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Jubilee, Kentucky #5
Bad Seed
Can she have the man of her dreams and the life she's always wanted?
It's love at first sight when head pastry chef Brendan Pope meets private investigator Harley Banks at Serenity Inn for her latest investigation. But unknown to them both, Harley has a hitman after her, courtesy of the wrong-doer she put behind bars on her last case. The FBI gets involved to clean up the loose ends so Harley can continue the investigation at the inn. But after nearly losing her, Brendan will stop at nothing to make sure Harley is safe and the criminals get their comeuppance.
Praise for New York Times bestseller Sharon Sala's thrilling romantic
"Emotionally wrenching, sensually appealing, edgy and suspenseful, and hopeful and endearing."—USA Today for Going Gone
"Vivid, gripping...this thriller keeps the pages turning."—Library Journal for Torn Apart
"Skillfully balancing suspense and romance, Sala gives readers a nonstop breath-holding adventure."—Publishers Weekly for Going Once
It's love at first sight when head pastry chef Brendan Pope meets private investigator Harley Banks at Serenity Inn for her latest investigation. But unknown to them both, Harley has a hitman after her, courtesy of the wrong-doer she put behind bars on her last case. The FBI gets involved to clean up the loose ends so Harley can continue the investigation at the inn. But after nearly losing her, Brendan will stop at nothing to make sure Harley is safe and the criminals get their comeuppance.
Praise for New York Times bestseller Sharon Sala's thrilling romantic
"Emotionally wrenching, sensually appealing, edgy and suspenseful, and hopeful and endearing."—USA Today for Going Gone
"Vivid, gripping...this thriller keeps the pages turning."—Library Journal for Torn Apart
"Skillfully balancing suspense and romance, Sala gives readers a nonstop breath-holding adventure."—Publishers Weekly for Going Once
461 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 21, 2025
185 people are currently reading
436 people want to read
About the author
Sharon Sala
280 books2,311 followersBiography
Sharon Sala is a Native Oklahoman and still lives within a two hour drive of where she was born.
First published in 1991, she is a New York Times/USA Today, best-selling author with a 135 plus books published in seven different genres, including Romantic suspense, Mystery, Young Adult, Western, Fiction, Women’s Fiction and Non-Fiction.
Industry Awards include:
Eight-time RITA finalist. (Romance Industry award)
The Janet Dailey Award.
Five-time Career Achievement winner from RT Magazine.
Five time winner of the National Reader’s Choice Award.
Five time winner of the Colorado Romance Writer’s Award of Excellence.
Heart of Excellence Award.,
Booksellers Best Award.
Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award RITA, presented by RWA.
Centennial Award from RWA for recognition of her 100th published novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
January 11, 2025
Bad Seed by Sharon Sala
Jubilee, Kentucky series #5. Romantic suspense. Can be read as a stand-alone but family and couples that are from previous books are secondary characters here. Last in the series.
Harley Banks is a financial wiz and a private investigator. She’s hired by the owner of Serenity Inn to do an audit and find out why complaints are on the rise.
Head pastry chef Brendan Pope falls for Harley the first time they meet. She is strikingly gorgeous, smart and can trade quips with him easily. Plus she loves his cooking.
Harley isn’t lonely anymore with Brendan hanging around. She knows she can take care of herself, but having the Pope family behind her, is a comfort.
The hidden snake from the prior case where she uncovered a human trafficking pipeline, isn’t willing to have Harley destroy his business and walk away. She’s going to pay with her life.
I don’t know how this author continues to raise the bar. Every book is better than the last.
Gripping, engaging, and enticing, with just a touch of humor. This thriller / suspense / family will hold you, riveted, until the very end.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley. I purchased multiple copies to share.
Don’t miss this series. Romantic suspense at its best.
Jubilee, Kentucky series #5. Romantic suspense. Can be read as a stand-alone but family and couples that are from previous books are secondary characters here. Last in the series.
Harley Banks is a financial wiz and a private investigator. She’s hired by the owner of Serenity Inn to do an audit and find out why complaints are on the rise.
Head pastry chef Brendan Pope falls for Harley the first time they meet. She is strikingly gorgeous, smart and can trade quips with him easily. Plus she loves his cooking.
Harley isn’t lonely anymore with Brendan hanging around. She knows she can take care of herself, but having the Pope family behind her, is a comfort.
The hidden snake from the prior case where she uncovered a human trafficking pipeline, isn’t willing to have Harley destroy his business and walk away. She’s going to pay with her life.
I don’t know how this author continues to raise the bar. Every book is better than the last.
Gripping, engaging, and enticing, with just a touch of humor. This thriller / suspense / family will hold you, riveted, until the very end.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley. I purchased multiple copies to share.
Don’t miss this series. Romantic suspense at its best.
January 7, 2025
Oh, my goodness! The level of drama in the first 15% of this book is off the charts. I had a suspicion of who is going to wind up dead, but I was wrong. Sharon Sala writes a wonderful Romantic-Suspense about a great family, the Pope's of Pope Mountain, and an almost mythical town, Jubilee. It is an old school Romantic-Suspense with the emphasis on the Romance, but the Suspense wasn't too bad either. There were several baddies and one whose identity remained hidden until near the end. The issue of sexual harassment is raised and delt with by the gentle giant, Brendan Pope. The characters don't have much depth, and the insta-love was a mite absurd, but it was a change from all the insta-lust plots I've read. Overall, not a bad book, but not a great one either.
Harley Banks, a private investigator and CPA, has a rep as the go to investigator for businesses where there may be illegal goings on afoot. She has just wrapped an investigation that ended up with the dismantling of a sex trafficking ring. She is now off to Jubilee, Kentucky and an audit for Ray Caldwell, owner of the Serentiy Inn.
Brendan Pope is the head pastry chef at the Serenity Inn and has a big problem with the manager's spoiled daughter. In fact, everyone who works there and comes into contact with Justine has a problem with her. Her fascination with him has turned into stalking and then into assault. Lucky for Brendan, she is no longer around when he meets the love of his life, Harley Banks.
But, close on Harley's heels is a not so little problem from her last job. It seems that the head of the human trafficking ring she helped bust eluded capture and is cutting off loose ends and Harley is a loose end. But a little thing like a hit man is no match for true love and he is no match for the very sharp Harley Banks. 3 1/2-Stars
My thanks to the Publisher and Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
Harley Banks, a private investigator and CPA, has a rep as the go to investigator for businesses where there may be illegal goings on afoot. She has just wrapped an investigation that ended up with the dismantling of a sex trafficking ring. She is now off to Jubilee, Kentucky and an audit for Ray Caldwell, owner of the Serentiy Inn.
Brendan Pope is the head pastry chef at the Serenity Inn and has a big problem with the manager's spoiled daughter. In fact, everyone who works there and comes into contact with Justine has a problem with her. Her fascination with him has turned into stalking and then into assault. Lucky for Brendan, she is no longer around when he meets the love of his life, Harley Banks.
But, close on Harley's heels is a not so little problem from her last job. It seems that the head of the human trafficking ring she helped bust eluded capture and is cutting off loose ends and Harley is a loose end. But a little thing like a hit man is no match for true love and he is no match for the very sharp Harley Banks. 3 1/2-Stars
My thanks to the Publisher and Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
November 14, 2024
Hailey is traveling to Kentucky for her next case. She us an accountant who is good at weeding out corruption. She meets Brendan who she likes. I enjoyed this book and can't wait to read her next one.
November 15, 2025
We've finally come to the end of this series. Saying goodbye to The Pope's and Pope Mountain is going to be so hard. I have loved every book in this series and the newest book Bad Seed is no exception. It was a terrific read.
Brendan Pope is the youngest of the Pope brothers. He is also the tallest with the biggest heart. He loves his family and is one heck of a baker. He is the head pastry chef for the Serenity Inn and loves his job immensely.
Harley Banks is a PI who was hired to find out just what has been going on at the Serenity Inn. There's only one problem... Harley's last job was high profile and what she uncovered is now looking for her to tie up those loose ends.
Ending this series with Brendan's story was an excellent choice. So many things came full circle and wrapped up this series perfectly.
Sharon Sala's writing is phenomenal. She knows just how to capture you and hold you from page one right till the end.
I am so sad to see the end of Jubilee, Kentucky but cannot wait to see what this author writes for us next.
I highly recommend this book.
*Thank you NetGalley & Sourcebooks Casablanca for providing me with an advanced readers copy for a honest review*
Brendan Pope is the youngest of the Pope brothers. He is also the tallest with the biggest heart. He loves his family and is one heck of a baker. He is the head pastry chef for the Serenity Inn and loves his job immensely.
