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Aisle Bound #2
A Fine Romance
They say you form your first impression of someone within thirty seconds of meeting them. Or, in Mira Parrish's case, within thirty minutes of not meeting them, when said person is supposed to pick her up from the airport and never shows. This is not a perfect start to her new life. Her friend Ivy is depending on her to run a new romance store, and Mira can't afford to let her down.
Sam Lyons should probably apologize. But every time he sees Mira—which is often, since his family owns the bakery next to her shop—he can't resist antagonizing her. There's something about the sexy, straitlaced woman that drives him crazy. He can't get involved, though. He has too much baggage to be any good in a serious relationship.
Despite Sam's teasing attitude, Mira finds him too sweet to resist—his hot body may be a factor. But if there's going to be anything permanent between them, they'll need to let go of their pasts and look to the future….
Sam Lyons should probably apologize. But every time he sees Mira—which is often, since his family owns the bakery next to her shop—he can't resist antagonizing her. There's something about the sexy, straitlaced woman that drives him crazy. He can't get involved, though. He has too much baggage to be any good in a serious relationship.
Despite Sam's teasing attitude, Mira finds him too sweet to resist—his hot body may be a factor. But if there's going to be anything permanent between them, they'll need to let go of their pasts and look to the future….
376 pages, Paperback
First published March 11, 2013
9 people are currently reading
499 people want to read
About the author
Christi Barth
59 books778 followersUSA TODAY bestselling author Christi Barth earned a Masters degree in vocal performance and embarked upon a career on the stage. A love of romance then drew her to wedding planning. Ultimately she succumbed to her lifelong love of books and now writes award-winning contemporary romance, including the Naked Men and Aisle Bound series.
Christi can always be found either whipping up gourmet meals (for fun, honest!) or with her nose in a book. She lives in Maryland with the best husband in the world.
Christi can always be found either whipping up gourmet meals (for fun, honest!) or with her nose in a book. She lives in Maryland with the best husband in the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
March 13, 2013
Slick‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
4 Stars
I love when the second book in a series lives up to the first one, and lucky for us A Fine Romance does just that and then some. My biggest disappointment, we didn’t see nearly as much of the Aisle Bound staff which were such a huge part of book one. However, the romance between our couple was way more physical so in my opinion that made up for it!
Mira Parrish has had a very rough few years, when her best friend, Ivy, makes her an offer she can’t refuse she agrees to move to Chicago and hopes things will be better soon. Fresh off the plane with most of her worldly goods in tow, the ride Ivy’s arranged for her doesn’t show up making her madder than a wet hen.
Sam Lyons is a baker extraordinaire but it’s not his dream…he dreams of creating chocolate masterpieces but for now he’s helping his mother adjust to being a widow and running the family bakery by her side. He often has to let other things slide so he can help his fragile mother, or so he thinks. While he feels bad for not picking up Ivy’s friend what he doesn’t expect is to be accosted for his negligence.
So begins the love/hate relationship between Mira and Sam. These two do not have an easy time of it, but their intense lust for one another kind of balances that out. Both of these characters are kind of a mess, they both have a lot of baggage and sometimes their baggage gets in the way. Mira comes from a very wealthy family but she refuses to follow their rules to access her trust fund. She’s living life on her terms even if that means eating Ramen noodles and living paycheck to paycheck. On top of family issues, she doesn’t have the best track record with her business ventures but for the most part it hasn’t been anything she’s done just a series of really bad timing.
Sam is a dedicated son, sometimes way too dedicated. He feels bound to uphold his father’s dying wish that he take care of his mother. He has plans for his life but they are on hold until his sister returns from studying in Europe and she seems to be on an endless trip. His bakery is doing well, almost too well as it gives him little time to pursue his passion. He also feels he has not time for a relationship. So, yes…tons of baggage for these two.
When they are pretty much thrown together by their friend Ivy, they really begin to talk and get to know one another. There is no denying that they are intensely attracted to one another and some of their make out scenes are scorching! I like that as they get to know each other, we get to know them as well. It’s pretty evident that Mira has abandonment and self esteem issues. She doesn’t feel like her parents have ever been proud of her and sometimes we can see that scared little girl inside of her. With Sam, there were so many times I wanted to bop him upside the head. He’s one of those people that when they get something in their head you can’t pry is lose with a crowbar. Talk about a literal thinker! As much as I enjoy his jovial temperament and how accepting he is of Mira, his rationalization of how he thinks his life has to be was insane. I especially love it when his friends pretty much tell him he’s being a moron.
Again with this book we have some great characters in addition to Sam and Mira. Of course we get to see Ivy and Ben from book one, in addition Mira’s new roommate is Daphne another one of Ivy’s friends and business associate. There’s the rest of the crew Gib and Milo and the addition of some great new characters as well; especially, Helen who is a great sounding board and voice of reason for Mira.
There are a lot of ups and downs in this book which is to be expected when you have two characters that carry far too much on their shoulders. It was nice to watch them learn to share the burden with each other and also to learn it was okay to do so. I also like that their relationship wasn’t easy, they had to work for it and I especially admire Mira for expecting Sam to give her his all.
With enjoyable characters, a well developed and nicely written plot, sparkling sensuality including some lovely food play; A Fine Romance is just that. Christi Barth has created another winning installment in this fun series and I’m already looking forward to the next one!
Review copy provided for an honest review.
4 Stars
I love when the second book in a series lives up to the first one, and lucky for us A Fine Romance does just that and then some. My biggest disappointment, we didn’t see nearly as much of the Aisle Bound staff which were such a huge part of book one. However, the romance between our couple was way more physical so in my opinion that made up for it!
Mira Parrish has had a very rough few years, when her best friend, Ivy, makes her an offer she can’t refuse she agrees to move to Chicago and hopes things will be better soon. Fresh off the plane with most of her worldly goods in tow, the ride Ivy’s arranged for her doesn’t show up making her madder than a wet hen.
Sam Lyons is a baker extraordinaire but it’s not his dream…he dreams of creating chocolate masterpieces but for now he’s helping his mother adjust to being a widow and running the family bakery by her side. He often has to let other things slide so he can help his fragile mother, or so he thinks. While he feels bad for not picking up Ivy’s friend what he doesn’t expect is to be accosted for his negligence.
So begins the love/hate relationship between Mira and Sam. These two do not have an easy time of it, but their intense lust for one another kind of balances that out. Both of these characters are kind of a mess, they both have a lot of baggage and sometimes their baggage gets in the way. Mira comes from a very wealthy family but she refuses to follow their rules to access her trust fund. She’s living life on her terms even if that means eating Ramen noodles and living paycheck to paycheck. On top of family issues, she doesn’t have the best track record with her business ventures but for the most part it hasn’t been anything she’s done just a series of really bad timing.
Sam is a dedicated son, sometimes way too dedicated. He feels bound to uphold his father’s dying wish that he take care of his mother. He has plans for his life but they are on hold until his sister returns from studying in Europe and she seems to be on an endless trip. His bakery is doing well, almost too well as it gives him little time to pursue his passion. He also feels he has not time for a relationship. So, yes…tons of baggage for these two.
When they are pretty much thrown together by their friend Ivy, they really begin to talk and get to know one another. There is no denying that they are intensely attracted to one another and some of their make out scenes are scorching! I like that as they get to know each other, we get to know them as well. It’s pretty evident that Mira has abandonment and self esteem issues. She doesn’t feel like her parents have ever been proud of her and sometimes we can see that scared little girl inside of her. With Sam, there were so many times I wanted to bop him upside the head. He’s one of those people that when they get something in their head you can’t pry is lose with a crowbar. Talk about a literal thinker! As much as I enjoy his jovial temperament and how accepting he is of Mira, his rationalization of how he thinks his life has to be was insane. I especially love it when his friends pretty much tell him he’s being a moron.
