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Evie's Haven
Is dating after forty really as hard as they say?
Well, Evie doesn't want to find out! Evie Jones is a widow of three years, with an eighteen-year-old daughter. Struggling to simplify her life and trying desperately to convince her daughter not to leave the nest. And her 'No Dating' rule is part of that struggle. So is selling her big house and moving into something smaller. To help with that plan, she hires a handsome contractor to complete her partially finished basement.
Sullivan Contracting owner Ryan Sullivan is still reeling from a bitter divorce. This handsome, hard-working bachelor, is starting to think he might stay that way. Especially after his best friends sign him up for a blind date that ends in disaster. But unbeknownst to them, Ryan has had his eye on someone special. Someone that has a strict 'No Dating' rule.
But when the attraction between Ryan and Evie builds, can Ryan convince Evie that some rules are made to be broken? Is he perhaps the one man capable of showing her that dating after forty doesn't have to be hard after all?
Steamy, funny, and romantic, Evie's Haven is a surprising mixture of laughter, swoon-worthy romance, and deeply emotional moments. Because life is messy, and laughter is too important not to share.
Well, Evie doesn't want to find out! Evie Jones is a widow of three years, with an eighteen-year-old daughter. Struggling to simplify her life and trying desperately to convince her daughter not to leave the nest. And her 'No Dating' rule is part of that struggle. So is selling her big house and moving into something smaller. To help with that plan, she hires a handsome contractor to complete her partially finished basement.
Sullivan Contracting owner Ryan Sullivan is still reeling from a bitter divorce. This handsome, hard-working bachelor, is starting to think he might stay that way. Especially after his best friends sign him up for a blind date that ends in disaster. But unbeknownst to them, Ryan has had his eye on someone special. Someone that has a strict 'No Dating' rule.
But when the attraction between Ryan and Evie builds, can Ryan convince Evie that some rules are made to be broken? Is he perhaps the one man capable of showing her that dating after forty doesn't have to be hard after all?
Steamy, funny, and romantic, Evie's Haven is a surprising mixture of laughter, swoon-worthy romance, and deeply emotional moments. Because life is messy, and laughter is too important not to share.
- GenresRomance
Kindle Edition
Published March 1, 2024
3 people are currently reading
57 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
March 17, 2024
From the very first chapter, I was pulled right into Evie’s Haven. Having grown up in a small town myself, I completely felt the love and all of the quirkiness that comes from small town living; where everyone knows everything about everybody.
Evie’s story resonates with me on so many levels. I want to know more about her, I need to know more about her.
The way in which the author describes Evie‘s world and the café it was so engaging. It made me feel comfortable, like I was sitting in the café, enjoying a coffee while watching everything unfold right before my very own eyes.
The love between Evie and her friends, makes my heart sing. And the banter. Oh! The banter! I absolutely love the witty off the cuff humour. The author nailed it!! I felt like I was transported back home, like I was right there and this made me smile!
Evie’s Haven was laugh out-loud funny and also, right away, was tugging at my emotions with tears of joy streaming down my face.
I couldn’t put the book down. I haven’t enjoyed a book this much in a very long time. Evie has piqued my interest. I have become quite attached to her, and all of the characters in her life, and I look forward to reading more about Evie and her circle of friends.
I am providing an honest review of Evie’s Haven because I had access to an Advanced Reader’s Copy provided by the publisher.
Evie’s story resonates with me on so many levels. I want to know more about her, I need to know more about her.
The way in which the author describes Evie‘s world and the café it was so engaging. It made me feel comfortable, like I was sitting in the café, enjoying a coffee while watching everything unfold right before my very own eyes.
The love between Evie and her friends, makes my heart sing. And the banter. Oh! The banter! I absolutely love the witty off the cuff humour. The author nailed it!! I felt like I was transported back home, like I was right there and this made me smile!
Evie’s Haven was laugh out-loud funny and also, right away, was tugging at my emotions with tears of joy streaming down my face.
I couldn’t put the book down. I haven’t enjoyed a book this much in a very long time. Evie has piqued my interest. I have become quite attached to her, and all of the characters in her life, and I look forward to reading more about Evie and her circle of friends.
I am providing an honest review of Evie’s Haven because I had access to an Advanced Reader’s Copy provided by the publisher.