Harley Banks is a PI who was hired to find out just what has been going on at the Serenity Inn. There's only one problem... Harley's last job was high profile and what she uncovered is now looking for her to tie up those loose ends.
Ending this series with Brendan's story was an excellent choice. So many things came full circle and wrapped up this series perfectly.
Sharon Sala's writing is phenomenal. She knows just how to capture you and hold you from page one right till the end.
I am so sad to see the end of Jubilee, Kentucky but cannot wait to see what this author writes for us next.
I highly recommend this book.
*Thank you NetGalley & Sourcebooks Casablanca for providing me with an advanced readers copy for a honest review*
January 16, 2025
Bad Seed is my first book by Sharon Sala and it took over my days. The rich characters, suspenseful story, and romance blended to make this one of my favorite books of 2025! Harley Banks is a P.I./accountant who investigates companies when asked. She's just finished a case in which she found human trafficking taking place where the owner had no idea it was happening. Many in the company were arrested and they saved countless women and children off of a ship that was about to take them to a foreign country. Harley felt great about the work she had done and the owner was beyond grateful. Unfortunately, a couple of the higher ups weren't in the raid and are still out and about. They now know that Harley was the person responsible and they want her "taken care of". Harley is getting on a plane to Chicago and luckily the bad guys don't know her name or anything about her. How long will that last?
Brendan Pope is a pastry chef at the Serenity Inn and is very talented. He worked at several high end restaurants in New York learning from the best and also gained invaluable experience in Europe. Harley's next job is at the Serenity Inn as the owner thinks his new manager is skimming money and ordering food and goods that are way below their standards. Harley is being comped a suite at the hotel, food, and access to all of the spa activities for free. The staff thinks she's there as an accountant to do an audit on the property. The story is that the owner is considering selling so everything has to be checked out. When Brendan and Harley meet, they are both immediately taken with each other. The connection is strong and they both feel it. Will they be able to act on this attraction? Brendan knows why Harley is really there as he's been asked to assist her with anything she might need. Brendan is more than happy to assist Harley with anything, including his wonderful desserts!
Brendan and Harley have no idea that a hitman has been assigned to find Harley and take her out. People are working to find her whereabouts so that the hitman can finish the job. Will the hitman find Harley? Will Brendan be able to protect her? Will Harley be prepared if he shows up? As Harley and Brendan get closer and his family welcomes her with open arms, Harley has never felt so loved. This book has it all and then some! To say I loved this book would be a huge understatement! I couldn't wait to read Bad Seed and thought about the town, the characters, the dangers, and the love story when I couldn't read it. I rate Bad Seed 5 stars with my very highest recommendation. Bad Seed comes out on January 21 and should not be missed. I'd like to thank NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for an advanced copy of Bad Seed in exchange for a fair review. #BadSeed
Brendan Pope is a pastry chef at the Serenity Inn and is very talented. He worked at several high end restaurants in New York learning from the best and also gained invaluable experience in Europe. Harley's next job is at the Serenity Inn as the owner thinks his new manager is skimming money and ordering food and goods that are way below their standards. Harley is being comped a suite at the hotel, food, and access to all of the spa activities for free. The staff thinks she's there as an accountant to do an audit on the property. The story is that the owner is considering selling so everything has to be checked out. When Brendan and Harley meet, they are both immediately taken with each other. The connection is strong and they both feel it. Will they be able to act on this attraction? Brendan knows why Harley is really there as he's been asked to assist her with anything she might need. Brendan is more than happy to assist Harley with anything, including his wonderful desserts!
Brendan and Harley have no idea that a hitman has been assigned to find Harley and take her out. People are working to find her whereabouts so that the hitman can finish the job. Will the hitman find Harley? Will Brendan be able to protect her? Will Harley be prepared if he shows up? As Harley and Brendan get closer and his family welcomes her with open arms, Harley has never felt so loved. This book has it all and then some! To say I loved this book would be a huge understatement! I couldn't wait to read Bad Seed and thought about the town, the characters, the dangers, and the love story when I couldn't read it. I rate Bad Seed 5 stars with my very highest recommendation. Bad Seed comes out on January 21 and should not be missed. I'd like to thank NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for an advanced copy of Bad Seed in exchange for a fair review. #BadSeed
July 3, 2025
Wonderful finish to this series. Brendan Pope and Harley Banks.
This was a smooth read .. connected tightly around a main story. Serenity Inn is featured along with the Pope family.
Two “bad seeds” bring most of the drama, tension and suspense. Justice prevails.
Not quite as clean a series as I’d like .. but worth the read.
This was a smooth read .. connected tightly around a main story. Serenity Inn is featured along with the Pope family.
Two “bad seeds” bring most of the drama, tension and suspense. Justice prevails.
Not quite as clean a series as I’d like .. but worth the read.
January 10, 2025
Romantic suspense but make it cozy.
This is the fourth (and possibly final?) book in Sala's Jubilee Kentucky series. The one that centers on the formidable Pope family who own an entire mountain.
In this one we finally get Brandon's romance, the pastry chef and youngest of Shirley Pope's sons. The story starts off with a bang, with our heroine, Harley, who is something of an forensic accountant and PI. She is hired to ferret out wrong doing in a company. In this one, she has found that the money being siphoned off of a company leads to a huge sex trafficking ring. Her hard work busts up the ring, but doesn't net the head guy.
But she's done her part and her next job takes her to Jubilee where she is doing an audit of the Serenity Inn, the fancy hotel owned by Rusty's family (whom we met in the first book). This is apropos because this book acts as a full circle of a sort as the sex trafficking ring becomes the main suspense element in the plot, calling back to the very first book in the series.
If you know Sala's work then you know she has multiple POVs happening, little side stories that lead to interesting places. And a narrative that doesn't always lead where you expect. And the romance is quick and decisive and the conflict is typically external. Harley and Brandon team up to head off the danger that is facing her. I admit this is one of the things I like about this author's writing, where the couple are pretty solid most of the book. I also like that people don't act illogically just for purposes of the plot. The people in this book are pretty smart.
The Pope family has a big presence with lots of call back to the previous books. And the epilogue felt very conclude-y. It is why this book feels like the final in the series. If it is it is a great conclusion to a fun series.
***This is a honest review of an ARC provided by the Publisher via Netgalley***
This is the fourth (and possibly final?) book in Sala's Jubilee Kentucky series. The one that centers on the formidable Pope family who own an entire mountain.
In this one we finally get Brandon's romance, the pastry chef and youngest of Shirley Pope's sons. The story starts off with a bang, with our heroine, Harley, who is something of an forensic accountant and PI. She is hired to ferret out wrong doing in a company. In this one, she has found that the money being siphoned off of a company leads to a huge sex trafficking ring. Her hard work busts up the ring, but doesn't net the head guy.
But she's done her part and her next job takes her to Jubilee where she is doing an audit of the Serenity Inn, the fancy hotel owned by Rusty's family (whom we met in the first book). This is apropos because this book acts as a full circle of a sort as the sex trafficking ring becomes the main suspense element in the plot, calling back to the very first book in the series.
If you know Sala's work then you know she has multiple POVs happening, little side stories that lead to interesting places. And a narrative that doesn't always lead where you expect. And the romance is quick and decisive and the conflict is typically external. Harley and Brandon team up to head off the danger that is facing her. I admit this is one of the things I like about this author's writing, where the couple are pretty solid most of the book. I also like that people don't act illogically just for purposes of the plot. The people in this book are pretty smart.
The Pope family has a big presence with lots of call back to the previous books. And the epilogue felt very conclude-y. It is why this book feels like the final in the series. If it is it is a great conclusion to a fun series.
***This is a honest review of an ARC provided by the Publisher via Netgalley***
January 29, 2025
The final book in the Popes of Pope's Mountain series. I enjoyed every book. I always love anything Sharon Sala writes.
December 2, 2024
Thanks to Sourcebooks for the Advanced Reader Copy.
First time reading this author and this series. However, this book was so slow and had so many side stories that were very disjointed. It also wasn't really a mystery or a thriller, as it was obvious the whole time how this was going to play out.
First time reading this author and this series. However, this book was so slow and had so many side stories that were very disjointed. It also wasn't really a mystery or a thriller, as it was obvious the whole time how this was going to play out.
January 7, 2025
It was great to go back to Jubilee and see what the Pope family has been up. PI Harley has come to town to do an audit on the books at a local hotel, but her last case seems to have followed her. Human trafficking, a psychotic stalker, fraud and a romance. What more could you ask for in a book. This is a great series and I have enjoyed all of them. Thank you to net galley for an advanced readers copy.