Again with this book we have some great characters in addition to Sam and Mira. Of course we get to see Ivy and Ben from book one, in addition Mira’s new roommate is Daphne another one of Ivy’s friends and business associate. There’s the rest of the crew Gib and Milo and the addition of some great new characters as well; especially, Helen who is a great sounding board and voice of reason for Mira.
There are a lot of ups and downs in this book which is to be expected when you have two characters that carry far too much on their shoulders. It was nice to watch them learn to share the burden with each other and also to learn it was okay to do so. I also like that their relationship wasn’t easy, they had to work for it and I especially admire Mira for expecting Sam to give her his all.
With enjoyable characters, a well developed and nicely written plot, sparkling sensuality including some lovely food play; A Fine Romance is just that. Christi Barth has created another winning installment in this fun series and I’m already looking forward to the next one!
Review copy provided for an honest review.
July 18, 2013
A Fine Romance by Christi Barth is her second book in her Aisle Bound series. Having read the first book in this series, I was looking forward to read this book. Christi Barth does not disappoint, as A Fine Romance was another fun romance read, with a wedding planning background. Though this book isn’t really about planning weddings, it has all the characters from the first book play secondary roles, including Ivy, our heroine of Planning for Love. If you have not read the first book, you can still read this one, as Barth does an excellent job bringing people up to date. However, I suggest you read Planning for Love first, as these are fun characters you want know and follow.
Mira is our heroine, and she comes to Chicago to help Ivy open a new store that she has dreamed about. Mira will set up and manage “A Fine Romance” store that deals with all things related to preparing for the perfect date..wine, food, picnic baskets, gifts, etc. Mira arrives in Chicago and immediately starts off badly, being stood up at the airport and by the time she arrives at her new home, she is drenched, and muddied. Why was she stood up?
We now meet Sam, our hero, who is part of the Aisle Bound friendship group, who shows up at Daphne’s place, where Mira will now live. Sam was supposed to pick up Mira at the airport, and didn’t even try to find someone else to pick her up. Why you ask? He had to take care of his mother. So needless to say Mira did not greet Sam too kindly, and he either didn’t care or thought nothing of it. You knew these two would never hit it off. Especially as the days pass, and Sam continues to muddle things. Sam is a hunk, totally hot, and a baker. I would never think of a baker being a hunk, but Sam was and he will later prove was a wiz he is, especially when handling chocolate. But that is later. Sam besides splitting all things in the bakery with his mom, handles the decorative cakes for the weddings at Aisle Bound. As good a baker he is, he is clueless how to handle women, especially Mira, who was totally turned off of Sam and his inconsiderate ways; though she found him to be very attractive.
I have to say, from the start, I wasn’t too crazy about Sam. The things he did nonchalantly required a few slaps, but this was an issue for him when it came to his mom. Mira too had her own issues about getting into a serious relationship, as she was somewhat estranged from her parents.
With all the negatives in the beginning, the relationship between Mira and Sam did begin to build, and their chemistry was great. Barth did a great job bringing this along slowly, early on. This turned out to be such a fun romance, with each having their obstacles to get past. But the time we spent with Mira and Sam was fun, sexy and enjoyable. I loved them together. As for the chocolate, I think you need to read this book to see what Sam does with all his different homemade flavors of chocolate. You may never look at chocolate the same way.
I love this series by Christi Barth. It is fun, with great couples, great secondary characters, and just the right blend of romance and sex, not to mention a wonderful love story. If you want a light, fast, fun, sexy and enjoyable read..look no further then A Fine Romance. But again I suggest you start with Planning for Love to meet the other wonderful characters. I thoroughly enjoy reading Christi’s fun romance stories, and can’t wait for the next book in the Aisle Bound series, Friends to Lovers.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
Mira is our heroine, and she comes to Chicago to help Ivy open a new store that she has dreamed about. Mira will set up and manage “A Fine Romance” store that deals with all things related to preparing for the perfect date..wine, food, picnic baskets, gifts, etc. Mira arrives in Chicago and immediately starts off badly, being stood up at the airport and by the time she arrives at her new home, she is drenched, and muddied. Why was she stood up?
We now meet Sam, our hero, who is part of the Aisle Bound friendship group, who shows up at Daphne’s place, where Mira will now live. Sam was supposed to pick up Mira at the airport, and didn’t even try to find someone else to pick her up. Why you ask? He had to take care of his mother. So needless to say Mira did not greet Sam too kindly, and he either didn’t care or thought nothing of it. You knew these two would never hit it off. Especially as the days pass, and Sam continues to muddle things. Sam is a hunk, totally hot, and a baker. I would never think of a baker being a hunk, but Sam was and he will later prove was a wiz he is, especially when handling chocolate. But that is later. Sam besides splitting all things in the bakery with his mom, handles the decorative cakes for the weddings at Aisle Bound. As good a baker he is, he is clueless how to handle women, especially Mira, who was totally turned off of Sam and his inconsiderate ways; though she found him to be very attractive.
I have to say, from the start, I wasn’t too crazy about Sam. The things he did nonchalantly required a few slaps, but this was an issue for him when it came to his mom. Mira too had her own issues about getting into a serious relationship, as she was somewhat estranged from her parents.
With all the negatives in the beginning, the relationship between Mira and Sam did begin to build, and their chemistry was great. Barth did a great job bringing this along slowly, early on. This turned out to be such a fun romance, with each having their obstacles to get past. But the time we spent with Mira and Sam was fun, sexy and enjoyable. I loved them together. As for the chocolate, I think you need to read this book to see what Sam does with all his different homemade flavors of chocolate. You may never look at chocolate the same way.
I love this series by Christi Barth. It is fun, with great couples, great secondary characters, and just the right blend of romance and sex, not to mention a wonderful love story. If you want a light, fast, fun, sexy and enjoyable read..look no further then A Fine Romance. But again I suggest you start with Planning for Love to meet the other wonderful characters. I thoroughly enjoy reading Christi’s fun romance stories, and can’t wait for the next book in the Aisle Bound series, Friends to Lovers.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
April 1, 2013
A love story set in the windy city of Chicago, Illinois, USA. When Mira arrives at O'Hare Airport, her lift stands her up to take care of his mother, who looks perfectly okay to Mira. Livid over being stood up in a crowded airport amid dreadful weather, Mira throws a drink on the hapless Sam. His attempt to deliver an exquisite pastry as a peace offering ends in disaster as Mira nearly beheads him, mistaking him for an intruder. Well, after a fantastic start like that. things can only get better.
Mira comes from the top drawer of society, rich, old money. But she walked away from it all to prove herself. Her thirtieth birthday is approaching and she could lose her trust fund forever if she makes a marriage deemed unsuitable by her elders. Will the blue collar Sam fit the bill? So what if he's a foreign trained chocolatier who can conjure up the most amazing chocolate creations out of almost nothing. Hell Mira doesn't even like chocolate. And Sam's obsessive worry over his mother's health is annoying her too.
This novel is primarily a romance but it is a few other things too. It also celebrates friendship. The close knit group of friends around Mira as she starts her new life in Chicago warms the heart. Her best friend Ivy who called her to Chicago to manage the new concept romance story she's dreamed about for years. There are lots of laughs on the way to the HEA and lots of personal growth on both Mira's and Sam's side, not too mention a few surprises.
