hot night. But what happens when meet again, under less than happy circumstances? When she's the new temporary land steward and he's the town manager whose desires for Starrycard Creek seem to be in direct opposition to hers?



Two people less inclined to fall in love cannot be found in all of romantic fiction than Izzy and Kieran, her Birthday Card boyfriend and his Bloom. And yet, it was completely obvious to everyone but them, that they were heading exactly there - to falling head over heels in love. They did it in the sweetest, most adorable, and most delicious way. Kieran's neurodivergence is done in a sensitive way, and Izzy's understanding, even appreciating, no, loving, the way his autism presented in his behavior, is so sweet. I absolutely, wholeheartedly love Kieran and Izzy, and the whole town of quirky, amazing residents. Now I'm very impatient to read Kieran's brother Christian's story next, The Baseball Card Boyfriend.



ARC provided by The Author Agency for an honest review.

Review / Release Blitz: Live Through Books Blog.

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Profile Image for ReadonReader.
2,635 reviews6 followers
April 1, 2024
Back in Starrycard Creek we are in for a ride full of fun antics and emotional heart wrenching moments while diving into Kieran and Isabelle’s story. Isabelle is such a breath of fresh air for a character because when we meet her she is jaded by her past while trying her best to save the world and it keeps backfiring in her face. With one last chance to revive her career she is sent to Starrycard with the determination to bring the town manager to their knees. Kieran is another breath of fresh air in a character because while standing out as this overachieving, hard worker that cares so much about his town he is also hiding in the dark of his mind making him a wonder to experience. Kieran is such a focused and driven individual that has always had this side to him that was a little different than the rest of his family, but he has kept it hidden for so long that when he has it verified he knows he was right all along and this just confirms his stance on staying single and doing his multiple jobs. When Kieran and Isabelle meet sparks fly but neither one of them are looking for anything and the more they banter with each other the more the attraction grows. Isabelle can see the real Kieran like no one else has ever done and this makes her incredibly special that she doesn’t even think twice about it, but it endears the readers to love her even more and when she thinks she is just this utter failure of a person that isn’t good enough for anyone your heart will shatter, then it will be completely destroyed watching as Kieran tries to get his brain and mouth on the same wavelength to tell her how much she means to him. While your heart feels like it’s in a million pieces the Starrycard family refuses to let anyone suffer while helping those that mean the world to them and this makes the readers want to be a part of this town and family. The twists you don’t see coming will keep you on your toes, the emotions will hurt your heart and heal you, but watching them all come together to make dreams come true will have you wanting this place to be a reality. Krista has a special way of creating characters that will stay with you long after you’ve read them and have you falling love with the humor and beautiful storylines you won’t be able to let them go.
Profile Image for Jennifer Leigh (jenjenbookfan).
1,419 reviews30 followers
March 24, 2024
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐁𝐨𝐲𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝 is the 2nd book in the Starrycard Creek Bachelors series by Krista Sandor, featuring an entertaining one night stand rom-com. When Isabelle is on her way to her new contract job, her last chance to save her career, she finds herself in need of a rescue from a handsy drunk at a hotel bar. Her savior woke her body up in a way she didn’t expect, so why not give into one night of hot, anonymous passion to celebrate his birthday? Imagine their surprise when they came face to face the next days with opposing positions on his town’s expansion plans. Now they are business rivals who still can’t resist each other. Then a ruthless developer comes in ready to dupe the townspeople and possibly pillage the landscape that harbors many mystic secrets and hidden wonders. Will Kieran and Isabelle’s connection lead to the downfall of the town, or be the spark that saves it all?