April 24, 2024
This was a good read.
The story draws you in with the single mom/widow taking a chance with the hot construction guy.
You also get some good side characters that hopefully will get their own stories soon.
The story draws you in with the single mom/widow taking a chance with the hot construction guy.
You also get some good side characters that hopefully will get their own stories soon.
May 6, 2024
Evie Jones is the owner of the Princess Cafe in Haven. Evie currently lives with her daughter, Sara. She is working with a contractor to finish out the basement in her house. A project that her late husband started but did not get a chance to complete.
Ryan Sullivan is the contractor selected to help Evie with this project. Ryan is younger than Evie but that does not stop him from wanting to date her. Can Evie let go of her hang ups about being the older woman? Ryan is not willing to let Evie go over age. Is that the only thing bothering Evie? She has a lot going on and the time constraints on a new relationship take a toll. Can Ryan convince her to take a chance on love?
Ryan Sullivan is the contractor selected to help Evie with this project. Ryan is younger than Evie but that does not stop him from wanting to date her. Can Evie let go of her hang ups about being the older woman? Ryan is not willing to let Evie go over age. Is that the only thing bothering Evie? She has a lot going on and the time constraints on a new relationship take a toll. Can Ryan convince her to take a chance on love?
April 7, 2024
Evie is a relatable, slightly neurotic, single mom, entrepreneur. I really enjoyed getting to know her and her home of Haven. I liked Ryan and the other characters introduced here. A SOLID romance story!
April 9, 2024
2.75 ⭐️
Evie’s Haven was okay. There just wasn’t anything about it that made it stand out from other romances, but it wasn’t bad. The writing was actually very good, the story just felt so-so. It was relatively short, and it did seem rushed at times. I also think this could’ve been one romance that didn’t need a third-act breakup to cause conflict, because we were already getting conflict between Evie and her daughter Sarah. Considering Evie had been married previously and was well into her 40s, I would’ve thought that her communication with a partner would be a lot better and her jumping to conclusions was a lot less likely, but I was in fact wrong. The saving grace of the story was Ryan, who was a real cinnamon roll, great communicator (when Evie wasn’t dodging his every attempt at talking), and hardworking contractor.
I received this audiobook for free in exchange for an honest review.
Evie’s Haven was okay. There just wasn’t anything about it that made it stand out from other romances, but it wasn’t bad. The writing was actually very good, the story just felt so-so. It was relatively short, and it did seem rushed at times. I also think this could’ve been one romance that didn’t need a third-act breakup to cause conflict, because we were already getting conflict between Evie and her daughter Sarah. Considering Evie had been married previously and was well into her 40s, I would’ve thought that her communication with a partner would be a lot better and her jumping to conclusions was a lot less likely, but I was in fact wrong. The saving grace of the story was Ryan, who was a real cinnamon roll, great communicator (when Evie wasn’t dodging his every attempt at talking), and hardworking contractor.
I received this audiobook for free in exchange for an honest review.
May 12, 2024
This was a somewhat quick read- very straightforward and not a lot of storyline. It was a second chance romance book that I could see where it was leading early on, which is fine but there wasn’t anything special about it. I liked Evie’s friends and her relationship with Ryan was sweet but predictable. Somewhat spicy toward the end.
April 11, 2024
Great Story & Narration🎧 Heartfelt & Charming!
Evie's Haven
By: Lisa Plaice
Narrated by: Maria McCann
This sweet and charming romance novel showcases mature characters who have already established their lives and are prepared to give love another chance. The characters are realistic and likable, easy to relate to and connect with, too. Evie Jones’ husband passed away three years ago, leaving her a single mom of their teenage daughter. Her daughter is looking at colleges and while she is hoping she will pick one close to home, her daughter has other dreams instead. Thinking ahead, she wants to get her basement finished, a job her husband started, but never got to finish. She calls Ryan Sullivan, the owner of Sullivan Contracting, to do the job. Ryan’s wife cheated on him and then made the divorce difficult, but he is ready to move on, except the woman he wants to move on with is not interested in dating. It was great to watch Evie and Ryan get to know each other, the chemistry between them was undeniable and it is a beautiful thing when they give into their desires. This well-written story has interesting storylines that captivate your attention and tug at your heartstrings the entire time. Lisa Plaice, thank you for this wonderful story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 Maria McCann did a fabulous job bringing the characters and story to life. She covered the roles of all the characters, giving each their own voice, making it easy to follow along and tell who was who. Her character voices were fitting, and she was believable in every role she played. She set the perfect tone for the story, captured all the characters’ emotions and had you feeling them all. McCann is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for this wonderful listen.