November 14, 2024
Recomiendo leer los libros anteriores, ya que se mencionan eventos previos que están directamente relacionados con los sucesos de este libro. Además, hay varios puntos de vista de diferentes personajes, lo que puede resultar confuso al principio, ya que a veces cuesta identificar quién es quién.
No me convenció completamente, sobre todo porque muchos personajes tienen su propio punto de vista y siento que me quitaban protagonismo a Harley y Brendan, pero al mismo tiempo, la autora logró despertar mi curiosidad por leer toda la serie.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
No me convenció completamente, sobre todo porque muchos personajes tienen su propio punto de vista y siento que me quitaban protagonismo a Harley y Brendan, pero al mismo tiempo, la autora logró despertar mi curiosidad por leer toda la serie.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 17, 2025
Amazing series 5 out of 5 books
The story and details were written so well, I couldn’t wait for the next page. As in the other 4 books it was a Wonderful collection about a well Roy def and honorable group of people. I never and I mean never cry from joy from reading books, but all of these are wonderful and make you cry with happiness.
The diverse story lines are written well and the characters are so well written you feel like you know them all and can’t wait to read about all of them even more.
Great series!
The story and details were written so well, I couldn’t wait for the next page. As in the other 4 books it was a Wonderful collection about a well Roy def and honorable group of people. I never and I mean never cry from joy from reading books, but all of these are wonderful and make you cry with happiness.
The diverse story lines are written well and the characters are so well written you feel like you know them all and can’t wait to read about all of them even more.
Great series!
March 9, 2025
What an awesome book! Loved every minute if it. Love the oeople on Pope Mountain. Feel very sad this was the last book in the series. The Pope’s feel like family to me. Thanks Sharon Sala for such an awesome series!
January 3, 2025
This one was hard to read/finish. It’s the story of Harley a PI/Forensic auditor and Brendan a pastry chef. She goes to investigate something at the hotel Brendan works at and, amongst a ton of extraneous explosion and a billion unrelated and unnecessary segments from other characters, they fall in love in like two days after spending like five hours together and get engaged after like a week.
I really wanted to love this book, like it had some great foundations for an amazing romance and mystery but it fell flat on both, instead of focusing on our two main protagonists, it’s just muddled with so many other characters and side stories.
After they get together there’s like an hour more of just odd unnecessary after plot stuff. It all just made it feel very rushed and wasn’t for me. It might be an easier or more likeable read if you’ve read the other books in this series and have some sort of investment with the characters. But for me, it’s a no, and only finished it because I hate DNFing a book.
I really wanted to love this book, like it had some great foundations for an amazing romance and mystery but it fell flat on both, instead of focusing on our two main protagonists, it’s just muddled with so many other characters and side stories.
After they get together there’s like an hour more of just odd unnecessary after plot stuff. It all just made it feel very rushed and wasn’t for me. It might be an easier or more likeable read if you’ve read the other books in this series and have some sort of investment with the characters. But for me, it’s a no, and only finished it because I hate DNFing a book.
January 23, 2025
The best part of a Sharon Sala book is how she lets the reader "feel" the feels. We know exactly what Brendan was thinking when he saw Harley for the first time. We know from the start he's looking for "the one," that he wants what his brothers and cousin have, his woman, a woman who can live on Hope Mountain, a woman who will be happy with family and friends and doesn't need the trappings of the city.
We know Harley's background. We recognize that indescribable draw she feels when she sees Brendan for the first time. We know she's an independent woman, strong and capable, living in Chicago but traveling for her job.
The author creates strong female characters who are still romantic and looking for love, and male characters who are strong and masculine, but who acknowledge their feelings and aren't afraid to show emotion.
That little twist, Brendan being the victim of a female stalker, that put a different spin on the story, too. I would normally describe Sharon Sala's books as warm and cozy, family oriented, with two people falling in love while solving a mystery. And while that sounds almost formulaic, I love her stories because love conquers all and well, I am just a romantic at heart.
Although Jubilee is basically a small town in Kentucky, it's not beyond the realm of possibility that the hitman after Harley could find her there. And she certainly doesn't want to bring that down on the innocent people of the town. Brendan and his family are pulled into the situation since once they meet, Brendan just can't imagine allowing anything to happen to Harley.
Thanks to Sourcebooks/Casablanca for this galley. All opinions are my own.
We know Harley's background. We recognize that indescribable draw she feels when she sees Brendan for the first time. We know she's an independent woman, strong and capable, living in Chicago but traveling for her job.
The author creates strong female characters who are still romantic and looking for love, and male characters who are strong and masculine, but who acknowledge their feelings and aren't afraid to show emotion.
That little twist, Brendan being the victim of a female stalker, that put a different spin on the story, too. I would normally describe Sharon Sala's books as warm and cozy, family oriented, with two people falling in love while solving a mystery. And while that sounds almost formulaic, I love her stories because love conquers all and well, I am just a romantic at heart.
Although Jubilee is basically a small town in Kentucky, it's not beyond the realm of possibility that the hitman after Harley could find her there. And she certainly doesn't want to bring that down on the innocent people of the town. Brendan and his family are pulled into the situation since once they meet, Brendan just can't imagine allowing anything to happen to Harley.
Thanks to Sourcebooks/Casablanca for this galley. All opinions are my own.
January 26, 2025
BOOK: BAD SEED
AUTHOR: SHARON SALA
PUB DATE: JANUARY 2025
🕵🏼♀️👨🏼🍳
REVIEW- 2.5 stars
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
👨🏼🍳🕵🏼♀️
THINGS I LIKED
1. The FMC, Harley and the MMC, Brendan
2. The close-knit family of Pope
🕵🏼♀️👨🏼🍳
THINGS I DIDN'T LIKE
1. TMI- Too Much Information, too many points of view. It was unnecessary and really annoying. It felt like all of the characters in the book shared their pov. I felt like it took focus away from the MCs
2. The suspense was predictable.
3. The relationship between the MLs was way too fast. They met, fell in love, full stop. It was not engaging at all.
👨🏼🍳🕵🏼♀️
This book was mot my favorite, it had a lot of elements I didn't like
AUTHOR: SHARON SALA
PUB DATE: JANUARY 2025
🕵🏼♀️👨🏼🍳
REVIEW- 2.5 stars
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
👨🏼🍳🕵🏼♀️
THINGS I LIKED
1. The FMC, Harley and the MMC, Brendan
2. The close-knit family of Pope
🕵🏼♀️👨🏼🍳
THINGS I DIDN'T LIKE
1. TMI- Too Much Information, too many points of view. It was unnecessary and really annoying. It felt like all of the characters in the book shared their pov. I felt like it took focus away from the MCs
2. The suspense was predictable.
3. The relationship between the MLs was way too fast. They met, fell in love, full stop. It was not engaging at all.
👨🏼🍳🕵🏼♀️
This book was mot my favorite, it had a lot of elements I didn't like
February 26, 2025
I simply love reading these Jubilee, Kentucky stories. The characters are people I wish I knew. The setting sounds wonderful. The mysteries catch my interest.
More, please!!
More, please!!
June 19, 2025
Characters:
Harley Banks-Fraud investigator. Specializing in corporate crime. CPA added to her skillset. Masters degree in math.
Jason Banks-Harley’s dad. NASA scientist.
Judith Banks-Harley’s mom. Accomplished screenwriter and playwright.
Order of Pope brothers: Aaron is oldest. Then Sean, then Wylie and with the youngest being Brendan.
Brendan Pope-Handsome head pastry chef who works for Serenity Inn. Tallest but youngest Pope brother.
Wiley Pope-Police Officer. Brendan’s older brother. Legal guardian to half-sister Ava. Lives in an old 2 story house that used to belong to his great aunt Ella Pope.
Linette Pope-Wiley’s wife. Nurse.
Aaron Pope-Police Officer.
Dani Pope-Aaron’s wife.
Sean Pope-Installs security cameras, Computer tech. Took a bullet meant for Wolfgang’s daughter and nearly died. then married her…Amalie.
Amalie Pope-Sean’s wife. CPA. Was in a really bad wreck that nearly killed her. Has the “sight”. Her and Sean had twin boys named Aidan and Dillon.
Wolfgang Outen-Amalie’s dad.
Shirley Pope-The Pope brother’s mom. Her abusive ex husband’s daughter Ava calls her grandma.
Clyde Wallace-Dad to Ava and the Pope brothers. Alcoholic, drug addict and abusive. A murderer. In prison for life. His sons and ex-wife changed their last name to Pope as they didn’t want to be associated to him.