Where has this author been hiding from me?! What a fun read! I laughed so much, and yet these amazing characters evoked such strong emotions as well. Kieran was especially interesting in the way he was used to represent neuro-divergence, and it was beautifully done! I’ll admit it took me a bit longer to connect with Isabelle, given how rigid she was in her environmental activism in the beginning, but once I got a better understanding of her, I grew to love her. I especially appreciated how accepting she was of Kieran and his special quirks. They were straight up fire together🔥, but this book also brought out these creative little mystical connections that were so interesting! I loved everything about the town and the Starrycard family, especially little McKenzie! What a gem of a character!🥰 Kieran’s bond with her was priceless, and she was key to keeping the plot moving it seemed!😂 I’d loved to read her story when she grows up!! Don’t miss the twists and turns of this great book! I will say that I have a craving for some motherf**king cake now!!🤣🤣

I received an ARC for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

#KristaSandor #thebirthdaycardboyfriend #RomanticComedy #OneNightStand #SmallTown #ForcedProximity #SavetheTown #FoundFamily
Profile Image for Tiffany Adams.
877 reviews27 followers
March 29, 2024
This series just gets better!!! It’s an outstanding small town romcom that hooked me in from the hilarious cake filled one night stand🫠 From there, the whole story is full of so much humor, quirkiness, insane chemistry, lots of emotion, lovable family moments and spice with a side of dirty talk. There is even a recipe at the end of the book for the delicious lemon blueberry muffins mentioned in the story that I highly recommend you make while reading😋

🏘Small Town
😂Romantic Comedy
👥Forced Proximity
🫶🏻Found Family
💜Hero on the Autism Spectrum⁠
✨One-night stand turned real thing

📖The story of Isabelle Adair, aka Izzy and Kieran Starrycard all begins with a chance meeting at a hotel on the night of his birthday and turns into a one night stand that involves all the cake and a paper ring. Their connection and chemistry just leapt off the pages from the start and already had me falling in love with them! Both agree to no names so they use the cutest nicknames for each other. Then you head back to the small town of Starrycard Creek in Colorado where, Kieran is the town manager. Imagine his surprise when Izzy shows up in town as an environmentalist that now has a say on the town’s expansion.

I have to mention Kieran, who was just an amazing character in this story! He was written with such care as a character on the autism spectrum. He doesn’t think he could ever give enough of himself to a woman but he is truly so caring and sweet and had my heart bursting throughout the whole book. Absolutely loved watching him & Izzy come together as they are my new favorite couple from Krista!!

This is book 2 of the Starrycard Creek Bachelors series but is so easy to read as a standalone too. It is written in 3rd person but Krista writes it in such a way that draws you into the story and you makes you completely forget that!! I was so lost in the narrative and loving the characters that I didn’t even realize it until I randomly thought about it half way through!

If you love romantic comedies and have never read a Krista Sandor book, I cannot recommend this book and series enough!!
Profile Image for Jenn .
752 reviews15 followers
March 24, 2024
In Starrycard Creek- love is always in the cards... even for the decidedly single town manager, Kieran Starrycard.

The Birthday Card Boyfriend is the second book in Krista Sandor's Starrycard Creek Bachelors series and this book is so much fun to read. Krista infuses some truly laugh out loud humor with sweetness, drama and of course a helping of spice.

Kieran is the oldest of the Starrycard siblings- completely dedicated to his family and his town- and ultimately his bachelorhood once he confirms his suspicions that he is in fact on the spectrum. Isabelle Adaire is completely devoted to making sure that the environment and rare species are undisturbed by power and money hungry developers- even if she's a little excessive and rash with her decisions. She also happens to be best friends with Hailey, Kieran's soon to be sister-in-law. Isabelle and Kieran meet by chance one night on Kieran's birthday at a hotel and proceeded to have an adventure and sexy filled time together anonymously only to realize their many connections the following day.

I adored these two together- Isabelle understood and drawn to Kieran's monotone speech and calculated behavior and just something about her spoke to Kieran causing him to act in more uncontrolled ways. He was fierce and protective over her in a way that was different than his family and town and I can't say I was mad about the way he moved and grooved in private with her. I loved the shift in Isabelle, the way she let her heart open up while also facing her past and learning to trust her own instincts again. The added entertainment from all the other Starrycards kept a smile on my face while also making me fall more in love with the magic of this little mountain town in Colorado.

Next up is the Baseball Card Boyfriend and I can't wait to see how love will be in the cards for them!
Profile Image for Kaci (travelswithabook).
516 reviews6 followers
March 24, 2024
You know what they say, love is always in the cards in Starrycard Creek!