Christi Barth is a new author for me, but I thoroughly enjoyed my first trip through a book of hers and look forward to many more.
Mira comes from the top drawer of society, rich, old money. But she walked away from it all to prove herself. Her thirtieth birthday is approaching and she could lose her trust fund forever if she makes a marriage deemed unsuitable by her elders. Will the blue collar Sam fit the bill? So what if he's a foreign trained chocolatier who can conjure up the most amazing chocolate creations out of almost nothing. Hell Mira doesn't even like chocolate. And Sam's obsessive worry over his mother's health is annoying her too.
This novel is primarily a romance but it is a few other things too. It also celebrates friendship. The close knit group of friends around Mira as she starts her new life in Chicago warms the heart. Her best friend Ivy who called her to Chicago to manage the new concept romance story she's dreamed about for years. There are lots of laughs on the way to the HEA and lots of personal growth on both Mira's and Sam's side, not too mention a few surprises.
Christi Barth is a new author for me, but I thoroughly enjoyed my first trip through a book of hers and look forward to many more.
April 10, 2014
Anyone who loves stories that include details about various bakery items will no doubt salivate over several aspects of this story, the second in a series. Makes me want to consider getting the first in the series and then wait for the third to become available.
Choclatier-wannabe Sam Lyons has been taking care of his widowed mother since his father died, not realizing his mother no longer needs his help (until he learns she's dating someone!). Next to the bakery is a new store soon to be opened called A Fine Romance, a store designed to take lots of money for things romantic. Such fun when a man walks in and thinks it also stocks sex toys! What a hoot that scene was. Mira Parrish, best friend of the owner of the store, has to prove the third time's NOT the kiss of death after losing two other stores to natural disasters she blames on herself.
Sam falls hard for Mira and she for him, but each of them needs to get past issues that have plagued them for far too long. When Sam finally admits he can't leave his mother in the lurch, thus missing out on entering his chocolate creations in a big contest that could be the start of his career as a chocolatier, Mira breaks up with him the night before the big grand opening of her store. Sam needs help seeing the light and then has to convince Mira to hear him out. Can he grovel enough? Will the ring his father gave to his mother be the crowning touch that helps Mira to see the light and give Sam a chance? Read for yourself and find out.
Choclatier-wannabe Sam Lyons has been taking care of his widowed mother since his father died, not realizing his mother no longer needs his help (until he learns she's dating someone!). Next to the bakery is a new store soon to be opened called A Fine Romance, a store designed to take lots of money for things romantic. Such fun when a man walks in and thinks it also stocks sex toys! What a hoot that scene was. Mira Parrish, best friend of the owner of the store, has to prove the third time's NOT the kiss of death after losing two other stores to natural disasters she blames on herself.
Sam falls hard for Mira and she for him, but each of them needs to get past issues that have plagued them for far too long. When Sam finally admits he can't leave his mother in the lurch, thus missing out on entering his chocolate creations in a big contest that could be the start of his career as a chocolatier, Mira breaks up with him the night before the big grand opening of her store. Sam needs help seeing the light and then has to convince Mira to hear him out. Can he grovel enough? Will the ring his father gave to his mother be the crowning touch that helps Mira to see the light and give Sam a chance? Read for yourself and find out.
April 3, 2013
3.5 Stars
Cute, sweet and will give you a craving for chocolate. A Fine Romance is another fun read from Christi Barth.
Sam and Mira are twi feisty characters who start off on the wrong foot. It's fun to see them keep trying though. They have some very sweet dates, Sam shows off his talent by bringing over fresh pastries and chocolate. How can you turn that down?! The road blocks to their relationship were the only drawback to the story, but that could be because of compairing them with Ben and Ivy's love story.
We still get to see Ben and Ivy! They are prepairing for their wedding and keep bringing all their interesting friends together to do so. They make fun of one another, act like family, and make you want to grab a glass of wine and hang out with them. Gib is still as naughty as ever. And we get to meet a new man, very yummy so lets hope Christi brings him back.
Joint review posted at Reading Between the Wines blog:
http://readingbetweenthewinesbookclub...
ecopy courtesy of author
Cute, sweet and will give you a craving for chocolate. A Fine Romance is another fun read from Christi Barth.
Sam and Mira are twi feisty characters who start off on the wrong foot. It's fun to see them keep trying though. They have some very sweet dates, Sam shows off his talent by bringing over fresh pastries and chocolate. How can you turn that down?! The road blocks to their relationship were the only drawback to the story, but that could be because of compairing them with Ben and Ivy's love story.
We still get to see Ben and Ivy! They are prepairing for their wedding and keep bringing all their interesting friends together to do so. They make fun of one another, act like family, and make you want to grab a glass of wine and hang out with them. Gib is still as naughty as ever. And we get to meet a new man, very yummy so lets hope Christi brings him back.
Joint review posted at Reading Between the Wines blog:
http://readingbetweenthewinesbookclub...
ecopy courtesy of author
January 17, 2016
By: Christi Barth
Published By: Carina Press
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 4
Book Blog For: GMTA
Series: Aisle Bound #2
Review:
"A Fine Romance" by Christi Barth was a good contemporary romance read was the second in this series... Aisle Bound. You may need to read the first book, Planning For Love to get the full understand of the characters. We find that Mira has moved into a new town with a new job. Sam and Mira will have an explosive first meeting due to their first meeting however, it seems like there may be a 'undeniable attraction' to each other. What will come of this because each will have issues to get past and this is where I will stay you must pick up this good romance to see where this author will take the reader. If you are looking for a sweet romance you have come to the right novel...for "A Fine Romance" would be recommended to you.
Published By: Carina Press
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 4
Book Blog For: GMTA
Series: Aisle Bound #2
Review:
"A Fine Romance" by Christi Barth was a good contemporary romance read was the second in this series... Aisle Bound. You may need to read the first book, Planning For Love to get the full understand of the characters. We find that Mira has moved into a new town with a new job. Sam and Mira will have an explosive first meeting due to their first meeting however, it seems like there may be a 'undeniable attraction' to each other. What will come of this because each will have issues to get past and this is where I will stay you must pick up this good romance to see where this author will take the reader. If you are looking for a sweet romance you have come to the right novel...for "A Fine Romance" would be recommended to you.
March 27, 2013
A strong contemporary romance. I enjoyed the main characters as well as the secondary. The close-knit group really brought the story together.
March 21, 2013
Review posted on Kindles & Wine
Sigh…oh, to own a bakery! Or even better, to live or work next door to one! In Christi Barth’s A Fine Romance, our heroine, Mira Parrish, doesn’t have to pine away for that. Since she agreed to help out her pal Ivy by managing a “romance store” called A Fine Romance, and this new store shares a building with a bakery, Mira gets to live the dream every day! Or would that be torture?
I liked Mira, even though she didn’t like chocolate (gasp!). She’s got a tough cookie exterior (bakery pun!), but she’s soft and sweet and gooey on the inside. I really liked how she felt this brief little twinge of loneliness when she was stranded at the airport. Even though moving to Chicago was Mira’s choice, and even though it’s a grand adventure and a great new start, she still has this little blip of self-doubt. Since I’ve moved all over for my job, I really identified with that. So even when I thought that maybe Mira was being too much of a snobby brat about something (when she was interviewing the potential cook for the store, for example), I couldn’t be mad at her because I totally “got” her.