Corina-Ava’s mom.
Ava-The Pope brother’s little half sister. They share the same abusive dad.
Doug Leedy-Police Officer. Wiley’s partner.
Bob Yancy-Police Officer. Aaron’s partner.
Wilhelm Crossley-Hired Harley to find out what was happening to his import shipments.
Tipton Crossley-Co-owner with his dad Wilhelm.
Phil Knickey-Was a professional hockey player until car crash crushed both knees. He found a new gig, a man bait for a human trafficking gang.
Maury Paget-Accountant for the Crossley Company and the Mole. Accepted lesser sentence to testify.
Ollie Prine-Mr. Berlin’s right-hand man.
Cameron Pope-The Pope brother’s cousin. Ex-Army Special Forces. Owns military dog named Ghost who would sniff out bombs in Iraq for him and his men. Married to Rusty. They have 2 kids: a boy Mikey and a girl Ella.
Rusty Caldwell-Undercover Ex-FBI. Ray Caldwell is her uncle. Her dad and Ray are brothers. She married the Pope brother’s cousin Cameron.
Ray Caldwell-Owner of Serenity Inn. Recovering from Open Heart surgery. Hired Larry to manage the Inn. His niece is ex-FBI.
Liz Devon-Ray’s daughter and the Event Coordinator at his Inn. Married to Michael.
Patricia Caldwell-Ray’s wife. Liz’s mom.
Michael Devon-Liz’s husband. Owns Hotel Devon. Biggest competitor to Serenity Inn.
Jay Howard-FBI Special Agent who used to work with Rusty.
Liam Cauley-Works at Jubilee Car Rental. The Pope brothers are his cousins. His granny runs Granny Annie’s Bakery. His mom works there too.
Paula Cauley-The Pope brothers are her cousins. Aunt Annie’s granddaughter.
Larry Beaumont-Manager at Serenity Inn. He changed vendors to family or friends which the products were of lesser quality but charged the inn the same amount. Larry split the proceeds with them.
Justine Beaumont-Larry’s Daughter. 24 years old. Took over the Inn’s penthouse. Has a crush on Brendan as he was the most gorgeous man she’s ever seen. She started stalking him. However, he turned down every blatant invitation she’d given him. She was angry at being rebuffed so she was out for revenge. She even pulled a knife on him in the elevator and swung it at his face. He jumped back but she still gave him a long ugly scratch down the side of his neck. After running from the bouncer at Trappers, she fell into a table and knocked 2 women out of their chairs. One woman got a broken arm and she gave the other cracked ribs.
Thomas Randolph-Chef de Cuisine at Serenity Inn.
Anthony-Brendan’s Head Sous-Chef.
Ariel Halsey-Brendan nicknamed her Little Mermaid. One of Brendan’s sous-chefs. So are Rick and George.
Alex Fallin-On chartered bus that was hit head-on by a moving van. Brendan Pope saved his life. Placed a tourniquet on his leg where an artery was hit.
Josie Fallin-Alex’s sister. Country Star.
Trinity-Josie’s asst.
Lisa Hamilton and her son Davey-Were on bus that was hit.
Louis Glass-Bartender at Trapper’s Bar and Grill. After shutting her off alcohol when she went over her limit, Justine threw a beer bottle at the back of his head, leaving glass embedded in his hair and scalp.
Mike-Bouncer at Trapper’s Bar and Grill. When he had Justine in a light restraining hold after she injured Louis, she twisted out of his grip and clawed the sides of his face with her nails.
Sonny Warren-Police Chief.
Randy-Jailer.
Harley Banks just finished an investigation that ended in a successful raid of a human trafficking ring.
She was on her next assignment at Serenity Inn when Wilhelm got in touch with her. He told her that Maury Paget was found dead in his jail cell. strangled. Also, the Federal Agent in charge of the case is dead. He was stuck in traffic when a motorcyclist rode past his car window and shot him in the head. Lastly, the warehouse was burned down to the ground. She was not safe.
Mr. Berlin sent Oliver Prine to Jubilee to kill Harley. They both got off shots. His shot grazed her head but hers was a kill shot.
Now of course along the way, Brendan and Harley fell in love and got married. He told her that she is part of the secret now. There’s a company called PCG that owns all the land in Jubilee. All of the businesses pay PCG to have shops there. PCG stands for Pope, Cauley and Glass. Cameron is the CEO. He and a lawyer in Frankfort manage the corporation. They don’t want their way of life changed.
I didn’t realize that this was a series. So now I have to go back and read the earlier ones. Lol! This novel had a ton of errors. My daughter mentioned that it’s probably because it’s an ARC book.
Amusing Quotes:
Brendan was cautioning his sous-chefs:
“George, go lightly with the dusting sugar. You’re not powdering a baby’s butt, okay.”
“And you…little Mermaid…yes, the dough needs punching down, but not like you’re trying to cold-cock someone.” She apologized. He asked who made her mad this morning. Lol!
Harley Banks-Fraud investigator. Specializing in corporate crime. CPA added to her skillset. Masters degree in math.
Jason Banks-Harley’s dad. NASA scientist.
Judith Banks-Harley’s mom. Accomplished screenwriter and playwright.
Order of Pope brothers: Aaron is oldest. Then Sean, then Wylie and with the youngest being Brendan.
Brendan Pope-Handsome head pastry chef who works for Serenity Inn. Tallest but youngest Pope brother.
Wiley Pope-Police Officer. Brendan’s older brother. Legal guardian to half-sister Ava. Lives in an old 2 story house that used to belong to his great aunt Ella Pope.
Linette Pope-Wiley’s wife. Nurse.
Aaron Pope-Police Officer.
Dani Pope-Aaron’s wife.
Sean Pope-Installs security cameras, Computer tech. Took a bullet meant for Wolfgang’s daughter and nearly died. then married her…Amalie.
Amalie Pope-Sean’s wife. CPA. Was in a really bad wreck that nearly killed her. Has the “sight”. Her and Sean had twin boys named Aidan and Dillon.
Wolfgang Outen-Amalie’s dad.
Shirley Pope-The Pope brother’s mom. Her abusive ex husband’s daughter Ava calls her grandma.
Clyde Wallace-Dad to Ava and the Pope brothers. Alcoholic, drug addict and abusive. A murderer. In prison for life. His sons and ex-wife changed their last name to Pope as they didn’t want to be associated to him.
Corina-Ava’s mom.
Ava-The Pope brother’s little half sister. They share the same abusive dad.
Doug Leedy-Police Officer. Wiley’s partner.
Bob Yancy-Police Officer. Aaron’s partner.
Wilhelm Crossley-Hired Harley to find out what was happening to his import shipments.
Tipton Crossley-Co-owner with his dad Wilhelm.
Phil Knickey-Was a professional hockey player until car crash crushed both knees. He found a new gig, a man bait for a human trafficking gang.
Maury Paget-Accountant for the Crossley Company and the Mole. Accepted lesser sentence to testify.
Ollie Prine-Mr. Berlin’s right-hand man.
Cameron Pope-The Pope brother’s cousin. Ex-Army Special Forces. Owns military dog named Ghost who would sniff out bombs in Iraq for him and his men. Married to Rusty. They have 2 kids: a boy Mikey and a girl Ella.
Rusty Caldwell-Undercover Ex-FBI. Ray Caldwell is her uncle. Her dad and Ray are brothers. She married the Pope brother’s cousin Cameron.
Ray Caldwell-Owner of Serenity Inn. Recovering from Open Heart surgery. Hired Larry to manage the Inn. His niece is ex-FBI.
Liz Devon-Ray’s daughter and the Event Coordinator at his Inn. Married to Michael.
Patricia Caldwell-Ray’s wife. Liz’s mom.
Michael Devon-Liz’s husband. Owns Hotel Devon. Biggest competitor to Serenity Inn.
Jay Howard-FBI Special Agent who used to work with Rusty.
Liam Cauley-Works at Jubilee Car Rental. The Pope brothers are his cousins. His granny runs Granny Annie’s Bakery. His mom works there too.
Paula Cauley-The Pope brothers are her cousins. Aunt Annie’s granddaughter.
Larry Beaumont-Manager at Serenity Inn. He changed vendors to family or friends which the products were of lesser quality but charged the inn the same amount. Larry split the proceeds with them.