Okay, not going to lie, but the first chapter threw me off. After reading the first book in this series, I thought I knew what to expect, but the first chapter wasn't it. Of course, it had the humor I love, but something was missing. But the second chapter, ENTER KIERAN, and the world realigned and everything was perfect again.

I ended up really liking Izzy's character, but Kieran, I LOVE that man (I don't want to give too many details, but EVERYTHING about him, every single nuance and habit made him so real and so likeable). You could tell how they absolutely needed each other. Kieran has a secret he hasn't admitted to anybody and Izzy can't give details about her background. I felt like the both of them understood their strengths but were letting their perceived weaknesses keep them from true happiness. But when they were together, Izzy and Kieran supported each other, appreciated their differences, and whether they thought so or not, had so much love to give.

The humor was spot on, once again! They were so perfectly matched and who knew what ridiculously hilarious thing they were going to say or do next. And the chemistry was so evident between the two - in a sexy way of course, but also in a comfortable way that I really appreciated. There are so many tender moments that had me in my feelings. *It wasn't nothing to me.*

The Starrycard family (and what a wonderful, hilarious, and loving family it is!) and the quirky town once again show how much they love love and the lengths that they go to make sure it's found. You are guaranteed a good time while reading!

And that's the end of my review. *curtsy* (IYKYK)
Profile Image for lowkeyreader.
5,573 reviews51 followers
March 31, 2024
The Birthday Card Boyfriend is a delightful romance novel set in the charming town of Starrycard Creek. The story revolves around the unlikely love story between Isabelle A. Adiare and Kieran Starrycard, two characters who find themselves entangled in a whirlwind of emotions and unexpected connections. Krista Sandor masterfully weaves a tale filled with vivid descriptions, palpable sexual tension, and heartwarming moments that keep readers engaged from start to finish.

The character development in this book is exceptional, particularly in how Isabelle and Kieran evolve throughout the story. Isabelle's guarded nature and Kieran's reluctance to believe in love create a dynamic that is both relatable and endearing. Their journey towards finding love and acceptance is beautifully portrayed, making them truly captivating protagonists.

Moreover, the small-town setting of Starrycard Creek adds a cozy and inviting backdrop to the narrative. The supporting characters, including Goldie Starrycard and the rest of the crew, bring a sense of community and warmth that enhances the overall reading experience.

Krista Sandor's writing style shines in this novel, blending humor, drama, and romance seamlessly. The incorporation of themes like family, self-discovery, and acceptance adds depth to the storyline, making it a well-rounded and engaging read.

In conclusion, The Birthday Card Boyfriend is a must-read for fans of small-town romances, witty banter, and heart-melting love stories. With its well-developed characters, engaging plot, and emotional depth, this book is a true gem that will leave readers wanting more. Krista Sandor has crafted a captivating tale that is sure to resonate with anyone looking for a feel-good and heartwarming romance.
Profile Image for Katslovesbooks.
1,027 reviews25 followers
March 29, 2024

This was such a fun and beautiful story about two people finding love when they less expected!

I honestly can't get enough of this series, from the moment I starting reading this book I knew it was going to be fantastic, specially because Krista made the beginning of this in Peru, my country. The scene there was laugh out load hilarious.

Isabelle's life is a complete mess and in the last chance to save her career she is basically forced to take a job in the small town of Starrycard Creek, Colorado. Before embracing her new and probably her last job she makes a stop in a place that is near her heart and that's where she mets a sexy stranger which she has a memorable one night stand where cake was very much involve lol.

Kieran Starrycard believes there is no love in the cards for him. He has keep a secret from his family because he believes thats what's best. His life is all about the town where he is the town's manager but an unexpected surprise is in the cards for him when Isabelle, his unforgettable one night stand walks into town.

I freaking love the chemistry between Izzy and Kieran. The way they get each other was just perfect. I loved how Kieran became the knight in this story, immediately taking Izzy's side and not stoping until she felt all the loved he tough was incapable of giving, because Kieran has the biggest heart of all.

