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Chesapeake Shores #12
Dogwood Hill
#1 New York Times bestselling author Sherryl Woods tests the strength of the beloved O'Briens and proves that love and family can always triumph!
When former pro football quarterback Aidan Mitchell comes to Chesapeake Shores to take a high school coaching job, he's embraced by the town—especially the O'Briens. But Aidan has a secret that could alter all their lives.
For wounded Liz March, who's trying for a fresh start after a devastating betrayal, taking a chance on Aidan may be more than she can handle. Her heart, however, refuses to listen to her head. But just when forever seems within reach, Aidan's secret threatens to change everything.
Does this tempting stranger who's made her feel alive have the power to convince her to look beyond the past and reach for the future?
When former pro football quarterback Aidan Mitchell comes to Chesapeake Shores to take a high school coaching job, he's embraced by the town—especially the O'Briens. But Aidan has a secret that could alter all their lives.
For wounded Liz March, who's trying for a fresh start after a devastating betrayal, taking a chance on Aidan may be more than she can handle. Her heart, however, refuses to listen to her head. But just when forever seems within reach, Aidan's secret threatens to change everything.
Does this tempting stranger who's made her feel alive have the power to convince her to look beyond the past and reach for the future?
378 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 30, 2014
633 people are currently reading
4036 people want to read
About the author
Sherryl Woods
555 books4,522 followersWith two other careers to her credit before becoming a novelist and four states in which she's lived for extended periods of time, Sherryl Woods has collected friends and memories, along with way too much unnecessary junk.
"The friends are the only things I've brought with me through the years that really matter," she says. "I could probably live without one more chintz teacup, another tin-litho sandpail or another snowglobe, but I need those friends."
The theme of enduring friendships and families is always central to Sherryl's books, including her latest Chesapeake Shores series — THE INN AT EAGLE POINT, FLOWERS ON MAIN and HARBOR LIGHTS.
Author of more than 100 romance and mystery novels, Sherryl Woods grew up in Virginia. Over the years she had lived in Ohio and Florida, as well as California. Currently she divides her time between Key Biscayne, Florida and Colonial Beach, Virginia, the small, river-front town where she spent her childhood summers.
A graduate of Ohio State University School of Journalism, Sherryl spent more than ten years as a journalist, most of them as a television critic for newspapers in Ohio and Florida. For several years she also coordinated a motivational program for the more than 8,000 employees at the University of Miami-Jackson Memorial Medical Center.
Her first book, RESTORING LOVE, was published in 1982 by Dell Candlelight Ecstasy under the pseudonym of Suzanne Sherrill. Her second book, SAND CASTLES, under the pseudonym of Alexandra Kirk, was published later that same year by Bantam. She began using her own name when she moved to the Second Chance at Love line at Berkley Publishing. In 1986, she began writing full-time and also began her long career at Silhouette Books with the Desire title NOT AT EIGHT, DARLING, set in the world of television which she covered for so many years.
In addition to her more than 75 romances for Silhouette Desire and Special Edition, she has written thirteen mysteries — nine in the Amanda Roberts series and four in the Molly DeWitt series.
When she's not writing or reading, Sherryl loves to garden, though she's not at her best on a riding lawn mower. She also loves tennis, theater, and ballet, even though her top spin has long since vanished, she's never set foot on a stage, and she's way too uncoordinated to dance. She also loves baseball and claims anyone who's ever seen Kevin Costner in "Bull Durham" can understand why.
"The friends are the only things I've brought with me through the years that really matter," she says. "I could probably live without one more chintz teacup, another tin-litho sandpail or another snowglobe, but I need those friends."
The theme of enduring friendships and families is always central to Sherryl's books, including her latest Chesapeake Shores series — THE INN AT EAGLE POINT, FLOWERS ON MAIN and HARBOR LIGHTS.
Author of more than 100 romance and mystery novels, Sherryl Woods grew up in Virginia. Over the years she had lived in Ohio and Florida, as well as California. Currently she divides her time between Key Biscayne, Florida and Colonial Beach, Virginia, the small, river-front town where she spent her childhood summers.
A graduate of Ohio State University School of Journalism, Sherryl spent more than ten years as a journalist, most of them as a television critic for newspapers in Ohio and Florida. For several years she also coordinated a motivational program for the more than 8,000 employees at the University of Miami-Jackson Memorial Medical Center.
Her first book, RESTORING LOVE, was published in 1982 by Dell Candlelight Ecstasy under the pseudonym of Suzanne Sherrill. Her second book, SAND CASTLES, under the pseudonym of Alexandra Kirk, was published later that same year by Bantam. She began using her own name when she moved to the Second Chance at Love line at Berkley Publishing. In 1986, she began writing full-time and also began her long career at Silhouette Books with the Desire title NOT AT EIGHT, DARLING, set in the world of television which she covered for so many years.
In addition to her more than 75 romances for Silhouette Desire and Special Edition, she has written thirteen mysteries — nine in the Amanda Roberts series and four in the Molly DeWitt series.
When she's not writing or reading, Sherryl loves to garden, though she's not at her best on a riding lawn mower. She also loves tennis, theater, and ballet, even though her top spin has long since vanished, she's never set foot on a stage, and she's way too uncoordinated to dance. She also loves baseball and claims anyone who's ever seen Kevin Costner in "Bull Durham" can understand why.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 245 reviews
December 30, 2014
4 STARS
O'Briens are back. A lot of familiar characters are back. Plus new characters. Lots of fun, drama and secrets. O'briens are matchmaking again. Rich with characters that I liked.
Aidan Mitchell pro football quarterback has come to Chesapeake Shores to look into taking the high school coaching job. He has secrets that he is hiding. He meets Liz March first and one of her dogs.
Liz March is new to Chesapeake Shores too. She has opened a store that is full of pet supplies. Liz has secrets of her own that she is not telling anyone. She is a widow who is not planning on falling in love again. She wants to give one of her rescue dogs to Aidan.