Justine Beaumont-Larry’s Daughter. 24 years old. Took over the Inn’s penthouse. Has a crush on Brendan as he was the most gorgeous man she’s ever seen. She started stalking him. However, he turned down every blatant invitation she’d given him. She was angry at being rebuffed so she was out for revenge. She even pulled a knife on him in the elevator and swung it at his face. He jumped back but she still gave him a long ugly scratch down the side of his neck. After running from the bouncer at Trappers, she fell into a table and knocked 2 women out of their chairs. One woman got a broken arm and she gave the other cracked ribs.
Thomas Randolph-Chef de Cuisine at Serenity Inn.
Anthony-Brendan’s Head Sous-Chef.
Ariel Halsey-Brendan nicknamed her Little Mermaid. One of Brendan’s sous-chefs. So are Rick and George.
Alex Fallin-On chartered bus that was hit head-on by a moving van. Brendan Pope saved his life. Placed a tourniquet on his leg where an artery was hit.
Josie Fallin-Alex’s sister. Country Star.
Trinity-Josie’s asst.
Lisa Hamilton and her son Davey-Were on bus that was hit.
Louis Glass-Bartender at Trapper’s Bar and Grill. After shutting her off alcohol when she went over her limit, Justine threw a beer bottle at the back of his head, leaving glass embedded in his hair and scalp.
Mike-Bouncer at Trapper’s Bar and Grill. When he had Justine in a light restraining hold after she injured Louis, she twisted out of his grip and clawed the sides of his face with her nails.
Sonny Warren-Police Chief.
Randy-Jailer.
Harley Banks just finished an investigation that ended in a successful raid of a human trafficking ring.
She was on her next assignment at Serenity Inn when Wilhelm got in touch with her. He told her that Maury Paget was found dead in his jail cell. strangled. Also, the Federal Agent in charge of the case is dead. He was stuck in traffic when a motorcyclist rode past his car window and shot him in the head. Lastly, the warehouse was burned down to the ground. She was not safe.
Mr. Berlin sent Oliver Prine to Jubilee to kill Harley. They both got off shots. His shot grazed her head but hers was a kill shot.
Now of course along the way, Brendan and Harley fell in love and got married. He told her that she is part of the secret now. There’s a company called PCG that owns all the land in Jubilee. All of the businesses pay PCG to have shops there. PCG stands for Pope, Cauley and Glass. Cameron is the CEO. He and a lawyer in Frankfort manage the corporation. They don’t want their way of life changed.
I didn’t realize that this was a series. So now I have to go back and read the earlier ones. Lol! This novel had a ton of errors. My daughter mentioned that it’s probably because it’s an ARC book.
Amusing Quotes:
Brendan was cautioning his sous-chefs:
“George, go lightly with the dusting sugar. You’re not powdering a baby’s butt, okay.”
“And you…little Mermaid…yes, the dough needs punching down, but not like you’re trying to cold-cock someone.” She apologized. He asked who made her mad this morning. Lol!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 4, 2025
There were things I liked about Sharon Sala’s book, Bad Seed, and other things that did not come together for me. The book is a multi-faceted story—at the heart is a romance between Brendan Pope and Harley Banks. I received an advanced reader’s copy of this book and did not know it was part of a series, however, it was easy to figure out that this book was related to others as there were a number of connected characters that made appearances throughout the story.
For fans of small town romance, the setting of Jubilee and the people who live on Pope Mountain bring the small-town feel to life. Pastry chef Brendan and PI/CPA Harley are a match made in heaven, from their striking good looks to temperament, and they each fill a void in the other’s life. I thought the romance just sort of happened… It was more a love at first sight where one minute they met and a few chapters later they were in ‘forever’ love. I would have liked more tension with a slow build up to their relationship, but there were external forces that threw them together in a rather quick way that hastened their romance.
Harley comes to Jubilee to investigate the possibility of financial impropriety at the inn where Brendan works. She arrives having just closed another case where she discovered a human trafficking ring within the organization. While her professional obligations to the previous case closed, they never found the head of the trafficking ring and this loose end continued to bother her as she moved on. She is notified by the kind, wealthy owner of the company that other people involved in the operation have turned up dead and that she needs to watch her back. Unbeknownst to her, there is a bounty on her head and the hit man eventually finds her in Jubilee.
*Spoilers*
But here is where the story gets lost for me. There are so many threads that felt forced—
-The inn has someone committing financial fraud and skimming the profits.
-Brendan has a stalker who is a psychotic narcissist, who also happens to be the daughter of the current manager at the inn. This stalker causes problems in town, is arrested, bailed out by her mother, and returns to her hometown in Texas. She ends up murdering her mother to get her life insurance, but the policy has lapsed (to her surprise) and instead of getting the money she is charged with murder and is remanded to a psychiatric hospital.
-Harley is shot by the hitman but she evades his bullet while she is able to plant one in his forehead and take him out. She is left with a concussion and a graze to her head and Brendan becomes her protector while she recuperates.
-Harley’s parents are selfish, insensitive and neglectful, and she has had a difficult relationship with them all her life. They are consumed with status and wealth and think Harley should have made different life choices.
-The owner of the inn has health problems and is looking to sell. Another rich investor, whose daughter married into the Pope family, is interested in buying.
-The son of the wealthy man from the previous case turns out to be the human trafficker. This case is related to another FBI case from years prior, worked on by one of Brendan’s relatives.
Needless to say, this story has a lot of convoluted knots that try to hold it together, but for me there were at least two too many and the story felt unwieldy as a result.
Thank you to NetGalley and SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
For fans of small town romance, the setting of Jubilee and the people who live on Pope Mountain bring the small-town feel to life. Pastry chef Brendan and PI/CPA Harley are a match made in heaven, from their striking good looks to temperament, and they each fill a void in the other’s life. I thought the romance just sort of happened… It was more a love at first sight where one minute they met and a few chapters later they were in ‘forever’ love. I would have liked more tension with a slow build up to their relationship, but there were external forces that threw them together in a rather quick way that hastened their romance.
Harley comes to Jubilee to investigate the possibility of financial impropriety at the inn where Brendan works. She arrives having just closed another case where she discovered a human trafficking ring within the organization. While her professional obligations to the previous case closed, they never found the head of the trafficking ring and this loose end continued to bother her as she moved on. She is notified by the kind, wealthy owner of the company that other people involved in the operation have turned up dead and that she needs to watch her back. Unbeknownst to her, there is a bounty on her head and the hit man eventually finds her in Jubilee.
*Spoilers*
But here is where the story gets lost for me. There are so many threads that felt forced—
-The inn has someone committing financial fraud and skimming the profits.
-Brendan has a stalker who is a psychotic narcissist, who also happens to be the daughter of the current manager at the inn. This stalker causes problems in town, is arrested, bailed out by her mother, and returns to her hometown in Texas. She ends up murdering her mother to get her life insurance, but the policy has lapsed (to her surprise) and instead of getting the money she is charged with murder and is remanded to a psychiatric hospital.
-Harley is shot by the hitman but she evades his bullet while she is able to plant one in his forehead and take him out. She is left with a concussion and a graze to her head and Brendan becomes her protector while she recuperates.
-Harley’s parents are selfish, insensitive and neglectful, and she has had a difficult relationship with them all her life. They are consumed with status and wealth and think Harley should have made different life choices.
-The owner of the inn has health problems and is looking to sell. Another rich investor, whose daughter married into the Pope family, is interested in buying.
-The son of the wealthy man from the previous case turns out to be the human trafficker. This case is related to another FBI case from years prior, worked on by one of Brendan’s relatives.
Needless to say, this story has a lot of convoluted knots that try to hold it together, but for me there were at least two too many and the story felt unwieldy as a result.
Thank you to NetGalley and SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 13, 2025
Bad Seed is the 5th and possibly the last romantic suspense novel in Sharon Sala's Jubilee, Kentucky series. I've read 3 out of the 4 preceding novels, and have enjoyed them all, although it did leave me a bit confused as to who was who in this novel, since I've read quite a number of other books in-between reading this one and the the previous novels in this series, but it didn't really detract from my enjoyment of this novel, which gets 5 stars from this reader. However, I do recommend reading the books in this series in the order of their release.
Ms. Sala is masterful at creating towns and settings you find yourself wanting to move to, and that's certainly true of Jubilee, Kentucky, and the long history of that place and the three families who share ownership of Pope Mountain as well as the land that the town of Jubilee encompasses.
However, this novel doesn't open in Jubilee, it opens as the heroine, Harley Banks, a CPA and private investigator,, concentrating on corporate crime, whose home base is an empty apartment in Chicago. She is just wrapping up one case involving human trafficking, and is now being sent on a new assignment to Jubilee, Kentucky. She is an only child, but one tough cookie, especially after growing up in a dysfunctional, wealthy family, who, for the most part, find her career choice disappointing and beneath her, and remind her of that at almost every opportunity.