Now along the way there is hilarious moments but also very sweet ones, Izzy and Kieran were really meant to be the perfect person for each other. I can't wait for the next book in the series!!
Profile Image for MNHockeymomreads (Heather).
396 reviews30 followers
March 30, 2024
A reluctantly in love hero is one of my favorite elements in romance books! And oh my goodness does Keiran Starrycard fall so hard and so fast for Isabelle. Keiran feels that love is not in the cards for him, and he has resigned himself to live for his family and town. Then, along comes Isabelle A. Adiare completely turns his world upside down. This meet cute was for the record books, and Krista delivered so well on the sexual tension and emotional connection that these two characters have.

I will be honest, I was not sure how much I was going to love Isabelle in the beginning. But man was she guarding her heart from the world. She let so few people into her life. However, the way she is with Keiran it is clear that she is finally able to be her true self. He brings her back to the person that she wants to be. She also see’s Keiran for the person he is, and loves him just the way he is.

If I could I would 100% pack my bags and move to Starrycard Creek, Co and quickly become best friends with Goldie Starrycard and crew! There are just so many things that I love about this book and the characters, but I fear that I would ruin it for you. Krista includes so many details that make this book and story so much more. The descriptions are so vivid and left me never wanting their story to end. Keiran is a swoony hero that loves and adores Isabelle in a way that only he can; and Isabelle loves and adores him for the man that he is; it is abundantly clear these two are soul mates. If you love a small town, a hero that is walking green flags, a sassy and super smart heroine this book should be your next read!
Profile Image for BookAddict.
2,084 reviews209 followers
March 15, 2024
Let's just take a minute while I swoon over Kieran. Oh my heart, this guy! If you want an unlikely, unique hero who will abscond with your heart while you’re not looking, here ya go. He's the one percent of book boyfriends, and his stilted stoicism, analysis of human behavior, and monochromatic view of life made me fall for him right away.

Izzy is the Yang to Kieran's Yin and his perfect match. She has the ability to look beyond surface expectations and she appreciates and embraces Kieran's differences. And when it comes to saving the starwing butterflies and Starrycard Creek's unique beauty, she and Kieran make an exceptional team.

This is one of my absolute favorite fictional worlds. From the beautiful mountain setting and the delightfully quirky townsfolk to the Starrycard family and their warmth and love, I felt like more than a visitor to this town. Add in some humorous shenanigans and nefarious players you'll love to hate, and there’s never a dull moment. Then there’s some well-intentioned manipulation by matriarch, Goldie, and surprising serendipitous events, and the magic of this story shines through on every page.

If you’re new to this series I encourage you to dive in right away. This amazing story is like all of your favorite things all wrapped up together. Humorous, steamy, heartwarming and unexpected, Kieran’s story is guaranteed to leave you with a happy sigh in your heart and a great big grin on your face. My only regret is that I can’t read it again for the first time.
Profile Image for Mindy Diegel.
521 reviews7 followers
March 29, 2024
Another adventure in Starrycard Creek, this one i’ll give you all the feels. You will laugh you’ll cry you will swoon you’ll get a little bit of everything. Izzy is just she’s a Spitfire she has had a rough go the last few years but she knows what she wants and she loves her job and so when she comes into Kieran’s life she turns it upside down. Being the oldest son of the crazy wild Starrycard clan, does not come without its challenges. But he’s always been the straight laced and is by the book it helps keep everything in his life in order. She is so the polar opposite of him so she comes barreling into his life and turns it upside down which is so good for him it like takes him out of his comfort zone and shakes his life up and once she gets under his skin she ain’t leaving. They discover that they have a connection and they understand each other so wow and they have this banter an chemistry that is through the roof. I love watching them navigate this new situation they find themselves in and more importantly watching them fall in love and try to navigate what that means for them and their situation. Their life is getting sticky and complicated but they figure out how to make it work. But it’s never simple there’s always a wrench in the works somewhere. Watching them learn how to work together to figure out how to fix it but they come out stronger in the end and it’s just a beautiful love story. I highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Rachel.
1,345 reviews11 followers
January 12, 2025
Sometimes you read a story that stands out in your mind even years later. The first book in this series that painted the magical picture of Starrycard Creek has done just that for me. I first read it in Oct, 2023 and when I saw this book was available on audio I had to grab it because I loved the first one so much. The Birthday Card boyfriend brings that same ethereal magic that The Business Card boyfriend did, but adds in a whole new level of quirk as Kieran has been diagnosed with autism and thinks that is his sentence to be alone forever. Of course the magic of Starrycard Creek would never let that happen, but I loved how well done his details were written in this story. Krista did such a phenomenal job writing Kieran in a way that showcased the details and quirks that people on the spectrum generally excel at and it just made me love him so much more. I don't want to give it all away, but there are so many tidbits throughout this story that had me laughing and swooning and just falling so hard for this town and this family. You can really feel the magic of Starrycard Creek and how it brought together Kieran and Izzy.

