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Carson's Bayou #1
Fresh Starts and Small Town Hearts
Vivian Bradford is a woman on the run from her past. When her estranged grandmother dies and leaves Vivian the family home, she finally thinks her life might be heading in the right direction. After the people of Carson’s Bayou realize who she is, will they welcome her into their small-town community? Or will she be forced to run again?
Lucas Wade recognizes the black-haired spitfire from his childhood the minute he sees her across the street breaking into her grandmother’s house. Can his easy-going manner and growing attraction grow into a love strong enough to help Vivian Bradford overcome her fears from long ago?
This clean small town contemporary inspirational romance set in the fictional town of Carson’s Bayou, Louisiana, is a funny, heartwarming story of how love can find a way, even among opposites who are not looking for romance.
What readers are saying about Fresh Starts and Small Town Hearts: “This story is a sweet romance full of wonderful characters, humor, small town living, spiritual growth of the characters, and southern charm. You can’t go wrong with this book.”
Lucas Wade recognizes the black-haired spitfire from his childhood the minute he sees her across the street breaking into her grandmother’s house. Can his easy-going manner and growing attraction grow into a love strong enough to help Vivian Bradford overcome her fears from long ago?
This clean small town contemporary inspirational romance set in the fictional town of Carson’s Bayou, Louisiana, is a funny, heartwarming story of how love can find a way, even among opposites who are not looking for romance.
What readers are saying about Fresh Starts and Small Town Hearts: “This story is a sweet romance full of wonderful characters, humor, small town living, spiritual growth of the characters, and southern charm. You can’t go wrong with this book.”
Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2024
220 people are currently reading
171 people want to read
About the author
K.C. Hart
25 books137 followersKC Hart, author of Christian Contemporary Small Town Romance with a southern twist and Christian Cozy mysteries, has been married to Mr. Wonderful for thirty-nine years. She has three daughters, three grandsons, and one beautiful granddaughter.
KC sincerely believes that well-written Christian fiction can change lives. When a novel has strong Christian principals woven intricately into a well-written plot, the reader bonds with lifelike characters who struggle with trials, temptations, and struggles that the reader identifies with. The reader identifies with these characters because she’s been there. Everyone has fallen. That’s why everyone needs a Savior.
Then, when these same characters turn to Christ the Savior to bring them through these dark moments, the reader finds hope. KC believes the story reminds the reader why she must lean on the Lord in her trying situations. Through the book’s structure showing Christianity as the positive light for good that KC knows to be true, the reader also sees why she needs to be the hands and feet of Christ to others.
KC strives to show how the Lord uses situations, people, and His Word to bring the lost to Him, and mold, prune and grow His children. She tackles challenging situations, powerful emotions, and spiritual warfare through engaging stories and true-to-life characters.
All of KC's books are free of sex, gore and foul language. Her books are full of small town charm and share the light of Christ in a way that is natural to the story.
KC sincerely believes that well-written Christian fiction can change lives. When a novel has strong Christian principals woven intricately into a well-written plot, the reader bonds with lifelike characters who struggle with trials, temptations, and struggles that the reader identifies with. The reader identifies with these characters because she’s been there. Everyone has fallen. That’s why everyone needs a Savior.
Then, when these same characters turn to Christ the Savior to bring them through these dark moments, the reader finds hope. KC believes the story reminds the reader why she must lean on the Lord in her trying situations. Through the book’s structure showing Christianity as the positive light for good that KC knows to be true, the reader also sees why she needs to be the hands and feet of Christ to others.
KC strives to show how the Lord uses situations, people, and His Word to bring the lost to Him, and mold, prune and grow His children. She tackles challenging situations, powerful emotions, and spiritual warfare through engaging stories and true-to-life characters.
All of KC's books are free of sex, gore and foul language. Her books are full of small town charm and share the light of Christ in a way that is natural to the story.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
April 30, 2022
Sweet, quick read
This was definitely a sweet romance, and there was plenty of Christian content to make me happy. The hero and the heroine both had some growing up to do, but it wasn't drawn out in an annoying, melodramatic way as is sometimes the case in romances. They were flawed, relatable people who had to grow in their faith and let go of their past to move forward. There was no foul language, and the romance was chaste, with only a few kisses.