Harley's latest case entails using her CPA skills at the Serenity Inn, in Jubilee. Its owner wants an audit in preparation for putting the inn on the market, and also wants her to investigate why, since hiring a a new manager to run the inn, while he is recuperating from a health issue, but who suspects, even from a distance, that something smells fishy to him about the way the new manager is doing things, and the fact that the manager's daughter, Justine, is stalking one of his employees, handsome head chef, Brendan Pope.
It's clear from the beginning that Brendan and Harley are almost instantly attracted to one another, but the action in this unputdownable novel really takes off when we discover that whomever Harley helped nail on her previous case, is killing off anyone who helped the investigation, including Harley, which sends Brendan and his brothers and sister, the latter all involved in law enforcement, into protective mode.
From that point on, the suspense and romance quickly heat up, and they are still trying to find "Mr. Big," who was the one behind the human tracking and the one who ordered the hit on Harley--and it certainly kept me guessing. To tell you more would spoil it for you, so I'll just say that this is another stellar read from Ms. Sala, who rarely, if ever, disappoints, and I highly recommend that you add it to your TBRs
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions stated are my own.
Ms. Sala is masterful at creating towns and settings you find yourself wanting to move to, and that's certainly true of Jubilee, Kentucky, and the long history of that place and the three families who share ownership of Pope Mountain as well as the land that the town of Jubilee encompasses.
However, this novel doesn't open in Jubilee, it opens as the heroine, Harley Banks, a CPA and private investigator,, concentrating on corporate crime, whose home base is an empty apartment in Chicago. She is just wrapping up one case involving human trafficking, and is now being sent on a new assignment to Jubilee, Kentucky. She is an only child, but one tough cookie, especially after growing up in a dysfunctional, wealthy family, who, for the most part, find her career choice disappointing and beneath her, and remind her of that at almost every opportunity.
Harley's latest case entails using her CPA skills at the Serenity Inn, in Jubilee. Its owner wants an audit in preparation for putting the inn on the market, and also wants her to investigate why, since hiring a a new manager to run the inn, while he is recuperating from a health issue, but who suspects, even from a distance, that something smells fishy to him about the way the new manager is doing things, and the fact that the manager's daughter, Justine, is stalking one of his employees, handsome head chef, Brendan Pope.
It's clear from the beginning that Brendan and Harley are almost instantly attracted to one another, but the action in this unputdownable novel really takes off when we discover that whomever Harley helped nail on her previous case, is killing off anyone who helped the investigation, including Harley, which sends Brendan and his brothers and sister, the latter all involved in law enforcement, into protective mode.
From that point on, the suspense and romance quickly heat up, and they are still trying to find "Mr. Big," who was the one behind the human tracking and the one who ordered the hit on Harley--and it certainly kept me guessing. To tell you more would spoil it for you, so I'll just say that this is another stellar read from Ms. Sala, who rarely, if ever, disappoints, and I highly recommend that you add it to your TBRs
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions stated are my own.
January 27, 2025
Bad Seed is Sharon Sala’s fifth and final book in her Jubilee romantic suspense series. It should absolutely be read after Left Behind, Heartbeat, and Last Rites; the first book, Don’t Back Down, isn’t required to understand the story. This book is a must-read for all fans of Sharon Sala and romantic suspense.
Shirley Wallace and her four adult sons return to her childhood home on Pope Mountain in Jubilee, Kentucky, after her abusive husband is convicted for murdering two store employees in their Arkansas town. Shirley inherited her late mother’s house and they all legally change their last name to her maiden name, Pope, to further disassociate themselves from scandal. All of them lost their jobs in Arkansas due to her husband’s misdeeds and must start over. The youngest son, Brendan, is 27 years old and works as the head pastry chef at the Serenity Inn.
Brendan Pope is happy with his career but he years to find his special lady and settle down like his older brothers have. He immediately connects with private investigator Harley Banks when she comes to the Serenity Inn for her latest assignment. It’s a well-known job hazard that Harley makes enemies of the people who she puts behind bars. Now she has a hitman from her last case who is pursuing her, prompting the FBI to get involved. While Harley continues her investigation at the inn, Brendan is determined to ensure Harley is safe and the criminals get what they deserve.
Like all of the Jubilee stories, Bad Seed shows romantic, parental ,and family love. The reader feels the love between Shirley and her four sons, and within the much larger Pope/Cauley/Glass families. Harley is on her own, but the large Pope family embraces her and Brendan goes to extraordinary lengths to keep her safe. The subplot involving the legend of the ancestral Brendan Pope adds a nice historical element.
In Sharon Sala books, the villains always get what they deserve. Cameron Pope and his large extended family were introduced in Don’t Back Down and serve as minor characters throughout this story. There are multiple sub-plots and lots of characters, but the author writes so clearly that it’s easy for the reader to keep up. Bad Seed contains a sweet romance between loveable characters without descriptive sex or violence; there may have been a couple of curse words uttered by villains. I couldn’t put this story down; it deserves more than 5 stars! I’m sorry that this is the final book in the wonderful Jubilee series.
I received an advance review copy (ARC) from NetGalley and SourceBooks-Casablanca for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Shirley Wallace and her four adult sons return to her childhood home on Pope Mountain in Jubilee, Kentucky, after her abusive husband is convicted for murdering two store employees in their Arkansas town. Shirley inherited her late mother’s house and they all legally change their last name to her maiden name, Pope, to further disassociate themselves from scandal. All of them lost their jobs in Arkansas due to her husband’s misdeeds and must start over. The youngest son, Brendan, is 27 years old and works as the head pastry chef at the Serenity Inn.
Brendan Pope is happy with his career but he years to find his special lady and settle down like his older brothers have. He immediately connects with private investigator Harley Banks when she comes to the Serenity Inn for her latest assignment. It’s a well-known job hazard that Harley makes enemies of the people who she puts behind bars. Now she has a hitman from her last case who is pursuing her, prompting the FBI to get involved. While Harley continues her investigation at the inn, Brendan is determined to ensure Harley is safe and the criminals get what they deserve.
Like all of the Jubilee stories, Bad Seed shows romantic, parental ,and family love. The reader feels the love between Shirley and her four sons, and within the much larger Pope/Cauley/Glass families. Harley is on her own, but the large Pope family embraces her and Brendan goes to extraordinary lengths to keep her safe. The subplot involving the legend of the ancestral Brendan Pope adds a nice historical element.
In Sharon Sala books, the villains always get what they deserve. Cameron Pope and his large extended family were introduced in Don’t Back Down and serve as minor characters throughout this story. There are multiple sub-plots and lots of characters, but the author writes so clearly that it’s easy for the reader to keep up. Bad Seed contains a sweet romance between loveable characters without descriptive sex or violence; there may have been a couple of curse words uttered by villains. I couldn’t put this story down; it deserves more than 5 stars! I’m sorry that this is the final book in the wonderful Jubilee series.
I received an advance review copy (ARC) from NetGalley and SourceBooks-Casablanca for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 14, 2025
Bad Seed by Sharon Sala is the 5th book in her wonderful Jubilee, Kentucky series. This is the end of the Jubilee, Kentucky series, as Brendan Pope’s story was the last of the Popes. Brendan is the head pastry chef at the Serinity Inn in Jubilee.
Harley Banks, is a PI/Forensic Auditor, who just finished her latest case, and now accepts another case in Jubilee; helping the owner of the hotel investigating information about the new manager. She has no idea that someone is trying to find her from the previous case; planning on eliminating her.
Brendan meets Harley, as they are both working at the hotel; he is immediately drawn to her; with Harley also attracted to him; with the sparks flying. In a short time, they both fall in love, and Harley is very good at her job, weeding out corruption. When Harley is attacked, she manages to find her gun, and shoot the villain; but she ended up with some injuries, forcing her to go to the hospital. Brendan took time off, to help Harley recuperate, and help her finding the missing links from the previous case. The FBI becomes involved, with Harley continuing to investigate the manager, as well as finding the real villain; who could endanger her life.
There are a number of revolving issues around the hotel & family, including stalking, trafficking and murder; with Brendan and Harley becoming involved in. Harley meets all of the Pope family, with Brendan, and they will be there to support her in any way that she needs. All the characters are all wonderful; and Brendan, Harley are a terrific and fun couple. I really liked the two Pope police officers, as they were always there to help Brendan and Harley.