If Starrycard Creek were a real place, you can bet I'd be there putting my wishes on a paper in the wall.

The performance that Monica King did was truly exceptional and I would say she's one of the most dynamic narrators I've heard. As a single narrator to voice the entire cast in a way that made every voice unique was truly impressive.
Profile Image for Maz.
1,687 reviews29 followers
April 12, 2024
First off Krista has a new fan. This was my first by her and I was totally consumed. This was a wholesome story. Had all the feels, great story plot, twists and surprises, laugh out loud nater and interactions, found family, fate, lots of beautiful butterflies, small town magic, neuro divergent, love and got hot spice. Now how can you not like a book like this.
Kieran was absolutely AMAZING! I loved all his little quirks and I loved how he acknowledged his condition. Although he thought he won't able to have a family and settle down, he was a great human. Amongst all that he is so protective and all alpha when it comes to those he cares about. You see he was a bit of everything good and bad boy.
Izzy was an absolute hoot!! Her inner monologue was just as hilarious as what comes out of her mouth. She has a lot of loss from her past and she is passionate to keep her family's dream and passion to go on. But it gets her in trouble a lot.
I loved knowing about the butterflies as they my favourite insects.
I loved Kieran's family and the whole small town family too. Loved his little niece,she was so pure and just happy.
Read and indulge in the magical fate that gets revealed as time goes on. It really was so good.
Now I can't wait to read more from Krista.

"you are about to get mucho fucked.”

“My bloom,” he whispered, his heated breath caressing her lips.
Profile Image for Dani Salinas.
250 reviews2 followers
April 12, 2024
I adored this book and its characters. I loved having a connection with Kieran and how he saw the world. This was the first book I read where the main character is on the spectrum, and I loved how the author handled it. I adored that this author really let his character feel real and so unique without trying to make him feel other. Plus, the emotional connection between him and Izzy was so well done. Their banter and playing before they understand who they are to each other was my favorite. You could feel the ease between them and understanding that their souls were meant to be together.

I love the idea of meant to be and waiting for it to happen. The journey these two travels on was everything, between their banter, the workings of others to get them on the same page, and just their own intensity. I loved that they saw each other for who they really are and wasn't trying to demand changes but felt like home for each other.

I laughed often in this book with its playfulness and character development. I was hooked from the minute Izzy was chased by Alpaca and told you get good D**k. This was a book you can read in the series completely out of order and totally enjoy. I loved the world this author created and the characters. Glad this was my first read and I know it will not be my last.
Profile Image for Melissa Cooke.
895 reviews9 followers
March 30, 2024
This was my first read by Krista Sandor and I really liked it! This was a quirky and cute read with some sweet and spicy thrown in, and lots of love.

While this wasn't my typical read, or writing style, it didn't take away from me enjoying the storyline and Isabelle and Kieran. They were only supposed to be a one night stand, but when Isabelle shows up the next morning to her new assignment and realizes Kieran is the town manager, and part of her assignment, she realizes something else may be in the stars.

