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Their Surprise Reunion
Friendship can turn to more…
When you least expect it!
Kayla Harding knew she’d reached rock bottom when she forced herself to walk through the front doors of Loaves of Love, the food bank in Medina, Ohio, one Saturday morning. Happily, what she finds there is a loving community of people who offer her not just food, but friendship and hope. She also finds Sean Copeland, a former crush, father to six-year-old Jackson and small-town football coach, who volunteers at the food bank. But Kayla is still reeling from her divorce, and Sean is a recent widower. Can they find it in their hearts to fall in love again?
From Harlequin Wholesome stories of love, compassion and belonging.
A Matchmaker Knows Best Romance
Book 1: Their Surprise Reunion
When you least expect it!
Kayla Harding knew she’d reached rock bottom when she forced herself to walk through the front doors of Loaves of Love, the food bank in Medina, Ohio, one Saturday morning. Happily, what she finds there is a loving community of people who offer her not just food, but friendship and hope. She also finds Sean Copeland, a former crush, father to six-year-old Jackson and small-town football coach, who volunteers at the food bank. But Kayla is still reeling from her divorce, and Sean is a recent widower. Can they find it in their hearts to fall in love again?
From Harlequin Wholesome stories of love, compassion and belonging.
A Matchmaker Knows Best Romance
Book 1: Their Surprise Reunion
335 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 29, 2025
13 people are currently reading
50 people want to read
About the author
Shelley Shepard Gray
126 books2,322 followersLibrarian Note: AKA Shelley Gray (Western Romance).
Shelley Shepard Gray has published over seventy novels. She currently writes Amish romances for Harper Collins, Kensington, and Simon & Schuster and contemporary women’s fiction for Blackstone Publishing.
Her novels have been Holt Medallion winners and Inspirational Readers Choice and Carol finalists. Shelley’s novels have appeared on both the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists.
Her novels have been highlighted in the Philadelphia Enquirer, Washington Post, Time Magazine, and USA Today. She has also been interviewed on NPR as well as numerous regional radio stations.
Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned both her bachelor’s degree in English literature and elementary education and later obtained her master’s degree in educational administration. She currently lives in Colorado Springs and writes full time. Shelley is married, the mother of two young adults, and always has a dachshund by her side. She is an active member of her church, on Facebook and on Twitter. She also has a website, www.shelleyshepardgray.com.
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Shelley Shepard Gray has published over seventy novels. She currently writes Amish romances for Harper Collins, Kensington, and Simon & Schuster and contemporary women’s fiction for Blackstone Publishing.
Her novels have been Holt Medallion winners and Inspirational Readers Choice and Carol finalists. Shelley’s novels have appeared on both the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists.
Her novels have been highlighted in the Philadelphia Enquirer, Washington Post, Time Magazine, and USA Today. She has also been interviewed on NPR as well as numerous regional radio stations.
Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned both her bachelor’s degree in English literature and elementary education and later obtained her master’s degree in educational administration. She currently lives in Colorado Springs and writes full time. Shelley is married, the mother of two young adults, and always has a dachshund by her side. She is an active member of her church, on Facebook and on Twitter. She also has a website, www.shelleyshepardgray.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
May 2, 2025
4.5 stars
Shelley Shepard Gray’s books always leave my heart feeling warm and cozy, but Their Surprise Reunion touched me more than most. The food bank setting where we begin the story allows readers to put themselves in the shoes of an adult with food insecurity – namely, our protagonist Kayla whose financial struggles are not of her own doing. Her divorce left her with literally nothing, and she’s embarrassed to reach out for help but at least the people at Loaves of Love are strangers, right? Well… except that for old crush of hers that’s volunteering there. (More on him in a minute) But it reminded me, especially with my husband’s job loss last year and long wait to find a new job, that any of us are one or two unexpected life-altering circumstances away from bare cupboards and empty bank accounts. And in so doing, it filled me with a renewed sense of compassion and empathy for those who need the extra help and reminded me to treat everyone with dignity, no matter their circumstances. I love novels that stick in my heart like that!
Kayla is such a wonderfully multidimensional character. Her personality makes her easy to embrace and to cheer for her success and, while I just wanted to reach in and fix everything for her, I also recognize that her journey across this novel was all the sweeter for the struggles. (There’s a spiritual life lesson in there too, isn’t there?) And speaking of sweet… Sean and his adorable little boy Jackson – and the friendship they form with Kayla – was equal parts uplifting and tender, and I just adored all three of them together and the gaps they fill in each other’s lives. While Kayla heals from the aftermath of her brutal divorce, Sean and Jackson are still grieving the loss of their wife/mom who passed away a couple of years ago. Gray acknowledges the trauma that these losses have caused and doesn’t put a ‘falling in love fixes everything’ bandaid on it, which I deeply appreciated. Instead, as their friendship grows into something more, they learn to adjust to each other’s flaws and hurts and fluctuating emotions – though not without some bumps in the road – and I loved the authenticity. Sean can also be pretty darn swoony when he sets his mind to it, even though he’s endearingly out of practice, and Jackson’s observations on Kayla’s propensity to cry even when she’s happy made me giggle.
Bottom Line: Their Surprise Reunion bakes up a lovely story full of delightful characters and a heartwarming plot. The sweet & swoony romance between Kayla and Sean develops gradually from their newly reacquainted friendship as they sift through emotional layers like food insecurity, divorce, the death of a spouse, and single parenthood. And their rocky (or rock bottom) road to happily ever after is well worth it in the end because their relationship is so loving and affirming. Sean’s adorable son Jackson made me smile so big nearly every time he was in a scene, and I absolutely loved his relationship with Kayla. Don’t count the food bank’s director Edna out of things, either – she not only has an important role to play in Kayla’s story but she gets her own compelling subplot too. Their Surprise Reunion is – not surprisingly – another wonderfully engaging novel from Shelley Shepard Gray!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
Shelley Shepard Gray’s books always leave my heart feeling warm and cozy, but Their Surprise Reunion touched me more than most. The food bank setting where we begin the story allows readers to put themselves in the shoes of an adult with food insecurity – namely, our protagonist Kayla whose financial struggles are not of her own doing. Her divorce left her with literally nothing, and she’s embarrassed to reach out for help but at least the people at Loaves of Love are strangers, right? Well… except that for old crush of hers that’s volunteering there. (More on him in a minute) But it reminded me, especially with my husband’s job loss last year and long wait to find a new job, that any of us are one or two unexpected life-altering circumstances away from bare cupboards and empty bank accounts. And in so doing, it filled me with a renewed sense of compassion and empathy for those who need the extra help and reminded me to treat everyone with dignity, no matter their circumstances. I love novels that stick in my heart like that!
