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Cottonbloom #1
Kiss Me That Way
A river divides Cottonbloom in two: the upscale enclave on the Mississippi side and the rundown, rough and tumble side in Louisiana. They’re worlds apart—but nothing can build a bridge like love…
Cade Fournette never had it easy in Cottonbloom. He stuck around long enough to raise his orphaned siblings and then hightailed it out West—and never looked back. Even though he’s made a success of himself in Seattle, Cade never lost the toughness and the angry edge that helped him survive down South. His only weak spot: the girl he left behind…
Monroe Kirby came from the wealthy side of town, but that didn’t protect her from her mother’s drinking—or her mother’s boyfriend. It was Cade who did that, on a long-ago hot September night, before he disappeared…along with a piece of her heart. Now Monroe is a physical therapist who can fight for herself, and it’s Cade who could use some conditioning when he makes an unexpected return back home. Will he and Monroe pick up where they left off and finally explore their mutual passion—or will the scars and secrets of the past divide them once more?
Cade Fournette never had it easy in Cottonbloom. He stuck around long enough to raise his orphaned siblings and then hightailed it out West—and never looked back. Even though he’s made a success of himself in Seattle, Cade never lost the toughness and the angry edge that helped him survive down South. His only weak spot: the girl he left behind…
Monroe Kirby came from the wealthy side of town, but that didn’t protect her from her mother’s drinking—or her mother’s boyfriend. It was Cade who did that, on a long-ago hot September night, before he disappeared…along with a piece of her heart. Now Monroe is a physical therapist who can fight for herself, and it’s Cade who could use some conditioning when he makes an unexpected return back home. Will he and Monroe pick up where they left off and finally explore their mutual passion—or will the scars and secrets of the past divide them once more?
332 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2021
459 people are currently reading
2477 people want to read
About the author
Laura Trentham
43 books912 followersAuthor of smart, sexy Southern contemporary romance, Regency historicals, & heartfelt Women's Fiction
Series include:
Sweet Home Alabama
Cottonbloom
Spies and Lovers
Heart of a Hero
Highland, Georgia
Series include:
Sweet Home Alabama
Cottonbloom
Spies and Lovers
Heart of a Hero
Highland, Georgia
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews
November 10, 2024
This is the first book I've read by Laura Trentham and definitely won't be the last.
I was on the fence about this one but the review of one of my gr friends was all I needed. And color me impressed. This book is gold.
This was a lovely story about second chances and a superb example of how difficulties behind closed doors can have a huge impact on some people's lives.
The writing was fabulous and the romance between Cade and Monroe was sizzling. I am such a sucker for romance filled with tension. Monroe is a great character. She's understanding and fun and a no-nonsense type of girl. She's truly a gem. Cade is a difficult character to define. He's reserved and closed off but Monroe crashes down his walls and it's thrilling to watch. Following their journey was a real treat.
Fans of New Adult will not be disappointed by this one.
I was on the fence about this one but the review of one of my gr friends was all I needed. And color me impressed. This book is gold.
This was a lovely story about second chances and a superb example of how difficulties behind closed doors can have a huge impact on some people's lives.
The writing was fabulous and the romance between Cade and Monroe was sizzling. I am such a sucker for romance filled with tension. Monroe is a great character. She's understanding and fun and a no-nonsense type of girl. She's truly a gem. Cade is a difficult character to define. He's reserved and closed off but Monroe crashes down his walls and it's thrilling to watch. Following their journey was a real treat.
Fans of New Adult will not be disappointed by this one.
“I love you, Cade Fournette. Maybe I always have.”
“I’m not the same boy who came to your rescue.”
“I’m not the same girl who needs rescue. We’ve both changed, but you understand me like no one ever has. That much has stayed the same, hasn’t it?”
June 22, 2016
4.5 - "Meet me under the cottonwood tree..." Stars!
It’s no secret that I am a huge fan of Laura Trentham’s writing, whether it be contemporary romance or historical fiction, she is an author that always manages to put a really engaging story together.
Kiss Me That Way is the first book in the new Cottonbloom series, in it we are introduced to the town of Cottonbloom that sits on the river; one side affluent the other not so much. The Fournettes sit firmly in the run-down part, whilst Monroe Kirby is on the other, however appearances are not always as they seem.
"Don’t fool yourself into thinking I’m nice. I wasn’t then, and I’m sure as hell not now."
Not that that ever made a difference to Monroe, as Cade Fournette was her hero as a child, the man-boy that scared away her demons, who then became the man who woke up her desires. But he left town before she ever had a chance to tell him that. But now he is back, and it seems the feelings of the past have firmly replanted themselves in the present.
I really enjoyed this second-chance love story. Cade is dealing with feelings of inadequacy and coming from the wrong side of the tracks initially still plays on his mind constantly when it comes to Monroe, even though to her their differences never really played a part in their friendship back then or in her attraction to him now. Laura built the sizzle between the two of them really well, and I liked that it wasn’t a rush to get to the bedroom.
"I’ll do it, but my crotch is strictly off limits."
There are a few giggles to be had, and the introduction to a few secondary characters which will likely play larger parts in the forthcoming books, all played out around a great love story.
"We are indefinable. We always have been."
Nash Hawthorne, also returns to Cottombloom in this book, his story and relationship with Tally Fournette is up next with Then He Kissed Me, due for release in June. Then we come to Sawyer Fournette, who has beef (and a past) with Regan Lovell, this is the book I am really interested to read, as to be honest, I struggled to like Regan in this one, so I am interested to see if the author manages to put her in a more likeable light, in Til I Kissed You, due for release in August. One thing is for sure Laura has set up my summer reading well with this series and I cannot wait to return to it.
"You’ll never find anywhere else like Cottonbloom."
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was as it always is my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
It’s no secret that I am a huge fan of Laura Trentham’s writing, whether it be contemporary romance or historical fiction, she is an author that always manages to put a really engaging story together.
Kiss Me That Way is the first book in the new Cottonbloom series, in it we are introduced to the town of Cottonbloom that sits on the river; one side affluent the other not so much. The Fournettes sit firmly in the run-down part, whilst Monroe Kirby is on the other, however appearances are not always as they seem.
"Don’t fool yourself into thinking I’m nice. I wasn’t then, and I’m sure as hell not now."
Not that that ever made a difference to Monroe, as Cade Fournette was her hero as a child, the man-boy that scared away her demons, who then became the man who woke up her desires. But he left town before she ever had a chance to tell him that. But now he is back, and it seems the feelings of the past have firmly replanted themselves in the present.
I really enjoyed this second-chance love story. Cade is dealing with feelings of inadequacy and coming from the wrong side of the tracks initially still plays on his mind constantly when it comes to Monroe, even though to her their differences never really played a part in their friendship back then or in her attraction to him now. Laura built the sizzle between the two of them really well, and I liked that it wasn’t a rush to get to the bedroom.
"I’ll do it, but my crotch is strictly off limits."
There are a few giggles to be had, and the introduction to a few secondary characters which will likely play larger parts in the forthcoming books, all played out around a great love story.
"We are indefinable. We always have been."
Nash Hawthorne, also returns to Cottombloom in this book, his story and relationship with Tally Fournette is up next with Then He Kissed Me, due for release in June. Then we come to Sawyer Fournette, who has beef (and a past) with Regan Lovell, this is the book I am really interested to read, as to be honest, I struggled to like Regan in this one, so I am interested to see if the author manages to put her in a more likeable light, in Til I Kissed You, due for release in August. One thing is for sure Laura has set up my summer reading well with this series and I cannot wait to return to it.
"You’ll never find anywhere else like Cottonbloom."
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was as it always is my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
February 23, 2019
3.5/5
This was my first read by this author so it was a completely new experience for me. I found myself drawn into the story after reading only the first few pages of it. I really did enjoy this decent, heart-warming love story between two old friends who came from completely different worlds.
What made this book really work for me was the heroine, Monroe. I liked her. I liked that she never denied herself the special feelings she had for Cade. She never played games with him. She was never afraid to show her desire for him. Even so, she didn’t try to go after him or throw herself at him, which was another good thing that made her very admirable, at least, in my eyes.
I enjoyed the pace of this book and although the plot was a bit predictable, I never got bored reading it. The romance aspect was ok for me. Not as sweet as expected, but it delighted me for the most part.
Overall, a good small-town romance read. I liked it!
This was my first read by this author so it was a completely new experience for me. I found myself drawn into the story after reading only the first few pages of it. I really did enjoy this decent, heart-warming love story between two old friends who came from completely different worlds.
What made this book really work for me was the heroine, Monroe. I liked her. I liked that she never denied herself the special feelings she had for Cade. She never played games with him. She was never afraid to show her desire for him. Even so, she didn’t try to go after him or throw herself at him, which was another good thing that made her very admirable, at least, in my eyes.
I enjoyed the pace of this book and although the plot was a bit predictable, I never got bored reading it. The romance aspect was ok for me. Not as sweet as expected, but it delighted me for the most part.
Overall, a good small-town romance read. I liked it!
June 20, 2017
4.5 Stars
The first installment in Laura Trentham’s new series is a touching and delightful story set in the middle of Cottonbloom, a small Southern town divided in two by the river : the wealthy Mississipi side and the poor Louisiana side.
Since the death of his parents, Cade Fournette lives with his younger brother and sister and their uncle in a trailer on the Louisiana side. His family is poor and he has to resort to poaching to feed them. One day, during his nightly activities, he meets Monroe Kirby, a young girl living with her mother on the Mississipi side of Cottonbloom. Terrified, she ran away from home after being molested by her mother’s boyfriend. Cade doesn’t hesitate to threaten the man to convince him to move out of town. Cade is a real knight in shining armor, protecting his younger siblings and Monroe. But he is forced to leave Cottonbloom, in search of a better future. Monroe has never forgotten him and still treasures the memory of their nights under the cottonwood tree.