Starrycard Creek just may have something written in the stars for this couple once they open their hearts to the possibility of what they can be. The love they both so clearly feel for each other is felt through every page. Their steamy time is adorable and hot all at the same time of that's possible. Kieran is such a sweet, lovable guy but when that aloha peeks out - holy smokes! I loved that Kieran was written as a character on the autism spectrum and represented so beautifully. They way Isabelle got him and loved him even more for his quirks was so perfect.

If you love a quaint small town romance with a little spice I highly recommend you heard to Starrycard Creek and meet this clan!
Profile Image for Caroline.
56 reviews1 follower
June 15, 2024
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.

I'm so divided by this book. It's a love- tolerate story... because hate is too harsh of a word, especially when I didn't hate it.

But I certainly struggled for the first 60% of the book. After that, I was hooked and unable to put it down.

It really is an intricately woven piece of paper webbing together peoples lives in a giant sheet and I love that. I loved that. I loved how everything came together and I loved the characters... I think for me it just felt that some parts were too drawn out.

Especially in the first part where I knew without a doubt that it was Isabelle .A. Adaire and Starrycard.... I knew that. It was ingrained on my memory....

I really struggled to get to 60% too. I was hellbent on reading it but also struggling to find that want to read it.

Id certainly say it's perfect for someone who hasn't got the attention span of a gnat. I'd never say it wasn't worth a read. These are things I struggled with. But at the same time I also find myself wanting to carry on the series and maybe read book 1 so I clearly can't loath the book.

This is just my opinion of a person who has an attention span of a gnat!
Profile Image for Marit Prins.
170 reviews
March 26, 2024
I laughed so hard I almost woke up the kids and peed my pants at the same time.
Kieran and Izzy are to amazing characters and I love the way they had an instant connection. There's a little bit of hate - a whole lot of loving and whoops I almost peed my pants again.
Krista Sandor managed to write an amazingly funny story, which at the same time was hot, spicy and emotional. I cried ugly tears over Kieran and his inner turmoil, and I laughed at the Starrycard's crazy antics.
I think the character development by both Izzy and Kieran was really well done. I love how they overcame their struggles and how they could not stay away from each other. We got little glimpses into the family again and I just want to read more, more, mooooooore!

I fell in love with Starrycard Creek in the Business Card Boyfriend, but the Birthday Card Boyfriend is making me want to marry it.
I am pretty sure the next book is going to impregnate me, but all crazy antics aside. This is a must-must read. Trust me, you will not regret!!

This book has nicknames, crazy side characters, an off the pages hot couple and a super cute small town. If you love romance, you will love this book!
Profile Image for Christina Gizzi.
136 reviews13 followers
March 29, 2024
The eldest Starrycard gets his happily ever after. I don't know why I can't remember much about Kieran from the first book, but he is a delight. I found him to be charming, even if he did not see that in himself. Isabelle is the perfect heroine for him. She is the wild to his calm. She brings out the best in him and got him to see that he is more than what he thinks he is. Because of this book I have been craving cake, and will be getting some in the near future. Isabelle and I have the same sweet tooth so I can relate to the cake shenanigans. I think Kieran and Isabelle's romance is sweet but complicated. He thinks that he cannot fall in love because of his autism, and does not want to share this with Isabelle for fear that it will drive her away. However, she is the most understanding, sweet human being and sees the best in him even if he can't. I wish she would be able to see the best in herself, but her past has made that difficult. I think they suit each other well and their jobs work well together. They do go through a lot to save Starrycard Creek, but I think the town is worth it.
Profile Image for Danielle Graves.
874 reviews28 followers
March 30, 2024
When it comes to The Birthday Card Boyfriend, the author Krista Sandor brought cake, cuteness, and a fair amount of chaos to a for the most part lighthearted journey of finding love, acceptance, and a little bit of small-town magic.
 
I really enjoyed Keiran's story and growth as he got it confirmed that he was autistic and had always felt that because of his differences, he wouldn't be able to have a proper loving relationship. He witnessed the love between his family, and although he cared for them, he never had romantic notions for others, so he thought it was due to his autism. Then he met Izzy, and she accepted him for who he was and loved his quirky moments, and he soon began to love her back. Seeing their relationship grow was wonderful, and I especially enjoyed their banter, as well as their passion and their love for mother-f*cking cake!
 