Sam Lyons has run Lyons Bakery ever since his dad passed away a few years ago. Business is booming, but between taking care of the business and taking care of his mom, Sam has very little time for anything else. I have to admit that I didn’t fall in love with Sam right away. He kind of does some inconsiderate and jerky things, and then he barely acts like it matters. I wanted to strangle him! Happily, he redeems himself in a variety of ways, but one of my favorites is when he surprises Mira on a date. It was so cute! Sam definitely won me over. But honestly…a man who makes amazing baked goods? I was a goner before I even started!
I loved Mira and Sam together! They started off so badly that they pretty much had nowhere to go but up. Even then, the first few times they see each other, they’re picking at each other and snarking, and it’s great! After they get to know each other better, they still rib each other, which I think is a very honest way to portray a relationship. At least for me it is. I know I harass my hubby mercilessly, so much so that my friends call him Saint Michael (“Oh, please!” is my usual response)! So I really like that they start off bad, but even when they get to like each other, they don’t give any slack to the other.
I only had a couple of minor nit-picky issues with this book. First of all, I was starving just about the whole time I read it! With Sam and his family’s bakery, the author is constantly talking about the sweet treats they offer there (and here I DO mean the pastries). I was about to kill someone for a cinnamon bun! LOL! I’m only half serious about that, though. I mean, the book DID make me crave pastries, but who’s to say if that’s just how I normally am or if it really was the book? I know I’ll never tell! In any case, it wasn’t distracting or anything. I just wanted to warn you!
Second, what the heck is a “romance store”? I kept thinking of those naughty shops that sell flavored condoms and penis pumps. For sure that’s not what THIS romance store is. My best guess from the clues I got in the book is that they sell, well, romantic stuff: vases, blankets for picnics, and since Mira hires a cook, I guess they sell some gourmet food as well. I was never really sure what exactly a romance store would carry or why someone thought it was a logical idea to pair with a bakery, especially if they’re going to have their own cook. But I digress, since my confusion over this didn’t detract from my enjoying the story.
Bottom Line
If you’re on a diet, you may want to skip this one…there is way too much temptation inside! But if you can resist, jump on in! A Fine Romance is a fun book with a great story and wonderful characters. I’d recommend this to anyone who’s a fan of contemporary romance. Also, if you’re feeling the winter blues, you’ll LOVE this book because the author does an amazing job of taking you to see the sights and sounds of summer in Chicago and the gorgeous public gardens!
Rating: B+
Review copy courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley
Sigh…oh, to own a bakery! Or even better, to live or work next door to one! In Christi Barth’s A Fine Romance, our heroine, Mira Parrish, doesn’t have to pine away for that. Since she agreed to help out her pal Ivy by managing a “romance store” called A Fine Romance, and this new store shares a building with a bakery, Mira gets to live the dream every day! Or would that be torture?
I liked Mira, even though she didn’t like chocolate (gasp!). She’s got a tough cookie exterior (bakery pun!), but she’s soft and sweet and gooey on the inside. I really liked how she felt this brief little twinge of loneliness when she was stranded at the airport. Even though moving to Chicago was Mira’s choice, and even though it’s a grand adventure and a great new start, she still has this little blip of self-doubt. Since I’ve moved all over for my job, I really identified with that. So even when I thought that maybe Mira was being too much of a snobby brat about something (when she was interviewing the potential cook for the store, for example), I couldn’t be mad at her because I totally “got” her.
Sam Lyons has run Lyons Bakery ever since his dad passed away a few years ago. Business is booming, but between taking care of the business and taking care of his mom, Sam has very little time for anything else. I have to admit that I didn’t fall in love with Sam right away. He kind of does some inconsiderate and jerky things, and then he barely acts like it matters. I wanted to strangle him! Happily, he redeems himself in a variety of ways, but one of my favorites is when he surprises Mira on a date. It was so cute! Sam definitely won me over. But honestly…a man who makes amazing baked goods? I was a goner before I even started!
I loved Mira and Sam together! They started off so badly that they pretty much had nowhere to go but up. Even then, the first few times they see each other, they’re picking at each other and snarking, and it’s great! After they get to know each other better, they still rib each other, which I think is a very honest way to portray a relationship. At least for me it is. I know I harass my hubby mercilessly, so much so that my friends call him Saint Michael (“Oh, please!” is my usual response)! So I really like that they start off bad, but even when they get to like each other, they don’t give any slack to the other.
I only had a couple of minor nit-picky issues with this book. First of all, I was starving just about the whole time I read it! With Sam and his family’s bakery, the author is constantly talking about the sweet treats they offer there (and here I DO mean the pastries). I was about to kill someone for a cinnamon bun! LOL! I’m only half serious about that, though. I mean, the book DID make me crave pastries, but who’s to say if that’s just how I normally am or if it really was the book? I know I’ll never tell! In any case, it wasn’t distracting or anything. I just wanted to warn you!
Second, what the heck is a “romance store”? I kept thinking of those naughty shops that sell flavored condoms and penis pumps. For sure that’s not what THIS romance store is. My best guess from the clues I got in the book is that they sell, well, romantic stuff: vases, blankets for picnics, and since Mira hires a cook, I guess they sell some gourmet food as well. I was never really sure what exactly a romance store would carry or why someone thought it was a logical idea to pair with a bakery, especially if they’re going to have their own cook. But I digress, since my confusion over this didn’t detract from my enjoying the story.
Bottom Line
If you’re on a diet, you may want to skip this one…there is way too much temptation inside! But if you can resist, jump on in! A Fine Romance is a fun book with a great story and wonderful characters. I’d recommend this to anyone who’s a fan of contemporary romance. Also, if you’re feeling the winter blues, you’ll LOVE this book because the author does an amazing job of taking you to see the sights and sounds of summer in Chicago and the gorgeous public gardens!
Rating: B+
Review copy courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley
March 14, 2013
Posted at Yummy Men & Kick Ass Chicks
A Fine Romance is the second book in Christi Barth’s Aisle Bound series. This is essentially a series that follows a group of friends who are somehow involved with a wedding planning business. I love weddings and I love planning stuff so reading a series about wedding planners is fun for me.
This time around we follow Mira and Sam. Sam is the baker extraordinaire that supplies many of the wedding cakes for Aisle Bound (that’s the name of the wedding planning business featured in these books) and Mira is the woman who has been asked by Ivy to run her dream.
And that takes a bit of back-story explanation…
In book one, we follow Ivy. Ivy is co-owner of Aisle Bound. She is the planner. We learn that she has a dream of owning a romance shop. No, not a sex shop. A romance shop. A store where people can order all the fixings for a romantic picnic or the perfect date, for example. But she knows that she could never work at Aisle Bound AND run her dream shop. So once she has the money and the perfect spot for her shop, she contacts her roommate from school, Mira, and asks her to move to Chicago in order to manage A Fine Romance (that’s the name of the store).
The book begins with Mira arriving in Chicago. And boy what a welcome! Yeah…you can’t tell but I’m being sarcastic there. She was forgotten at the airport by none other than Sam! And why did he forget? Because his mother needed him.
I think this is a good time to chat about Sam. Oh Sam… I have mixed feelings about him. One moment I thought he was super sexy and extra yummy. The next I wanted to smack him. Hard. You see, Sam’s father passed away a couple of years ago. His father’s last request was that he take care of his mother. Mom has had a really hard time dealing with her loss but he is better now…yet Sam doesn’t quite see that.
I didn’t love how Sam didn’t share his true feelings with his mother but I think what bothered me most was how his mother hid her feelings from him. She knew he was putting his life on hold to “help” her yet she was too worried to tell him she’s okay now because of how he would react. Made me sort of wonder who was the child and who was the parent. That whole bit left me feeling frustrated and it tarnished my opinion of the book a bit.