Kayla is such a wonderfully multidimensional character. Her personality makes her easy to embrace and to cheer for her success and, while I just wanted to reach in and fix everything for her, I also recognize that her journey across this novel was all the sweeter for the struggles. (There’s a spiritual life lesson in there too, isn’t there?) And speaking of sweet… Sean and his adorable little boy Jackson – and the friendship they form with Kayla – was equal parts uplifting and tender, and I just adored all three of them together and the gaps they fill in each other’s lives. While Kayla heals from the aftermath of her brutal divorce, Sean and Jackson are still grieving the loss of their wife/mom who passed away a couple of years ago. Gray acknowledges the trauma that these losses have caused and doesn’t put a ‘falling in love fixes everything’ bandaid on it, which I deeply appreciated. Instead, as their friendship grows into something more, they learn to adjust to each other’s flaws and hurts and fluctuating emotions – though not without some bumps in the road – and I loved the authenticity. Sean can also be pretty darn swoony when he sets his mind to it, even though he’s endearingly out of practice, and Jackson’s observations on Kayla’s propensity to cry even when she’s happy made me giggle.
Bottom Line: Their Surprise Reunion bakes up a lovely story full of delightful characters and a heartwarming plot. The sweet & swoony romance between Kayla and Sean develops gradually from their newly reacquainted friendship as they sift through emotional layers like food insecurity, divorce, the death of a spouse, and single parenthood. And their rocky (or rock bottom) road to happily ever after is well worth it in the end because their relationship is so loving and affirming. Sean’s adorable son Jackson made me smile so big nearly every time he was in a scene, and I absolutely loved his relationship with Kayla. Don’t count the food bank’s director Edna out of things, either – she not only has an important role to play in Kayla’s story but she gets her own compelling subplot too. Their Surprise Reunion is – not surprisingly – another wonderfully engaging novel from Shelley Shepard Gray!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
April 10, 2025
Shelley Shepard Gray has done it again! Their Surprise Reunion is a beautifully-written story. It is the story of Kayla and Sean. They had known each other in high school, but were not in the same friend group. Both Kayla and Sean had experienced heartache in the years since high school. A few years go by and life happens. Then one day, for different reasons, they find themselves in the same place. They became fast friends and it was so fun to see how their relationship grew during this story and brought with it a healing for both of them. There was another pleasant surprise that I won’t give away but made a great addition to the storyline. I only wish the book was a little longer so I could have read more of their story. I was excited to voluntarily read an Advanced Reader Copy of the book. All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are entirely my own. #TheirSurpriseReunion #ShelleyShepardGray
April 6, 2025
My favorite part of this story was Loaves of Love and how they ministered to the community. They did it while preserving the dignity and self worth of each individual involved.
Sean, Jackson and Kayla were great characters. Jackson is only 6 but had so much love for those around him. The interaction between Sean and Kayla was sweet as they both confronted their past.
Thanks to the author and publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
Sean, Jackson and Kayla were great characters. Jackson is only 6 but had so much love for those around him. The interaction between Sean and Kayla was sweet as they both confronted their past.
Thanks to the author and publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
June 12, 2025
Kayla Harding is down on her luck after a divorce—so down that her cupboards are bare. When she walks into Loaves of Love, a community food bank, she finds more than she had hoped for. The owner asks if she would like to volunteer to make bread, and she soon finds herself standing face-to-face with her high school crush, Sean Copeland. Sean remembers Kayla’s sweet nature from school, and the more he gets to know her, the more he sees that she’s still that same caring individual. But Sean isn't sure he'll ever be able to move on from the loss of his wife.
Once I pick up this book, I don’t want to put it down!
This story takes me back to a time and place that—while some might like to forget—I treasure because it made me stronger. Asking for assistance with daily needs is not easy, and Gray manages to capture the raw emotion of doing so through Kayla. Kayla's vulnerability and fear feel all too real—you can feel it in your bones. Sean is a compassionate person who loves his job as a coach and enjoys volunteering at Loaves of Love. Sometimes, however, he sticks his foot in his mouth. He has no idea what Kayla is going through, so a few of his comments make her wince. But Sean quickly realizes when his words or thoughts miss the mark and works hard to be even more compassionate than he already is.
I really enjoyed the side story of Edna, the director of Loaves of Love. It's always wonderful to see different seasons and types of love in a romance, and Edna’s straightforward but loving character is amazing.
Their Surprise Reunion is touching, heartfelt, and full of real emotion. It’s the kind of story that makes you dream of better things.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Once I pick up this book, I don’t want to put it down!
This story takes me back to a time and place that—while some might like to forget—I treasure because it made me stronger. Asking for assistance with daily needs is not easy, and Gray manages to capture the raw emotion of doing so through Kayla. Kayla's vulnerability and fear feel all too real—you can feel it in your bones. Sean is a compassionate person who loves his job as a coach and enjoys volunteering at Loaves of Love. Sometimes, however, he sticks his foot in his mouth. He has no idea what Kayla is going through, so a few of his comments make her wince. But Sean quickly realizes when his words or thoughts miss the mark and works hard to be even more compassionate than he already is.
I really enjoyed the side story of Edna, the director of Loaves of Love. It's always wonderful to see different seasons and types of love in a romance, and Edna’s straightforward but loving character is amazing.