Bad Seed was an addictive storyline that was also a very compelling read. Bad Seed was an exciting, suspenseful, intense, vicious, that kept me unable to put the book down. Brendan and Harley made a great couple, and a fabulous family. Bad Seed was so very well written by Sharon Sala. This was the final book in the Jubilee, Kentucky series, and I wholly suggest if you have not read this series, you should start from the beginning. Very well done.
Barb
Harley Banks, is a PI/Forensic Auditor, who just finished her latest case, and now accepts another case in Jubilee; helping the owner of the hotel investigating information about the new manager. She has no idea that someone is trying to find her from the previous case; planning on eliminating her.
Brendan meets Harley, as they are both working at the hotel; he is immediately drawn to her; with Harley also attracted to him; with the sparks flying. In a short time, they both fall in love, and Harley is very good at her job, weeding out corruption. When Harley is attacked, she manages to find her gun, and shoot the villain; but she ended up with some injuries, forcing her to go to the hospital. Brendan took time off, to help Harley recuperate, and help her finding the missing links from the previous case. The FBI becomes involved, with Harley continuing to investigate the manager, as well as finding the real villain; who could endanger her life.
There are a number of revolving issues around the hotel & family, including stalking, trafficking and murder; with Brendan and Harley becoming involved in. Harley meets all of the Pope family, with Brendan, and they will be there to support her in any way that she needs. All the characters are all wonderful; and Brendan, Harley are a terrific and fun couple. I really liked the two Pope police officers, as they were always there to help Brendan and Harley.
Bad Seed was an addictive storyline that was also a very compelling read. Bad Seed was an exciting, suspenseful, intense, vicious, that kept me unable to put the book down. Brendan and Harley made a great couple, and a fabulous family. Bad Seed was so very well written by Sharon Sala. This was the final book in the Jubilee, Kentucky series, and I wholly suggest if you have not read this series, you should start from the beginning. Very well done.
Barb
January 14, 2025
Brendan Pope is the last Pope brother left on the mountain and despairs of ever finding a woman like his brothers did. Little did he know that she’d appear at his place of work. After finishing a truly challenging investigation case PI/accountant investigator,Harley thinks nothing of the change of pace in the small town of Jubilee, Kentucky, but meeting Brendan, the head pastry chef of the hotel she’s investing, is the cherry on top of her sundae. I received an advanced reader copy of this book from NetGalley and the author for my honest review. All thoughts are my own.
This is book is a perfect blend of soft and sweet romance with suspense and drama that’s blended beautifully with an amazing cast of characters. It is book 5 in the Jubilee/Pope Mountain series and while I’m sad to see the end of this family of brothers (although, hopefully not the end of this town)I’m happy to say that the author makes this book come full circle from book 1 in a spectacular way. And while part of a series you can easily read this book on its own and enjoy it alone, as the author seamlessly blends enough back story information on the other characters so you won’t be lost ( although I highly recommend reading the others too because the series itself is amazing).
I love the fact that both Brendan and Harley have had their own share of difficulties, but still were strong and intelligent in their own right. Neither leads were wimpy or “fake,” and even though it is an instalove romance their relationship is more than just the bedroom (don’t get me wrong, I love a bit of steaminess, but sometimes I’m more in the mood for some substance). The steam factor is quite low but their chemistry is off the charts. And the bit of intrigue involving the investigations adds just the right amount suspense that’s simple to follow but has you invested in the outcome, right up to the end. The supporting characters also are delightful, adding the levity that’s needed after some dark scenarios. I highly recommend this book, 5 stars.
This is book is a perfect blend of soft and sweet romance with suspense and drama that’s blended beautifully with an amazing cast of characters. It is book 5 in the Jubilee/Pope Mountain series and while I’m sad to see the end of this family of brothers (although, hopefully not the end of this town)I’m happy to say that the author makes this book come full circle from book 1 in a spectacular way. And while part of a series you can easily read this book on its own and enjoy it alone, as the author seamlessly blends enough back story information on the other characters so you won’t be lost ( although I highly recommend reading the others too because the series itself is amazing).
I love the fact that both Brendan and Harley have had their own share of difficulties, but still were strong and intelligent in their own right. Neither leads were wimpy or “fake,” and even though it is an instalove romance their relationship is more than just the bedroom (don’t get me wrong, I love a bit of steaminess, but sometimes I’m more in the mood for some substance). The steam factor is quite low but their chemistry is off the charts. And the bit of intrigue involving the investigations adds just the right amount suspense that’s simple to follow but has you invested in the outcome, right up to the end. The supporting characters also are delightful, adding the levity that’s needed after some dark scenarios. I highly recommend this book, 5 stars.
December 30, 2024
Sharon Sala once again crafted a mystery that was full of both suspense and family. Her voice is always unique and always guaranteed to keep readers turning the page. I admit I enjoyed Wiley's story more but this was still a really good book that took as back to Jubilee and pope mountain. Setting this story apart was the legend of the first Brendan of Pope mountain and how the story almost went full circle returning love to the land.
Harley was a really tough character but I underestimated her smarts until the story progressed and we learned more about her past. The town once again stepped up for another "lost" female giving her the family her own parents were not. There were a few teary or touching moments but nothing compared in that arena to Wiley's story.
Sharon crafted an amazing resilient family that went through one battle after another and came through each stronger because more love was added to an already tight knit group. She made readers long for that kind of existence where you know that someone has your back at a time you needed it most.
Before I conclude, I loved the introduction of Brendan, what an unsung hero he was. Can't forget to mention Justine and how Sharon turned the tables on a typical sexual harassment story. There is just so much to this book that all flowed together to make a good story. I missed a few of the stories on Pope mountain which is something I plan to remedy.
I would recommend this book and series. Don't let the 4 stars discourage you from reading. It is actually about 4.4 stars. Wiley's story was 5 stars because it had all the feels and this was just not as awesome but still very much worth the read.
Thanks to NetGalley and SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Harley was a really tough character but I underestimated her smarts until the story progressed and we learned more about her past. The town once again stepped up for another "lost" female giving her the family her own parents were not. There were a few teary or touching moments but nothing compared in that arena to Wiley's story.
Sharon crafted an amazing resilient family that went through one battle after another and came through each stronger because more love was added to an already tight knit group. She made readers long for that kind of existence where you know that someone has your back at a time you needed it most.
Before I conclude, I loved the introduction of Brendan, what an unsung hero he was. Can't forget to mention Justine and how Sharon turned the tables on a typical sexual harassment story. There is just so much to this book that all flowed together to make a good story. I missed a few of the stories on Pope mountain which is something I plan to remedy.
I would recommend this book and series. Don't let the 4 stars discourage you from reading. It is actually about 4.4 stars. Wiley's story was 5 stars because it had all the feels and this was just not as awesome but still very much worth the read.
Thanks to NetGalley and SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca for the opportunity to read this ARC.
May 8, 2025
🌪️ Small town suspense, insta-love swoon, and one private investigator who does not back down! 💥 Bad Seed is the perfect mix of sugar, spice, and someone out to end your life 😘
Harley Banks is the definition of badass in heels—a brilliant private investigator and CPA who just helped dismantle a human trafficking ring (no big deal 💅).
Her next mission? Serenity Inn in Jubilee, Kentucky, where things smell fishy—and not just in the kitchen.
Enter Brendan Pope 🍰✨—pastry chef, certified sweetheart, and apparently Harley’s one-way ticket to insta-love. I’m talking full-on heart-eyes the moment he sees her. And I get it. She’s sharp, stunning, and not afraid to throw sass like confetti. Together? Absolute FIRE. 🔥
But Harley’s past isn’t finished with her yet. There’s a hitman hunting her, some very ticked-off criminals still on the loose, and the FBI sweeping in to clean house. Meanwhile, Brendan’s pulling double duty—whipping up desserts AND protecting his woman. Hero with a whisk and a protective streak? YES PLEASE. 🧁💪
💬 “You’re not alone anymore, Harley.” SWOON. SWOON. SWOON.
If you love:
💥 Romantic suspense
🏨 Small-town vibes with big secrets
👨🍳 Cinnamon roll men with secret steel
🚨 FBI drama and bad guys who seriously underestimate our girl…
Then Bad Seed is 100% for you.
This is the fifth book in the Jubilee, Kentucky series, but you can totally dive in with this one. Just be warned—you’ll want to go back and binge the rest.
It’s giving high-stakes danger, dreamy romance, and small-town charm all in one delicious package. Brendan and Harley? My new fave duo.
And Sharon Sala? She does not miss.
Harley Banks is the definition of badass in heels—a brilliant private investigator and CPA who just helped dismantle a human trafficking ring (no big deal 💅).