Evie's Haven
By: Lisa Plaice
Narrated by: Maria McCann
This sweet and charming romance novel showcases mature characters who have already established their lives and are prepared to give love another chance. The characters are realistic and likable, easy to relate to and connect with, too. Evie Jones’ husband passed away three years ago, leaving her a single mom of their teenage daughter. Her daughter is looking at colleges and while she is hoping she will pick one close to home, her daughter has other dreams instead. Thinking ahead, she wants to get her basement finished, a job her husband started, but never got to finish. She calls Ryan Sullivan, the owner of Sullivan Contracting, to do the job. Ryan’s wife cheated on him and then made the divorce difficult, but he is ready to move on, except the woman he wants to move on with is not interested in dating. It was great to watch Evie and Ryan get to know each other, the chemistry between them was undeniable and it is a beautiful thing when they give into their desires. This well-written story has interesting storylines that captivate your attention and tug at your heartstrings the entire time. Lisa Plaice, thank you for this wonderful story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 Maria McCann did a fabulous job bringing the characters and story to life. She covered the roles of all the characters, giving each their own voice, making it easy to follow along and tell who was who. Her character voices were fitting, and she was believable in every role she played. She set the perfect tone for the story, captured all the characters’ emotions and had you feeling them all. McCann is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for this wonderful listen.
April 12, 2024
I enjoyed reading this book. Evie and Ryan’s story is funny, insightful and entertaining with just the right amount of angst to make it more interesting. It is a heartwarming second chance at love story between two people who aren’t looking for love after the end of longterm relationships. Yet, love finds them anyway. Their path to a happily ever after has a few bumps, and almost gets derailed by a misunderstanding, but with the help of a few good friends and family members, they find a way forward together.
I loved the chemistry and connection between Ryan and Evie, the gradual progress from contractor and client, to friends and then lovers. They are fascinating, very relatable and easy to like, quirks, doubts and all. The secondary characters add a lot to the storyline. Evie’s friend and coworker, Katie, is hilarious, a tad pushy, Evie’s biggest supporter and defender. Sara, Evie’s daughter, is a typical teenager trying to exert her independence. Though she and Evie have leaned heavily on each other since her dad died, Sara is ready to live apart from her mom, make her own decisions and test her wings. The tension and conflict between them is realistic, as is the obvious love and connection. Sara is a big supporter of Evie’s relationship with Ryan because she wants to see her happy, and also she won’t be alone while Sara is attending university across the country. Ryan’s sister, Sandy, is his biggest advocate as well as a friend to Evie. She is a mediator and a great support to them both.
This book is an excellent read that offers a well crafted storyline and fascinating characters. I would recommend it to anyone who loves romance or woman’s fiction.
I loved the chemistry and connection between Ryan and Evie, the gradual progress from contractor and client, to friends and then lovers. They are fascinating, very relatable and easy to like, quirks, doubts and all. The secondary characters add a lot to the storyline. Evie’s friend and coworker, Katie, is hilarious, a tad pushy, Evie’s biggest supporter and defender. Sara, Evie’s daughter, is a typical teenager trying to exert her independence. Though she and Evie have leaned heavily on each other since her dad died, Sara is ready to live apart from her mom, make her own decisions and test her wings. The tension and conflict between them is realistic, as is the obvious love and connection. Sara is a big supporter of Evie’s relationship with Ryan because she wants to see her happy, and also she won’t be alone while Sara is attending university across the country. Ryan’s sister, Sandy, is his biggest advocate as well as a friend to Evie. She is a mediator and a great support to them both.
This book is an excellent read that offers a well crafted storyline and fascinating characters. I would recommend it to anyone who loves romance or woman’s fiction.
February 29, 2024
Evie is an amazing human with fantastic style who is just trying to hold her life together as best she can. Aren’t we all? She is surrounded by incredible women:
her teenage daughter Sarah, who is becoming an adult much to Evie’s chagrin;
Her oldest friend Beth, more sister than friend, who is going through a very hard time;
And, her best friend, Katie, who is vivacious, always has her back and a force to be reckoned with.