As a story set in a small town, the community was important, and so the side characters played an important part, with Keiran's family having a big role, but none more so than Kenzie, Keiran's niece, who brought some very welcome humour with her outspoken moments and lack of a filter.
 
 
 
 
Profile Image for Carolyn.
1,798 reviews7 followers
March 17, 2024
Krista Sandor has done it again! She makes me feel every emotion of the characters she writes and has me laughing out loud while reading, sometimes I get funny looks when I’m in public, but I’m used to it lol. She did a wonderful job writing a character on the spectrum and how they have to adapt to social norms. I fell in love with Kieran immediately. And he fell in love with Izzy immediately too. What was supposed to be a one night wild birthday celebration turned awkward when the two met at Town Hall to decide on building in Starry Card Creek. He’s the town’s manager and she’s the land steward and will decide if building will harm the ecology. An old enemy of hers shows up and the town is in danger of being duped by him. This book has all on the Starrycards except the one traveling the country and the smallest star keeps everyone on their feet. It’s super H.O.T. and has motherfluffing cake! I loved the story of the butterflies and flowers and Delilah’s gift to Izzy. This is such a good book and I can’t wait for more Starrycard Bachelors.
Profile Image for Erin Lewis.
6,223 reviews219 followers
March 21, 2024
5 star Review The Birthday Card Boyfriend (Starrycard Creek Bachelors #2) by Krista Sandor

When I read the blurb for Birthday Card Boyfriend, I was intrigued. From the first chapter I was hooked on Isabelle and Kieran’s story which takes place in Starrycard Creek, Colorado.

This was an entertaining, well written story that ticked all the boxes for me. The Birthday Card Boyfriend was a witty, fun story. There were moments that had me shaking my head, laughing, and smiling.

Neither Isabelle or Kieran were looking for a relationship and yet a one night stand morphs into more when they both find themselves in Starrycard Creek. There is so much more to Kieran and he has secrets that he has been keeping from everyone. What happens when Isabelle uncovers what he has been hiding?

There was a good mix of steam, romance, humor and love which made for an entertaining romantic comedy and one I thoroughly enjoyed.
Profile Image for Jamie Adams.
692 reviews21 followers
March 23, 2024
Where do I start with this book? First, the Elder Pachamama was hilarious with her "assessment" of Izzy and her people letting the alpacas loose on her. Kieran and Izzy lying their way into a cake tasting event at their hotel and then stealing cake and champagne. All I can say is that the cake was used for "recreational" purposes. Those two scenes made me crack up.
I liked their nicknames for each other. They had such great chemistry together and I loved how they met when Kieran stepped in and helped Izzy in an uncomfortable situation. McKenzie was also one of my favorite characters in the book.
I can't say much about what happened with Regis and his fiance without ruining the story but just know that the two of them get what they deserve.
This book was hilarious and such a great read. I loved it and can't wait for the next book in the series too. Thank you to Krista Sandor and The Author Agency for the advanced copy.
349 reviews8 followers
March 28, 2024
Overall: 5

Book:

POV/narrative: 3rd person POV alternating
SA/ cliffhanger: standalone in a series, 2nd book

Ingredients:

writing quality: 5
ease of reading: 5
plot: 5
steam: 4


Notes / opinion:
Another fantastic story by this author! Seriously, she’ hasn’t written anything I didn’t like. Kiernan and Isabelle are hilarious and so good together.

One thing I would like to complement this author about is her portrayal of neurodiverse characters (and yes, I actually had to look up that it meant what I thought it meant). I personally feel it’s a great way to ‘educate’ (if I can use that word) one on individuals who are neurodivergent in real life. And this view is meant to be positive, so don’t get in a fit about it.

Things I liked:

• Neurodivergent Protective H
• Heroine who means well but sometimes goofs
• Family who overwhelms with love and acceptance and pokes in where they might not ought to
• Town legend that always ends up true
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