Overall, it was a quick, enjoyable read that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys sweet Christian romances, southern romances, and small-town romances.
This was definitely a sweet romance, and there was plenty of Christian content to make me happy. The hero and the heroine both had some growing up to do, but it wasn't drawn out in an annoying, melodramatic way as is sometimes the case in romances. They were flawed, relatable people who had to grow in their faith and let go of their past to move forward. There was no foul language, and the romance was chaste, with only a few kisses.
Overall, it was a quick, enjoyable read that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys sweet Christian romances, southern romances, and small-town romances.
February 8, 2022
How wonderful it is to read a book that not only brings a smile to your face but also Joy to your heart. KC Hart has done an amazing job of switching from Christian mysteries to Christian romance. She brings to life a small Louisiana Town full of beautiful old homes that leaves you dreaming of sitting on the wide porch in a swing enjoying the afternoon breeze before the mosquitoes come out. The friendly people who show God's love for everyone by helping their neighbors, their friends, and anyone who needs a hand up. All while teaching you about allowing God to complete his plan for you and those around you and pointing out the verses in the Bible to help you understand God's plans. And as if that isn't enough she does it all while creating a beautiful love story between two people who have both suffered in the past and finally find each other. Allow yourself a couple of hours of uninterrupted time because once you start reading you will not want to put it down. Thank you KC Hart for sharing your talent with us and thank you Jesus for giving her such a wonderful talent.
February 7, 2022
Small details make this story fun, but it is the overall storyline that kept me engaged. A wonderful start to KC's newest series.
March 21, 2022
Oh my goodness. This is my second book I read from Author KCHart and boy does she hit it out of the field. Loved it. This is the first book in the series of Carson's Bayou and I got to say that if you want a story that will transport you to your childhood and the sweet memories you cherished this story is it. Blended perfectly well with God's unconditional love dashed here and there this story is packed with second chances and friendships that will cherish forever.
The characters are all so sweet with real life situations entwined perfectly to make them feel like old friends pouring out there story to you with each turn of the page. And will grab at your heart strings as you get to meet Lucas and Vivian. A down to earth guy with a heart full of gold but a painful story. And Vivian a spitfire girl with a heart that needs healing and acceptance for a past that is not hers. But a Forgiving God that through many sweet town people and a orange cat she finds her way to what her heart truly is and holds.
If you are New to this Author I hardly recommend her and her stories. She does beautifully on her first Inspirational Christian story and I can't wait to read more.
The characters are all so sweet with real life situations entwined perfectly to make them feel like old friends pouring out there story to you with each turn of the page. And will grab at your heart strings as you get to meet Lucas and Vivian. A down to earth guy with a heart full of gold but a painful story. And Vivian a spitfire girl with a heart that needs healing and acceptance for a past that is not hers. But a Forgiving God that through many sweet town people and a orange cat she finds her way to what her heart truly is and holds.
If you are New to this Author I hardly recommend her and her stories. She does beautifully on her first Inspirational Christian story and I can't wait to read more.
February 9, 2023
Viv returns to her grandmother’s hometown upon be bequeath her grandmother’s estate. The old childhood acquaintance spots her breaking into grandma’s house. In his gentlemanly way, he has to help a damsel in distress. Seeing it was Viv, his interest is piqued. He has something that she needs, and he is more than happy to oblige. This gives him an opportunity to be near her. And his heart meanwhile is growing very fond of his neighbor. As they navigate thru her home remodel, their hearts begin to knit. Viv has to grow into the lady that could really win all of his heart, and the process to that is a bit rocky at times. Can Lucas have another chance at love, and can Viv open up her hearts to really care about others?
February 7, 2022
I’m so excited about this new series, this book was excellent! KC Hart has a way of pulling the reader into the story only to keep you engrossed in the pages of the story.I felt like I personally knew the characters and have a crush on Lucas! I love how Vivian grows throughout the story and the community of Carson Bayou is a place you would want be part of. The romance is a clean sweet romance that will leave you wanting more.
February 9, 2022
This is such a beautiful story of Christian and neighborly love! KC’s portrayal of kindness and unity in a small town takes me back to my childhood in so many ways with such fond memories! The ease with which she describes a walk with God and relationship with others is beyond amazing showing just how freeing it is to forgive and show God’s love. I highly recommend this book and so looking forward to the next! I was blessed with an ARC of this book.