The O'Briens want Aiden as the new coach. They also think Aidan and Liz would be a good couple. Aidan likes Liz but he is not planning to get married. He has lived in New York City so small town is a big change for him.
I sure enjoyed Dogwood Hills a lot more than other books in this series lately. The sense of humor, match making, the kids and all the drama of the secrets coming out. Did not put the book down till I was done.
The setting is Chesapeake Shores, VA. Small town life that is full of nosy O'Briens.
I like to visit the O'Briens and see what they are all up too now days. I would love more books in this series.
I was given this ebook to read and review from Net Galley and Harlequin. In return I agreed to give a honest review of Dogwood Hills.
O'Briens are back. A lot of familiar characters are back. Plus new characters. Lots of fun, drama and secrets. O'briens are matchmaking again. Rich with characters that I liked.
Aidan Mitchell pro football quarterback has come to Chesapeake Shores to look into taking the high school coaching job. He has secrets that he is hiding. He meets Liz March first and one of her dogs.
Liz March is new to Chesapeake Shores too. She has opened a store that is full of pet supplies. Liz has secrets of her own that she is not telling anyone. She is a widow who is not planning on falling in love again. She wants to give one of her rescue dogs to Aidan.
The O'Briens want Aiden as the new coach. They also think Aidan and Liz would be a good couple. Aidan likes Liz but he is not planning to get married. He has lived in New York City so small town is a big change for him.
I sure enjoyed Dogwood Hills a lot more than other books in this series lately. The sense of humor, match making, the kids and all the drama of the secrets coming out. Did not put the book down till I was done.
The setting is Chesapeake Shores, VA. Small town life that is full of nosy O'Briens.
I like to visit the O'Briens and see what they are all up too now days. I would love more books in this series.
I was given this ebook to read and review from Net Galley and Harlequin. In return I agreed to give a honest review of Dogwood Hills.
August 13, 2016
Two-haiku review:
They're both new in town
She's been burned, he seeks father
Can she ever trust?
They both have issues
Predictable but still good
Familiar people
3-1/2 stars
They're both new in town
She's been burned, he seeks father
Can she ever trust?
They both have issues
Predictable but still good
Familiar people
3-1/2 stars
February 5, 2022
Another great comforting OBrien family romance🥰
October 22, 2024
Dogwood Hill # 12 Chesapeake Shore
4🌟
4🌟
December 31, 2014
Thank you to Netgalley and Harlequin for the book in exchange for an honest review.
I was so happy to get to go back to Chesapeake Shores, especially after the last book. I loved Liz and Aiden's story. They both had their issues but they weren't whiny about it like the last heroine.
Aiden is in Chesapeake Shores for a job. Mostly. He has a secret and he's not sure he wants to share it with anyone just yet. He meets Liz and is attracted to her and the more he knows her the more he likes. For once he's not looked at as the jock or the pro football player she sees him as a man only. The only problem is he keeps getting pressure from the O'Brien family and its that family he's come to figure out. Thomas especially.
Liz is starting over after the death of her husband. Not only his death but the lies he told her. She has a very hard time trusting anyone. Then she meets Aiden and she can tell hes hiding something. She's hiding something too but its not the same. Aiden won't tell her whats going on and she can't have someone in her life that is going to lie to her. Everything comes to a head, things are said that aren't really meant and they go their separate ways. The O'Briens don't leave it alone though.
I really enjoyed this one. I love going back to this town with this family and seeing how they are all doing. It's always like coming home. The author has a way of putting you right in the middle of the town and letting you see everything like you're there. I have a big family, not quite as big as the O'Briens but I know what its like to have everyone know everything that is going on before you even have time to turn around. It can be annoying at times but I wouldn't trade my family for anything. The O'Briens are nosy but they love fierce and big. There is nothing like having a big family. I can only hope we get to visit the O'Brien clan again. Read this series I know you'll enjoy it.
I was so happy to get to go back to Chesapeake Shores, especially after the last book. I loved Liz and Aiden's story. They both had their issues but they weren't whiny about it like the last heroine.
Aiden is in Chesapeake Shores for a job. Mostly. He has a secret and he's not sure he wants to share it with anyone just yet. He meets Liz and is attracted to her and the more he knows her the more he likes. For once he's not looked at as the jock or the pro football player she sees him as a man only. The only problem is he keeps getting pressure from the O'Brien family and its that family he's come to figure out. Thomas especially.
Liz is starting over after the death of her husband. Not only his death but the lies he told her. She has a very hard time trusting anyone. Then she meets Aiden and she can tell hes hiding something. She's hiding something too but its not the same. Aiden won't tell her whats going on and she can't have someone in her life that is going to lie to her. Everything comes to a head, things are said that aren't really meant and they go their separate ways. The O'Briens don't leave it alone though.
I really enjoyed this one. I love going back to this town with this family and seeing how they are all doing. It's always like coming home. The author has a way of putting you right in the middle of the town and letting you see everything like you're there. I have a big family, not quite as big as the O'Briens but I know what its like to have everyone know everything that is going on before you even have time to turn around. It can be annoying at times but I wouldn't trade my family for anything. The O'Briens are nosy but they love fierce and big. There is nothing like having a big family. I can only hope we get to visit the O'Brien clan again. Read this series I know you'll enjoy it.
March 1, 2015
"Dogwood Hill (A Chesapeake Shores Novel - Book 12) by Sherryl Woods is the latest book of her Chesapeake Shores series. It is a book that can be read alone or as part of the the series. I personally recommend the series but if you were to pick this book up it is very easy to follow along with the story. It is a continuation of the O'Brien family saga in the small town of Chesapeake Shores.
We meet Liz March who is a widow. She runs the local pet supply store. Liz is a good person with a big heart, especially when it comes to her fur babies. She is however hiding behind a secret and that is holding her back from having another long term relationship with any man.