And then there are the men:
Charles who comes to the Cafe for baked goods hoping for a little extra Evie sugar on the side;
Mike who is becoming a regular at the Cafe and who’s hotter than the coffee;
Sam, a ladies man, who looks like trouble;
And Ryan, the hot contractor who can do incredible things with his hands!!!
The author does an incredible job of making me feel like I am sitting in the Cafe and watching this story unfold right in front of my eyes. The characters are so engaging, leaving me wanting more.
This book had me laughing, crying, falling in love and everything in between. A wild sexy ride! Steamy, funny and down to earth, what more can you ask for.
I want to order one of everything at The Princesses Cafe and I hope there is a cookbook coming out soon!!
her teenage daughter Sarah, who is becoming an adult much to Evie’s chagrin;
Her oldest friend Beth, more sister than friend, who is going through a very hard time;
And, her best friend, Katie, who is vivacious, always has her back and a force to be reckoned with.
And then there are the men:
Charles who comes to the Cafe for baked goods hoping for a little extra Evie sugar on the side;
Mike who is becoming a regular at the Cafe and who’s hotter than the coffee;
Sam, a ladies man, who looks like trouble;
And Ryan, the hot contractor who can do incredible things with his hands!!!
The author does an incredible job of making me feel like I am sitting in the Cafe and watching this story unfold right in front of my eyes. The characters are so engaging, leaving me wanting more.
This book had me laughing, crying, falling in love and everything in between. A wild sexy ride! Steamy, funny and down to earth, what more can you ask for.
I want to order one of everything at The Princesses Cafe and I hope there is a cookbook coming out soon!!
April 4, 2024
Evie's haven is definitely worth a read. This was a cute small town romance about dating after forty. I have a bit of a soft spot for it, since it is set in Canada, where I am from.
Evie is an independent woman who lost her husband a few years ago. She isn't ready to date yet as it just doesn't feel right. That is until she meet Ryan. She hires him to finish her basement project. He is younger than her which makes her hesitant at first to date, but his persistence pays off. She really makes informed decisions about her life, but this is kind of something we tend to do as we get older. We weigh the pros and cons of any decision we need to make. She was a really remarkable woman and I could understand how she was feeling as the emotions came off the page quite well.
Ryan was such a sweetheart. He worked with her patiently to help her with her renovation of her basement. When he wanted things to go further he was very understanding to her concerns and gave her the time she needed to come to her own decisions. He listened to Evie and all her concerns. He was definitely a cinnamon roll character.
I really enjoyed this story as it gave another perspective of dating at an older age. Also, finding a second love later on in life. This was a great read and I highly recommend.
Evie is an independent woman who lost her husband a few years ago. She isn't ready to date yet as it just doesn't feel right. That is until she meet Ryan. She hires him to finish her basement project. He is younger than her which makes her hesitant at first to date, but his persistence pays off. She really makes informed decisions about her life, but this is kind of something we tend to do as we get older. We weigh the pros and cons of any decision we need to make. She was a really remarkable woman and I could understand how she was feeling as the emotions came off the page quite well.
Ryan was such a sweetheart. He worked with her patiently to help her with her renovation of her basement. When he wanted things to go further he was very understanding to her concerns and gave her the time she needed to come to her own decisions. He listened to Evie and all her concerns. He was definitely a cinnamon roll character.
I really enjoyed this story as it gave another perspective of dating at an older age. Also, finding a second love later on in life. This was a great read and I highly recommend.
April 27, 2024
I am loving this new trope of Mature Romance meets Rom Com and am thrilled that authors are showing that those us over 40 can be seen discovering love, in the face of the challenge ages and complexities that form out lives. What I find joyous about this novel is that it bring out the idea of not just finding love, but dealing with all the memories and past experiences, happy and sad.... good and bad. This is vital to understanding Evidence and Ryan. This is the story of two people who have lived and lost and are once again finding their way towards another person in the face of it all. This was a great read filled with all the steam that two adults would bring to their relationship along with a bit of angst of lost loves, as well as the sweet and thrilling discovery of new love. This is truly Evie and Ryan's story, but I would do all the secondary characters and Lisa's writing a disservice if I didn't say that the secondary characters at the Cafe, Ryan's crew, Evie's daughter....as well as the Cafe itself don't add a wonderful context, a lot of scene stealing, as well as great and funny running commentaries to this delightful romance. This may be my first Lisa Plaice novel, but it will not be my last!