March 17, 2022
This is the first book by this author that I have read and it certainly will not be the last!! Following the ups and downs of the lives of both Vivian and Lucas kept me hoping for the happily ever after yet wondering if that was God’s plan for each of them. I was intrigued from the beginning as I was drawn in by KC Hart’s amazing writing style and ability to make my heart beat a little faster, eager to know the final outcome. Well done!
February 10, 2022
I loved the book from the very start. It brought me to my granny's home from years ago and I'm very thankful for that gift. This book was full of emotions, some that made me laugh, some that made me swoon, some that made me upset and wanna slap my head. That's what makes a marvelous book. I love the author KC Hart and would recommend her books any day of the week.
February 13, 2022
I was captured by the very first page! Lucas and Vivian are wonderful complex interesting characters. this story is touching and heartwarming, weaves the past into the future. I fell in love with Carson's Bayou. I could not put this book down, I read it in one night! I am looking forward to more in this series. Kc Hart has a wonderful way with words! I love everything she writes and you will too!
March 4, 2022
When Vivian sets out on her own she's really not sure what to do. She learns to accept how to do things in the Lord's time having received this wise counsel all her life in all situations. This book was very well written and kept me wondering. It also had me decide to buy a copy which I did. This author did a great job!
February 20, 2022
Loved, loved, loved this book. It starts with a hilarious "incident" and the humor doesn't quit. The characters are wonderful...and I fell in love with Lucas. This book is full of humor and sweet southern charm. A great read.
February 12, 2022
Inspirational and funny
A very lighthearted and inspirational story from beginning to end. We can run from God, living like we desire, but until we trust Him to lead us, we will not be completely happy. Well written and relevant for today. Thank you, K.C.
A very lighthearted and inspirational story from beginning to end. We can run from God, living like we desire, but until we trust Him to lead us, we will not be completely happy. Well written and relevant for today. Thank you, K.C.
January 9, 2025
Sweet Southern charm.
Fresh Starts and Small Town Hearts by KC Hart ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This sweet Christian romance is book 1 of her new series Carson's Bayou.
This book will transport you to a Southern community your guaranteed to fall in love with. Picture yourself sitting in your rocker , on the porch sipping on sweet tea, like only the south knows how to make, reading this quick read novel.
Viv inherits her grandmother's house but it turns out to be more than she ever expected. The house is badly in need of a remodel. She connects with Lucas the local carpenter, and good friend to grandma. He gives her news she never thought she'd hear. Grandma was not living like Viv thought. Grandma was barely making it financially therefore she never had money to make the repairs on the house and Viv had no idea how she didn't know about it. Viv puts that burden/guilt on herself.
Viv has no idea how she is going to pay Lucas the estimate he quoted her.
She turns to God for guidance. Will Viv get back her faith and follow the path set for her......
You'll have to read for yourself. Sure hope you will cause I recommend it.
Fresh Starts and Small Town Hearts by KC Hart ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This sweet Christian romance is book 1 of her new series Carson's Bayou.
This book will transport you to a Southern community your guaranteed to fall in love with. Picture yourself sitting in your rocker , on the porch sipping on sweet tea, like only the south knows how to make, reading this quick read novel.
Viv inherits her grandmother's house but it turns out to be more than she ever expected. The house is badly in need of a remodel. She connects with Lucas the local carpenter, and good friend to grandma. He gives her news she never thought she'd hear. Grandma was not living like Viv thought. Grandma was barely making it financially therefore she never had money to make the repairs on the house and Viv had no idea how she didn't know about it. Viv puts that burden/guilt on herself.
Viv has no idea how she is going to pay Lucas the estimate he quoted her.
She turns to God for guidance. Will Viv get back her faith and follow the path set for her......
You'll have to read for yourself. Sure hope you will cause I recommend it.
May 11, 2024
If you can tolerate the erratic behavior of a kind soul who is selfish and childish when thinking about or dealing with the beautiful new neighbor across the street, you will enjoy this story. The new neighbor, Vivian, only comes to town because she has inherited her grandmother's house and estate. She has a troubled past, but has made something out of herself and wants desperately fit into this small community. And she actually does if it wasn't for her jealous neighbor.