Ten years later, Cade is finally back. A successful and ruthless entrepreneur owning an engine design company based in Seattle, his life is bigger and more exciting than anything Monroe could imagine. Cade has no intention of staying, but being around Monroe leaves him feeling off-balance. He is fascinated by her, she is honest, selfless and independent. During his absence, she has learned to protect herself.
Cade and Monroe complete each other perfectly. Circumstances have separated them, and they have been lonely for years. Now that they are reunited, their funny banter was delightful, their attraction intense. Both are confused by the storm of emotions they feel for each other. Their friendship is becoming so much more. But despite all his professional achievements, Cade still has feelings of inadequacy. Will he be brave enough to acknowledge that all he ever wanted or needed is still in Cottonbloom ?
Engaging characters, a beautiful story that kept me turning the pages, a perfect small town feel and flawless writing, this book has it all. So kudos to Laura Trentham for this new series and I’m glad Sawyer and Tally, Cade’s siblings, will get their own stories, because I wanted to stay in Cottonbloom for a longer time !
ARC kindly provided by publisher St. Martin's Press, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review
The first installment in Laura Trentham’s new series is a touching and delightful story set in the middle of Cottonbloom, a small Southern town divided in two by the river : the wealthy Mississipi side and the poor Louisiana side.
Since the death of his parents, Cade Fournette lives with his younger brother and sister and their uncle in a trailer on the Louisiana side. His family is poor and he has to resort to poaching to feed them. One day, during his nightly activities, he meets Monroe Kirby, a young girl living with her mother on the Mississipi side of Cottonbloom. Terrified, she ran away from home after being molested by her mother’s boyfriend. Cade doesn’t hesitate to threaten the man to convince him to move out of town. Cade is a real knight in shining armor, protecting his younger siblings and Monroe. But he is forced to leave Cottonbloom, in search of a better future. Monroe has never forgotten him and still treasures the memory of their nights under the cottonwood tree.
Ten years later, Cade is finally back. A successful and ruthless entrepreneur owning an engine design company based in Seattle, his life is bigger and more exciting than anything Monroe could imagine. Cade has no intention of staying, but being around Monroe leaves him feeling off-balance. He is fascinated by her, she is honest, selfless and independent. During his absence, she has learned to protect herself.
Cade and Monroe complete each other perfectly. Circumstances have separated them, and they have been lonely for years. Now that they are reunited, their funny banter was delightful, their attraction intense. Both are confused by the storm of emotions they feel for each other. Their friendship is becoming so much more. But despite all his professional achievements, Cade still has feelings of inadequacy. Will he be brave enough to acknowledge that all he ever wanted or needed is still in Cottonbloom ?
Engaging characters, a beautiful story that kept me turning the pages, a perfect small town feel and flawless writing, this book has it all. So kudos to Laura Trentham for this new series and I’m glad Sawyer and Tally, Cade’s siblings, will get their own stories, because I wanted to stay in Cottonbloom for a longer time !
ARC kindly provided by publisher St. Martin's Press, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review
June 14, 2016
4 stars!
Sweet, second chance romance!
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Sweet, second chance romance!
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
June 29, 2016
Cottonbloom is a small town split in two do to a river and money. One side is Mississippi where the people are comfortable to well off. The other side of the river is Louisiana where people are called swamp rats and tend to be lower income.
Normally I have a problem reading books where a child is molested. Thankfully one of the main characters Monroe Kirby only had to go through an attempted molestation one night. This night though forever changed her lifer. She met Cade Fournette who helped defend her and she ended up learning how to defend herself and teach other girls to do the same.
Now Cade has come home and the feelings she had for him have grown. While she helps him with his physical therapy they grow closer despite their differences. Cade is trying to reconnect with his family while Monroe is dealing with the man that tried to hurt her when she was a child.
As someone who lives just outside a small town in Texas I was very impressed with how this small town was portrayed. Even the dialog sound quite Southern in my head while I was reading it. I enjoyed the book I think that this is a wonderful beginning to a trilogy.
Normally I have a problem reading books where a child is molested. Thankfully one of the main characters Monroe Kirby only had to go through an attempted molestation one night. This night though forever changed her lifer. She met Cade Fournette who helped defend her and she ended up learning how to defend herself and teach other girls to do the same.
Now Cade has come home and the feelings she had for him have grown. While she helps him with his physical therapy they grow closer despite their differences. Cade is trying to reconnect with his family while Monroe is dealing with the man that tried to hurt her when she was a child.
As someone who lives just outside a small town in Texas I was very impressed with how this small town was portrayed. Even the dialog sound quite Southern in my head while I was reading it. I enjoyed the book I think that this is a wonderful beginning to a trilogy.
December 19, 2024
Kiss Me That Way by Laura Trentham
Cottonbloom series #1. Contemporary romance.
Cade Fournette is back home in Cottonbloom temporarily. Once the youngest of his orphaned siblings reached college age, he left town and didn’t look back. Unexpectedly, Cade is finding Cottonbloom much more accepting than it used to be and he’s reconnecting with his family. Surprisingly, he is also reconnecting with Monroe Kirby whom he saved one night when she was only thirteen.
Times have changed and so have the people. Cade has to decide if Cottonbloom can become home.
It’s not surprising that Monroe has learned to defend herself and it’s crappy what she went through. How can a mother simply walk away?
Heartbreaking but also a gorgeous romance or reconnecting, strength and courage. This author can pull in a reader completely.
Can’t wait to read the next two books that are waiting on my shelf.
Cottonbloom series #1. Contemporary romance.
Cade Fournette is back home in Cottonbloom temporarily. Once the youngest of his orphaned siblings reached college age, he left town and didn’t look back. Unexpectedly, Cade is finding Cottonbloom much more accepting than it used to be and he’s reconnecting with his family. Surprisingly, he is also reconnecting with Monroe Kirby whom he saved one night when she was only thirteen.
Times have changed and so have the people. Cade has to decide if Cottonbloom can become home.
It’s not surprising that Monroe has learned to defend herself and it’s crappy what she went through. How can a mother simply walk away?
Heartbreaking but also a gorgeous romance or reconnecting, strength and courage. This author can pull in a reader completely.
Can’t wait to read the next two books that are waiting on my shelf.
June 26, 2024
I truly enjoyed this book. The story is very well written, interesting and with a lot of charming characters that I think will be present in other books of this series.
The hero is the boy who saved the heroine when she was 13 and her mother’s boyfriend molested her. He’s some years older and from the wrong side of the river, while she’s rich but from a dysfunctional family, with an alcoholic mother who is unable to care for her.
They meet for some months during the full moon, then he stops coming. They don’t see anymore until many years later because he leaves the small town to become a successful and rich businessman.
Last time he saw her she was still a teenager and he was in his twenties so there was nothing between them, he simply admired her from afar.
He comes back to town to recover from an injury and she’s a pt so she helps him.
The attraction is explosive and they slowly fall in love. There’s a lot of social issues, because the small town people still won’t accept him and he has an inferiority complex as big as Nevada and he still thinks he’s not worthy of the heroine because in his past he did some things a bit shady, as stealing but nothing more. The heroine is some kind of town heroine with the savior complex that tries to save all the lil girls from assaulting men, and she ends more than once being hurt.
In the end of course the hero decides to stay with her in that damned lil town where he also has his family, his little siblings now adults that he cared for when his parents died.
Both characters were nice, the hero is a real hero and the heroine is kind too. They both have trauma in their past but have become better and not bitter.
Safety is good for me, none is a virgin and both are experienced. There was never anything sexual or romantic in their past, the heroine was too young and the hero saw her as a lil sister, thank for for that. Afterwards he left and never came back until 10 years later, so their story begins when they meet again as adults. The heroine didn’t pine for him even if she always adored him as a hero and the hero admired her as a teenager but that was all so to me celibacy wasn’t required. The hero never was in a relationship and she is his first. The heroine had boyfriends before but not mentioned In details.
There are a lot of issues because there’s child abuse, assault, alcoholic, neglect and more. I liked it, I think I will read other books from this author.
The hero is the boy who saved the heroine when she was 13 and her mother’s boyfriend molested her. He’s some years older and from the wrong side of the river, while she’s rich but from a dysfunctional family, with an alcoholic mother who is unable to care for her.
They meet for some months during the full moon, then he stops coming. They don’t see anymore until many years later because he leaves the small town to become a successful and rich businessman.
Last time he saw her she was still a teenager and he was in his twenties so there was nothing between them, he simply admired her from afar.
He comes back to town to recover from an injury and she’s a pt so she helps him.
The attraction is explosive and they slowly fall in love. There’s a lot of social issues, because the small town people still won’t accept him and he has an inferiority complex as big as Nevada and he still thinks he’s not worthy of the heroine because in his past he did some things a bit shady, as stealing but nothing more. The heroine is some kind of town heroine with the savior complex that tries to save all the lil girls from assaulting men, and she ends more than once being hurt.
In the end of course the hero decides to stay with her in that damned lil town where he also has his family, his little siblings now adults that he cared for when his parents died.
Both characters were nice, the hero is a real hero and the heroine is kind too. They both have trauma in their past but have become better and not bitter.