This review is freely written and was read as an early ARC
April 16, 2024
Evie is a single mom and widow trying to make life work as a mom and cafe owner. She has no dating rule but that all changes when she hires Ryan Sullivan as a contractor to fix up her basement. I loved this book and couldn't put it down, it was so good. I was laughing and awwing in so many parts of the stories. I love how Ryan was so patient with Evie. He took the dating at her pace and it was so cute and the way he wanted to get to know her daughter Sara, aww..Now I will say there was a time where I was ready to throw my book across the room but it got resolved..
I can't wait for the next book in the series. I really want to read Sandy's story, I really want to know about her. I loved her in this book and how much she wanted to help get Evie and Ryan together but also help her brother because she just wants to see him happy.
I really enjoyed the side characters, especially Katie. She made me laugh so much and I love how she is the matchmaker in the town.
"age is kind of irrelevant once we are adults. And your beauty doesn't grow weaker as you age. I don't think beauty ever grows old"
I can't wait for the next book in the series. I really want to read Sandy's story, I really want to know about her. I loved her in this book and how much she wanted to help get Evie and Ryan together but also help her brother because she just wants to see him happy.
I really enjoyed the side characters, especially Katie. She made me laugh so much and I love how she is the matchmaker in the town.
"age is kind of irrelevant once we are adults. And your beauty doesn't grow weaker as you age. I don't think beauty ever grows old"
April 23, 2024
Evie's Haven is Lisa Plaice's debut romance novel and the first book in the planned Haven Series. It's such a sweet and charming book and Evie's character is a breathe of fresh air in that she is in an independent small business owner/widowed single mother in her forties. I don't think there's another character out there more deserving of a love story. I was thrilled to see Evie get her second chance at love and with a handsome cappuccino-loving contracter at that! Ryan is the ultimate good guy cinnamon roll MMC and I am absolutely here for it. Their chemistry is off the charts with a nice bit of spice dabbled in for good measure. Add in the funny side characters who have Evie's best interest at heart and you've got all the makings of a perfect small town romance.
Side Note: I'm going to need Evie's cupcake recipes. I'm craving coffee and sweets! 🥰☕️🧁
𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲:
🧁Small Town Romance
☕️Gilmore Girls
🧁Coffee Shops & Bakeries
☕️Independent FMC
🧁Cinnamon Roll MMC
☕️Sweet & Funny Side Characters
A special thanks to Kate Rock Book Tours, Storeyline Press and Lisa Plaice for my copy in exchange for my honest review.
Side Note: I'm going to need Evie's cupcake recipes. I'm craving coffee and sweets! 🥰☕️🧁
𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲:
🧁Small Town Romance
☕️Gilmore Girls
🧁Coffee Shops & Bakeries
☕️Independent FMC
🧁Cinnamon Roll MMC
☕️Sweet & Funny Side Characters
A special thanks to Kate Rock Book Tours, Storeyline Press and Lisa Plaice for my copy in exchange for my honest review.
April 9, 2024
This is the first book, in a new series call, " The Haven Series. " 💓 this book I Totally, enjoy it. 💓 Eve and Ryan. This book kept me entertained, throwout the boook. About time, someone write a book, about people in their 40's.
This book has widow, single mom, daughter wants to leave the house( but mom dont), no dating rule, fixing up herbasement (to sell), falls for the contractor, divorce, blind date, rules, streamy, funny, romantic, entertaining, get's messy and unpredictable, sweet, mature wonderful characters, second chance at love, realistic, likable, easy to related to, chemistry isn't s undeniable and finally give in to their attraction, up and downs, dealing with loss, small town, loveable characters, I can go on and on. Definitely, A Must Read. This is going, to be an Great series. Can't Wait, for the next book. Yes,on my reread list.