Her next mission? Serenity Inn in Jubilee, Kentucky, where things smell fishy—and not just in the kitchen.
Enter Brendan Pope 🍰✨—pastry chef, certified sweetheart, and apparently Harley’s one-way ticket to insta-love. I’m talking full-on heart-eyes the moment he sees her. And I get it. She’s sharp, stunning, and not afraid to throw sass like confetti. Together? Absolute FIRE. 🔥
But Harley’s past isn’t finished with her yet. There’s a hitman hunting her, some very ticked-off criminals still on the loose, and the FBI sweeping in to clean house. Meanwhile, Brendan’s pulling double duty—whipping up desserts AND protecting his woman. Hero with a whisk and a protective streak? YES PLEASE. 🧁💪
💬 “You’re not alone anymore, Harley.” SWOON. SWOON. SWOON.
If you love:
💥 Romantic suspense
🏨 Small-town vibes with big secrets
👨🍳 Cinnamon roll men with secret steel
🚨 FBI drama and bad guys who seriously underestimate our girl…
Then Bad Seed is 100% for you.
This is the fifth book in the Jubilee, Kentucky series, but you can totally dive in with this one. Just be warned—you’ll want to go back and binge the rest.
It’s giving high-stakes danger, dreamy romance, and small-town charm all in one delicious package. Brendan and Harley? My new fave duo.
And Sharon Sala? She does not miss.
February 27, 2025
This is the second attempt at reading this authors work, and I am D O N E! As in… stick a fork in me DONE.
Here’s the thing, the premise sounds good, but the execution is lacking for me. It feels like all the characters are pretty much one dimensional. The good are good, the bad are very bad and there’s no in between. Where’s the gray that brings all the conflict and tension? Not here. I know exactly how they’ll react in every circumstance. There are NO surprises, no nuances in character development, and flaws, if any, are fluffed over/excused/explained until they are nullified and lack any kind of gravitas, contributing not one iota of interest to their character or story. The result is pretty lifeless characters. I kinda like a character with, er, a bit of bite for want of another phrase- someone who is challenged by a fault but manages to overcome or evolve is some way. That keeps me interested.
It’s the same with the plot in this book and in the previous book. Totally predictable to the point of cliche and boring. There was zero tension between hero and heroine. The only tension for me was the lead up to their first meeting. They’re both billed as beautiful/handsome/hot whatever (eyes rolling) and void of interesting quirks so my mind wandered down the path of which one would prevail in a battle to preen before a mirror.
So. DONE. I am not going back to Sala land ever again.
Here’s the thing, the premise sounds good, but the execution is lacking for me. It feels like all the characters are pretty much one dimensional. The good are good, the bad are very bad and there’s no in between. Where’s the gray that brings all the conflict and tension? Not here. I know exactly how they’ll react in every circumstance. There are NO surprises, no nuances in character development, and flaws, if any, are fluffed over/excused/explained until they are nullified and lack any kind of gravitas, contributing not one iota of interest to their character or story. The result is pretty lifeless characters. I kinda like a character with, er, a bit of bite for want of another phrase- someone who is challenged by a fault but manages to overcome or evolve is some way. That keeps me interested.
It’s the same with the plot in this book and in the previous book. Totally predictable to the point of cliche and boring. There was zero tension between hero and heroine. The only tension for me was the lead up to their first meeting. They’re both billed as beautiful/handsome/hot whatever (eyes rolling) and void of interesting quirks so my mind wandered down the path of which one would prevail in a battle to preen before a mirror.
So. DONE. I am not going back to Sala land ever again.
January 7, 2025
This is a captivating romantic suspense novel that keeps you hooked from start to finish! The small-town setting was so cute and charming. I also really enjoyed the two main characters, Brendan and Harley. They were an insta love connection and their relationship moved very fast. Their instant connection brings a fresh breeze into their lives, but danger lurks as Harley is targeted by a hitman. The blend of romance and suspense is masterfully done, with Sala skillfully building tension while developing a heartfelt romance between Brendan and Harley. Even though this book is almost 500 pages long, the pacing is brisk, which kept me engaged and invested, and it went very fast. While the plot is thrilling, some predictable moments and the ultra insta love slightly distracted from the overall experience. Nevertheless, the strong character development and immersive storytelling made this a joy to read. The author’s balance of suspense and romance ensures readers are always on the edge of their seats.
This novel is perfect for fans of romantic suspense, offering a compelling story of love, courage, and the fight against evil.
Thank you to @sourcebookscasa and @netgalley for this gifted e-arc. All thoughts are my own.
This novel is perfect for fans of romantic suspense, offering a compelling story of love, courage, and the fight against evil.
Thank you to @sourcebookscasa and @netgalley for this gifted e-arc. All thoughts are my own.
January 17, 2025
Harley Banks has chosen her own career path that doesn’t meet with her parents’ approval, but she is her own woman. She is a private investigator and CPA who investigates criminal business fraud. Her latest audit ended when she uncovered a vicious trafficking operation. Hoping that she was able to make a difference in the lives of those involved, she has no idea that she has now become a target. Her next audit will be at the Serenity Inn, Jubilee, Kentucky and hopes that this audit will be less dangerous. Meeting Brandon Pope, head pastry chef at the inn, was completely unexpected, but he soon becomes very important to her. Brandon Pope, one of the Pope brothers, is stunned when he first meets Harley. As a flirtation develops between them, he soon realizes that she just may be his forever person. When he learns that she has been threatened, he vows to protect her. The audit at the inn will bring her in contact with the members of the Pope family, their love and history. When she is injured, Brendan takes her to his home until the threat is over. The author weaves the various elements of the story and characters through to a heartwarming end. I just love this series! I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
May 30, 2025
mostly satisfying
Possible Spoilers:
It’s 2 years since LEFT BEHIND. We’re supposed to ignore AVA has not aged in years, just attitude. One of my pet bugaboos in a series - subtract a star.
Anyway, we get a satisfying conclusion to the series, with a wrap up harking back to book 1.
Harley Banks is a gorgeous, kick ass CPA cum Private Investigator hired by Ray Caldwell, owner of the Serenity Inn to review the hotel with a view to selling it. And to check for any shenanigans. Unfortunately, she brought unfinished business with her related to her previous job which exposed a human trafficking ring.
Brendan has been head pastry chef for several years and is familiar with the hotel, as is Ray’s daughter Liz, but Ray asks him to watch out for Harley. Ray tells Harley she can count on Brendan. Good thing he’s got connections in the community.
I think I would have enjoyed the ending just a teensy bit more if Aaron & Dani got a little life lift, too. Sean & Amalie - next generation. Wiley & Linette & Ava got Aunt Ellie’s place. Brendan & Harley got 5 acres. Get what’s missing? Sigh.
Possible Spoilers:
It’s 2 years since LEFT BEHIND. We’re supposed to ignore AVA has not aged in years, just attitude. One of my pet bugaboos in a series - subtract a star.
Anyway, we get a satisfying conclusion to the series, with a wrap up harking back to book 1.
Harley Banks is a gorgeous, kick ass CPA cum Private Investigator hired by Ray Caldwell, owner of the Serenity Inn to review the hotel with a view to selling it. And to check for any shenanigans. Unfortunately, she brought unfinished business with her related to her previous job which exposed a human trafficking ring.
Brendan has been head pastry chef for several years and is familiar with the hotel, as is Ray’s daughter Liz, but Ray asks him to watch out for Harley. Ray tells Harley she can count on Brendan. Good thing he’s got connections in the community.
I think I would have enjoyed the ending just a teensy bit more if Aaron & Dani got a little life lift, too. Sean & Amalie - next generation. Wiley & Linette & Ava got Aunt Ellie’s place. Brendan & Harley got 5 acres. Get what’s missing? Sigh.
December 16, 2024
We have arrived at the end of the Jubilee series with Bad Seed and Brendan Pope's story was a good way to wrap things up. First I will say that if you haven't read the other books in the series that Bad Seed stands alone however, there are a lot of interconnected characters and this series is truly best read in order. Brendan is the head pastry chef at a resort in Jubilee and that's where he meets private investigator Harley Banks. She's just wrapped up a big case and is now working on another one when these two meet and sparks fly. Harley has no idea that trouble is following her to Jubilee but she also doesn't know that Brendan and the rest of the Pope family will be there to support her in any way that she needs. I am so sad that this series has come to an end but Bad Seed wraps up everything nicely. I don't give away spoilers so I will just say that it was told from dual POV and had all the heart, humor and emotions that I love in a Sharon Sala book. I can't wait to read what she'll be giving us next.
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