Aiden Mitchell is retired from pro football after an injury leaves him unable to play the game. He comes to Chesapeake Shores to take over the coaching duties of the local high school football team. The team has never won a game, and Aiden is looking to change that. He also comes to town in search of some answers. Is Thomas O'Brien really is father? If so then why did he leave Aiden's Mother to raise him alone? It doesn't help that Thomas is on his third marriage and he has a younger son with his current wife.
The secrets between these two cause a riff. Can they overcome those secrets? Will they be able to trust each other enough to open themselves to love? You'll need to read the story for yourself and find out those answers. I loved this book, and look forward to the continuing saga of the O'Brien clan.
We meet Liz March who is a widow. She runs the local pet supply store. Liz is a good person with a big heart, especially when it comes to her fur babies. She is however hiding behind a secret and that is holding her back from having another long term relationship with any man.
Aiden Mitchell is retired from pro football after an injury leaves him unable to play the game. He comes to Chesapeake Shores to take over the coaching duties of the local high school football team. The team has never won a game, and Aiden is looking to change that. He also comes to town in search of some answers. Is Thomas O'Brien really is father? If so then why did he leave Aiden's Mother to raise him alone? It doesn't help that Thomas is on his third marriage and he has a younger son with his current wife.
The secrets between these two cause a riff. Can they overcome those secrets? Will they be able to trust each other enough to open themselves to love? You'll need to read the story for yourself and find out those answers. I loved this book, and look forward to the continuing saga of the O'Brien clan.
July 5, 2018
Me he encontrado con una historia que me sacó más de una sonrisa, que me resultó entrañable. Con una historia de amor que va creciendo, se vaconquistado poco a poco, con inmensa paciencia, con temores, con un grupo variopinto muy interesado en unir a dos personas que son el uno para el otro y un perro encantador que sabe lo que tiene que hacer para tener dos humanos que le den todo su amor. Esto fue lo que realmente encontré con Secretos por descubrir, una obra para pasar el rato sin comernos la cabeza.
Sheryl Woods ha sido una revelación, a veces nos viene bien encontrar historias sencillas con una pluma ágil y bien definida, que sepa llevar la ternura y la conquista de manera pausada pero sin dejar caer esa tensión que hay en los personajes. Estoy ansiosa por volver a encontrarme con esta pluma ¡Feliz lectura!
Sheryl Woods ha sido una revelación, a veces nos viene bien encontrar historias sencillas con una pluma ágil y bien definida, que sepa llevar la ternura y la conquista de manera pausada pero sin dejar caer esa tensión que hay en los personajes. Estoy ansiosa por volver a encontrarme con esta pluma ¡Feliz lectura!
December 20, 2014
The small town of Chesapeake shores is full of O'Brians, who are good-hearted but inveterate matchmakers. When Aidan Mitchell accepts a job as the high school football coach, he hopes to connect with his long-lost father, one of said O'Brians. He does not expect to fall for a local shopowner, another newcomer who has serious trust issues.
Liz and Aidan are an appealing couple, and their romance is quite pleasant. What is not so pleasant is the meddling and downright pushiness of all of the townspeople. It's so bad that I found myself hoping that Aidan and Liz would *not* get together after all, just to thwart the O'Brians.
Sherryl Woods writes well, and I may well read another of her books some day. But not in this series.
Liz and Aidan are an appealing couple, and their romance is quite pleasant. What is not so pleasant is the meddling and downright pushiness of all of the townspeople. It's so bad that I found myself hoping that Aidan and Liz would *not* get together after all, just to thwart the O'Brians.
Sherryl Woods writes well, and I may well read another of her books some day. But not in this series.
January 21, 2015
Back in Chesapeake Shores surrounded by O'Briens. What could be better? Sweet love story with secrets and hurts but with the O'Briens in the picture something positive is sure to happen.
Liz and Aidan's story and what a story it is between the pets, the football team, family and friends, happenings on Main Street and the rest of downtown. Loved being back with many of the characters we've met in many of the books. Nice happily ever after in the offing. Hope there's many more returns to this locale!
Liz and Aidan's story and what a story it is between the pets, the football team, family and friends, happenings on Main Street and the rest of downtown. Loved being back with many of the characters we've met in many of the books. Nice happily ever after in the offing. Hope there's many more returns to this locale!
August 29, 2015
I am sure I have read a more boring book in my life, however, this one is in the top 5. Liz is a whiny idiot. Aidan could do soo much better than this female. She pushes him away so many times, many men would have said goodbye to her, and moved on to a more deserving woman. I did not like Liz at all, she is whiny, boring, and full of self pity. The reasons she gave for not wanting a relationship with Aidan were weak, and not believable at all. I have only read a one other of Ms. Woods books, but if this is an example of her writing, I may have to pass on any of her other books.
January 15, 2015
I liked this one a lot. I was a little worried it might be awfully fluffy--Woods can sometimes be like that-- but this book has a sufficiency of angst to go with the niceness and meddling of this series. The hero is the son of a single mom and just learned who his father is, after mom's death. The heroine has her own issues of equivalent angstiness. Pretty darn good, all in all. Oh, and there are doggies.
August 9, 2018
I am not a "romance" reader and I suppose this is a romance series, but I enjoy the family connections, the small town stories and the stresses and joys of life that are presented.
March 23, 2015
Very good book, full of the love and fun that seem to follow the O'Briens everywhere. After a career ending injury, Aidan Mitchell has begun a new career as a high school football coach. He has been offered the job at the Chesapeake Shores high school. On his first day in town he meets Liz March, who encourages him to take the job. He's attracted to her, which is an incentive to stay. He also meets Mick O'Brien, one of the leading citizens in town, who has been advocating for Aidan's hiring. Aidan is interested in the job for two reasons - first, he's really impressed with what he has learned about the program, and second, he has reason to believe that the father he never knew is one of the O'Briens. Aidan is the son of a single mother who never told his father about him. She also never told Aidan who he was, just that he was an important man who is dedicated to the work he does. Aidan has spent a lot of time resenting the fact that he never knew his father, and blaming the man for never getting back in touch with his mom in all the years since. After his mother's death, Aidan found his birth certificate and information about his father. Working in Chesapeake Shores will give him a chance to learn more about the man before deciding whether to reveal who he is.