Let’s chat about Mira. Mira is a strong woman but her constant ‘I am going to ruin everything’ got a bit old after a while. Sure, the last three stores she managed didn’t work out. But not once was it her fault. I mean, one store folded because it literally folded under the pressure of the waters from a hurricane! She is a smart woman so I was surprised she couldn’t focus on that. And her parents?! Arses. And she was all happy with the way things went with them at her store? Really?! Odd… They reminded her of her failures. What failures? She was never a failure! You can’t predict market scams and she had nothing to do with that store’s issues either! Aug…it all just frustrated me.
At least Sam and Mira’s chemistry was superb. It was the highlight of the book for me. They rock it on the page.
There were a few teases about Gib and Daphne. They are going to be the hero and heroine in the next book, Friends to Lovers. I have thoroughly enjoyed these two characters in the first two books and I am dying to see how Gib and Daphne hook up in because I can’t see how they are going to come together. (Ha! A Pun!) I can’t wait to see how Christi makes that work.
Yes, I did have some issues with this book but I can’t say I didn’t enjoy it. Quite a few moments left a smile on my face and the end is just as romantic as the other books I’ve read by Christi. Christi writes wonderful proposal / makeup / declaration of love scenes and the one at the end of this book is no exception. And although this wasn’t my favorite book of the series, it wasn’t at all hardship to read. It’s sweet series.
3.5 stars
A Fine Romance is the second book in Christi Barth’s Aisle Bound series. This is essentially a series that follows a group of friends who are somehow involved with a wedding planning business. I love weddings and I love planning stuff so reading a series about wedding planners is fun for me.
This time around we follow Mira and Sam. Sam is the baker extraordinaire that supplies many of the wedding cakes for Aisle Bound (that’s the name of the wedding planning business featured in these books) and Mira is the woman who has been asked by Ivy to run her dream.
And that takes a bit of back-story explanation…
In book one, we follow Ivy. Ivy is co-owner of Aisle Bound. She is the planner. We learn that she has a dream of owning a romance shop. No, not a sex shop. A romance shop. A store where people can order all the fixings for a romantic picnic or the perfect date, for example. But she knows that she could never work at Aisle Bound AND run her dream shop. So once she has the money and the perfect spot for her shop, she contacts her roommate from school, Mira, and asks her to move to Chicago in order to manage A Fine Romance (that’s the name of the store).
The book begins with Mira arriving in Chicago. And boy what a welcome! Yeah…you can’t tell but I’m being sarcastic there. She was forgotten at the airport by none other than Sam! And why did he forget? Because his mother needed him.
I think this is a good time to chat about Sam. Oh Sam… I have mixed feelings about him. One moment I thought he was super sexy and extra yummy. The next I wanted to smack him. Hard. You see, Sam’s father passed away a couple of years ago. His father’s last request was that he take care of his mother. Mom has had a really hard time dealing with her loss but he is better now…yet Sam doesn’t quite see that.
I didn’t love how Sam didn’t share his true feelings with his mother but I think what bothered me most was how his mother hid her feelings from him. She knew he was putting his life on hold to “help” her yet she was too worried to tell him she’s okay now because of how he would react. Made me sort of wonder who was the child and who was the parent. That whole bit left me feeling frustrated and it tarnished my opinion of the book a bit.
Let’s chat about Mira. Mira is a strong woman but her constant ‘I am going to ruin everything’ got a bit old after a while. Sure, the last three stores she managed didn’t work out. But not once was it her fault. I mean, one store folded because it literally folded under the pressure of the waters from a hurricane! She is a smart woman so I was surprised she couldn’t focus on that. And her parents?! Arses. And she was all happy with the way things went with them at her store? Really?! Odd… They reminded her of her failures. What failures? She was never a failure! You can’t predict market scams and she had nothing to do with that store’s issues either! Aug…it all just frustrated me.
At least Sam and Mira’s chemistry was superb. It was the highlight of the book for me. They rock it on the page.
There were a few teases about Gib and Daphne. They are going to be the hero and heroine in the next book, Friends to Lovers. I have thoroughly enjoyed these two characters in the first two books and I am dying to see how Gib and Daphne hook up in because I can’t see how they are going to come together. (Ha! A Pun!) I can’t wait to see how Christi makes that work.
Yes, I did have some issues with this book but I can’t say I didn’t enjoy it. Quite a few moments left a smile on my face and the end is just as romantic as the other books I’ve read by Christi. Christi writes wonderful proposal / makeup / declaration of love scenes and the one at the end of this book is no exception. And although this wasn’t my favorite book of the series, it wasn’t at all hardship to read. It’s sweet series.
3.5 stars
April 26, 2013
Reviewed for Read Your Writes Book Reviews
www.readyourwrites.blogspot.com
A Fine Romance is the second book in the Aisle Bound Series from Christi Barth. The book can be read without reading the first book, Planning For Love. However, you might not get the full extent of character relationships without reading the first book.
Mira Parrish is one of Ivy Rhodes’ best friends. Ivy is the heroine in Planning for Love and the owner of Aisle Bound, a wedding consulting company. Ivy is a hopeless romantic. She came up with the idea of a romance store (a place where you can get picnic baskets, little romantic meals, etc.) Since the wedding business is so hectic, Ivy doesn’t have the time to devote to A Fine Romance like she wants. Ivy convinces Mira to move to Chicago to put the store together for her and also to be it’s manager.
Mira is from a wealthy family that made it’s money in concrete. She grew up in a life of privilege, where she was only expected to marry well and carry on the family name. She’s an only child who seems to have been pretty much only brought around for show. For Mira, that wasn’t a life she wanted to lead so she turned her back on the money. For the last few years, Mira has been living on her own. Which pretty much means living paycheck to paycheck. Of course she wants more, but she also wants to be able to say that she got her money by working for it. She has a huge chip on her shoulder and is very quick-tempered.
Sam Lyons is the co-owner of Lyons Bakery. The bakery is well known for it’s pastries and fabulous wedding cakes. Lyons Bakery was first ran by Sam’s mother and father and then primarily Sam, after his father’s death. Since his father passed away, Sam hasn’t lived his own life. His life has been all about working in the bakery, trying to make sure the bills got paid, and taking care of his mother. His wants and needs have been put on the back burner, hoping his sister will decide to join the family business.
A Fine Romance has tons of laughable moments. It also has a serious romance between a couple who is real and sometimes irritating. Mira and Sam both have family issues they need to deal with but refuse to face. They each have hopes, dreams, and fears that they only feel comfortable sharing with one another. The secondary characters are all people you would want to know and love, well maybe not Mira’s parents.
If you’re looking for a romance book where the action between the couple heats up to a boiling point immediately, this isn’t the book for you. A Fine Romance builds on the relationship that Sam and Mira are trying to establish, before they get to the good stuff. And oh, the wait is worth it. I mean a special blend of chocolate with extra vanilla and a kick of cinnamon worth it.
While I didn’t love this book as much as I did the first, looking at it independently it’s good. A Fine Romance is about friendship and knowing that your friends are going to be there for you, no matter what happens. It’s a story of people learning that if they just speak up for themselves and what they want, they just might get it.
While I’m not sure who the next book is going to feature, I am looking forward to it.
Source: Author
www.readyourwrites.blogspot.com
A Fine Romance is the second book in the Aisle Bound Series from Christi Barth. The book can be read without reading the first book, Planning For Love. However, you might not get the full extent of character relationships without reading the first book.