This book has widow, single mom, daughter wants to leave the house( but mom dont), no dating rule, fixing up herbasement (to sell), falls for the contractor, divorce, blind date, rules, streamy, funny, romantic, entertaining, get's messy and unpredictable, sweet, mature wonderful characters, second chance at love, realistic, likable, easy to related to, chemistry isn't s undeniable and finally give in to their attraction, up and downs, dealing with loss, small town, loveable characters, I can go on and on. Definitely, A Must Read. This is going, to be an Great series. Can't Wait, for the next book. Yes,on my reread list.
May 9, 2024
Super fast story about Evie finding love again after loss. Evie is a widower and single mom to a teenager in addition to being a business owner and she’s recently decided to finish out the basement project her late husband started but never got to finish. Ryan is the contractor Evie hires and while he is a bit younger there is an attraction there but Evie is nervous to open herself up to love again. Slowly, they begin to get to know each other and find themselves falling in love but is it too good to be true?
I really liked that Evie was an older main character in a later stage in her life that totally relatable to so many potential readers. I liked how easily the story flowed and how genuine Ryan was and Evie’s daughter Sara’s spunk.
Thank you @katerockbooktours for this gifted copy to share with my local little free library.
I really liked that Evie was an older main character in a later stage in her life that totally relatable to so many potential readers. I liked how easily the story flowed and how genuine Ryan was and Evie’s daughter Sara’s spunk.
Thank you @katerockbooktours for this gifted copy to share with my local little free library.
April 18, 2024
Thank you to StoreyLine Press, the author, and Kate Rock Book Tours for the advanced reader copy. These opinions are my own.
Evie is a single mom preparing her house for sale with her daughter getting ready to go off to college. So Evie hires Ryan Sullivan to finish her basement.
I am always so excited to see romances that feature characters who aren't in their twenties. I greatly appreciated this second chance at love for both Evie and Ryan. Don't let the cartoon cover fool you. This is quite steamy. Their chemistry was written so well and progressed at exactly the right pace for the plot.
I also appreciated Evie's relationship with her daughter, her coworker, and her friends. The secondary characters were nuanced and added great depth to the story.
I especially loved all the scenes at Evie's cafe. The descriptions of her amazing baked goods and the clever drinks made me wish I could visit in person. And I look forward to more books set in the great small town of Haven.
This was such a great mix of funny, sweet, steamy, and tension. It's low angst and a book I highly recommend.
Evie is a single mom preparing her house for sale with her daughter getting ready to go off to college. So Evie hires Ryan Sullivan to finish her basement.
I am always so excited to see romances that feature characters who aren't in their twenties. I greatly appreciated this second chance at love for both Evie and Ryan. Don't let the cartoon cover fool you. This is quite steamy. Their chemistry was written so well and progressed at exactly the right pace for the plot.
I also appreciated Evie's relationship with her daughter, her coworker, and her friends. The secondary characters were nuanced and added great depth to the story.
I especially loved all the scenes at Evie's cafe. The descriptions of her amazing baked goods and the clever drinks made me wish I could visit in person. And I look forward to more books set in the great small town of Haven.
This was such a great mix of funny, sweet, steamy, and tension. It's low angst and a book I highly recommend.
April 26, 2024
This was the perfect book to read on my recent vacation! It is a story of opening yourself up to new possibilities and taking chances after a loss. Evie is starting to move forward with her life. She has been a widow for 3 years and her daughter is leaving soon for college but she still is not ready to date. Ryan is her contractor and has his own baggage. As they work together it grows into something more, but are they willing to trust and open their hearts and lives? The characters are engaging and I was invested in their life and the choices they were making. The small town setting and its inhabitants added to the story. I enjoyed this and hope that there are more books to come.
Thanks to the author and Kate Rock Book Tours for providing a copy for my honest review.
Thanks to the author and Kate Rock Book Tours for providing a copy for my honest review.
April 10, 2024
4.5⭐️
Congrats to Lisa Plaice on her debut romance novel! It’s a fun, quick read that had me laughing and smiling the whole time. Evie is such a likable and very relatable character. After finding myself newly single in my late 30s with a child, I could see myself in a lot of her worries.
Ryan was such an amazing character. I really enjoyed everything about him. He was so sweet and attentive. He’s good with his hands! A man’s man, but a total cinnamon roll! Where can I find myself a Ryan?! Ha.
Overall, this is an adorable romance that I definitely recommend.