Safety is good for me, none is a virgin and both are experienced. There was never anything sexual or romantic in their past, the heroine was too young and the hero saw her as a lil sister, thank for for that. Afterwards he left and never came back until 10 years later, so their story begins when they meet again as adults. The heroine didn’t pine for him even if she always adored him as a hero and the hero admired her as a teenager but that was all so to me celibacy wasn’t required. The hero never was in a relationship and she is his first. The heroine had boyfriends before but not mentioned In details.
There are a lot of issues because there’s child abuse, assault, alcoholic, neglect and more. I liked it, I think I will read other books from this author.
June 5, 2016
ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review
There is something about small town romance that has a way of capturing my heart. Maybe it’s the simplicity of the story, the raw heart-tugging emotions, or maybe it’s Laura Trentham beautiful prose. Well, it was all of the above.
Kiss Me That Way by Laura Trentham simply stole my heart. This book made my heart flutter and left a big smile on face. This is a story where a man, who grew up on the wrong side of the tracks or in this case a river, realize that his worth is not defined by monetary but by the unconditional love that he has from his family, friends, and most importantly the girl he left behind.
Cade Fournette grew up taking on the responsibility of taking care of his younger siblings when their parents died. He sacrificed his youth in order to keep his family together. And when Cade strikes a friendship with Monroe Kirby, the girl from the right side of the river, he knew his heart will always belong to her.
Monroe Kirby may have grew up on the right side of the river where money and social status are held in high regards, but her home life is nothing but perfect. And so when a young 13 year old girl befriends a 17 year old Cade, she knew without a doubt he was her hero. Fast forward to ten years later, Cade Fournette returns back home and this time he comes face to face with Monroe. Will Monroe Kirby be able to show Cade that he is worthy of love, respect, and most importantly her love? Ten years ago, Cade save Monroe and now it is up to Monroe Kirby to save the man she loves and free him from his emotional burden and insecurities. Or will Cade let his fears be his downfall?
Kiss Me That Way is a love story that is full of heart, honesty, vulnerability and compassion. This is a love story where love is pure. It is a story where labels doesn’t define your worth. This is a story where emotions runs deep and love transcends time and social status. So if you are looking for a love story that is brimming with beauty, second chances, and passion then I highly recommend you to read this book.
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...Laura Trentham
There is something about small town romance that has a way of capturing my heart. Maybe it’s the simplicity of the story, the raw heart-tugging emotions, or maybe it’s Laura Trentham beautiful prose. Well, it was all of the above.
Kiss Me That Way by Laura Trentham simply stole my heart. This book made my heart flutter and left a big smile on face. This is a story where a man, who grew up on the wrong side of the tracks or in this case a river, realize that his worth is not defined by monetary but by the unconditional love that he has from his family, friends, and most importantly the girl he left behind.
Cade Fournette grew up taking on the responsibility of taking care of his younger siblings when their parents died. He sacrificed his youth in order to keep his family together. And when Cade strikes a friendship with Monroe Kirby, the girl from the right side of the river, he knew his heart will always belong to her.
Monroe Kirby may have grew up on the right side of the river where money and social status are held in high regards, but her home life is nothing but perfect. And so when a young 13 year old girl befriends a 17 year old Cade, she knew without a doubt he was her hero. Fast forward to ten years later, Cade Fournette returns back home and this time he comes face to face with Monroe. Will Monroe Kirby be able to show Cade that he is worthy of love, respect, and most importantly her love? Ten years ago, Cade save Monroe and now it is up to Monroe Kirby to save the man she loves and free him from his emotional burden and insecurities. Or will Cade let his fears be his downfall?
Kiss Me That Way is a love story that is full of heart, honesty, vulnerability and compassion. This is a love story where love is pure. It is a story where labels doesn’t define your worth. This is a story where emotions runs deep and love transcends time and social status. So if you are looking for a love story that is brimming with beauty, second chances, and passion then I highly recommend you to read this book.
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...Laura Trentham
May 27, 2016
They were divided by a river and the small minds and hearts of a town that straddled two states, but love built a bond that knows no boundaries. Cade lived on the poor side of town, forced to leave school and his dreams behind to do whatever was necessary to raise his younger siblings when he parents died.
As a child, young Monroe ran for her life and away from the horrific advances of her mother’s lover. The only person to protect her was Cade, a teen with the weight of the world already on his shoulders, and for years they met to share their lives as they grew older. When Cade disappeared, no warning, no notice and took a piece of Monroe’s heart with him, their lives went on with the march of time.
Cade has come home, a different man, a man who drove himself to succeed, a man still trying to prove he was not trash, even though he could now buy and sell the town who looked down on him. Now Monroe must deal with the damaged man with the brittle edges who still holds her heart in his hands. Has time and circumstance created a tear in the bond they had shared or will they find the magic of love against the odds?
Kiss Me That Way by Laura Trentham is a sweet romance that takes a well -traveled path and creates all of the warmth and tension of two lovers fighting their way back to each other. Romance with heart that makes for a light read and a few happy sighs.
I received an ARC edition from St. Martin's Paperbacks in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Cottonbloom - Book 1
Publisher: St. Martin's Paperbacks
Publication Date: May 31, 2016
ISBN-10: 125007763X
ISBN-13: 978-1250077639
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Number of Pages: 352
Available from: iTunes | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
As a child, young Monroe ran for her life and away from the horrific advances of her mother’s lover. The only person to protect her was Cade, a teen with the weight of the world already on his shoulders, and for years they met to share their lives as they grew older. When Cade disappeared, no warning, no notice and took a piece of Monroe’s heart with him, their lives went on with the march of time.
Cade has come home, a different man, a man who drove himself to succeed, a man still trying to prove he was not trash, even though he could now buy and sell the town who looked down on him. Now Monroe must deal with the damaged man with the brittle edges who still holds her heart in his hands. Has time and circumstance created a tear in the bond they had shared or will they find the magic of love against the odds?
Kiss Me That Way by Laura Trentham is a sweet romance that takes a well -traveled path and creates all of the warmth and tension of two lovers fighting their way back to each other. Romance with heart that makes for a light read and a few happy sighs.
I received an ARC edition from St. Martin's Paperbacks in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Cottonbloom - Book 1
Publisher: St. Martin's Paperbacks
Publication Date: May 31, 2016
ISBN-10: 125007763X
ISBN-13: 978-1250077639
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Number of Pages: 352
Available from: iTunes | Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
May 20, 2016
Offering me all I could want from a romantic read, Kiss Me That Way is a strong start to Laura Trentham’s Cottonbloom series.
"You left Cottonbloom without telling me. Without saying good-bye. I want to know why."
Being a new author to me, I went into this with few expectations. And Laura Trentham delivered; with an engaging writing style, she brings her reader an endearing cast of characters, a beautiful setting and a story of two individuals from very different backgrounds, reacquainting and discovering their feelings haven’t changed over the years.
This story fits a lot in along the way and smaller side stories are woven in, introducing us to characters, their histories, their relationships and setting the scene for future books whilst at the same time adding depth to Monroe and Cade's blossoming romance. And with a natural chemistry this couple embark on a journey of discovery in every sense of the word.
"Cade Fournette, if you come one inch closer I might throw you over the kitchen table and take wild advantage of you."
Had it not been for the fact that Cade frustrated a little bit with his hero-complex, this would have been a five-star for me: Monroe was more than capable of handling herself without him wading in to her rescue which he did a couple of times too often in my opinion. But with the romance, the humour, the banter and passion, it was a great read and I’m excited to see what Tally and Sawyer's stories hold in store, when Then He Kissed Me and Till I Kissed You release later this year.
Copy received courtesy of St. Martin's Press via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
"You left Cottonbloom without telling me. Without saying good-bye. I want to know why."
Being a new author to me, I went into this with few expectations. And Laura Trentham delivered; with an engaging writing style, she brings her reader an endearing cast of characters, a beautiful setting and a story of two individuals from very different backgrounds, reacquainting and discovering their feelings haven’t changed over the years.
This story fits a lot in along the way and smaller side stories are woven in, introducing us to characters, their histories, their relationships and setting the scene for future books whilst at the same time adding depth to Monroe and Cade's blossoming romance. And with a natural chemistry this couple embark on a journey of discovery in every sense of the word.
"Cade Fournette, if you come one inch closer I might throw you over the kitchen table and take wild advantage of you."
Had it not been for the fact that Cade frustrated a little bit with his hero-complex, this would have been a five-star for me: Monroe was more than capable of handling herself without him wading in to her rescue which he did a couple of times too often in my opinion. But with the romance, the humour, the banter and passion, it was a great read and I’m excited to see what Tally and Sawyer's stories hold in store, when Then He Kissed Me and Till I Kissed You release later this year.
Copy received courtesy of St. Martin's Press via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
August 22, 2016
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 STARS ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Small town romances. Are you drawn to them like I am? I think it was Jill Shalvis who gave me the virus. I remember loving her Lucky Harbor series so much. You know why? Because it truly felt like living inside the book with all its characters. A real happy place.
And this is exactly why I loved Kiss Me That Way by Laura Trentham so much. She managed to capture the small town feel to perfection. And it doesn’t matter that I’ve never set a foot in Louisiana or Mississippi. I can tell by all the little details, the way she has to describe the light, the smell, the humidity of a southern small town, the walks along the river, the secondary characters… It all felt so genuine. I was charmed from the very first pages, and fell in love with this place, with this book. My happy place!
Kiss Me That Way is the first book in the Cottonbloom series and it gripped me from the very first page. I love second chances at love stories and with a start like this, having a peek in the past of both our heroes, I knew I was in for a treat. Kiss Me That Way promised just then to be everything I love a good romance story to be, some unrequited love, second chance at love all wrapped in a small town setting reunion 10 years later.
What more is there to ask?
Oh wait, the author if you’re new to her, has a gift to bring fictional characters to life. She gives so much details, so much flaws and so much care into character’s development, that she literally inflates life into them. And that’s pretty much the most important thing for me in my books. I need a dose of realism even though I’m reading fiction. It’s that thread of realism that makes me able to relate and immerse myself in a book. And let me just say that Laura Trentham does a hell of a good job a it.
Let’s chat about the story!
Told in a dual POV, Kiss Me That Way tells the story of Cade Fournette, unfortunately born on the Louisiana side of the river, and Monroe Kirby, the golden kid from the Mississippi side.
By one fateful night Monroe Kirby is going to meet the boy from the wrong side of town, Cade Fournette. And it’s no matter to Monroe that the Fournettes have the reputation to be no more than swamp rats nor it is that Cade is 17 to her 13 years old. What matters to her is that he was the one saving her that night her mother’s new boyfriend tried to molest her. She’s going to grow the infatuation she has for Cade through the years, until that day Cade leaves town suddenly without even saying goodbye. Short of ever discovering if her feelings could have been returned, Monroe is forced to forget about the man from the other side of the tracks.
Fast forward 10 years later, Monroe is a successful grown up woman, working as a physical therapist in Cottonbloom and as well giving self-defense classes to the women of the community.
I loved Monroe! She was definitely an heroine I could identify myself to. I loved her sass, loved that she wasn’t one to stop at first appearances or give importance to hear-says. She is this strong young woman, growing and upraising herself from a bad experience while trying to give back o the community.
Cade Fournette is back to Cottonbloom after 10 years due to an injury. His brother Sawyer arranged for him to be back in his hometwown to get some rest and the services of a physical therapist. He is not too pleased to be back, all this only serves to unearth too many memories, most of which he’d prefer to stay buried. Especially those few light hearted nights spent with that young Monroe Kirby ten years earlier…
I adored Cade Fournette. Latest addition to my book husband palmarès! He was close to perfection to me. Strong and down to earth type of hero, alpha but not over the top. Capable, protective, rough around the edges, sweet and sexy at the same time. There’s nothing more appealing than a real man and Cade Fournette was definitely ALL man.
Both of them shared great banter exchanges as well as a slow building tension, and I for one loved that the author took her time reuniting those two! It made it all the more powerful in my opinion, all the little jabs and sparks between them served a purpose and damn but the reunion was explosive!
Sexual chemistry? Off the roofs! We are not talking smut here, but the sex scenes were more than hot and perfectly written, with impeccable balance between steam and emotions, rightly in tune with the character’s feelings.
Kiss Me that Way was a sublime mix of sweet and slow burn romance, great banter, sexual tension and chemistry ( that delivers!) and perfect southern setting. Once I started I just couldn’t stop, and you’ll understand within the first pages how easy and addictive Laura Trentham's prose is.
I loved the attention given to introduce all the secondary characters, Tally, Nash, Sawyer and Reagan, Miss Lorna, Uncle Delmar… It felt as if I was part of the story somehow, knowing all the people of Cottonbloom.
All the books in the Cottonbloom series read as perfect standalones, I loved all three and would recommend them to any reader in search for a happy place with a thing for small town romances!
More reviews and book talk at :
You can find me here too ☞
“I could take you right here, right now, with all the Tarwaters and all of crazy Cottonbloom a few rooms away. And I’d make it good, Monroe. I’d make your body sing. I’d make you beg before giving you everything you need. Then, you could walk back out into that damn party like nothing happened. No one would know the things you want to do in the dark with a poor, dirty boy from Louisiana.”
Small town romances. Are you drawn to them like I am? I think it was Jill Shalvis who gave me the virus. I remember loving her Lucky Harbor series so much. You know why? Because it truly felt like living inside the book with all its characters. A real happy place.
And this is exactly why I loved Kiss Me That Way by Laura Trentham so much. She managed to capture the small town feel to perfection. And it doesn’t matter that I’ve never set a foot in Louisiana or Mississippi. I can tell by all the little details, the way she has to describe the light, the smell, the humidity of a southern small town, the walks along the river, the secondary characters… It all felt so genuine. I was charmed from the very first pages, and fell in love with this place, with this book. My happy place!
Kiss Me That Way is the first book in the Cottonbloom series and it gripped me from the very first page. I love second chances at love stories and with a start like this, having a peek in the past of both our heroes, I knew I was in for a treat. Kiss Me That Way promised just then to be everything I love a good romance story to be, some unrequited love, second chance at love all wrapped in a small town setting reunion 10 years later.
What more is there to ask?
Oh wait, the author if you’re new to her, has a gift to bring fictional characters to life. She gives so much details, so much flaws and so much care into character’s development, that she literally inflates life into them. And that’s pretty much the most important thing for me in my books. I need a dose of realism even though I’m reading fiction. It’s that thread of realism that makes me able to relate and immerse myself in a book. And let me just say that Laura Trentham does a hell of a good job a it.
Let’s chat about the story!
Told in a dual POV, Kiss Me That Way tells the story of Cade Fournette, unfortunately born on the Louisiana side of the river, and Monroe Kirby, the golden kid from the Mississippi side.
By one fateful night Monroe Kirby is going to meet the boy from the wrong side of town, Cade Fournette. And it’s no matter to Monroe that the Fournettes have the reputation to be no more than swamp rats nor it is that Cade is 17 to her 13 years old. What matters to her is that he was the one saving her that night her mother’s new boyfriend tried to molest her. She’s going to grow the infatuation she has for Cade through the years, until that day Cade leaves town suddenly without even saying goodbye. Short of ever discovering if her feelings could have been returned, Monroe is forced to forget about the man from the other side of the tracks.
Fast forward 10 years later, Monroe is a successful grown up woman, working as a physical therapist in Cottonbloom and as well giving self-defense classes to the women of the community.
I loved Monroe! She was definitely an heroine I could identify myself to. I loved her sass, loved that she wasn’t one to stop at first appearances or give importance to hear-says. She is this strong young woman, growing and upraising herself from a bad experience while trying to give back o the community.
Cade Fournette is back to Cottonbloom after 10 years due to an injury. His brother Sawyer arranged for him to be back in his hometwown to get some rest and the services of a physical therapist. He is not too pleased to be back, all this only serves to unearth too many memories, most of which he’d prefer to stay buried. Especially those few light hearted nights spent with that young Monroe Kirby ten years earlier…
“- I grew up fast and tough.”
“- You were nice to me.”
“- Don’t fool yourself into thinking I’m nice. I wasn’t then, and I’m sure as hell not now.”
He pulled her braid, forcing her toward him, she didn’t fight him. He dropped his face next to hers, his coarse beard hair caressing her cheek, his mouth close to her ear. “ If I see something I want, I go after it and get it by any means necessary.”
I adored Cade Fournette. Latest addition to my book husband palmarès! He was close to perfection to me. Strong and down to earth type of hero, alpha but not over the top. Capable, protective, rough around the edges, sweet and sexy at the same time. There’s nothing more appealing than a real man and Cade Fournette was definitely ALL man.
“Her husky, sexy as hell near whisper shot through him lie lightning, setting all his muscles at alert. Was she flirting? Was he? And why the confirmation of her single status settled like a ball of warmth in his chest? What did it matter?
“ -You lied to me. You are wearing underwear.
-No. I said, ‘What if I’m not wearing underwear?’ And you shouldn’t be peeking. It’s shockingly unprofessional, Miss Kirby.”
Both of them shared great banter exchanges as well as a slow building tension, and I for one loved that the author took her time reuniting those two! It made it all the more powerful in my opinion, all the little jabs and sparks between them served a purpose and damn but the reunion was explosive!
“She brushed her lips against his. The hand in her hair clamped tighter, holding her in place. The slight tug sent pleasure to every nerve in her body.
– ‘What are we doing?’ His lips moved against hers.
– ‘I’m trying to kiss you, and you’re sitting here like a bump on a log.’ ”
Sexual chemistry? Off the roofs! We are not talking smut here, but the sex scenes were more than hot and perfectly written, with impeccable balance between steam and emotions, rightly in tune with the character’s feelings.
“His gentleness only threw tinder on the fire, making her frantic for more. More of his mouth on hers, his hands on her body, his body over hers, easing her ache. More of everything.”
Kiss Me that Way was a sublime mix of sweet and slow burn romance, great banter, sexual tension and chemistry ( that delivers!) and perfect southern setting. Once I started I just couldn’t stop, and you’ll understand within the first pages how easy and addictive Laura Trentham's prose is.
I loved the attention given to introduce all the secondary characters, Tally, Nash, Sawyer and Reagan, Miss Lorna, Uncle Delmar… It felt as if I was part of the story somehow, knowing all the people of Cottonbloom.
All the books in the Cottonbloom series read as perfect standalones, I loved all three and would recommend them to any reader in search for a happy place with a thing for small town romances!
More reviews and book talk at :
You can find me here too ☞
November 6, 2025
Somethings are just worth fighting for.
Monroe Kirby was from the rich side of the river. When her mother’s boyfriend makes inappropriate advances toward the young teen, Monroe she escapes to the river bank where she is saved by Cade Fournette.
Cade is a young man, who had to drop out of high school, to provide for his siblings after a deadly car crash kills his parents. Desperate times cause Cade to resort to poaching to survive. One night on a crawfish poaching run, Cade finds a scared young girl in his boat, Monroe. Monroe ignites all his protective instincts. After a heart felt talk, Cade promised to protect Monroe from her mother’s boyfriend and does.
As Monroe matures, she dreams that someday Cade will be hers. But Cade just sees her with sister like googles.
Soon after Monroe graduates, Cade disappears from Cottonbloom. Monroe still has contact with Cade’s sister but now that his sister is grown Cade moves to the west coast to pursue his own dreams.
An unexpected fall over a cliff, a trip back to Cottonbloom and an emergency visit to see a physical therapist reunite Cade and Monroe. Monroe just happens to be the physical therapist called into treat Cade. The chemistry Monroe has always felt starts to burn in Cade.
Emotional scars and life choices work against Monroe and Cade but some things are just worth fighting for…
Wonderfully sweet, Kiss Me That Way is a touching story that deals with emotional scars as well as difficult topics including abuse and the people strong enough to fight them.
Kiss Me That Way is a perfect pick for the hometown loving, contemporary romance fan.
I received this ARC copy of Kiss Me That Way from St. Martin’s Press in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication May 31, 2016.
Monroe Kirby was from the rich side of the river. When her mother’s boyfriend makes inappropriate advances toward the young teen, Monroe she escapes to the river bank where she is saved by Cade Fournette.
Cade is a young man, who had to drop out of high school, to provide for his siblings after a deadly car crash kills his parents. Desperate times cause Cade to resort to poaching to survive. One night on a crawfish poaching run, Cade finds a scared young girl in his boat, Monroe. Monroe ignites all his protective instincts. After a heart felt talk, Cade promised to protect Monroe from her mother’s boyfriend and does.
As Monroe matures, she dreams that someday Cade will be hers. But Cade just sees her with sister like googles.
Soon after Monroe graduates, Cade disappears from Cottonbloom. Monroe still has contact with Cade’s sister but now that his sister is grown Cade moves to the west coast to pursue his own dreams.
An unexpected fall over a cliff, a trip back to Cottonbloom and an emergency visit to see a physical therapist reunite Cade and Monroe. Monroe just happens to be the physical therapist called into treat Cade. The chemistry Monroe has always felt starts to burn in Cade.
Emotional scars and life choices work against Monroe and Cade but some things are just worth fighting for…
Wonderfully sweet, Kiss Me That Way is a touching story that deals with emotional scars as well as difficult topics including abuse and the people strong enough to fight them.
Kiss Me That Way is a perfect pick for the hometown loving, contemporary romance fan.
I received this ARC copy of Kiss Me That Way from St. Martin’s Press in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication May 31, 2016.
August 1, 2017
"Bravery is about doing something even though it scares you.”
This is one of my first surprise reads of 2016. I loved this book it had all the elements I love in a book.
Sometimes I have the knack of requesting books and when I do get them a couple of weeks later I wonder then why I requested the book. This occurred here as well but hey I read it and I frigging loved it.
Two states, one town split between them for reasons unknown. Cottonbloom, Mississippi & Cottonbloom, Louisiana. A quirky town which I love. But a quirky town where both sides are competition for one another? Even better.
Cade Fournette has a chip of his shoulder the size of Texas. He came from the wrong side of the tracks in this case the Louisiana side, the swamp rat side. His became an orphan. Along with the crazy uncle he looked after his younger brother Sawyer and sister Tally. Cade had it tough and sacrificed a lot to keep his family fed and out of the foster homes.
Monroe Kirby grew up on the right side of the tracks in this case the Mississippi side of Cottonbloom. Appearances can be deceiving after her father left and her alcoholic mum things were tough.
That is until one fateful night. A young Cade and Monroe cross paths although they shouldn’t. A friendship of sorts is born. They went their separate ways until something beautiful could have blossomed.
Fast forward – they are both grown up and the feelings are still there.
After an accident his brother Sawyer drags him back home from Seattle to recuperate with the help of a PT, enter Monroe. Even right from the beginning there was banter.
“Can you fix me?” “According to Tally, you’re a hermit curmudgeon who is humorless and insufferable. In short, unfixable.”
Their relationship progresses naturally and there is no instalove which is refreshing. A feel good, engaging romance story from a very talented author who kept me thoroughly entertained throughout the whole book. He tries to convince himself that he will leave but not really believing it himself. Choices are made and happily ever after are there.
“I’ve loved you since I was thirteen. Three days won’t change that. Nothing will.”
This had a pinch of everything and the dose of each ingredient was spot on. There were hot scenes, great chemistry between the main characters. Banter and funny moments all the way throughout the books. A dose of sweet and spicy.
There were two things that bothered me, one was I would have liked to have seen that Monroe’s mum went to rehab especially after admitting that she is an alcoholic. And two Cade’s chip on his shoulder it could have been slightly smaller. That is why I can’t give it 5 stars and only 4 stars.
I can’t wait for Tally’s and Nash’s book and although I don’t like second chance romances I will read Regan’s and Sawyers book as well.
Please think of me when it comes to the next one Ms. Trentham.
Review can also be found at http://jerisbookattic-reviewblog.blog...
This is one of my first surprise reads of 2016. I loved this book it had all the elements I love in a book.
Sometimes I have the knack of requesting books and when I do get them a couple of weeks later I wonder then why I requested the book. This occurred here as well but hey I read it and I frigging loved it.
Two states, one town split between them for reasons unknown. Cottonbloom, Mississippi & Cottonbloom, Louisiana. A quirky town which I love. But a quirky town where both sides are competition for one another? Even better.
Cade Fournette has a chip of his shoulder the size of Texas. He came from the wrong side of the tracks in this case the Louisiana side, the swamp rat side. His became an orphan. Along with the crazy uncle he looked after his younger brother Sawyer and sister Tally. Cade had it tough and sacrificed a lot to keep his family fed and out of the foster homes.
Monroe Kirby grew up on the right side of the tracks in this case the Mississippi side of Cottonbloom. Appearances can be deceiving after her father left and her alcoholic mum things were tough.
That is until one fateful night. A young Cade and Monroe cross paths although they shouldn’t. A friendship of sorts is born. They went their separate ways until something beautiful could have blossomed.
Fast forward – they are both grown up and the feelings are still there.
After an accident his brother Sawyer drags him back home from Seattle to recuperate with the help of a PT, enter Monroe. Even right from the beginning there was banter.
“Can you fix me?” “According to Tally, you’re a hermit curmudgeon who is humorless and insufferable. In short, unfixable.”
Their relationship progresses naturally and there is no instalove which is refreshing. A feel good, engaging romance story from a very talented author who kept me thoroughly entertained throughout the whole book. He tries to convince himself that he will leave but not really believing it himself. Choices are made and happily ever after are there.
“I’ve loved you since I was thirteen. Three days won’t change that. Nothing will.”
This had a pinch of everything and the dose of each ingredient was spot on. There were hot scenes, great chemistry between the main characters. Banter and funny moments all the way throughout the books. A dose of sweet and spicy.
There were two things that bothered me, one was I would have liked to have seen that Monroe’s mum went to rehab especially after admitting that she is an alcoholic. And two Cade’s chip on his shoulder it could have been slightly smaller. That is why I can’t give it 5 stars and only 4 stars.
I can’t wait for Tally’s and Nash’s book and although I don’t like second chance romances I will read Regan’s and Sawyers book as well.
Please think of me when it comes to the next one Ms. Trentham.
Review can also be found at http://jerisbookattic-reviewblog.blog...
November 11, 2019
4 "Hard to forget a damsel in distress on a hot September night." Stars
I really enjoyed this book. Contemporary, slow burn romance that takes the trope of bad boy/good girl and turns it completely on it's head. Trentham's writing draws into her characters and their lives exquisitely and holds you there from beginning to end. Cade and Monroe dance around each other after not having seen one another for ten years in a well executed slow burn tango that leaves you rooting for them both. The capers of their secondary characters lend humor to their witty banter. I look forward to more small town romance in the Cottonbloom stories.
I really enjoyed this book. Contemporary, slow burn romance that takes the trope of bad boy/good girl and turns it completely on it's head. Trentham's writing draws into her characters and their lives exquisitely and holds you there from beginning to end. Cade and Monroe dance around each other after not having seen one another for ten years in a well executed slow burn tango that leaves you rooting for them both. The capers of their secondary characters lend humor to their witty banter. I look forward to more small town romance in the Cottonbloom stories.
July 19, 2017
This was a cute small town romance. It dealt with loss of family, self discovery and not giving up hope. Like usual, I ended up reading book 2 (which I loved!) and book 3 before ever getting a hold of this one. That being said, I loved that I made it full circle and the POV from Cade and Monroe clicked the whole series into place. It was a nice introduction to the unique little town of Cottonbloom. I really enjoy this author’s storytelling, the characters aren’t one dimensional but complex and intricate. Kiss Me That Way was a bit more solemn than the others in the series (that I’ve read so far!) but it fit the characters. Cade and Monroe dealt with heavier issues that colored their perceptions and altered their characters in ways we don’t get from the other couples.
Still it left a positive impression on me and now I feel a re-read coming on for Nash and Tally :)
Short Summary:
Cade left small town Cottonbloom under circumstances that left shame and regret buried deep. Atoning for his mistakes has cost him his home and his family.
Now that he is back all those repressed emotions rise to the surface.
Too busy trying to be friend, brother and father to his two younger siblings left Cade stretched thin. No one quiet understood the sacrifice and hardships he went through to keep his family together. Until he met Monroe.
Monroe might live on the Mississippi part of Cottonbloom and being younger than Cade, but one fateful night both cross paths and their lives are changed forever.
Several years have passed since Cade rescued Monroe but their deep understanding of each other hasn’t changed. Now it’s time for Monroe to save Cade, if he sticks around long enough.
What I loved about it:
I love how seamlessly these two reconnected after being apart for so long. I wouldn’t say it was a second chance romance since they parted as friends. Nothing romantic ever developed between them but they were essentially best friends. That past connection is what their new relationship is based on. It cemented the fact that they belonged together and I loved that they came full circle.
What I didn't like:
I think a little drama spices up the story. Its finding the right balance that can drag it down and ultimately ruin it for me.
So when Cade plays the push/pull card one too many times, I felt like banging my head against a wall. Luckily Monroe wasn’t a push over and in the end I kind of liked that Cade’s actions emphasized how strong Monroe was.
The other thing I felt needed more closure was the creep from Monroe’s past. Ugh! Call me vindictive but I wanted to know what ultimately happens to him.
Favorite Line(s):
“Dammit, I know that in here-“, he tapped his temple “-But something happens in here-“ he splayed a hand over his white shirt “-When I sense something is wrong. I can’t seem to stop myself from charging in. I’d rather have you mad as hell at me, than see you hurt when there’s something I could do to prevent it.”
I loved that whole scene. It is 100% Cade. He is the type that can’t help but play hero. It’s ingrained in him to come to the rescue. Loved that about him!
“I’m not the same boy who came to your rescue.”
“I’m not the same girl who needs rescue.”
Cade and Monroe, being Cade and Monroe!
SAFETY
Still it left a positive impression on me and now I feel a re-read coming on for Nash and Tally :)
Short Summary:
Cade left small town Cottonbloom under circumstances that left shame and regret buried deep. Atoning for his mistakes has cost him his home and his family.
Now that he is back all those repressed emotions rise to the surface.
Too busy trying to be friend, brother and father to his two younger siblings left Cade stretched thin. No one quiet understood the sacrifice and hardships he went through to keep his family together. Until he met Monroe.
Monroe might live on the Mississippi part of Cottonbloom and being younger than Cade, but one fateful night both cross paths and their lives are changed forever.
Several years have passed since Cade rescued Monroe but their deep understanding of each other hasn’t changed. Now it’s time for Monroe to save Cade, if he sticks around long enough.
What I loved about it:
I love how seamlessly these two reconnected after being apart for so long. I wouldn’t say it was a second chance romance since they parted as friends. Nothing romantic ever developed between them but they were essentially best friends. That past connection is what their new relationship is based on. It cemented the fact that they belonged together and I loved that they came full circle.
What I didn't like:
I think a little drama spices up the story. Its finding the right balance that can drag it down and ultimately ruin it for me.
So when Cade plays the push/pull card one too many times, I felt like banging my head against a wall. Luckily Monroe wasn’t a push over and in the end I kind of liked that Cade’s actions emphasized how strong Monroe was.
The other thing I felt needed more closure was the creep from Monroe’s past. Ugh! Call me vindictive but I wanted to know what ultimately happens to him.
Favorite Line(s):
“Dammit, I know that in here-“, he tapped his temple “-But something happens in here-“ he splayed a hand over his white shirt “-When I sense something is wrong. I can’t seem to stop myself from charging in. I’d rather have you mad as hell at me, than see you hurt when there’s something I could do to prevent it.”
I loved that whole scene. It is 100% Cade. He is the type that can’t help but play hero. It’s ingrained in him to come to the rescue. Loved that about him!
“I’m not the same boy who came to your rescue.”
“I’m not the same girl who needs rescue.”
Cade and Monroe, being Cade and Monroe!
SAFETY
May 31, 2016
KISS ME THAT WAY is intense, sweet and appealing as only small town romance can be, with a complicated tangle of drama, emotions and secrets as well as characters that draw the reader into their journey but there is also a lot of humor to temper the emotional moments and I found myself laughing out loud at some of those funny moments.
Cade Fournette and Monroe Kirby forged a secret friendship the night he saved a thirteen year old girl from a terrible fate, a friendship that became more for her, but he left Cottonbloom as soon as he could without giving her a chance to tell him how she felt, not that it would have done any good. What did a rich little girl and a boy from the wrong side of the tracks have in common? The river that divided Cottonbloom in two and marked the boundary line between Mississippi and Louisiana also served as a line between the haves and the have nots.
Now Cade is back home after a long time away and the dormant emotions between them have returned, but Cade still struggles with his feelings of inadequacy and shame from the difficulties he went through trying to keep his siblings together after they lost their parents, never mind that he has become a very successful entrepreneur with the ability to buy and sell the small town that considered him white trash.
Cade and Monroe have to deal with disapproving old timers who still consider Cade a swamp rat and not good enough for a woman from the right side of town, but their biggest obstacle is Cade. Will he let the memories of the past destroy their present? Will he be able to resolve his personal conflict between the boy he was and the man he has become or will he let the prejudices of the past define who he is?
I really enjoyed this book and the growth the characters experienced. I especially liked Monroe because her past experiences shaped the woman she had become and drove many of her choices in life, in a good way. Cade was an emotional minefield with all those feelings roiling inside of him, but when it came to Monroe, he was very clearheaded and knew that she was worth fighting for.
While there are some tough issues dealt with in this book, there is a fun cast of secondary characters as well as lots of hilarious moments and honestly, anyone who grew up in a small town will find something to relate to in this story. KISS ME THIS WAY is a really great start to this series and I'm looking forward to what promises to be explosive follow-ups to it.
Disclaimer: I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
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Cade Fournette and Monroe Kirby forged a secret friendship the night he saved a thirteen year old girl from a terrible fate, a friendship that became more for her, but he left Cottonbloom as soon as he could without giving her a chance to tell him how she felt, not that it would have done any good. What did a rich little girl and a boy from the wrong side of the tracks have in common? The river that divided Cottonbloom in two and marked the boundary line between Mississippi and Louisiana also served as a line between the haves and the have nots.
Now Cade is back home after a long time away and the dormant emotions between them have returned, but Cade still struggles with his feelings of inadequacy and shame from the difficulties he went through trying to keep his siblings together after they lost their parents, never mind that he has become a very successful entrepreneur with the ability to buy and sell the small town that considered him white trash.
Cade and Monroe have to deal with disapproving old timers who still consider Cade a swamp rat and not good enough for a woman from the right side of town, but their biggest obstacle is Cade. Will he let the memories of the past destroy their present? Will he be able to resolve his personal conflict between the boy he was and the man he has become or will he let the prejudices of the past define who he is?
I really enjoyed this book and the growth the characters experienced. I especially liked Monroe because her past experiences shaped the woman she had become and drove many of her choices in life, in a good way. Cade was an emotional minefield with all those feelings roiling inside of him, but when it came to Monroe, he was very clearheaded and knew that she was worth fighting for.
While there are some tough issues dealt with in this book, there is a fun cast of secondary characters as well as lots of hilarious moments and honestly, anyone who grew up in a small town will find something to relate to in this story. KISS ME THIS WAY is a really great start to this series and I'm looking forward to what promises to be explosive follow-ups to it.
Disclaimer: I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
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June 7, 2016
Thirteen year old Monroe Kirby sneaked out of her house one night when her mother's lover came to her room and attempted to touch her. Her escape led her to other side of Cottonbloom, right where 17 year old Cade Fournette was hiding in his boat when authorities were looking for him. What was it about him that made Monroe to trust him? What was it about her that Cade couldn't stay away from?
A decade had passed until their paths met again. Cade came back home and Monroe was pleased to be the one helping him this time. Time seemed to have forgotten their past secrets, but time also had a way to open new ones. Can scarred Monroe still trust her heart and Cade after all these years? Can Cade still keep up his promise to her when they were young?
This had been a beautiful story. At first, I had a heavy heart reading Monroe's emotionally disturbing encounter with a man so vile and indecent. Imagine the trauma this had caused a 13 year old girl. Heartbreaking, I must tell you. My own heart broke for Monroe. And Cade's protective stance melted away the anguish I felt. For such two young people, they already experienced the cruelty of the world. Couldn't help but sympathize with them.
Ten years forward, they saw each other again, each one successful in their own chosen careers. Of course, problems continued to arise every now and then, and a decision was to be made in order for them to realize what would work best for them.
I liked the fact that these characters had matured and developed into better persons and didn't live in their past. It made them more vulnerable to their surroundings and to the people that surround them. Although some would say that their love story is a bit cliche, I can't help but root for them and be taken by their emotions. I love how the author had managed to successfully put drama, action, love story and a bit of comedy into this story and had me clamoring for more. A beautiful bedtime read, indeed!
A decade had passed until their paths met again. Cade came back home and Monroe was pleased to be the one helping him this time. Time seemed to have forgotten their past secrets, but time also had a way to open new ones. Can scarred Monroe still trust her heart and Cade after all these years? Can Cade still keep up his promise to her when they were young?
This had been a beautiful story. At first, I had a heavy heart reading Monroe's emotionally disturbing encounter with a man so vile and indecent. Imagine the trauma this had caused a 13 year old girl. Heartbreaking, I must tell you. My own heart broke for Monroe. And Cade's protective stance melted away the anguish I felt. For such two young people, they already experienced the cruelty of the world. Couldn't help but sympathize with them.
Ten years forward, they saw each other again, each one successful in their own chosen careers. Of course, problems continued to arise every now and then, and a decision was to be made in order for them to realize what would work best for them.
I liked the fact that these characters had matured and developed into better persons and didn't live in their past. It made them more vulnerable to their surroundings and to the people that surround them. Although some would say that their love story is a bit cliche, I can't help but root for them and be taken by their emotions. I love how the author had managed to successfully put drama, action, love story and a bit of comedy into this story and had me clamoring for more. A beautiful bedtime read, indeed!
June 7, 2016
4.5 stars
Kiss Me That Way was such a beautiful, heartwarming read, loved.
I really enjoyed watching Cade and Monroe's romance unfold. They were fun, sweet, stubborn, likable characters that captured my heart with their heartwarming love story.
From the first moment these two see each other again you can feel their connection/attraction for each other. My heart went out to them, they each had insecurities and fears to get over to truly find happiness together. With communication, trust and love they were able to find their well deserved HEA.
Another plus for me were the secondary characters, they added to my enjoyment and peaked my interest to what's coming up next in the Cottonbloom Novels series.
Nash & Tally's story will be next in Then He Kissed Me: A Cottonbloom Novel then Regan and Sawyer's love story in Till I Kissed You.
Bravo Laura Trentham, once again you've given us a well written love story with memorable characters that will leave us with a heart full of happy feels.
What a wonderful start to the Cottonbloom Novels series.
*Thank you St. Martin's Press via NetGalley for the advance copy.*
Kiss Me That Way was such a beautiful, heartwarming read, loved.
I really enjoyed watching Cade and Monroe's romance unfold. They were fun, sweet, stubborn, likable characters that captured my heart with their heartwarming love story.
From the first moment these two see each other again you can feel their connection/attraction for each other. My heart went out to them, they each had insecurities and fears to get over to truly find happiness together. With communication, trust and love they were able to find their well deserved HEA.
Another plus for me were the secondary characters, they added to my enjoyment and peaked my interest to what's coming up next in the Cottonbloom Novels series.
Nash & Tally's story will be next in Then He Kissed Me: A Cottonbloom Novel then Regan and Sawyer's love story in Till I Kissed You.
Bravo Laura Trentham, once again you've given us a well written love story with memorable characters that will leave us with a heart full of happy feels.
What a wonderful start to the Cottonbloom Novels series.
*Thank you St. Martin's Press via NetGalley for the advance copy.*
May 7, 2016
Loved this book. First book in the Cottonbloom Novels---Fall in love with the characters. Cade and Monroe, Tally who is Cade's sister. Regan who is Monroe's best friend. Sawyer who is Cade's brother.
Cade comes to Monroe's rescue one night when she was only 13. Cade was older. The one thing is they have a special secret while things are strained at home for Monroe, but Cade will protect her at all costs. Well that's until he up and leaves Cottonbloom. Monroe makes something of herself after that happens.
Monroe and Cade both have secrets. The only thing is they both know so much already about each other. There is one thing neither one has told the other. Cade never told her why he left, and Monroe really never told him everything about that night he found her in his boat.
When Cade returns to Cottonbloom things change for him and Monroe. They both are caught off guard and don't know what to do about it. Her life is in Cottonbloom, and his is in Seattle.
So what will happen? Do they have a relationship while he's in town? Can it be love? Is it possible to find love when you only 13?
Highly Recommend you buy the book.
Cade comes to Monroe's rescue one night when she was only 13. Cade was older. The one thing is they have a special secret while things are strained at home for Monroe, but Cade will protect her at all costs. Well that's until he up and leaves Cottonbloom. Monroe makes something of herself after that happens.
Monroe and Cade both have secrets. The only thing is they both know so much already about each other. There is one thing neither one has told the other. Cade never told her why he left, and Monroe really never told him everything about that night he found her in his boat.
When Cade returns to Cottonbloom things change for him and Monroe. They both are caught off guard and don't know what to do about it. Her life is in Cottonbloom, and his is in Seattle.
So what will happen? Do they have a relationship while he's in town? Can it be love? Is it possible to find love when you only 13?
Highly Recommend you buy the book.
September 24, 2017
Това е от книгите, които се четат с удоволствие. Без да има излишна драма,историята проследява зараждането на една връзка, започнала преди години като приятелство между героите. Авторката обаче е много лоша- защо не представя или поне не загатва каква ще е историята във втората книга, където героите също имат общо минало, а се акцентира върху отношенията на двойката от третата. Направо не знам как ще дочакам тяхната история, която за мен е най-интересна. Много обичам когато се преплитат любов и омраза с голяма доза заяждане и мръсни номерца. Дано бъде издадена до края на годината.
March 9, 2018
When it only takes some “small” tracks to bring you on the wrong side of a town – just imagine what it does to someone when you are from the wrong side of a river ?
Laura Trentham dives deep into that question with “Kiss me that Way” the start of her new series of “Cottonbloom novels”.
It was the first book of that author that I read and I think she really managed to catch all the clichés (in a good way) that you would expect in a wrong side of the track novel. And than she topped it off with a big dose of small town novel.
While usually a “wrong side of the track” novel focuses on a certain person, this book/series really shows not only what it does to a person but to a whole town.
The story as well as the characters a developed to its fullest and during the flow of this first story it is easy to see where the next stories will lead us.
The side characters are almost as well developed as the leading ones so maybe – while this is good on one side – it is also a tad to much on the other. Because it takes the focus of the leading persons and at times I found myself wondering if it was Tally or Sawyer’s story already.
It might not be a “light summer read” in my eyes but it is a good story for a rainy autumn day. But in total I liked it and I am looking forward to what is really going on with Sawyer and Tally.
May 27, 2016
Monroe and Cade come from different parts of Cottonbloom and their lives seem to be quite different. When Monroe is just 13, she runs from a scary situation at home and finds solace in Cade. Cade is a few years older and is willing to protect her until he leaves Cottonbloom. When Cade returns due to an injury, he and Monroe meet again, after a long time. They are both older and wiser, yet the spark is still there. They both have their own secrets and life hasn't been easy for either of them, but some bonds can not be broken. Cade's life is in Seattle and Monroe's life is in Cottonbloom, can they make their relationship work?
I really enjoyed reading this book, the setting, main characters and secondary characters were all great. The main focus was on Cade and Monroe, but there's enough background for the secondary characters as well and I can't wait to read the next books in the series. It was a lovely book about hope, love and family.
I really enjoyed reading this book, the setting, main characters and secondary characters were all great. The main focus was on Cade and Monroe, but there's enough background for the secondary characters as well and I can't wait to read the next books in the series. It was a lovely book about hope, love and family.
August 5, 2017
Типично американско четиво.
Лошо бедно момче, което измисля топлата вода и забогатява и добро богато момиче, с благородна кауза ( слава богу, поне не девствено ).
Имаше доста места , които ми наподобяваха на 50 нюанса сиво.
За моя голяма радост нямаше квадратни челюсти и тем подобни.
И секса не случи след сватбата.
Има голяма вероятност , авторката да наследи в алеята на славата, някоя от динозаврите в този жанр.
И като се почне сега , за брата, за сестрата, ще падне дълго четене.
С две думи -клише.
Лошо бедно момче, което измисля топлата вода и забогатява и добро богато момиче, с благородна кауза ( слава богу, поне не девствено ).
Имаше доста места , които ми наподобяваха на 50 нюанса сиво.
За моя голяма радост нямаше квадратни челюсти и тем подобни.
И секса не случи след сватбата.
Има голяма вероятност , авторката да наследи в алеята на славата, някоя от динозаврите в този жанр.
И като се почне сега , за брата, за сестрата, ще падне дълго четене.
С две думи -клише.
July 31, 2018
This is my first time reading from Laura Trentham and my, my, my... Cade Fournette is indeed swoon-worthy and who doesn't love second chance romances?
I had a wonderful time indulging Monroe and Cade- certainly will continue to embark and devour the series of Cottonbloom!
I had a wonderful time indulging Monroe and Cade- certainly will continue to embark and devour the series of Cottonbloom!
April 30, 2016
“You needed me?” Her voice was husky, and she lifted her gaze the last few inches to meet his, the green as dark and beautiful as a magnolia leaf.
“I do need you.” His whisper hooked her a step closer. His eyes flared and he cleared his throat. “I mean I need your help with my nuts.”
“Your nuts?” She dropped his hand and startled back a step.
“Of the nuts-and-bolts variety.” They both glanced toward his crotch. He scrubbed his hand over his head. Red tinged his cheekbones even as a small laugh stuttered out.
His smile lightened the mark so many desperate years had left and her lips mimicked his instinctively. She would put on a clown costume and hit herself with a cream pie if she could keep a smile on his face forever. She wasn’t sure what that meant, but it couldn’t be good.
“I’d be happy to help with your nuts.”
ARC received from: Netgalley
Rating: 4*
Trope: Small town romance
Chemistry: Simmering
One-Sentence Summary: Two people from different sides of the track rediscover an old friendship which grows into something more
Review: This is the first book I've read by Laura Trentham and it looks like I chose the right book to try. I fell in love with the characters and setting and before I had even finished, I was already looking forward the two subsequent books in the series.
This book is set in a small Southern town which is divided into two along economic lines. Cade and Monroe come from different worlds but started a blossoming friendship when Cade rescued thirteen year-old Monroe from one of her alcoholic mother's predatory boyfriends. Cade moved out of town when he was a young adult and is only forced back by his brother and sister to recuperate from an injury.
Monroe and Cade reconnect and grow closer as they help each other work through issues from their past. Throw in Cade's brother and sister and Monroe's best friend who will all feature in future books, you have a really well written romance which plays out in an interesting setting.
It lost a star because I felt that whilst Monroe's job as a physical therapist is what brought Cade back into her life, her job and his injury (especially when he was lifting her up the riverbank) were soon forgotten about. Also I wasn't sure about the fact that one minute Cade was exploring the idea of staying in Cottonbloom with Sawyer but as soon as Monroe turned up he told her categorically that he was going back to Seattle.
Definitely looking forward to the next book in the series!
Originally posted @ Love's A State Of Mind
June 7, 2016
This is the first book in Laura Trentham's new series about Cottonbloom, Louisiana/Mississippi. This is the first book that I've read by Trentham and I'm a bit on the fence as to whether I'd pick up another novel by her in the future.
There seems to be a new trend going around these days with romance novels. The leading ladies all seem to have some sort of sexual abuse in their past. And this sexual abuse all seems to happen when they are children. I just can't stomach this shit. I know that it's a horrific thing that happens probably more than I want to acknowledge because there seem to be more and more sickos out there but it is possible to create a character that has not been sexually abused. Every once in a while when you pick up a book, it's not too bad but when it seems to be every single book that you read, it gets tiring. It's like the dystopian thing in the young adult genre ... one comes out that's successful and everyone else has to do it. Anyhow ... I almost put the book down because of the child molestation.
Unfortunately, the book is just really slow. There was quite a bit going on but there were just stretches of pages where nothing was happening and it slowed the book down tremendously. I felt like I was trudging through a swampy marsh during the last part of the book. I wanted to crack a whip and get the plot moving again.
That being said ... I did like the characters. I thought that Cade and Monroe were interesting separately and then together, it was a perfect fit. I instantly just adored Cade and throughout the entire novel, I couldn't get enough of him. I would get irritated when he wasn't involved in a scene and then super excited when he was. Monroe was okay ... she was a bit boring to me as a character, even given her past. Monroe read like wallpaper ... you didn't really notice her until someone directed your attention there. But like I said, the Cade and Monroe characters really complemented each other, so maybe Monroe's boring-ness was intentional to get that balance.
The author did an exquisite job of setting up the next novel. You're told quite a bit about the supporting characters and it amps up the excitement for their own story. This book was okay ... definitely not close to being the worst that I've read. A lot of my friends liked this one, I'm (once again) in the minority.
* I received this novel in exchange for an honest review *
Check out more of my reviews at Little Miss Bookmark!
June 28, 2016
The self-made world traveller and multi-patented inventor that is today's Cade Fournette, is a man far removed from his 'swamp rat' past, in Cotton Bloom, Louisiana. A past filled with the heartbreak of losing both his parents, and any hopes and dreams for his future. A past filled with being mother, father, brother, and provider to his younger siblings. A past that Cade has gone everywhere and done everything to escape.
A past filled with her.
Monroe Kirby never strayed far from her Cotton Bloom, Louisiana roots. As such, she has never been able to fully escape her past. The on again off again sobriety of her alcoholic mother. The dated social hierarchy that still has the power to make or break those living in Cotton Bloom. The boy who saved a terrified 13-year old Monroe from an unthinkable fate. Becoming her friend, and as time went on...and so much more.
A boy who left without a goodbye, taking nothing with him but her heart.
This first book in the Cotton Bloom series, is the perfect blend of charming Southern Romance and emotion driven Contemporary Fiction. Though Cade Fournette crossed the line between the haves and the have nots quite some time ago. An unexpected return to his roots; after a catastrophic accident on El Capitan. Brings both Monroe and Cade face to face with each other, and the past that they have each in their own way, tried so hard to escape.
Laura Trentham's Kiss Me That Way, is a story within a story. A place where small towns and big hearts come together to star in even bigger stories. Stories so vibrant and so relatable, that they become friends to the reader as the story progresses.
Both Cade and Monroe are prime examples of this. They are survivors of tragedies that could have killed them. But because they were able to find ways to rise above what happened. They are able to be the successful people that they have become.
While Cade's story focuses on his struggle to reconcile his past and his present. Monroe's story deals with ghosts from her past coming back into her life in a very real way.
This is a very honest and relevant story. Told with the perfect blend of humor, emotion, and good old Southern happily...
Reviewer's Notes: This is the first title in a companion series that may be read as a stand alone. It may also be enjoyed as part of its intended series.
I was granted a copy of this literary work for review purposes. The opinions expressed herein are solely mine, and have not been influenced by the publisher or their agents.
A past filled with her.
Monroe Kirby never strayed far from her Cotton Bloom, Louisiana roots. As such, she has never been able to fully escape her past. The on again off again sobriety of her alcoholic mother. The dated social hierarchy that still has the power to make or break those living in Cotton Bloom. The boy who saved a terrified 13-year old Monroe from an unthinkable fate. Becoming her friend, and as time went on...and so much more.
A boy who left without a goodbye, taking nothing with him but her heart.
This first book in the Cotton Bloom series, is the perfect blend of charming Southern Romance and emotion driven Contemporary Fiction. Though Cade Fournette crossed the line between the haves and the have nots quite some time ago. An unexpected return to his roots; after a catastrophic accident on El Capitan. Brings both Monroe and Cade face to face with each other, and the past that they have each in their own way, tried so hard to escape.
Laura Trentham's Kiss Me That Way, is a story within a story. A place where small towns and big hearts come together to star in even bigger stories. Stories so vibrant and so relatable, that they become friends to the reader as the story progresses.
Both Cade and Monroe are prime examples of this. They are survivors of tragedies that could have killed them. But because they were able to find ways to rise above what happened. They are able to be the successful people that they have become.
While Cade's story focuses on his struggle to reconcile his past and his present. Monroe's story deals with ghosts from her past coming back into her life in a very real way.
This is a very honest and relevant story. Told with the perfect blend of humor, emotion, and good old Southern happily...
Reviewer's Notes: This is the first title in a companion series that may be read as a stand alone. It may also be enjoyed as part of its intended series.
I was granted a copy of this literary work for review purposes. The opinions expressed herein are solely mine, and have not been influenced by the publisher or their agents.
July 15, 2016
4-1/2 stars.
This review is also posted on Pretty Sassy Cool.
I love books set in Louisiana, especially when the capture the ambiance and culture of the place that I call home. I also love second chance romances, so I was pretty excited to pick up Kiss Me That Way by Laura Trentham. I enjoyed her Falcons Football series, too.
So. Fifteen years ago, Monroe and the boy from the wrong side of the tracks (in this case, river), Cade, formed a bond when he literally came to her rescue. They lost touch after Cade left town without telling her. Now, ten years later, Cade's back and they never forgot each other or really dealt with their feelings. Will Monroe and Cade be able to get past his feelings of never being enough for her and the distance he put between them?
I really liked these characters. Cade was sweet and hot and pretty much exactly what you'd think a Southern boy would be. Monroe was fun and stood up for herself. I loved their banter and the romance was totally swoonworthy.
I also really loved their history.
There were a few things that I didn't like, but they were fairly minor. My biggest peeve was that they called crawfish crayfish.
The next book, Then He Kissed Me hits shelves later this month, and I'm pretty excited to get to Nash's story. *fans self*
If you're looking for a swoony romance with fun banter and can't-be-denied chemistry between a couple you'll fall for too, all while dealing with very real issues in an authentic way, Kiss Me That Way by Laura Trentham should be next on your TBR list.
This review is also posted on Pretty Sassy Cool.
I love books set in Louisiana, especially when the capture the ambiance and culture of the place that I call home. I also love second chance romances, so I was pretty excited to pick up Kiss Me That Way by Laura Trentham. I enjoyed her Falcons Football series, too.
So. Fifteen years ago, Monroe and the boy from the wrong side of the tracks (in this case, river), Cade, formed a bond when he literally came to her rescue. They lost touch after Cade left town without telling her. Now, ten years later, Cade's back and they never forgot each other or really dealt with their feelings. Will Monroe and Cade be able to get past his feelings of never being enough for her and the distance he put between them?
“I’ve loved you since I was thirteen. Three days won’t change that. Nothing will.”
I really liked these characters. Cade was sweet and hot and pretty much exactly what you'd think a Southern boy would be. Monroe was fun and stood up for herself. I loved their banter and the romance was totally swoonworthy.
"I love the fact you look all sweet and innocent yet detonate in my arms."
I also really loved their history.
"I thought about it. Thought about you."
"I thought about you, too." She moved next to him, laying her head on his chest, and he closed his eyes. "I used to pretend my pillow was you and practice kissing it. Mostly, though, I would just hug it and pretend you were hugging me back."
There were a few things that I didn't like, but they were fairly minor. My biggest peeve was that they called crawfish crayfish.
The next book, Then He Kissed Me hits shelves later this month, and I'm pretty excited to get to Nash's story. *fans self*
If you're looking for a swoony romance with fun banter and can't-be-denied chemistry between a couple you'll fall for too, all while dealing with very real issues in an authentic way, Kiss Me That Way by Laura Trentham should be next on your TBR list.
May 21, 2016
Loved this book!! A wonderful start to a new series from this author. It's a small town second chance story that takes place in a small town split between Mississippi and Louisiana. One side affluent one side poor. An interesting relationship develops between Cade Fournette and Monroe Kirby. A relationship that they had to keep secret since the town would never approve. Then suddenly one day Cade is gone. Now Cade is back recovering from recent injuries and he's nothing like the young boy he was before. He's been able to accomplish great things since he left but the one thing he's never been able to do is forget Monroe. Cade needs to work with a physical therapist and Monroe is the best one around. Getting to know each other again may turn out to be the worst thing ever. Or maybe.....
I really enjoyed this book and can't wait for the next in the series. I highly recommend this one!
I really enjoyed this book and can't wait for the next in the series. I highly recommend this one!
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