Mira Parrish is one of Ivy Rhodes’ best friends. Ivy is the heroine in Planning for Love and the owner of Aisle Bound, a wedding consulting company. Ivy is a hopeless romantic. She came up with the idea of a romance store (a place where you can get picnic baskets, little romantic meals, etc.) Since the wedding business is so hectic, Ivy doesn’t have the time to devote to A Fine Romance like she wants. Ivy convinces Mira to move to Chicago to put the store together for her and also to be it’s manager.
Mira is from a wealthy family that made it’s money in concrete. She grew up in a life of privilege, where she was only expected to marry well and carry on the family name. She’s an only child who seems to have been pretty much only brought around for show. For Mira, that wasn’t a life she wanted to lead so she turned her back on the money. For the last few years, Mira has been living on her own. Which pretty much means living paycheck to paycheck. Of course she wants more, but she also wants to be able to say that she got her money by working for it. She has a huge chip on her shoulder and is very quick-tempered.
Sam Lyons is the co-owner of Lyons Bakery. The bakery is well known for it’s pastries and fabulous wedding cakes. Lyons Bakery was first ran by Sam’s mother and father and then primarily Sam, after his father’s death. Since his father passed away, Sam hasn’t lived his own life. His life has been all about working in the bakery, trying to make sure the bills got paid, and taking care of his mother. His wants and needs have been put on the back burner, hoping his sister will decide to join the family business.
A Fine Romance has tons of laughable moments. It also has a serious romance between a couple who is real and sometimes irritating. Mira and Sam both have family issues they need to deal with but refuse to face. They each have hopes, dreams, and fears that they only feel comfortable sharing with one another. The secondary characters are all people you would want to know and love, well maybe not Mira’s parents.
If you’re looking for a romance book where the action between the couple heats up to a boiling point immediately, this isn’t the book for you. A Fine Romance builds on the relationship that Sam and Mira are trying to establish, before they get to the good stuff. And oh, the wait is worth it. I mean a special blend of chocolate with extra vanilla and a kick of cinnamon worth it.
While I didn’t love this book as much as I did the first, looking at it independently it’s good. A Fine Romance is about friendship and knowing that your friends are going to be there for you, no matter what happens. It’s a story of people learning that if they just speak up for themselves and what they want, they just might get it.
While I’m not sure who the next book is going to feature, I am looking forward to it.
Source: Author
March 9, 2013
This was a sweet follow-up to Planning for Love with the new store, A Fine Romance, taking center stage as we see Mira work herself to the bone to make this store a success for her friend Ivy. We see Ivy and Ben plus others from the previous book as we get to know Mira and the hunky baker/chocolatier Sam.
Mira is not having a good time in her life at the moment and it is capped off by a no-show by the man who was supposed to pick her up and take her to the place she will be sharing with Daphne. Unfortunately this no-show also coincides with a massive rainstorm and spectacularly bad luck with puddles so she isn't exactly happy to be in Chicago. When she meets the man who pulled the no-show she is understandably pissed but finds herself attracted to the gorgeous specimen of masculinity. As you well know this tug of war and verbal sparring tends to mean one thing in romance books and we are treated to a fun ride as these two find a true partner to spar with, spill their guts to and truly find love. Mira has issues to work through that make sense while also trying to help the man who comes to mean everything to her with his own major issues. I liked her strength and willingness to go there but back off in the interest of sanity when the situation called for it. She deserves to be happy and she finds it with….
Sam… sigh… you will want to hug him and strangle him within the same paragraph or even sentence. He is beyond loyal but this is what gets him in to the trouble he does. Due to his innate sense of loyalty he almost loses everything but you'll have to see exactly what happens with him. He's buried himself in saving the family bakery, protecting his mom, doting on his mom, playing taxi driver to his mom, (are we sensing a trend here?) that he forgets he matters as well. He's amazing when he brings Mira's issues out in the open and I adored how he pushed her to acknowledge she was worthy and deserved to be happy in her own right. He's also quite insatiable when it comes to her so I enjoyed getting to see him bring out both the best and worst in her. They really are an incredible match once they get past the initial meetings… LOL
So go grab both of these stories for nice quick reads that will make you smile and feel a bit better if you are having a crappy day. Thanks to NetGalley.com and Carina Press for the chance to read this in exchange for my honest review. I adored it and bring on Daphne's story (I'm hoping a certain Brit ends up being her HEA).
Mira is not having a good time in her life at the moment and it is capped off by a no-show by the man who was supposed to pick her up and take her to the place she will be sharing with Daphne. Unfortunately this no-show also coincides with a massive rainstorm and spectacularly bad luck with puddles so she isn't exactly happy to be in Chicago. When she meets the man who pulled the no-show she is understandably pissed but finds herself attracted to the gorgeous specimen of masculinity. As you well know this tug of war and verbal sparring tends to mean one thing in romance books and we are treated to a fun ride as these two find a true partner to spar with, spill their guts to and truly find love. Mira has issues to work through that make sense while also trying to help the man who comes to mean everything to her with his own major issues. I liked her strength and willingness to go there but back off in the interest of sanity when the situation called for it. She deserves to be happy and she finds it with….
Sam… sigh… you will want to hug him and strangle him within the same paragraph or even sentence. He is beyond loyal but this is what gets him in to the trouble he does. Due to his innate sense of loyalty he almost loses everything but you'll have to see exactly what happens with him. He's buried himself in saving the family bakery, protecting his mom, doting on his mom, playing taxi driver to his mom, (are we sensing a trend here?) that he forgets he matters as well. He's amazing when he brings Mira's issues out in the open and I adored how he pushed her to acknowledge she was worthy and deserved to be happy in her own right. He's also quite insatiable when it comes to her so I enjoyed getting to see him bring out both the best and worst in her. They really are an incredible match once they get past the initial meetings… LOL
So go grab both of these stories for nice quick reads that will make you smile and feel a bit better if you are having a crappy day. Thanks to NetGalley.com and Carina Press for the chance to read this in exchange for my honest review. I adored it and bring on Daphne's story (I'm hoping a certain Brit ends up being her HEA).
March 17, 2013
I was lucky enough to be approved for an early copy of A Fine Romance thanks to the publisher through NetGalley. I didn’t realize when I requested it that it was the second book in a series, but will say this book stands alone well without reading the first book (already bought for my kindle, BTW).
Let me just say I loved Mira from the moment she appeared on the page. The fact that she dumps a drink on Sam’s head when they first meet to get back at him for not picking her up from the airport only made me love her more. I also loved Sam, even when I thought his excuses for always helping with his mom were a little much.
I loved the chemistry between Sam and Mira. Even when they wanted to throttle one another, they couldn’t seem to keep their hands off each other. I also loved how Sam only really seemed to share his real self with Mira. Both Mira and Sam have major baggage because of their families, and while they could talk it out together, it is up to each of them to figure out how to work around that baggage to have a successful relationship. I know I’ve said how much I loved both Sam and Mira, but I really did love them as a couple. They really did fit perfectly together and completed each other.
While I think A Fine Romance really does read well as a stand-alone book, to know more about Ivy, Mira’s best friend and all her friends, I’d read Planning for Love first. This was the first full length book I’ve read from Christi Barth, and I look forward to reading many more books from her in the future. For more information about the Aisle Bound Series and other books from Christi Barth, check out her website.
Let me just say I loved Mira from the moment she appeared on the page. The fact that she dumps a drink on Sam’s head when they first meet to get back at him for not picking her up from the airport only made me love her more. I also loved Sam, even when I thought his excuses for always helping with his mom were a little much.
I loved the chemistry between Sam and Mira. Even when they wanted to throttle one another, they couldn’t seem to keep their hands off each other. I also loved how Sam only really seemed to share his real self with Mira. Both Mira and Sam have major baggage because of their families, and while they could talk it out together, it is up to each of them to figure out how to work around that baggage to have a successful relationship. I know I’ve said how much I loved both Sam and Mira, but I really did love them as a couple. They really did fit perfectly together and completed each other.
While I think A Fine Romance really does read well as a stand-alone book, to know more about Ivy, Mira’s best friend and all her friends, I’d read Planning for Love first. This was the first full length book I’ve read from Christi Barth, and I look forward to reading many more books from her in the future. For more information about the Aisle Bound Series and other books from Christi Barth, check out her website.
April 8, 2013
This book is the 2nd book in the Aisle Bound Trilogy series and is a continuation of where it stop in the 1st book but the focus is no longer on Ben and Ivy but on Mira, Ivy’s best friend whom she have engaged to manage her dream shop, A Fine Romance. Mira is from a wealthy family but she never want to associate her doing with her family and preferred to work for a living herself. But fate seems to play her out. She failed in all the job that she ever held so far. When Ivy approaches her for help, she agreed to it. When she arrives, she found herself stranded at the airport as the person who was assigned to fetch her, Sam Lyon broke his promise to Ivy. When she finally met him, she dumped her drink on him for his arrogant and ignorance. It was rather a bad start for both of them in their relationship. Overtime, as both of their shops are next to each other, Mira begin to understand and realise the sort of person Sam are and she begin to accept him as someone more than a friend is.
I love reading this sequel of the trilogy with plenty of story of Ivy and Ben in it. Both the main characters of this book, Sam and Mira is very lovable; with their love/hate relationship. Overall, this book is nicely written and am looking forward for the next book in the series; am hoping the next one will be on Daphne ;)
I love reading this sequel of the trilogy with plenty of story of Ivy and Ben in it. Both the main characters of this book, Sam and Mira is very lovable; with their love/hate relationship. Overall, this book is nicely written and am looking forward for the next book in the series; am hoping the next one will be on Daphne ;)
March 16, 2013
A Fine Romance was exactly what you'd expect in a romance novel, it was sweet and fluffy with a minimal amount of angst.
Mira has been given the chance of a lifetime by her good friend Ivy. She's been asked to help open and run Ivy's new store, A Fine Romance. After a miserable last few years and a string of failed business endeavors she's thankful for any help she can get. She moves to Chicago and is supposed to be met at the airport by one of Ivy's friends, Sam. Mira is forced to maneuver her way through the El system and finally makes it to her new apartment a soaked mess. Sam appears, hardly remembering his obligation and ends up with cocktail thrown in his face.
When Mira shows up to her first day on the job, she is forced to accept the fact that Sam is the neighbor next door who owns a favorite local bakery. The two are attracted to each other and once they finally get over their first impression feud, things move along quickly. There is one catch to the whole thing. Sam is a complete mamma's boy. Of course there is a reason behind his need to attend to his mother's every whim, but in pure Romance novel form his flaw is a bit overblown.
All in all, if you're looking for a quick beach read, this one is a pretty good one.
Mira has been given the chance of a lifetime by her good friend Ivy. She's been asked to help open and run Ivy's new store, A Fine Romance. After a miserable last few years and a string of failed business endeavors she's thankful for any help she can get. She moves to Chicago and is supposed to be met at the airport by one of Ivy's friends, Sam. Mira is forced to maneuver her way through the El system and finally makes it to her new apartment a soaked mess. Sam appears, hardly remembering his obligation and ends up with cocktail thrown in his face.
When Mira shows up to her first day on the job, she is forced to accept the fact that Sam is the neighbor next door who owns a favorite local bakery. The two are attracted to each other and once they finally get over their first impression feud, things move along quickly. There is one catch to the whole thing. Sam is a complete mamma's boy. Of course there is a reason behind his need to attend to his mother's every whim, but in pure Romance novel form his flaw is a bit overblown.
All in all, if you're looking for a quick beach read, this one is a pretty good one.
April 5, 2013
I never thought about the many ways a baker could be sexy and Sam Lyons has transformed my image of a man who handles dough and sugar. Who knew that transporting huge wedding cakes helps develop a guy's biceps and pecs!! Even though he was a bit of a jerk in the beginning, Sam goes to the top of my book boyfriend list!
Mira is no slouch either and she goes toe-to-toe with Sam when their first meetings were less than perfect. She certainly got and kept his attention. Their romance eventually takes off and Sam finds some really exciting uses for the concoctions and sauces found in his bakery. Use your imagination.
Both have some really tough family issues to contend with that have the potential of derailing them and it adds some realism to their conflicts. I also love the interactions with their tight friends network. They keep things fun and help Sam and Mira focus on what's really important to them both. I don't know whose story is next but I know I'll be one of the first to read it. I'm really enjoying the series with its eclectic mix of personalities and sexy heroes and this one was hard to put down.
Mira is no slouch either and she goes toe-to-toe with Sam when their first meetings were less than perfect. She certainly got and kept his attention. Their romance eventually takes off and Sam finds some really exciting uses for the concoctions and sauces found in his bakery. Use your imagination.
Both have some really tough family issues to contend with that have the potential of derailing them and it adds some realism to their conflicts. I also love the interactions with their tight friends network. They keep things fun and help Sam and Mira focus on what's really important to them both. I don't know whose story is next but I know I'll be one of the first to read it. I'm really enjoying the series with its eclectic mix of personalities and sexy heroes and this one was hard to put down.
February 23, 2013
Mira Parrish isn't expecting her transition to her new life to be easy, but she thought at least the person picking her up from the airport would have at least shown up. Stuck with no help she finds her drenched in a rain storm and prickly by the time she arrives at her new apartment. Sam Lyons knows the first thing out of his mouth when he meets Mira should be an apology, but her stunning beauty floors him and then when she lets him get the verbal lashing of his life as well he decides he likes seeing her hackles raised.
Mira thinks Sam is the sexiest man she has met, but he is still not forgiven. Sam wants to get to know Mira but he has to find a way to break through her jaded image of him, which should be fairly easy if it weren't for one thing, Sam putting his mom first in his life. Sam feels he is duty bound to take care of his mom after his dad died, but the main issue is his mom is perfectly capable of taking care of herself and has no idea that Sam is his own train wreck.
Full review on Single Titles
Mira thinks Sam is the sexiest man she has met, but he is still not forgiven. Sam wants to get to know Mira but he has to find a way to break through her jaded image of him, which should be fairly easy if it weren't for one thing, Sam putting his mom first in his life. Sam feels he is duty bound to take care of his mom after his dad died, but the main issue is his mom is perfectly capable of taking care of herself and has no idea that Sam is his own train wreck.
Full review on Single Titles
March 17, 2013
This is perfect for readers looking for an easy afternoon read with lots of funny banter and emotional intensity; A Fine Romance is a must read. Enjoy!
I found the authors writing style to be captivating. This is a delightfully well-written romance with characters that are charismatic yet antagonizing. The author crafted wonderful scenes full of dialogue that are both hilarious and realistic. This is not the {SWEET} romance depicted on the cover. It was more like a chemistry experiment; one minute everything is going along smoothly…then BOOM – no eye brows. The magnetism between Sam and Mira was incredible; the author also did an amazing job of writing Mira into the group naturally.
I can’t wait to see what the author has in store for Darcy!
Disclosure: This ebook was provided to me free of charge by NetGalley for the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments, and ratings are my own.
I found the authors writing style to be captivating. This is a delightfully well-written romance with characters that are charismatic yet antagonizing. The author crafted wonderful scenes full of dialogue that are both hilarious and realistic. This is not the {SWEET} romance depicted on the cover. It was more like a chemistry experiment; one minute everything is going along smoothly…then BOOM – no eye brows. The magnetism between Sam and Mira was incredible; the author also did an amazing job of writing Mira into the group naturally.
I can’t wait to see what the author has in store for Darcy!
Disclosure: This ebook was provided to me free of charge by NetGalley for the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments, and ratings are my own.
May 20, 2013
A FINE ROMANCE (Aisle Bound) By Christi Barth
Book Two in the Aisle Bound Series
Publication Date: March 11, 2013
Reviewed by: Reading In Pajamas/ Cori
Rated: 3.5 Stars
REVIEW:
Sweet, fun, and quirky romance! I enjoyed A Fine Romance! This is the second book in Christi Barth’s Aisle Bound series and can be read as a stand alone. I am going to go back and read the first book to learn more about the secondary characters. Sam is a sexy baker and Mira is starting over in a new town with a new job. Sam and Mira have an explosive first meeting and start off on the wrong foot, but have an undeniable attraction to each other. All the bantering was really entertaining and had me smiling and laughing. They both had issues they had to get past, but they were really good together and brought out the best in each other. I recommend this book to anyone looking for a sweet romance book to curl up with. Have some chocolate on hand when reading this book because it will cause chocolate cravings!
*Review copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Book Two in the Aisle Bound Series
Publication Date: March 11, 2013
Reviewed by: Reading In Pajamas/ Cori
Rated: 3.5 Stars
REVIEW:
Sweet, fun, and quirky romance! I enjoyed A Fine Romance! This is the second book in Christi Barth’s Aisle Bound series and can be read as a stand alone. I am going to go back and read the first book to learn more about the secondary characters. Sam is a sexy baker and Mira is starting over in a new town with a new job. Sam and Mira have an explosive first meeting and start off on the wrong foot, but have an undeniable attraction to each other. All the bantering was really entertaining and had me smiling and laughing. They both had issues they had to get past, but they were really good together and brought out the best in each other. I recommend this book to anyone looking for a sweet romance book to curl up with. Have some chocolate on hand when reading this book because it will cause chocolate cravings!
*Review copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
April 15, 2013
A Fine Romance by Christi Barth is Book Two in the Aisle Bound Series
Mira Parrish is used to having control and making sure that everything goes her way. So when she first arrives at the airport in Chicago she expects for everything to go according to plan. Unfortunately, the friend her friend Ivy asked to pick her up fails to show up, and an independent streak Mira decides to take the El to her new roommate’s apartment.
Sam Lyons is a baker extraordinaire, his family has sacrificed a lot to make the bakery as successful as it is now. But that is not his dream, he wants to be a chocolatier, that is his passion. He went to Europe to learn from the best, and he can make the best chocolate ever. Read More...
Mira Parrish is used to having control and making sure that everything goes her way. So when she first arrives at the airport in Chicago she expects for everything to go according to plan. Unfortunately, the friend her friend Ivy asked to pick her up fails to show up, and an independent streak Mira decides to take the El to her new roommate’s apartment.
Sam Lyons is a baker extraordinaire, his family has sacrificed a lot to make the bakery as successful as it is now. But that is not his dream, he wants to be a chocolatier, that is his passion. He went to Europe to learn from the best, and he can make the best chocolate ever. Read More...
April 7, 2013
A Fine Romance was a cute story with an intriguing basis about a sexy baker whose life has been put on hold due to a family tragedy and a spunky entrepreneur determined to make her best-friends new store a success. The story did drag for me at times, the road blocks to a relationship between the couple and the heroes tendency to be a mama's boy were definite drawbacks for me. All an all though, an okay read with a sweet romance and some chocolate covered sexiness thrown in.
You can check out our joint review of this titles for our feature The Wine Club at Reading Between the Wines!
You can check out our joint review of this titles for our feature The Wine Club at Reading Between the Wines!
August 3, 2013
If you want your contemporary romances sassy, sexy and satisfying, you will love Christi Barth's latest novel, A Fine Romance. It's the second in her Aisle Bound series and it features a smart, determined heroine and a sexy, family-first hero who's reluctant to get involved.
The witty banter is sure to delight and when these seemingly at-odds characters get together, the sparks burst into flames! Put this one on your "must read" list! It's romantic and sexy enough to make your heart pound, yet fun and funny enough to read while lying on the beach sipping a fruity drink with an umbrella in it!
The witty banter is sure to delight and when these seemingly at-odds characters get together, the sparks burst into flames! Put this one on your "must read" list! It's romantic and sexy enough to make your heart pound, yet fun and funny enough to read while lying on the beach sipping a fruity drink with an umbrella in it!
December 2, 2014
I enjoyed this book from the first page until the last. Mira is my favorite kind of heroine; she is tough, spunky and determined with an appealing vulnerable side. I have not read the other books in this series but will soon. I loved the setting and the characters are likable and very real. Their friendships have ups and downs and triumphs and misunderstandings, just as are found in everyone’s life, but they have a glamour and excitement that will make you want to read more and more about them.
Maura
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More
Official Review @ Coffee Time Romance & More
Maura
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More
Official Review @ Coffee Time Romance & More
March 18, 2018
A sweet romance
A continuation of planning for love. Mira is running Ivy's new store and falling for one of her best friends who works next door. Sam is still grieving the loss of his father and trying to fill a promise he made to take care of his mom, falling in love with the new girl was not in his plans. This wonderfully sweet story between these two complex people will steal your heart at their first meeting. It is funny and fun, sweet and sexy and an all out good time. Christi Barth gives us another winning story and i for one can't wait to continue the journey with the next book.
A continuation of planning for love. Mira is running Ivy's new store and falling for one of her best friends who works next door. Sam is still grieving the loss of his father and trying to fill a promise he made to take care of his mom, falling in love with the new girl was not in his plans. This wonderfully sweet story between these two complex people will steal your heart at their first meeting. It is funny and fun, sweet and sexy and an all out good time. Christi Barth gives us another winning story and i for one can't wait to continue the journey with the next book.
November 15, 2013
I got this book as either a free or severely discounted rate, and to be honest I didn't really expect to like it. It kind of looked like a sweet/slow romance, but I decided to give it a try because of the price, and I am so glad that I did. I really like Mira. I thought Sam was kind of a jerk at times and someone clueless as to how thoughtless he was being, but I liked watching the two of them grow close and their relationship grow. There were funny moments and sad moments.
March 20, 2013
A Fine Romance is the second book in Christi Barth's series and it was just as enjoyable as the first. I love that I was able to connect to the characters and it is enjoyable that this series keeps you connected to past characters (not just glimpses). Looking forward to the next book.
April 17, 2013
A lovely second instalment in Christi Barth's Aisle Bound wedding romance series. It was just as romantic as Planning for Love with an extra dose of angst and heartache. I really liked Mira and Sam, they were a great couple.
Detailed review to be posted soon.
Detailed review to be posted soon.
January 10, 2015
not bad... nice characters with good chemistry...I did put it on hold at first just after a few pages though but decided to give it a try after all and I'm happy I did... this is well worth a read....
March 15, 2013
Loved this book. It's a great addition to the "Aisle Abound Series". I'm looking forward to reading the next books in this series as soon as they come out!
March 23, 2013
cute continuation of the story - will definitely read the next :-)
March 29, 2013
I liked Sam and Mira, though Sam could be a little think. Looking forward to another installment in this series.
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