Read if you like:
✨ Second Chances
✨ Small Town Romance
✨ Cinnamon Roll MMC
✨ Single Parent FMC
✨ Sweet Side Characters
Congrats to Lisa Plaice on her debut romance novel! It’s a fun, quick read that had me laughing and smiling the whole time. Evie is such a likable and very relatable character. After finding myself newly single in my late 30s with a child, I could see myself in a lot of her worries.
Ryan was such an amazing character. I really enjoyed everything about him. He was so sweet and attentive. He’s good with his hands! A man’s man, but a total cinnamon roll! Where can I find myself a Ryan?! Ha.
Overall, this is an adorable romance that I definitely recommend.
Read if you like:
✨ Second Chances
✨ Small Town Romance
✨ Cinnamon Roll MMC
✨ Single Parent FMC
✨ Sweet Side Characters
April 17, 2024
☕️Single Mom
☕️Small Town
☕️Forced Proximity
☕️Older Characters
Evie’s Haven was such a cute and fun read. It is what I would call fluffy and a great palette cleanser. I instantly fell in love with Evie and her daughter…I loved their relationship! Ryan is such a marshmallow, sweet and comforting. I loved the small town feelings and the writing made me want to be a part of this small community. I enjoyed the banter between Evie and Ryan and their chemistry could be felt from the beginning. Overall this was a quick and enjoyable read that will be going on my comfort reads list! I can’t wait for more of this world and hopefully Katie’s story!
☕️Small Town
☕️Forced Proximity
☕️Older Characters
Evie’s Haven was such a cute and fun read. It is what I would call fluffy and a great palette cleanser. I instantly fell in love with Evie and her daughter…I loved their relationship! Ryan is such a marshmallow, sweet and comforting. I loved the small town feelings and the writing made me want to be a part of this small community. I enjoyed the banter between Evie and Ryan and their chemistry could be felt from the beginning. Overall this was a quick and enjoyable read that will be going on my comfort reads list! I can’t wait for more of this world and hopefully Katie’s story!
May 20, 2024
Evie Jones, a single mother of an 18-year-old daughter and widow of three years, meets the perfect man, Ryan, who in turn causes her to re-evaluate the direction her life is headed.
This charming romance touches on many aspects of life — bonds, loss, letting go, and taking a chance on love.
The writing has a certain vulnerability to it that pulls the reader into Evie’s world. The cast of characters all shine in their respective roles.
The fluid dialogue reads naturally.
And, above all else, the slow-burn chemistry between Evie and Ryan will melt your heart.
I’m looking forward to reading the second entry to The Haven Series.
This charming romance touches on many aspects of life — bonds, loss, letting go, and taking a chance on love.
The writing has a certain vulnerability to it that pulls the reader into Evie’s world. The cast of characters all shine in their respective roles.
The fluid dialogue reads naturally.
And, above all else, the slow-burn chemistry between Evie and Ryan will melt your heart.
I’m looking forward to reading the second entry to The Haven Series.
November 14, 2024
3.5
I love stories with Canadian content, which is why I picked this one up. (It's outside my usual genre, but the opening really grabbed me so I bought it.)
My strongest criticism? The writing was choppy. The opening pieces were great, infused with humour and dialogue. The middle section fell back to a lot of telling, not showing, with a dearth of dialogue. I wanted more dialogue!
That said, I finished the book, which means that I wanted to know the outcome and it's a decent read. I thought Evie was a charming character, whose brilliance was only slightly outshone by Ryan. I liked the concept of a second-chance romance. I'd read more romance based on this novel.
I love stories with Canadian content, which is why I picked this one up. (It's outside my usual genre, but the opening really grabbed me so I bought it.)
My strongest criticism? The writing was choppy. The opening pieces were great, infused with humour and dialogue. The middle section fell back to a lot of telling, not showing, with a dearth of dialogue. I wanted more dialogue!
That said, I finished the book, which means that I wanted to know the outcome and it's a decent read. I thought Evie was a charming character, whose brilliance was only slightly outshone by Ryan. I liked the concept of a second-chance romance. I'd read more romance based on this novel.
April 27, 2024
This book was super duper cute. I loved Evie's fierce independence as a woman and business owner. I admired the example she was trying to set for her daughter, who is embarking on her college journey soon. And I appreciated Evie's openness and willingness to step outside of her comfort zone.
Ryan was a great character as well. He was kind and understanding. He was protective. He pushed Evie just enough and then gave her space to figure out what she wanted to do and who she wanted to become.
Ryan and Evie had great banter and delicious chemistry -- both in and out of the bedroom.
Plaice did a wonderful job developing the side characters, too, especially Katie and Beth--the latter I'm hoping will be getting her own story in the future.
Overall this was a really quick but enjoyable romance, with likeable characters you can't help but root for and raw, honest moments that any of us could find ourselves having to navigate.
I do think a few things in the blurb were a bit misleading when it came to the actual story, and that
Ryan was a great character as well. He was kind and understanding. He was protective. He pushed Evie just enough and then gave her space to figure out what she wanted to do and who she wanted to become.
Ryan and Evie had great banter and delicious chemistry -- both in and out of the bedroom.
Plaice did a wonderful job developing the side characters, too, especially Katie and Beth--the latter I'm hoping will be getting her own story in the future.
Overall this was a really quick but enjoyable romance, with likeable characters you can't help but root for and raw, honest moments that any of us could find ourselves having to navigate.
I do think a few things in the blurb were a bit misleading when it came to the actual story, and that
June 3, 2024
I thought that this book was very nice. The writing style was something I'm not exactly used to, but it was nice to switch it up. Some of the sentences made me think "Oh what? What am I reading?" but overall, this book was delightful. Ryan and Evie are a cute couple and the ending was a perfect wrap up. Thank you Lisa Plaice for signing my copy of Evie's Haven, and the raffle prize was just amazing! Anyway, all in all, this book was pretty good and I recommend it to anyone who loves a good romance novel. :)
May 22, 2024
Evie is on the brink of becoming an empty-nester. She doesn't want to let her daughter go away to school. She needs to renovate the house to sell it. Contractor Ryan enters her life in more ways than one if you know what I mean. This contemporary romance is sweet. Maria McCann narrated the story well.
April 11, 2024
I truly enjoyed this romance novel. It's such a sweet story. Written with emotion. I was pulled in and cheering for the main characters. The side characters were also very interesting. Highly recommended this medium spice romance.
November 19, 2024
So pleased to get my hands on a realistic later life romance, no sports cliches, real characters , funny, sweet and some heat!
May 21, 2025
I'm in the middle of the book and I'm loving it, fast to read, I want to know more... a novel for all ages, to be the author's first book has my much potential, I would like to know more details of what evie is thinking.
I finally finished it and I loved it 💖 is a beautiful love story ', without fantasia ', truly real ... I recommend this reading 1000% .. I am glad to have seen the author in person and that she signed my book, I am from Chile and I support reading from Canada.
I finally finished it and I loved it 💖 is a beautiful love story ', without fantasia ', truly real ... I recommend this reading 1000% .. I am glad to have seen the author in person and that she signed my book, I am from Chile and I support reading from Canada.
May 3, 2024
Small-town romance, witty banter and a mature leading lady made this a book I couldn’t wait to read. I loved that Evie was a confident, determined single mother who was basically happy with where she was in her life, but was open to change and a little bit more. Ryan, the handsome contractor who had a rough go with love but just may be willing to take another chance with the right person, just rounded out the storyline perfectly. The supporting characters were amazing! Lots of laughs, lots of love and a whole lot of “I can relate” made this a book I whipped right through. I get the fear Evie had about Sara leaving for school. I get the excitement Sara had for the same thing. I get the hesitation about starting a new relationship, but wanting to do it anyway for both Evie and Ryan. So many things going on that I felt happens here in my small town too. What a fun experience.
April 29, 2024
This was such a cute and quick read. I am not the usual romantic comedy reader but I am glad that I read this one. I loved the banter between Evie and Ryan, they had me laughing out loud multiple times. Oh and Ryan!! Swoon!! His is my new book boyfriend. Why can't my husband like Ryan?? I can't wait to read the next book in this series. Highly recommend!
March 15, 2024
This book was a very cute, fun read! Both Evie and Ryan were interesting and I couldn't help but like them right off the bat. The chemistry between the two was so sweet, along with the way Ryan was so understanding of Evie's past. I also really enjoyed the mother and daughter relationship, it's always nice when a story includes things for the characters outside of the romance. Overall, I would definitely recommend giving this book a read!
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