Liz came to Chesapeake Shores to start her life over, away from the memories of her marriage. Her husband died in a crash right after she learned of several secrets he had been keeping that had been a betrayal of everything she believed about their life together. Wanting to put her past behind her, she hasn't talked about her marriage or her late husband to any of the friends she has made since her move. When she meets Aidan, she is attracted to him, but she had made the decision that she wasn't going to get involved with another man. She's conflicted, because her body and her heart want her to get to know him better, but her head is telling her that he's got secrets and she shouldn't take that risk again.
Add the O'Briens, well known for their matchmaking tendencies, and things start to get really interesting. Mick and the others are sure that Aidan and Liz are just perfect for each other, and take every opportunity to throw them together. The family also has a mission to make the newcomers feel welcome, and Aidan especially finds himself constantly drawn into their circle. The more time he spends with them, the more he really likes them, except he's still withholding judgment on one of them. He's not quite sure how to handle what he knows and what to do with the information.
I loved seeing the relationship develop between Aidan and Liz. The attraction is strong but both are wary. Aidan isn't sure what will happen when and if he reveals his secret, so committing is something he's reluctant to do. Liz has huge trust issues and, sensing that Aidan is hiding something, is reluctant to take a risk. Aidan is a bit more open to the possibilities and pursues Liz fairly hard, until he realizes just how skittish she is. I loved seeing him back off a bit and try going the friendship route until he can make her see things his way. He's sensitive to her feelings, and I loved seeing some of the things he tried to do for her. I also liked the way that when he felt like he had pushed too hard, he would send her friends to her to help her out. Liz finds it pretty hard to resist Aidan when he's being so good to and with her. She hadn't thought she could be interested in another man, but Aidan is breaking down her barriers pretty quickly, except for that fear about what he's keeping from her. When the secret does come out, her reaction is very strong. She has to decide if she can get past her fears and open herself up to Aidan and love.
As always, the O'Briens take meddling to a pretty extreme level. They always mean well, but sometimes their interference just makes things more complicated. I loved seeing some of the encounters between them and Aidan and Liz. Most of the O'Briens had been on the receiving end of meddling at one time and didn't like it, but it doesn't seem to stop them from dishing it out. There are some pretty funny moments, such as the guys' basketball games, where they do their own parts to get Aidan and Liz together.
I loved seeing Aidan's process of learning about his family and observing his father. His inner conflict was intense and seeing him try to decide what to do was emotional. The big reveal almost seemed to be spur of the moment and to say his father was shocked would be an understatement. I thought the reactions were quite realistic and very believable. The person whose reaction I was most concerned about turned out to be wholly supportive. Grandma Nell's reaction was sweet and completely like her.
One of my favorite characters in the book was Archie the dog. From the moment he brought Liz and Aidan together it was as if he, too, was working with the O'Briens. I loved seeing how quickly he bonded with Aidan even though Aidan kept insisting he didn't want a dog. Archie was sure that he did, and Liz was just as certain.
Liz came to Chesapeake Shores to start her life over, away from the memories of her marriage. Her husband died in a crash right after she learned of several secrets he had been keeping that had been a betrayal of everything she believed about their life together. Wanting to put her past behind her, she hasn't talked about her marriage or her late husband to any of the friends she has made since her move. When she meets Aidan, she is attracted to him, but she had made the decision that she wasn't going to get involved with another man. She's conflicted, because her body and her heart want her to get to know him better, but her head is telling her that he's got secrets and she shouldn't take that risk again.
Add the O'Briens, well known for their matchmaking tendencies, and things start to get really interesting. Mick and the others are sure that Aidan and Liz are just perfect for each other, and take every opportunity to throw them together. The family also has a mission to make the newcomers feel welcome, and Aidan especially finds himself constantly drawn into their circle. The more time he spends with them, the more he really likes them, except he's still withholding judgment on one of them. He's not quite sure how to handle what he knows and what to do with the information.
I loved seeing the relationship develop between Aidan and Liz. The attraction is strong but both are wary. Aidan isn't sure what will happen when and if he reveals his secret, so committing is something he's reluctant to do. Liz has huge trust issues and, sensing that Aidan is hiding something, is reluctant to take a risk. Aidan is a bit more open to the possibilities and pursues Liz fairly hard, until he realizes just how skittish she is. I loved seeing him back off a bit and try going the friendship route until he can make her see things his way. He's sensitive to her feelings, and I loved seeing some of the things he tried to do for her. I also liked the way that when he felt like he had pushed too hard, he would send her friends to her to help her out. Liz finds it pretty hard to resist Aidan when he's being so good to and with her. She hadn't thought she could be interested in another man, but Aidan is breaking down her barriers pretty quickly, except for that fear about what he's keeping from her. When the secret does come out, her reaction is very strong. She has to decide if she can get past her fears and open herself up to Aidan and love.
As always, the O'Briens take meddling to a pretty extreme level. They always mean well, but sometimes their interference just makes things more complicated. I loved seeing some of the encounters between them and Aidan and Liz. Most of the O'Briens had been on the receiving end of meddling at one time and didn't like it, but it doesn't seem to stop them from dishing it out. There are some pretty funny moments, such as the guys' basketball games, where they do their own parts to get Aidan and Liz together.
I loved seeing Aidan's process of learning about his family and observing his father. His inner conflict was intense and seeing him try to decide what to do was emotional. The big reveal almost seemed to be spur of the moment and to say his father was shocked would be an understatement. I thought the reactions were quite realistic and very believable. The person whose reaction I was most concerned about turned out to be wholly supportive. Grandma Nell's reaction was sweet and completely like her.
One of my favorite characters in the book was Archie the dog. From the moment he brought Liz and Aidan together it was as if he, too, was working with the O'Briens. I loved seeing how quickly he bonded with Aidan even though Aidan kept insisting he didn't want a dog. Archie was sure that he did, and Liz was just as certain.
March 7, 2015
Sherryl Woods returns to Chesapeake Shores with Dogwood Hill, the twelfth book in the series. Woods has a knack for family dynamics and the O'Brien family is a joy to read about. The main couple may not have the O'Brien name but they are still in for some of their meddlesome family drama. This book will make you smile, make you cry and even make you feel a few proud moments. The happy-ever-after may be a given with this author, but the way she brings it about is anything but predictable!
Sherryl Woods is one of those authors that just brings a smile to your face. Her books are generally clean cut romances that give the reader a feel-good experience that is hard to miss. Dogwood Hill is no exception to the rule. Readers who are looking for a small town charm, a heartwarming romance and characters that have realistic issues and flaws, need look no further than Woods' Chesapeake Shores series. This is the twelfth book and readers are probably wondering how many O'Brien's there are in this small town. Woods proves you don't necessarily have to be an O'Brien to get your story told. I think readers will appreciate the change of direction and be very happy that the series will continue.
The main couple Aiden and Liz both carry some pretty substantial secrets. Aiden is in Chesapeake Shores under the guise of taking over the failing high school football team. But he is really seeking out his father. I won't mention any names, but if you throw a rock in Chesapeake Shores you might hit one of them *wink*. But which one? Liz is a little more complicated. She is a widow, who has trust issues that surround her former marriage. She holds back a lot with Aiden despite her growing feelings. Woods made the relationship seem very realistic, with Liz's fears about trusting Aiden and his secret keeping coming to the forefront.
Though readers know what to expect with Woods as far as the ending, it's what happens before that, that keeps them coming back for more. Yeah, the main couple doesn't really have a chance of not getting their happy ending, but the circumstances that lead up to are often just as interesting as that little hint of doubt about where it is going to end up. Woods has a way of making the reader believe in the magic of love and how true love can never really be defeated. I like that and I think fans of this author agree.
Bottom Line:
This is another example of why Sherryl Woods is so popular. She takes average, everyday people or characters and gives them life. She doesn't sugar coat their circumstances, she uses a little family influence along the way and she knows how to tell a good story. This is a great series for fans of Mariah Stewart and Debbie Macomber. Dogwood Hill is one of my favorites in the series so far and I'm happy to say that Woods isn't quite done with the O'Brien's just yet!
Sherryl Woods is one of those authors that just brings a smile to your face. Her books are generally clean cut romances that give the reader a feel-good experience that is hard to miss. Dogwood Hill is no exception to the rule. Readers who are looking for a small town charm, a heartwarming romance and characters that have realistic issues and flaws, need look no further than Woods' Chesapeake Shores series. This is the twelfth book and readers are probably wondering how many O'Brien's there are in this small town. Woods proves you don't necessarily have to be an O'Brien to get your story told. I think readers will appreciate the change of direction and be very happy that the series will continue.
The main couple Aiden and Liz both carry some pretty substantial secrets. Aiden is in Chesapeake Shores under the guise of taking over the failing high school football team. But he is really seeking out his father. I won't mention any names, but if you throw a rock in Chesapeake Shores you might hit one of them *wink*. But which one? Liz is a little more complicated. She is a widow, who has trust issues that surround her former marriage. She holds back a lot with Aiden despite her growing feelings. Woods made the relationship seem very realistic, with Liz's fears about trusting Aiden and his secret keeping coming to the forefront.
Though readers know what to expect with Woods as far as the ending, it's what happens before that, that keeps them coming back for more. Yeah, the main couple doesn't really have a chance of not getting their happy ending, but the circumstances that lead up to are often just as interesting as that little hint of doubt about where it is going to end up. Woods has a way of making the reader believe in the magic of love and how true love can never really be defeated. I like that and I think fans of this author agree.
Bottom Line:
This is another example of why Sherryl Woods is so popular. She takes average, everyday people or characters and gives them life. She doesn't sugar coat their circumstances, she uses a little family influence along the way and she knows how to tell a good story. This is a great series for fans of Mariah Stewart and Debbie Macomber. Dogwood Hill is one of my favorites in the series so far and I'm happy to say that Woods isn't quite done with the O'Brien's just yet!
January 20, 2015
Review originally published at The Bookwyrm's Hoard.
Three cheers! Woods is back on her game after the disappointing (to me) A Christmas Bouquet. I enjoyed both Aiden and Liz, the main characters in this newest installment in the Chesapeake Shores series. The chemistry between them is good, though not sizzling (despite several mentions of “sparks”.) Both of them have secrets standing in their way, and in Liz’s case, serious trust issues as well – which makes Aiden’s secret-keeping even more of an issue, something both Woods and Aiden handled well. Aiden’s backstory and reasons for keeping it secret are a bit more compelling than Liz’s. Once I began to figure out her history – or rather, to suspect it – I couldn’t quite see why she was so determined to keep it hidden, though it did indeed explain her refusal to trust Aiden.
Liz’s interactions with her family felt very realistic, though their reconciliation, particularly with her mother, came a little too easily. Still, both the frictions and the love rang true. Woods has a flair for family dynamics, and tends to focus on the strength of family bonds. Since I both come from and married into a family where those bonds are strong, enduring, and highly valued, I appreciate her outlook and the generally positive outcome of most of her family interactions.
Speaking of families, the O’Briens are present in Dogwood Hill, if not quite in force, and of course they’re up to their usual endearing-but-annoying meddling. It’s part of the charm of Chesapeake Shores (both the town and the series), and it’s always fun to watch – though probably not quite as much fun to be on the receiving end! I’m glad that Sherryl Woods hasn’t abandoned the series now that she’s running out of O’Briens.
I rely on Woods for feel-good, small-town romance that doesn’t ignore the hard realities of life, but always warms my heart. I’m glad to say she delivers again in Dogwood Hill.
3.5 stars
FTC disclosure: I received a review copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are entirely my own.
Three cheers! Woods is back on her game after the disappointing (to me) A Christmas Bouquet. I enjoyed both Aiden and Liz, the main characters in this newest installment in the Chesapeake Shores series. The chemistry between them is good, though not sizzling (despite several mentions of “sparks”.) Both of them have secrets standing in their way, and in Liz’s case, serious trust issues as well – which makes Aiden’s secret-keeping even more of an issue, something both Woods and Aiden handled well. Aiden’s backstory and reasons for keeping it secret are a bit more compelling than Liz’s. Once I began to figure out her history – or rather, to suspect it – I couldn’t quite see why she was so determined to keep it hidden, though it did indeed explain her refusal to trust Aiden.
Liz’s interactions with her family felt very realistic, though their reconciliation, particularly with her mother, came a little too easily. Still, both the frictions and the love rang true. Woods has a flair for family dynamics, and tends to focus on the strength of family bonds. Since I both come from and married into a family where those bonds are strong, enduring, and highly valued, I appreciate her outlook and the generally positive outcome of most of her family interactions.
Speaking of families, the O’Briens are present in Dogwood Hill, if not quite in force, and of course they’re up to their usual endearing-but-annoying meddling. It’s part of the charm of Chesapeake Shores (both the town and the series), and it’s always fun to watch – though probably not quite as much fun to be on the receiving end! I’m glad that Sherryl Woods hasn’t abandoned the series now that she’s running out of O’Briens.
I rely on Woods for feel-good, small-town romance that doesn’t ignore the hard realities of life, but always warms my heart. I’m glad to say she delivers again in Dogwood Hill.
3.5 stars
FTC disclosure: I received a review copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are entirely my own.
December 28, 2014
Can the Chesapeake Series be anything but sweet and warm? And can the O’Brien’s leave alone any of its residents from finding love and a happily ever after?
Dogwood Hill is book 12 of Chesapeake Series, and Sherryl Woods weaves another story of romance, trust and support and what seems to be the essence of Chesapeake Shores. No one can escape the magic of Chesapeake Shores, the wonderful and meddling residents of Chesapeake Shores and the dominating and lovable O’Brien’s!!!!
Ex-pro football quarterback Aidan Mitchell comes to Chesapeake Shores, when the position for the high school coach opens up. But with the new lease of life, also come doubts and insecurities of coming to the beautiful town to get some answers of his roots. Handsome, protective and lovable, meeting Liz March makes up his mind of staying back in Chesapeake Shores, and when he gets roped in to become the owner of a dog, his destiny has been sealed.
Liz March has been living in Chesapeake Shores for a few months, creating a new life far away from North Carolina and leaving behind painful memories. She runs the pet store “Pet Style” and is taken into the warmth and love of the O’Brien’s. Beautiful, sassy and tenacious, especially when it comes to taking care of animals, she falls for the handsome Aidan for his wonderful support and compassion towards the students as well as his tenacity in wooing Liz, and trying to assuage her fears and insecurities.
Another romantic story of two beautiful people meant to be together for life, as they work the around the secrets, fears and insecurities plaguing them. Sherryl Woods has given us another amazing story of love, romance and magic – perfect for the holidays.
Received an ARC from Harlequin via Netgalley for an honest review.
Dogwood Hill is book 12 of Chesapeake Series, and Sherryl Woods weaves another story of romance, trust and support and what seems to be the essence of Chesapeake Shores. No one can escape the magic of Chesapeake Shores, the wonderful and meddling residents of Chesapeake Shores and the dominating and lovable O’Brien’s!!!!
Ex-pro football quarterback Aidan Mitchell comes to Chesapeake Shores, when the position for the high school coach opens up. But with the new lease of life, also come doubts and insecurities of coming to the beautiful town to get some answers of his roots. Handsome, protective and lovable, meeting Liz March makes up his mind of staying back in Chesapeake Shores, and when he gets roped in to become the owner of a dog, his destiny has been sealed.
Liz March has been living in Chesapeake Shores for a few months, creating a new life far away from North Carolina and leaving behind painful memories. She runs the pet store “Pet Style” and is taken into the warmth and love of the O’Brien’s. Beautiful, sassy and tenacious, especially when it comes to taking care of animals, she falls for the handsome Aidan for his wonderful support and compassion towards the students as well as his tenacity in wooing Liz, and trying to assuage her fears and insecurities.
Another romantic story of two beautiful people meant to be together for life, as they work the around the secrets, fears and insecurities plaguing them. Sherryl Woods has given us another amazing story of love, romance and magic – perfect for the holidays.
Received an ARC from Harlequin via Netgalley for an honest review.
July 28, 2015
Adrian Mitchell is a former pro football player who got injured and had to leave his job. After his mother dies, he uncovers who his father is. Adrian applies for a job as the high school coach but he also wants to visit Chesapeake Shores. He must decide if he is going to tell his father the secret he uncovers.
Keeping secrets is not always a good thing but Adrian is not exactly sure what it will do to his family once they find out. When Adrian arrives he is welcomed into the town and they are all extremely anxious and excited to have a former “star” coach the football team.
Liz March is a widow who decided after her husband dies that she needs a new start to her life. She moves to Chesapeake Shores and opens up Pet Style, and finds the towns folks; the O’Briens welcome her with open arms. She has secrets she is keeping from them but does not know if she could ever trust anyone with them.
When Adrian meets Liz it is as if sparks suddenly fly but both are afraid to move on. Liz is afraid of getting involved as she has had her heart broken once and does not ever want to go thru that again. Adrian is not sure if he should approach his “dad” and tell him that he is his son.
Together they have to decide if what they have is worth fighting for. With the help of the O’Briens, whom will never take no for an answer the town’s people want to help? They involve themselves without even being asked.
This is a very enjoyable summer read and one that will keep you wanting to continue reading to see what happens next. The characters are real and we can feel the struggles they are going thru.
Keeping secrets is not always a good thing but Adrian is not exactly sure what it will do to his family once they find out. When Adrian arrives he is welcomed into the town and they are all extremely anxious and excited to have a former “star” coach the football team.
Liz March is a widow who decided after her husband dies that she needs a new start to her life. She moves to Chesapeake Shores and opens up Pet Style, and finds the towns folks; the O’Briens welcome her with open arms. She has secrets she is keeping from them but does not know if she could ever trust anyone with them.
When Adrian meets Liz it is as if sparks suddenly fly but both are afraid to move on. Liz is afraid of getting involved as she has had her heart broken once and does not ever want to go thru that again. Adrian is not sure if he should approach his “dad” and tell him that he is his son.
Together they have to decide if what they have is worth fighting for. With the help of the O’Briens, whom will never take no for an answer the town’s people want to help? They involve themselves without even being asked.
This is a very enjoyable summer read and one that will keep you wanting to continue reading to see what happens next. The characters are real and we can feel the struggles they are going thru.
December 15, 2014
Dogwood Hill By Sherryl Woods is another in the Chesapeake Shores series. It's been a while since I read any of these books, but I started remembering people as I read.
Aidan Mitchell, a former NFL quarterback, has come to Chesapeake Shores to possibly become the new coach for the high school football team. One of the first people he meets is Liz March, owner of Pet Style one of the many small businesses in Chesapeake Shores. Liz is out walking her dogs when one, an Aussie shepherd named Archie, takes off and tries to 'herd' Aidan.
Liz is a relative newcomer to Chesapeake Shores having left her home in the Carolinas to start fresh after the death of her husband a year ago. She had been a teacher, but decided to open a pet supply store to make a complete change.
Aidan and Liz both have secrets -- Aidan is looking to meet his father. The man he has come to resent over the years. He is just about convinced that this man is a no-good so and so who abandoned Aidan's mother when he found out she was pregnant.
Liz was lied to and cheated on by her late husband, but as far as her friends in Chesapeake Shores are concerned, her marriage was a happy one.
I really enjoyed reading this book. I will be honest and say I didn't remember all the characters as I only read maybe two in the series several years ago. But Sherryl Woods writes great characters and this is an easy read. She brought back people from previous books -- all part of the O'Brien family; a group of loving but meddling people who inhabit the town.
Aidan Mitchell, a former NFL quarterback, has come to Chesapeake Shores to possibly become the new coach for the high school football team. One of the first people he meets is Liz March, owner of Pet Style one of the many small businesses in Chesapeake Shores. Liz is out walking her dogs when one, an Aussie shepherd named Archie, takes off and tries to 'herd' Aidan.
Liz is a relative newcomer to Chesapeake Shores having left her home in the Carolinas to start fresh after the death of her husband a year ago. She had been a teacher, but decided to open a pet supply store to make a complete change.
Aidan and Liz both have secrets -- Aidan is looking to meet his father. The man he has come to resent over the years. He is just about convinced that this man is a no-good so and so who abandoned Aidan's mother when he found out she was pregnant.
Liz was lied to and cheated on by her late husband, but as far as her friends in Chesapeake Shores are concerned, her marriage was a happy one.
I really enjoyed reading this book. I will be honest and say I didn't remember all the characters as I only read maybe two in the series several years ago. But Sherryl Woods writes great characters and this is an easy read. She brought back people from previous books -- all part of the O'Brien family; a group of loving but meddling people who inhabit the town.
October 13, 2014
This book introduces two new characters to Chesapeake Shores both characters hiding a secret. Liz March is trying to move on past the death of her husband but there is something there she isn't saying about what happened with her husband.
Aidan Mitchell comes to Chesapeake Shores to coach the football team hoping that maybe they can change their loosing streak. His secret becomes known to the reader pretty quickly. How will Aidan deal with his connection to the O'Brien clan and will his secret destroy them?
I enjoyed reading about these two characters they were new and fresh as we haven't heard much about either one of them. I loved watching these two push each other away as the heat between them kept heating up.
We also got to see other O'Briens we haven't seen lately Jess and Will, Susie and Mac really was nice to read more about them as well. Definitely a fabulous series that just gets better everytime!
Aidan Mitchell comes to Chesapeake Shores to coach the football team hoping that maybe they can change their loosing streak. His secret becomes known to the reader pretty quickly. How will Aidan deal with his connection to the O'Brien clan and will his secret destroy them?
I enjoyed reading about these two characters they were new and fresh as we haven't heard much about either one of them. I loved watching these two push each other away as the heat between them kept heating up.
We also got to see other O'Briens we haven't seen lately Jess and Will, Susie and Mac really was nice to read more about them as well. Definitely a fabulous series that just gets better everytime!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 28, 2015
I love Sherryl Woods - I will read anything she writes! Yes, I'm a fan girl! But of all her series, I think that I relate to is her Chesapeake Shores novels. I love the big, happy and loving Irish O'Brien family, and I love that Sherryl has brought them back in her latest book, "Dogwood Hill."
This is a sweet romance that starts out with a little confusion, a little angst, and a whole lot of communication problems (what romance doesn't!) - but the beautiful HEA (happily-ever-after) is so worth the journey!
I also love that first-time readers can pick up this story and not feel left out of the past situations that the O'Briens have been through - Sherryl adds plenty of backstory to her tale and it is woven into the new story masterfully! And animal lovers will adore the feisty and adorable Archie in this story!
With spring a distant future, readers can experience a bit of the flowery season with "Dogwood Hill," I highly recommend!
This is a sweet romance that starts out with a little confusion, a little angst, and a whole lot of communication problems (what romance doesn't!) - but the beautiful HEA (happily-ever-after) is so worth the journey!
I also love that first-time readers can pick up this story and not feel left out of the past situations that the O'Briens have been through - Sherryl adds plenty of backstory to her tale and it is woven into the new story masterfully! And animal lovers will adore the feisty and adorable Archie in this story!
With spring a distant future, readers can experience a bit of the flowery season with "Dogwood Hill," I highly recommend!
March 12, 2015
I enjoyed this book about Aidan and Liz getting together. Aidan knew that he was Thomas O'Brien's son, and wanted to meet Thomas, and see what he was like. So Aidan took a high school coaching job so that he could get to know more about the man who fathered him. And Liz ran Pet Style, a pet store, and of course she fostered animals, and totally adored animals. She had moved to Chesapeake Shores to get far away from the death of her cheating husband, and away from family as well. So Aidan and Liz were attracted to each other, but they couldn't get together because they both had these secrets in their past. But eventually, Thomas and Aidan got together, and the O'Briens' welcomed Aidan as one of their own, and Liz told Aidan about her lying, cheating husband who told her on their anniversary that he was leaving her for another woman, whom he had gotten pregnant! And Aidan and Liz got together, and fell in love!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
January 12, 2016"This Chesapeake Shores novel will soon become a favorite on romance readers’ beloved bookshelves thanks to Woods’ charming terms of endearment strewn throughout. The author’s stories make you forget where you are for a while and make you feel all fuzzy and cuddly inside. Besides that, her creative plot makes the story flow easily, and the lively new characters are an added bonus that flawlessly colors the palette of this masterpiece. Reading this novel is like a warm hug for the soul" (RT Book Reviews, 4 1/2 stars TOP PICK!).
Chesapeake Shores, book 12
I have to say I completely agree with the RT reviewer. This is definitely a keeper. Liz and Aidan make a perfect couple who prove patience is key to keeping a relationship flowing smoothly. ~ Kim
Chesapeake Shores, book 12
I have to say I completely agree with the RT reviewer. This is definitely a keeper. Liz and Aidan make a perfect couple who prove patience is key to keeping a relationship flowing smoothly. ~ Kim
February 15, 2015
Another book in the Chesapeake Shore series. Liz March came to Chesapeake Shores several months before to open her own business and to make a complete break from her past life and family. Aidan Mitchell came for another reason, he was being considered for the high school football coaching job. Or at least that is what the town thought, Aidan came for reasons of his own.
He met Liz his first day in town before he had made up his mind about the job but she really was one of the reasons he decided to take the job. The other reason was something that he was going to have to work out for himself.
Both of these people were welcomed big time by the O'Briens and like family does, they tried to help both of these people find each other.
He met Liz his first day in town before he had made up his mind about the job but she really was one of the reasons he decided to take the job. The other reason was something that he was going to have to work out for himself.
Both of these people were welcomed big time by the O'Briens and like family does, they tried to help both of these people find each other.
November 23, 2015
Dogwood Hill by Sherryl Woods
This Chesapeake Shores book is about Aiden who settles in the town. He has much in his past, some things could mix things up for the O'Brien family.
He's the football coach. Story also follows Liz March, who runs Pet Style offering jewelry for the pets and finding good homes for those in need. She's lost her husband but not many know the full story.
Always nice to also get up to date with all the other O'Briens and what's new with them all.
Spring and match making is in the air, for humans and dogs. Others find out what their secrets are and try to contend with the truth...
I received this book from National Library Service for my BARD (Braille Audio Reading Device).
This Chesapeake Shores book is about Aiden who settles in the town. He has much in his past, some things could mix things up for the O'Brien family.
He's the football coach. Story also follows Liz March, who runs Pet Style offering jewelry for the pets and finding good homes for those in need. She's lost her husband but not many know the full story.
Always nice to also get up to date with all the other O'Briens and what's new with them all.
Spring and match making is in the air, for humans and dogs. Others find out what their secrets are and try to contend with the truth...
I received this book from National Library Service for my BARD (Braille Audio Reading Device).
September 28, 2015
A young former football star comes to town to become the high school football coach with an added agenda of meeting his biological father who doesn't know about him. He finds a large family, who brings him and other new comers to the town they founded, into the fold of their family which includes his father and his wife and son. Along the way he falls for a woman who came to town to start a new life and struggles to help her overcome her past secrets while dealing with his own in hopes of finding love and family of his own. I enjoyed this book and recommend it to those who enjoy romantic books with a bit of mystery.
August 4, 2015
Another fine addition to the Sherryl Woods Chesapeake Shores series. The characters are well drawn and it's fun to catch up with the characters briefly who appeared in other books in this series. If you are looking for steamy sex/erotica, this is NOT the book for you. The characters are attracted to each other and their mutual attraction grows throughout, but they don't jump into bed within hours of meeting as so many other romance novels seem to do these days. Instead, they talk and work through by themselves and with friends and family the issues that are between them.
July 28, 2017
This book is a return to what made the earlier novels in this series compelling -- both the hero and the heroine have some real, believable problems in their lives that make their individual stories interesting as well as create realistic obstacles to their relationship. If (like me) you've been getting a bit bored with this series but aren't ready to leave Chesapeake Shores just yet, this book breathes some new life into this series.
December 26, 2015
I loved this book from the minute I started reading it. I became so invested in the characters and the plot line. The book describes in perfect detail the Irish upbringing I'd always dreamed of and in a truly idyllic place. Loved it.
March 26, 2015
Meh. I wanted to love this book, I always look forward to another Chesapeake Bay installment, but I just could not like the main character.
June 6, 2021
Some parts a little slow in development but otherwise a very good book. Characters were believeable and emotions were raw.
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