I must admit that I had trouble reading much of this story because of the terrible behavior of Lucas, the man living across the street. Although he has a big heart, he hides his true self behind a rough exterior. Vivian begins to bring out the truth about him, but he seems to be ashamed of it. It takes a long time for him to be honest with himself and Vivian. Thankfully in time to save their relationship by the end of the story.
I must admit that I had trouble reading much of this story because of the terrible behavior of Lucas, the man living across the street. Although he has a big heart, he hides his true self behind a rough exterior. Vivian begins to bring out the truth about him, but he seems to be ashamed of it. It takes a long time for him to be honest with himself and Vivian. Thankfully in time to save their relationship by the end of the story.
January 28, 2025
The story opens with a bang – a hysterical meet-cute – and keeps moving until the last page. This is a wonderful second-chance/opposites attract story. Vivian has no choice but to come back home where she left amid a cloud thanks to her father, but she’s determined to make the most of it. I loved the small town feel and Vivian’s neighbor who in real life might be annoying but in the books is sweet and endearing. I could relate to Vivian’s need to succeed and the poor choices she sometimes makes to get ahead. She is a bit of a fish out of water coming from the big city, and her missteps were fun to watch Lucas is wonderful, and I love all incorrect assumptions Vivian makes about him, and those he makes about her. He has a heart as big as all outdoors, yet he can get caught in the weeds thwarting his best intentions. A truly feel good story, and I can’t wait to read the rest of the series.
January 9, 2025
Book 1 of a 5-star series, each book an independent story.
Ambitious lawyer, Vivian, the product of a dysfunctional childhood, is thrilled to inherit her gran’s home in Carson Bayou, a place of some happy summer memories. A hilarious meeting with Luca results in several incorrect perceptions on both sides, until Vivian starts the process of renovating the old house.
Her career in the town seems secure until her employer demands a nefarious task of her, which results in potential heartache.
Ms Hart is aptly named: her stories include Christian values, main characters who demonstrate integrity, and uplifting plots with positive outcomes. This book is a review copy and I am sharing my honest opinion.
Ambitious lawyer, Vivian, the product of a dysfunctional childhood, is thrilled to inherit her gran’s home in Carson Bayou, a place of some happy summer memories. A hilarious meeting with Luca results in several incorrect perceptions on both sides, until Vivian starts the process of renovating the old house.
Her career in the town seems secure until her employer demands a nefarious task of her, which results in potential heartache.
Ms Hart is aptly named: her stories include Christian values, main characters who demonstrate integrity, and uplifting plots with positive outcomes. This book is a review copy and I am sharing my honest opinion.
January 23, 2023
This book starts with one of the funniest scenes I have read lately. Imagine a sophisticated lady lawyer getting caught by a filthy hottie while trying to break into her own house, while she is stuck in a window!
K.C. Hart paints a picture of a wonderful neighborhood where a young lawyer hopes to establish a good reputation to repair the trauma of a bad childhood. Such an unfortunate first impression leaves her more determined than ever to outlive her parents' criminal or irresponsible legacy.
With good grammar and complex characters the author describes a small town where people know each other and most of them are admirable and caring.
K.C. Hart paints a picture of a wonderful neighborhood where a young lawyer hopes to establish a good reputation to repair the trauma of a bad childhood. Such an unfortunate first impression leaves her more determined than ever to outlive her parents' criminal or irresponsible legacy.
With good grammar and complex characters the author describes a small town where people know each other and most of them are admirable and caring.
July 8, 2023
Full of Southern Heart and Charm
This was a very quick read, but I loved it. From Vivian's search to find herself to Lucas's attempts to win her heart, I was hooked from the start.
Hart does a wonderful job painting a picture of true southern hospitality. I love the amount of love and compassion she was able to fit between these 136 pages.
Her characters are searching, and they find what they need when they finally stop being stubborn and rest in God. It serves as a great reminder while reading that we should be seeking God in our own lives as well.
Thank you, KC, for this gem of a love story. This was my first of yours, but it most definitely won't be my last.
