Candidly, Carla

by Annette G. Anders

The heart is the best guide. Unless, of course, we ignore it…

Carla Bellini is eager to open her upscale B&B on Martha’s Vineyard, leaving no time to search for a soulmate—they only exist in novels anyway. Plus, the only man she’s ever desired is the one she’s bossed around for the past year, and he’s just told her he’s had enough of her whims. Oops.

Work is brimming, and Damian Foster should be happy. If only his bottled-up feelings for his best friend’s sister weren’t flaring up like tinder. When a rival for Carla’s attention throws his hat into the ring, Damian must decide whether to quench his attraction to Carla for good—or pursue her despite a decades-old promise.

Find out in this friends-to-lovers romance what it takes for Carla and Damian to trust their hearts and let love guide them.


Publisher's Note: Each book in the Colors of Happiness series features a different couple in a tight-knit group of friends and siblings, and as such, can be read as standalone within interconnected, series-arching storylines.

Kindle Edition

Published June 1, 2024

About the author

Not content with being pushed into one genre, Annette G. Anders blends contemporary romance with strong elements of women’s fiction and book club fiction.

Her novels explore questions about relationships, long-harbored dreams, but also about deep-rooted insecurities, and they send the protagonists on emotional journeys of personal growth. Each story is inspired by everyday people and Annette isn’t shy to allow her characters to show their flaws, which makes them relatable and real.

Annette's books have won multiple awards and recognition for outstanding fiction and literary excellence.

When Annette isn’t working, she enjoys meeting friends for lunch, reading, and traveling.

Stay in touch with Annette by visiting her website www.AnnetteGAnders.com and follow her on social media:

Facebook: Annette G. Anders, Author

Instagram: AnnetteG.Anders

BookBub: Annette G. Anders

Reviews

[Dina Eagles · Rating 5 out of 5]

I keep thinking this book is the best in the series and then along comes the next book and I think THIS ONE is the best, they just keep getting better and better!
I loved Carla and Damien’s story, at one point I want sure which direction it was going and then bam there it was!

[Beth Moylan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Candidly, Carla is the 4th book in the series by Annette Anders but this can be read as a stand alone but why would you. I just love this series and getting to know all of the characters in their own storylines. Carla Bellini is so excited to open up a Bed and Breakfast with her partner Paloma. Carla throws everything she has into opening the inn and doesn't have time for romance, or at least tells herself that. Carla has had a crush on her brothers best friend, Damion, since they were kids. Damion tries to stay away from Carla when he isn't working on her inn as the contractor. Damion has his own issues about trying not to think about his brother Dylon, who was killed in a surfing accident. When one of Carla's guest William, a writer, askes if he can stay for a month and starts to show interest in Carla is when Damion starts to think they should sit down and talk. Annette Anders does a wonderful job making you feel like you are right there with each of these characters and feeling what they are feeling. All of her stories are believable that this could really happen. This was such a fun quick and enjoyable read. I can't wait to read the next in the series. Thank you for the ARC.

[Denise Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Martha's Vineyard comes alive in Book 4 of the Colors of Happiness series, bringing its reader on a uniquely heartwarming journey where the dreamy and dramatic walk hand-in-hand.

Candidly, Carla is a tale that weaves sass, loyalty, romance, and the fulfillment of dreams as this author's realistic characters find themselves once again in the midst of the joys and complexities of friendship.

Highlighted in this newest addition to the series, Carla and Damian's story finds a special place within the intriguing and meaningful mix of family and longtime friendships as they themselves navigate along the path of new choices, and ultimately in acceptance of a love that has always been there...

Ms. Anders has spun her imagination into a fun, spirited, and entertaining read that would be a great choice for the booklover looking for a standalone or series that has a lot to offer!

I thank the author for the opportunity to read and review this newest gift within her series~ one of hope, healing, and matters of the heart.

4.5 Stars

#CandidlyCarla
#AnnetteGAnders

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Candidly, Carla does an excellent job incorporating past characters in the series with their friends Carla and Damian to make an interesting story with lots of depth. From detailed descriptions of Damian's architectural projects and surfing expertise to the delectable food prepared by Carla and her business partner, Paloma, I found myself easily imagining an area I have never visited. The characters from her previous books are included here with enough description that I could readily remember details about them, and that's a big plus that I find with Annette Anders' books. The writer's convention at Carla and Paloma's newly opening inn and a possible male suitor for Carla added additional depth to the story.

I have never been to the area where this book is set, but I always love the author's descriptions and historical information. This book made me want to book a few nights at Carla's new inn and to meet Carla, Damian and their friends.

[Joyce Greenfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished reading Candidly Carly for the 2nd time! And it was even better than the first! Carla and Damian’s is a love story years long in the making. First meeting through her brothers as teenagers, friendships, oaths, loyalty and California kept them apart. Until now. Now in their thirties and Damian has moved back to town. Carla has never had a real relationship, longing for Damian all this time. Damian has had women in his life but never love, not able to get past his feelings for Carla or act on them. A "confusing" accident happens threatening their fragile friendship. You'll have to read it for yourself to find out! I say it every time, Annette G. Anders has done it again! I've read all the Colors of Happiness books. Each one in the series is my favorite until the next one comes out!

[Sandra Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

Candidly, Carla is the fourth book in the Colors of Happiness series, but it reads quite well as a charming, standalone romance. With a fast pace and vivid descriptions of the settings and characters, readers swing quickly between Carla and Damian’s points of view, rooting for them to finally get together. They are both hard-working, admirable people, and the Bellini family overall is great--large and loving, providing a multitude of opportunities for romance and character development over the series. Not to mention the lovely, Impressionist book covers!

[Michele Anne Waite · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading the Colors of Happiness series by Annette G. Anders is always a welcome reprieve from my usual genres of thrillers, historical fiction, and more as the characters are always fun-loving and relatable and it’s light hearted reading at it’s best. I appreciate how Annette is able to tackle social dilemmas with grace and dignity. Candidly, Carla (Colors of Happiness Book IV) by Annette G. Anders is a book I recommend.

I received a digital advanced reader’s copy in return for my fair and honest review.

[Sherry Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fourth book in the Color of Happiness series and I’m hoping for many more!
Very chapter had me longing for more. The wonderful anticipation of what was going to happen between Carla and Damian was captivating. I love how the characters from the past series intertwines with each new series that comes out.
Candidly, Carla was filled with tender, loving, romantic moments. It deserves all five stars and more.

[Karen MdCormack · Rating 5 out of 5]

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So far, I’ve enjoyed all 4 books in this series. I look forward to reading the next book in this series!