Their Surprise Reunion is touching, heartfelt, and full of real emotion. It’s the kind of story that makes you dream of better things.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
April 4, 2025
So easy to read! I am thrilled to share this review. Picking up a book by Shelley Shepard Gray is like putting on your favorite cozy robe! It just makes the day better! Reunion is no exception...Sean and Kayla and Jackson are a wonderful blend of characters, their life journey is a needed storyline. If you need a pleasure to read book, grab up a copy and cozy up to a captivating storytime.
April 30, 2025
This is a clean romance with some drama built into the story that kept me fully engaged. Kayla Harding returns to her hometown of Medina, Ohio after a rough divorce. There she finds herself needing to use a food bank because her resources are low and her cupboards are almost bare. At Loaves of Love, Kayla meets a former friend from high school, football star Sean Copeland who is now a widower and an assistant coach. Raising his six-year old son Jackson alone since the death of his wife Danette the previous year, Sean is kind-hearted and jumps right in to help Kayla learn how to make a loaf of bread at the food bank. Their friendship progresses normally, with Kayla hiding secrets and Sean leery about a new relationship. I enjoyed the humility that Kayla showed and also the realistic scenes in which she was ashamed to have to ask for food. I really liked the character of Edna, the lady who ran the food bank and who helped Kayla feel more comfortable about needing help. There were a lot of characters in this sweet romance, including Kayla’s demanding boss and Sean’s teasing family. The cast of characters added to the drama as well as the character development of the protagonists. The novel was an entertaining read that also presented the truth about what can happen when you are starting over and have little recourse but to ask for help. Told with compassion and a lot of love, this is a memorable story of a couple who find each other in the most unlikely place and who help each other to discover truths about themselves and each other.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.
January 2, 2026
Their Surprise Reunion by Shelley Shepard Gray (2025)
Matchmaker Knows Best #1
338-page Kindle Ebook story pages 7-334
Genre: Clean Romance
Featuring: Excerpt, Letter From Author, Note to Reader - Ebook Accessibility Features, Partial Bibliography for Shelley Shepard Gray - Harlequin Heartwarming and Inspirational Cold Case Collection; Medina, Ohio; Food Bank, Volunteers, Baking Bread, High School Alumni, Single Father, Football, Coach/Teacher, Divorcée, Widower, Teenagers, Retail, Homecoming, Sexagenarians, 3 Couplings, Friends-to-Lovers Trope, Friendzoned Trope, Family Dynamics, Multiple POVs, Horrible Bosses, 6-Year-Old, Matchmaking, Close Proximity Trope, Gift Shop, Schools, Self-Actualization, Passive to Assertive, Strongsville, Ohio; Lookout for Book 2, Harlequin Heartwarming Advertisement for The Rancher's Reunion by Lisa Childs and Home to Her Cowboy by Sacha Summers, Excerpt from Her Alaskan Summer by Beth Carpenter - Chapter One, Publisher's Links
Rating as a movie: PG-13 for adult situations
Songs for the soundtrack: "Shortnin' Bread" by Fats Waller, "Say You'll Be Mine" by Amy Grant
Books and Authors mentioned: The Sargeant’s Christmas Gift by Shelley Shepard Gray, Widow’s Secrets by Shelley Shepard Gray, Amish Jane Doe by Shelley Shepard Gray, Amish Fugitive by Shelley Shepard Gray, Harry Potter series by J. K. Rowling, Julia Child,
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🥖🍞🥐🎴🏈
My thoughts: This story was pretty good although I didn't see much matchmaking and the additional couples barely appeared in the story.
Recommend to others: Sure, I enjoyed the main couple, but the updates in Book to led me to believe Edna was more involved than she actually was.
Matchmaker Knows Best
1 Their Surprise Reunion (2025)
2 Christmas Promises (2025)
3 An Unexpected Match (2026)
Memorable Quotes: She was swallowing her last mouthful when the door opened and Tamera, her manager, stepped in. “Oh, good. You’re done.” Kayla hastily swallowed that last bite and washed it down with a sip of water. “Good?” “I need you to come on out and man the counter. We have several customers out there and I have to go to an appointment.” Kayla glanced at the clock. She still had ten more minutes of her lunch break. If Tamera was leaving, then she wouldn’t be able to run to the bathroom, make a phone call or simply sit down until the end of her shift. When Kayla had first started working at the gift shop, she’d pretend that things like getting the breaks she deserved didn’t matter. Instead of reminding Tamera about her time owed, she’d jump to her feet any time her boss asked her to. Unfortunately, it wasn’t long before she realized that Tamera didn’t appreciate anything she did to go above and beyond. She would never let Kayla leave early if she worked half of her lunch and usually acted annoyed if she tried to get her missed break in the afternoon. Worse, she was pretty sure that her boss had known that she was going to leave and had kept Kayla on the floor instead of allowing her to have her lunch break early. All that was why she remained in her chair. “I’m sorry, but I still have ten more minutes of my lunch break.” “You’re going to have to take that ten minutes later today.” Seeing that Tamera was already walking toward her office, Kayla said, “When?” She stopped and turned to face her. “When?” “Yes. I mean, it’s one o’clock now. I’m only working until three. When do you think I’ll be able to have those ten minutes that I’m owed? Will you be returning at two?” Tamera’s expression pinched. “Kayla, we don’t have time for this game. Customers are waiting.” “I’m sorry. I don’t know what else to do. You’ve taken advantage of me more than a handful of times and have refused to give me more hours or even the raise you promised.” The bell that Tamera had placed at the cash register rang. She sucked in a breath, obviously ready to yell at her. When the bell rang again, she walked back out. When she was alone again, Kayla realized her hands were shaking. What had she done? She’d be lucky if Tamera didn’t fire her this afternoon. Just imagining how that would impact her life made Kayla’s stomach clench. Standing up, she threw away her trash and replaced the lid on her thermos of cold water. But still, there was something inside of her that made her stand her ground. She was pretty sure it was the memory of making bread with everyone and being treated so kindly by Edna. If Edna could make her feel so good when she came into Loaves of Love to get food, shouldn’t her boss allow her a lunch break without making her feel guilty? After running into the washroom, she hurried out to the counter. Two customers were there, and neither looked like they needed help. Tamera was standing behind the counter and texting on her phone. She looked up when Kayla approached. “Are you finished now?” “Yes.” “I called Amy. She’s coming in at two. She’ll be with you until you leave at three.” “All right.” She held her breath, half expecting Tamera to tell her not to return. Instead, her manager just picked up her handbag and headed out the front door of the shop. Watching her leave, Kayla made a mental note to think again about working someplace else. There had to be another job where she could, at the very least, have a better work environment. “Excuse me, miss?” She turned to a lady with a gray perm. “Yes?” “Can you help me choose a condolence card for my neighbor? I forgot my reading glasses.” “Of course,” she replied as she walked to the lady’s side. “That’s why I’m here.” “You are my favorite employee, dear. Always so kind and genuine. You make shopping here so pleasant.” “Thank you for saying that.” Glancing at the door that Tamera had just strode out of, the lady continued, “I know that woman is your boss, but she’s not very nice, is she?” It was so tempting to agree! But knowing the right thing to do was to take the high road, she said, “I think Tamera’s having a tough day today.” “Humph. Aren’t we all? My neighbor of thirty years just lost her husband. Personal problems don’t give folks the right to take out their bad moods on everyone else, though.” The comment surprised a chuckle out of her. The customer was right. “Let me show you some of my favorite cards. I think when you hear the sentiments, one might feel like the right fit.” Later, after the two customers had left and the store was empty, she decided to take another risk. That sweet lady had been right. A lot of people go through tough times but they continue on.
Matchmaker Knows Best #1
338-page Kindle Ebook story pages 7-334
Genre: Clean Romance
Featuring: Excerpt, Letter From Author, Note to Reader - Ebook Accessibility Features, Partial Bibliography for Shelley Shepard Gray - Harlequin Heartwarming and Inspirational Cold Case Collection; Medina, Ohio; Food Bank, Volunteers, Baking Bread, High School Alumni, Single Father, Football, Coach/Teacher, Divorcée, Widower, Teenagers, Retail, Homecoming, Sexagenarians, 3 Couplings, Friends-to-Lovers Trope, Friendzoned Trope, Family Dynamics, Multiple POVs, Horrible Bosses, 6-Year-Old, Matchmaking, Close Proximity Trope, Gift Shop, Schools, Self-Actualization, Passive to Assertive, Strongsville, Ohio; Lookout for Book 2, Harlequin Heartwarming Advertisement for The Rancher's Reunion by Lisa Childs and Home to Her Cowboy by Sacha Summers, Excerpt from Her Alaskan Summer by Beth Carpenter - Chapter One, Publisher's Links
Rating as a movie: PG-13 for adult situations
Songs for the soundtrack: "Shortnin' Bread" by Fats Waller, "Say You'll Be Mine" by Amy Grant
Books and Authors mentioned: The Sargeant’s Christmas Gift by Shelley Shepard Gray, Widow’s Secrets by Shelley Shepard Gray, Amish Jane Doe by Shelley Shepard Gray, Amish Fugitive by Shelley Shepard Gray, Harry Potter series by J. K. Rowling, Julia Child,
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🥖🍞🥐🎴🏈
My thoughts: This story was pretty good although I didn't see much matchmaking and the additional couples barely appeared in the story.
Recommend to others: Sure, I enjoyed the main couple, but the updates in Book to led me to believe Edna was more involved than she actually was.
Matchmaker Knows Best
1 Their Surprise Reunion (2025)
2 Christmas Promises (2025)
3 An Unexpected Match (2026)
Memorable Quotes: She was swallowing her last mouthful when the door opened and Tamera, her manager, stepped in. “Oh, good. You’re done.” Kayla hastily swallowed that last bite and washed it down with a sip of water. “Good?” “I need you to come on out and man the counter. We have several customers out there and I have to go to an appointment.” Kayla glanced at the clock. She still had ten more minutes of her lunch break. If Tamera was leaving, then she wouldn’t be able to run to the bathroom, make a phone call or simply sit down until the end of her shift. When Kayla had first started working at the gift shop, she’d pretend that things like getting the breaks she deserved didn’t matter. Instead of reminding Tamera about her time owed, she’d jump to her feet any time her boss asked her to. Unfortunately, it wasn’t long before she realized that Tamera didn’t appreciate anything she did to go above and beyond. She would never let Kayla leave early if she worked half of her lunch and usually acted annoyed if she tried to get her missed break in the afternoon. Worse, she was pretty sure that her boss had known that she was going to leave and had kept Kayla on the floor instead of allowing her to have her lunch break early. All that was why she remained in her chair. “I’m sorry, but I still have ten more minutes of my lunch break.” “You’re going to have to take that ten minutes later today.” Seeing that Tamera was already walking toward her office, Kayla said, “When?” She stopped and turned to face her. “When?” “Yes. I mean, it’s one o’clock now. I’m only working until three. When do you think I’ll be able to have those ten minutes that I’m owed? Will you be returning at two?” Tamera’s expression pinched. “Kayla, we don’t have time for this game. Customers are waiting.” “I’m sorry. I don’t know what else to do. You’ve taken advantage of me more than a handful of times and have refused to give me more hours or even the raise you promised.” The bell that Tamera had placed at the cash register rang. She sucked in a breath, obviously ready to yell at her. When the bell rang again, she walked back out. When she was alone again, Kayla realized her hands were shaking. What had she done? She’d be lucky if Tamera didn’t fire her this afternoon. Just imagining how that would impact her life made Kayla’s stomach clench. Standing up, she threw away her trash and replaced the lid on her thermos of cold water. But still, there was something inside of her that made her stand her ground. She was pretty sure it was the memory of making bread with everyone and being treated so kindly by Edna. If Edna could make her feel so good when she came into Loaves of Love to get food, shouldn’t her boss allow her a lunch break without making her feel guilty? After running into the washroom, she hurried out to the counter. Two customers were there, and neither looked like they needed help. Tamera was standing behind the counter and texting on her phone. She looked up when Kayla approached. “Are you finished now?” “Yes.” “I called Amy. She’s coming in at two. She’ll be with you until you leave at three.” “All right.” She held her breath, half expecting Tamera to tell her not to return. Instead, her manager just picked up her handbag and headed out the front door of the shop. Watching her leave, Kayla made a mental note to think again about working someplace else. There had to be another job where she could, at the very least, have a better work environment. “Excuse me, miss?” She turned to a lady with a gray perm. “Yes?” “Can you help me choose a condolence card for my neighbor? I forgot my reading glasses.” “Of course,” she replied as she walked to the lady’s side. “That’s why I’m here.” “You are my favorite employee, dear. Always so kind and genuine. You make shopping here so pleasant.” “Thank you for saying that.” Glancing at the door that Tamera had just strode out of, the lady continued, “I know that woman is your boss, but she’s not very nice, is she?” It was so tempting to agree! But knowing the right thing to do was to take the high road, she said, “I think Tamera’s having a tough day today.” “Humph. Aren’t we all? My neighbor of thirty years just lost her husband. Personal problems don’t give folks the right to take out their bad moods on everyone else, though.” The comment surprised a chuckle out of her. The customer was right. “Let me show you some of my favorite cards. I think when you hear the sentiments, one might feel like the right fit.” Later, after the two customers had left and the store was empty, she decided to take another risk. That sweet lady had been right. A lot of people go through tough times but they continue on.
February 20, 2025
This was so great! I finished it a full week ago and haven’t stopped thinking about how good it made me feel. I wanted something easy and fun, to feel warm and fuzzy. This was perfect!
Sean is a young widower raising his 6yr old son Jackson when newly divorced Kayla walks into their lives. Sean and Kayla went to school together years ago and found themselves reconnecting during shared volunteer time baking bread at their local food bank. Their romance progressed sweetly and young Jackson was a lot of fun to read. This author is wonderful and I love that baking played a part in the story.
Harlequin’s Heartwarming line is 💯.
On sale 4/29. Many thanks to HQN and NetGalley for my review copy.
Sean is a young widower raising his 6yr old son Jackson when newly divorced Kayla walks into their lives. Sean and Kayla went to school together years ago and found themselves reconnecting during shared volunteer time baking bread at their local food bank. Their romance progressed sweetly and young Jackson was a lot of fun to read. This author is wonderful and I love that baking played a part in the story.
Harlequin’s Heartwarming line is 💯.
On sale 4/29. Many thanks to HQN and NetGalley for my review copy.
February 2, 2025
I was able to read Their Surprise Reunion from NetGalley. Kayla is in a rough spot since her divorce. She needs help and arrives at Loves of Love. Due to a misunderstanding, she starts volunteering to make bread. During her first shift she meets Sean. Sean and Kayla went to school together. Sean was the star football player who got the scholarship and the college girlfriend. Now he is widowed with a son Jackson. Sean and Kayla reconnect. He also helps Kayla get a new job, and a new outlook. This was such a great read. I highly recommend this to everyone.
May 12, 2025
Life isn’t easy on the fainthearted. The life we knew and depended upon can change in a second (as I’ve learned from personal experience). We never know what tomorrow may bring, but strength comes in many guises, and Their Surprise Reunion, the first story in the Matchmaker Knows Best series, proves that so well as Sean, Kayla, and even little Jackson face what life has dealt them with dignity and strengths that they didn’t know they had.
Kayla is dealing with the aftermath of a devastating divorce. She’s trying to hold it all together but is losing that daily battle. A job she hates, a nearly empty bank account, and practically bare cupboards have her sitting outside the Loaves of Love food bank in her small town. She’s forcing herself to go inside, just for a few things; it’s not like she can’t help herself, but the reality is that she needs the blessings of this uplifting food bank. It shouldn’t matter that strangers will see her struggles and, hopefully, no one she knows will ever discover her weakness in needing help. But the funny thing about hitting rock bottom, there is nowhere to go but up from there. And her future happiness is within that building, she just doesn’t know it yet.
Sean is a volunteer at Loaves of Love, he helps make the amazing breads that are offered. He’s a coach at the local high school, and the delight of his life is his six-year-old son, Jackson. They’ve known heartache as Sean’s wife, and Jackson’s mom, had passed away a few years ago, and they are still finding their footing without her. Sean is a lovely man, a bit on the quiet side, convinced that romance is not for him ever again. I also found him to be a bit slow to come to obvious conclusions about Kayla. Assumptions don’t help anyone.
Their Surprise Reunion melds together everything I love about Shelley Shepard Gray’s stories: love, compassion, and a well-written romance with touches of reality woven within the chapters. I first fell in love with little Jackson, but Kayla and Sean soon followed as we watched love and understanding grow between two people who deserve happiness.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or the author's team via Booksprout, and I sincerely thank them for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Kayla is dealing with the aftermath of a devastating divorce. She’s trying to hold it all together but is losing that daily battle. A job she hates, a nearly empty bank account, and practically bare cupboards have her sitting outside the Loaves of Love food bank in her small town. She’s forcing herself to go inside, just for a few things; it’s not like she can’t help herself, but the reality is that she needs the blessings of this uplifting food bank. It shouldn’t matter that strangers will see her struggles and, hopefully, no one she knows will ever discover her weakness in needing help. But the funny thing about hitting rock bottom, there is nowhere to go but up from there. And her future happiness is within that building, she just doesn’t know it yet.
Sean is a volunteer at Loaves of Love, he helps make the amazing breads that are offered. He’s a coach at the local high school, and the delight of his life is his six-year-old son, Jackson. They’ve known heartache as Sean’s wife, and Jackson’s mom, had passed away a few years ago, and they are still finding their footing without her. Sean is a lovely man, a bit on the quiet side, convinced that romance is not for him ever again. I also found him to be a bit slow to come to obvious conclusions about Kayla. Assumptions don’t help anyone.
Their Surprise Reunion melds together everything I love about Shelley Shepard Gray’s stories: love, compassion, and a well-written romance with touches of reality woven within the chapters. I first fell in love with little Jackson, but Kayla and Sean soon followed as we watched love and understanding grow between two people who deserve happiness.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or the author's team via Booksprout, and I sincerely thank them for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
April 23, 2025
Their Surprise Reunion by Shelley Shepard Gray
Friendship can turn to more…
When you least expect it!
Kayla Harding knew she’d reached rock bottom when she forced herself to walk through the front doors of Loaves of Love, the food bank in Medina, Ohio, one Saturday morning. Happily, what she finds there is a loving community of people who offer her not just food, but friendship and hope. She also finds Sean Copeland, a former crush, father to six-year-old Jackson and small-town football coach, who volunteers at the food bank. But Kayla is still reeling from her divorce, and Sean is a recent widower. Can they find it in their hearts to fall in love again?
This is Kayla Harding , mom and father's story.
This is Sean, Dannette and son Jackson Copeland's story.
This is Jack, Kim, and two kids Brennan and Sophia Copeland's story.
Kayla is in a rough spot since her divorce. She needs help and arrives at Loves of Love. Due to a misunderstanding, she starts volunteering to make bread. During her first shift she meets Sean. Sean and Kayla went to school together. Sean was the star football player who got the scholarship and the college girlfriend. Now he is widowed with a son Jackson. Sean and Kayla reconnect.
Sean glanced at her, then stilled.
It was obvious that he remembered her. And why wouldn’t he? It wasn’t like their high school in Avon Lake had been that big.
“Sean and Wyn, this is Kayla. Kayla, Sean and Wyn have both been baking bread here for quite some time. They’ll be able to show you what to do better than I can.”
Sean noticed. “Let me know if you need a hand.”
“I’m good. I moved south for a while but now I’m back. I’m working at Medina High.”
“Coaching football?”
“Yeah. I’m the assistant. I coach football, wrestling and teach American history.”
I recommend this book.
Their Surprise Reunion by Shelley Shepard Gray is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.
I am looking forward to reading more books Shelley Shepard Gray.
Friendship can turn to more…
When you least expect it!
Kayla Harding knew she’d reached rock bottom when she forced herself to walk through the front doors of Loaves of Love, the food bank in Medina, Ohio, one Saturday morning. Happily, what she finds there is a loving community of people who offer her not just food, but friendship and hope. She also finds Sean Copeland, a former crush, father to six-year-old Jackson and small-town football coach, who volunteers at the food bank. But Kayla is still reeling from her divorce, and Sean is a recent widower. Can they find it in their hearts to fall in love again?
This is Kayla Harding , mom and father's story.
This is Sean, Dannette and son Jackson Copeland's story.
This is Jack, Kim, and two kids Brennan and Sophia Copeland's story.
Kayla is in a rough spot since her divorce. She needs help and arrives at Loves of Love. Due to a misunderstanding, she starts volunteering to make bread. During her first shift she meets Sean. Sean and Kayla went to school together. Sean was the star football player who got the scholarship and the college girlfriend. Now he is widowed with a son Jackson. Sean and Kayla reconnect.
Sean glanced at her, then stilled.
It was obvious that he remembered her. And why wouldn’t he? It wasn’t like their high school in Avon Lake had been that big.
“Sean and Wyn, this is Kayla. Kayla, Sean and Wyn have both been baking bread here for quite some time. They’ll be able to show you what to do better than I can.”
Sean noticed. “Let me know if you need a hand.”
“I’m good. I moved south for a while but now I’m back. I’m working at Medina High.”
“Coaching football?”
“Yeah. I’m the assistant. I coach football, wrestling and teach American history.”
I recommend this book.
Their Surprise Reunion by Shelley Shepard Gray is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.
I am looking forward to reading more books Shelley Shepard Gray.
April 3, 2025
This is a sweet story. Kayla and Sean knew each other from high school. They went their separate ways and married other people. Sean has a 6 year old boy named Jackson with his late wife Dannette. Sean has been raising Jackson on his own. Kayla is recently divorced and struggling to make ends meet. She goes to a local food bank, Loaves of Love, for groceries. The food recipients also learn to bake bread and share it with others. Sean volunteers there and he and Kayla reconnect. Sean doesn't know that Kayla is struggling financially. He thinks she is there just as a volunteer. One thing leads to another. Sean and Kayla hit it off and start dating. They have a lot of emotions to work through because of their previous marriages and current situations. Will they be able to overcome their differences and become a family of three? This is a sweet story about love, family, friendship and second chances. I received a complimentary copy of this book but wasn't required to leave a review. #netgalley #theirsurprisereunion #harlequin
March 29, 2025
Book 1 in author Shelley Shepard Gray’s The Matchmaker knows Best, Their Surprise Reunion didn’t disappoint me. I will say the first few chapters felt a bit stiff, as if Gray was having trouble finding her voice, but once she did the story was off and running.
Both characters are well developed and very likeable. Sean is still healing from his past hurts and needs a bit of a shake up in his attitude towards those who need some help along the way. Some of the things he says are demeaning but he grows, I promise. Kayla is such a sweet young lady, in need of assistance both financially and in the way she sees herself. Again, growth happens and I enjoyed that. And then Jackson. Such a cute 6 year old who just wants a mom.
A sweet story of second chances, growth, and hope, if you enjoy clean sweet romances then I recommend Their Surprise Reunion.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
Both characters are well developed and very likeable. Sean is still healing from his past hurts and needs a bit of a shake up in his attitude towards those who need some help along the way. Some of the things he says are demeaning but he grows, I promise. Kayla is such a sweet young lady, in need of assistance both financially and in the way she sees herself. Again, growth happens and I enjoyed that. And then Jackson. Such a cute 6 year old who just wants a mom.
A sweet story of second chances, growth, and hope, if you enjoy clean sweet romances then I recommend Their Surprise Reunion.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
April 4, 2025
With THEIR SURPRISE REUNION, Shelley Shepard Gray has written a heartwarming and well-developed story about two people, Kayla and Sean, who attended high school together and have reconnected after several years. During their time apart, they have experienced some of the worst events a person can experience – death of a spouse and divorce – and many of the heartaches and hardships that can result. Despite these events, they are able to forge a friendship and more. Their story develops believably and is at times both sad and joyous. The characters of Kayla and Sean are well-developed and multi-dimensional, making them very realistic. I so enjoyed this wonderful and heartwarming story and very much recommend this book to the romantic in all of us. I am looking forward with much anticipation to the next book in the Matchmaker Knows Best series.
I received an ARC copy of this book but was not required to leave a review. All thoughts are mine alone.
I received an ARC copy of this book but was not required to leave a review. All thoughts are mine alone.
March 24, 2025
THEIR SURPRISE REUNION touched my heart in many unexpected ways. There was so much to love about both main characters but Kayla was truly special.
I don’t ever want to know what it would be like to go without the basic necessities but it is a very real situation for so many. Despite being down on her luck, Kayla is a positive light in an otherwise dark tunnel. She does not allow herself to be a victim of her circumstances but moves forward in a positive and hope filled way. Sean is a dedicated single dad. A widower with a lot on his plate including an attraction to the woman he once knew in high school.
Watching Sean and Kayla come together was truly special and the icing on the cake was little Jackson. He was an adorable addition to the story and the glue that kept them all together. I’m giving this book the judy.ann.loves.books stamp of approval, TBR and Enjoy!
I don’t ever want to know what it would be like to go without the basic necessities but it is a very real situation for so many. Despite being down on her luck, Kayla is a positive light in an otherwise dark tunnel. She does not allow herself to be a victim of her circumstances but moves forward in a positive and hope filled way. Sean is a dedicated single dad. A widower with a lot on his plate including an attraction to the woman he once knew in high school.
Watching Sean and Kayla come together was truly special and the icing on the cake was little Jackson. He was an adorable addition to the story and the glue that kept them all together. I’m giving this book the judy.ann.loves.books stamp of approval, TBR and Enjoy!
April 29, 2025
Their Surprise Reunion by Shelley Shepherd Gray is a sweet story. I enjoyed getting to know Kayla, Sean, and Jackson. We get to meet some delightful characters including Edna who runs Loaves of Love, a local food bank. I think that it is a wonderful organization, and I wish there were one in every city. I like the growth we get to see in the characters, especially Kayla. Sean’s son, Jackson is a sweetheart, and he adds humor to the story. I enjoyed this heartwarming story. I finished Their Surprise Reunion with a smile on my face. I am looking forward to the next A Matchmaker Knows Best Romance. Their Surprise Reunion is an uplifting tale with a helpful food bank, an understanding soul, a thoughtful teacher, a caring child, baking bread, an intimidating manager, a shameful secret, and a hopeful future.
April 29, 2025
Sweet Second-Chance Story
Kayla and Sean have had their share of difficulties, albeit for different reasons. They haven't seen each other since high school, but that all changes when they reconnect at Loaves of Love. While each of them is there for a different reason, it sparks a new beginning for them. That's when this sweet second-chance story takes off.
And that's where my heart went, right along with Kayla and Sean. I followed their journey, which was at times sad, at times funny, at times reflective, and at times highly emotional, but completely endearing and heartfelt. Theirs is a wonderful story that should not be missed.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book. All comments and opinions are voluntary and completely my own.
Kayla and Sean have had their share of difficulties, albeit for different reasons. They haven't seen each other since high school, but that all changes when they reconnect at Loaves of Love. While each of them is there for a different reason, it sparks a new beginning for them. That's when this sweet second-chance story takes off.
And that's where my heart went, right along with Kayla and Sean. I followed their journey, which was at times sad, at times funny, at times reflective, and at times highly emotional, but completely endearing and heartfelt. Theirs is a wonderful story that should not be missed.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book. All comments and opinions are voluntary and completely my own.
May 8, 2025
First in the Matchmaker Knows Best series, in which Kayla Harding reluctantly goes to a food bank and gets reacquainted with a guy she knew in high school years earlier. Sean Copeland is a volunteer at the food bank and a coach and teacher at the local high school and is immediately attracted to Kayla, who is reluctant to tell him what brought her to the food bank. But soon his cute first grade son forces Kayla to open her heart to him and then to his dad.
But will the secrets she is unwilling to share prevent Sean from moving forward to opening his heart to Kayla? After all, he's shared his secrets with her and isn't sure why she's less forthcoming. Fortunately for the two adults, little Jackson comes through when needed.
But will the secrets she is unwilling to share prevent Sean from moving forward to opening his heart to Kayla? After all, he's shared his secrets with her and isn't sure why she's less forthcoming. Fortunately for the two adults, little Jackson comes through when needed.
May 11, 2025
I loved Their Surprise Reunion by Shelley Shepard Gray! I didn't want to put it down once I started reading it. A food bank is a central feature of the book and I loved that. The storyline had a bit of a Cinderella feel to it which I love. Kayla's character brought tears to my eyes in the beginning of the book and she is a reminder that people could cross our path every day who are struggling. I liked Kayla's determination. Sean was a very likable hero. I really enjoyed the relationship blooming between Sean and Kayla. I loved Sean's son, too, and thought he was a great addition to the story. I also enjoyed the text exchanges between Kayla and Sean. I'm looking forward to the next book in this series! If you like clean, contemporary romance, I highly recommend this book!
March 30, 2025
This was a sweet and fun read. It was real. What I mean by that is that the subject matter was a believable one. Finding yourself in hard times, that's real. As Kayla finds herself at a food bank, she has no idea where her life will lead to after a bad divorce. In walks Sean, an old friend from school. They both have sad times in their lives and friendship is always wanted and needed. I loved how this story progressed. It was a book that expresses all the feelings that can occur. I highly recommend this very interesting and uplifting story. I loved it!
I received an ARC copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
I received an ARC copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
April 19, 2025
A very sweet story about trust and honesty by Shelley Sheppard Gray.
Sean is a widowed high school teacher and football coach raising a six-year-old-son. Jackson.
Kayla is recently divorced and trying to recover from bad divorce that left her financially ruined. She finds herself at the local food bank. She becomes a volunteer and is soon reunited with Sean, a high school classmate who also volunteers.
Learning to trust again is a lesson both Kayla and Sean need to learn.
Before long, their bond strengthens and begins to bloom into a beautiful romance.
Shelley Shepard Gray doesn't disappoint, and you won't be disappointed either.
Sean is a widowed high school teacher and football coach raising a six-year-old-son. Jackson.
Kayla is recently divorced and trying to recover from bad divorce that left her financially ruined. She finds herself at the local food bank. She becomes a volunteer and is soon reunited with Sean, a high school classmate who also volunteers.
Learning to trust again is a lesson both Kayla and Sean need to learn.
Before long, their bond strengthens and begins to bloom into a beautiful romance.
Shelley Shepard Gray doesn't disappoint, and you won't be disappointed either.
April 28, 2025
This is a story of second chances. Kayla is recently divorced and is struggling to make ends meet and she works up the courage to go to a foodbank for assistance and while there is asked to help make bread and she reconnects with Sean who Kayla knows from going to high school together. Sean is a widower and teaches high school and has a six year old son named Jackson. Both Kayla and Sean have to deal with their pasts so that they both can have a second chance at love.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author/Netgalley. The review expressed here is my honest opinion
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author/Netgalley. The review expressed here is my honest opinion
May 1, 2025
Life happened...
This was a very nuanced book, clean, dealing with hunger, a food pantry, feelings and life after the first marriage. I liked Kayla, who had the courage to go to a food pantry for food (something very relevant), ended up baking bread and reuniting with Sean, a former football star when they went to high school together. They both married other people, Kayla married and divorced a bad guy. Sean married Dannette and had a son but he is now widowed. They are both dinged by the changes life threw their way after high school.
Are they read y to move forward together?
Recommend.
This was a very nuanced book, clean, dealing with hunger, a food pantry, feelings and life after the first marriage. I liked Kayla, who had the courage to go to a food pantry for food (something very relevant), ended up baking bread and reuniting with Sean, a former football star when they went to high school together. They both married other people, Kayla married and divorced a bad guy. Sean married Dannette and had a son but he is now widowed. They are both dinged by the changes life threw their way after high school.
Are they read y to move forward together?
Recommend.
June 8, 2025
I loved reading this heartwarming story about love, second chances and not judging others based on outward appearances.
I could definitely relate to the main character Kayla with her personal and financial struggles after her divorce. I loved that she used her personal experiences to help and serve others at the food bank and school. I also liked getting to know Sean, his son Jackson and food bank director Edna.
All the characters were endearing and relatable, and the story line was delightful and kept my interest from beginning to end. I absolutely loved this story! I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions and views expressed are my own.
I could definitely relate to the main character Kayla with her personal and financial struggles after her divorce. I loved that she used her personal experiences to help and serve others at the food bank and school. I also liked getting to know Sean, his son Jackson and food bank director Edna.
All the characters were endearing and relatable, and the story line was delightful and kept my interest from beginning to end. I absolutely loved this story! I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions and views expressed are my own.
April 15, 2025
Finding solace and friendship at a food bank, Kayla unexpectedly reconnects with her former crush, Sean. Both reeling from past heartbreak, they must decide if love is possible a second time around.
If you’re a fan of clean and wholesome romance, this book is for you. It’s a wonderful story with well-developed characters and a found family theme, which I love. The story world is uncomplicated and sometimes unrealistic, like a Christmas movie with feel-good appeal.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
If you’re a fan of clean and wholesome romance, this book is for you. It’s a wonderful story with well-developed characters and a found family theme, which I love. The story world is uncomplicated and sometimes unrealistic, like a Christmas movie with feel-good appeal.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
January 29, 2025
Loved reading the inspirational and fabulous story. When Kayla who is trying to get over a bad divorce finally has the courage to go to the food bank for food, she is talked into making bread loves and gets to know Sean, a football hero from high school, who has a six year old son. Read the highly recommended, wonderfully written, and a must read engaging story by the fabulous author, Shelley Shepard Gray.
April 15, 2025
Their surprise reunion
I loved this book so much. Enjoyed Kayla, Sean and Jackson and all the other Characters. Sean and Kayla went to the same high school several years ago. Both had been married. Sean has a son named Jackson. I love how the food bank was in the story. I could see this book as a hallmark movie. I hated for the story to end. Loved the characters so much.
I received an advanced copy of the book from NetGalley. This book review is my own opinion.
I loved this book so much. Enjoyed Kayla, Sean and Jackson and all the other Characters. Sean and Kayla went to the same high school several years ago. Both had been married. Sean has a son named Jackson. I love how the food bank was in the story. I could see this book as a hallmark movie. I hated for the story to end. Loved the characters so much.
I received an advanced copy of the book from NetGalley. This book review is my own opinion.
April 29, 2025
Their Surprise Reunion by Shelley Shepard Gray is such an easy and enjoyable read and a can't put down story. This is the sweetest story I have read in a while with such charming and real characters.
Their Surprise Reunion is A touching and heartfelt story of overcoming hard times and reconnecting with the past, to move on to a better future.
I highly recommend
#shelleyshepardgray
#HarlequinHeartwarming
#theirsurprisereunion
Their Surprise Reunion is A touching and heartfelt story of overcoming hard times and reconnecting with the past, to move on to a better future.
I highly recommend
#shelleyshepardgray
#HarlequinHeartwarming
#theirsurprisereunion
May 25, 2025
I did not expect to enjoy this story as much as I did. Their Surprise Reunion is the story of 2 classmates, both previously married, who cross paths in the most unconventional of ways. Kayla is facing an extraordinarily difficult time in life, when she visits a food bank to receive assistance. While there, she ends up volunteering, and seeing Sean. They become acquainted again and the rest is history. Adorable little love story!
July 4, 2025
Their Surprise Reunion by Shelley Shepard Gray is such an easy and enjoyable read and a can't put down story. This is the sweetest story I have read in a while with such charming and real characters.
Their Surprise Reunion is A touching and heartfelt story of overcoming hard times and reconnecting with the past, to move on to a better future.
I highly recommend
#shelleyshepardgray
#HarlequinHeartwarming
#theirsurprisereunion
Their Surprise Reunion is A touching and heartfelt story of overcoming hard times and reconnecting with the past, to move on to a better future.
I highly recommend
#shelleyshepardgray
#HarlequinHeartwarming
#theirsurprisereunion
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