This was a very quick read, but I loved it. From Vivian's search to find herself to Lucas's attempts to win her heart, I was hooked from the start.
Hart does a wonderful job painting a picture of true southern hospitality. I love the amount of love and compassion she was able to fit between these 136 pages.
Her characters are searching, and they find what they need when they finally stop being stubborn and rest in God. It serves as a great reminder while reading that we should be seeking God in our own lives as well.
Thank you, KC, for this gem of a love story. This was my first of yours, but it most definitely won't be my last.
October 28, 2023
Many long to start over but might not have the courage or resources to do so. It was fun to journey alongside Vivian as she moves to a new town and starts over. The encouraging part is that while she learns more about herself along the way, she discovers that her prior life was not in vain yet brings incredible value to those around her.
The author’s writing style invites the reader along this journey, allowing us to feel the gamut of emotions from happiness, angst, hope, hesitation, and more. Each chapter made me eager to learn more about the characters, their backgrounds, and their futures.
I'm eager to read Vivian's next adventure.
The author’s writing style invites the reader along this journey, allowing us to feel the gamut of emotions from happiness, angst, hope, hesitation, and more. Each chapter made me eager to learn more about the characters, their backgrounds, and their futures.
I'm eager to read Vivian's next adventure.
January 31, 2023
What a sweet, Christian romance by KC Hart! This was the first book I’ve read by this author, but it won’t be my last. The characters were relatable and I loved how they both grew in their faith. A wise, older neighbor spoke words to Lucas that I’m certain God meant for me. They came at the perfect time. I look forward to finishing the series and any other sweet romances KC comes up with.
February 1, 2023
A Good Thing
Always using a unique narrative, KC Hart brings a sweet love story to life in Carson’s Bayou. The charm of a small town is the perfect backdrop for a female lawyer trying to prove herself and a construction executive drowning his pain in good deeds. Will there be a fresh start? Read another installment in Hart’s endearing Carson Bayou Series.
Always using a unique narrative, KC Hart brings a sweet love story to life in Carson’s Bayou. The charm of a small town is the perfect backdrop for a female lawyer trying to prove herself and a construction executive drowning his pain in good deeds. Will there be a fresh start? Read another installment in Hart’s endearing Carson Bayou Series.
February 19, 2024
Enjoyed this sweet and clean small town romance whereby long ago friends as kids meet up again when Vivian inherits her grandmother's house. Following a difficult childhood, Vivian hopes to reconnect to a town that once shunned her family long ago. Now a lawyer, Lucas in construction lives across the street but can their differences reconnect? Great bedtime read for all ages.
January 30, 2025
This is the first book I have read from KC Hart.
This was a good quick read. Faith based clean romance. Where the writing style pulls you into a small south Louisiana town with loveable characters.
This is the first book in the Carson’s Bayou Series. I look forward to reading more in this series and from this author.
This was a good quick read. Faith based clean romance. Where the writing style pulls you into a small south Louisiana town with loveable characters.
This is the first book in the Carson’s Bayou Series. I look forward to reading more in this series and from this author.
May 14, 2023
A quick, sweet story about two people who had to look at their true motives for their actions. Loved seeing biblical teaching, use of scripture, and wise counsel as a strong part of this Christian romance.
July 21, 2023
Fresh. starts and Small Town Hearts
What a powerful story that just grabs your heart. Overcoming painful past and surrendering to Gods will brings peace and joy in serving others. Let go and let God
What a powerful story that just grabs your heart. Overcoming painful past and surrendering to Gods will brings peace and joy in serving others. Let go and let God
May 5, 2024
I love the way this author handles the inspirational details in the plot. While the technical things aren’t so pristine, the content was enjoyable, so much so that I bought book two. If you enjoy clean, sweet, inspirational romance, then check it out.
May 7, 2024
Starting over, again?
Can Wade win Vivian over? A good, clean story of two people struggling with various issues. Can Wade and Vivian overcome issues from the past? Only time will tell.
Can Wade win Vivian over? A good, clean story of two people struggling with various issues. Can Wade and Vivian overcome issues from the past? Only time will tell.
January 30, 2023
Good read
March 1, 2024
Got it for free one day. It’s an easy and fast read. A little too spiritual for me, but written very well.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews