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Sunday Morning #2
The Apple Tree
He's a single dad starting over in a new town. She's a relentless flirt with a penchant for trouble, ten years younger than him, and the babysitter. What could go wrong?
Eve has just graduated from high school, but she doesn’t know what’s next aside from working at the local motel, spying on Kyle, her neighbor, and stealing apples from his orchard. If she doesn’t figure things out soon, she’ll be stuck at home and treated like a child forever.
Kyle is a single dad and the new football coach who needs a babysitter for his adorable son. When he meets Eve, there’s an instant connection because she reminds him of someone—himself. But Eve is the preacher’s daughter, off-limits, and Kyle has already had his heart trampled by his ex.
After earning his son’s affection with her homemade apple sauce and youthful spirit, Eve asks Kyle to teach her things like driving his fishing boat and shooting his hunting bow. Despite his better judgment, he agrees, but swears Eve to secrecy so no one gets the wrong idea about them.
Their playful banter and innocent flirting crosses a line, and Kyle misses the heartbreaking secret Eve’s hidden in plain sight.
When tragedy strikes, can they find their way back to each other?
Eve has just graduated from high school, but she doesn’t know what’s next aside from working at the local motel, spying on Kyle, her neighbor, and stealing apples from his orchard. If she doesn’t figure things out soon, she’ll be stuck at home and treated like a child forever.
Kyle is a single dad and the new football coach who needs a babysitter for his adorable son. When he meets Eve, there’s an instant connection because she reminds him of someone—himself. But Eve is the preacher’s daughter, off-limits, and Kyle has already had his heart trampled by his ex.
After earning his son’s affection with her homemade apple sauce and youthful spirit, Eve asks Kyle to teach her things like driving his fishing boat and shooting his hunting bow. Despite his better judgment, he agrees, but swears Eve to secrecy so no one gets the wrong idea about them.
Their playful banter and innocent flirting crosses a line, and Kyle misses the heartbreaking secret Eve’s hidden in plain sight.
When tragedy strikes, can they find their way back to each other?
392 pages, Paperback
First published January 23, 2025
1663 people are currently reading
9989 people want to read
About the author
Jewel E. Ann
72 books10.5k followersJewel is a Wall Street Journal & USA Today best selling author with a quirky sense of humor. When she's not saving the planet one tree at a time, you can find her role modeling questionable behavior to her three boys, binge-watching Netflix with her husband, and writing mind-bending romance.
Her newest release is I Thought of You, a contemporary romance/women's fiction.
Upcoming Projects: Sunday Morning, book 1 in the Sunday Morning Series coming in Sept. 2024.
Stay in the loop by subscribing to her newsletter!—> Sign up here!
Her newest release is I Thought of You, a contemporary romance/women's fiction.
Upcoming Projects: Sunday Morning, book 1 in the Sunday Morning Series coming in Sept. 2024.
Stay in the loop by subscribing to her newsletter!—> Sign up here!
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July 8, 2025Available now!
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Amazon: https://amzn.to/47LyBJy
Amazon Worldwide: https://mybook.to/TheAppleTree
Listen today!
Audible: https://bit.ly/3ZBlqrX
Add to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/4dryjbZ
March 2, 2025
this sounds so sweet — single dad x nanny and an emotional backstory 🥰
🍎 thank you to the author and valentine pr for the arc.
🍎 thank you to the author and valentine pr for the arc.
January 23, 2025
GOD SAVE THE MOST JUDGMENTAL CREEPS WHO SAY THEY WANT WHATS BEST FOR ME SANCTIMONIOUSLY PERFORMING SOLILOQUIES ILL NEVER SEE THINKING IT CAN CHANGE THE BEAT OF MY HEART WHEN HE TOUCHES ME AND UNDO THE DESTINY YOU AINT GOTTA PRAY FOR ME ME AND MY WILD BOY AND ALL THIS WILD JOY
BUT DADDY I LOVE HIM GIRLIES RISE
oh my god!!! eve and kyle’s book was everything i was hoping it would be and more😭
JEA very quickly became an auto read/buy author for me recently and i just simply cannot get over just how good her stories are. they grip me from the very start and dont let me go for weeks after i have finished them. i finished the apple tree a week ago today and i am still constantly thinking about these two and wondering how early is too early to do a reread of both eve and sarah’s stories.
just like in sunday morning you will feel ALL the feelings through out this. the tension and angst through out the entire book is palpable. i cried here and there, i was ready to throw my kindle and pull out my hair at certain points and most importantly i fell head over heels in love with eve, kyle and josh 🥹
i often find that the books i love the most i have a harder time trying to put into words just how much i loved them in a review. this series and this story is simply just genius. you really feel like youre thrown back into time and living through these girls, thats how vivid and lively these books are. theyre heavy hitters to your emotions but done with such care at the same time. they have me forgetting that these characters are not real and that im a full grown adult screaming “THATS NOT FAIR” over and over at my kindle until JEA decides finally shes done with the torture and we can have our happily ever after 😂
“now you can go home and be mad.” oh kyle collins the man you are 😌
BUT DADDY I LOVE HIM GIRLIES RISE
oh my god!!! eve and kyle’s book was everything i was hoping it would be and more😭
JEA very quickly became an auto read/buy author for me recently and i just simply cannot get over just how good her stories are. they grip me from the very start and dont let me go for weeks after i have finished them. i finished the apple tree a week ago today and i am still constantly thinking about these two and wondering how early is too early to do a reread of both eve and sarah’s stories.
just like in sunday morning you will feel ALL the feelings through out this. the tension and angst through out the entire book is palpable. i cried here and there, i was ready to throw my kindle and pull out my hair at certain points and most importantly i fell head over heels in love with eve, kyle and josh 🥹
i often find that the books i love the most i have a harder time trying to put into words just how much i loved them in a review. this series and this story is simply just genius. you really feel like youre thrown back into time and living through these girls, thats how vivid and lively these books are. theyre heavy hitters to your emotions but done with such care at the same time. they have me forgetting that these characters are not real and that im a full grown adult screaming “THATS NOT FAIR” over and over at my kindle until JEA decides finally shes done with the torture and we can have our happily ever after 😂
“now you can go home and be mad.” oh kyle collins the man you are 😌
January 27, 2025
📚'𝙼𝚈 𝚁𝙴𝚅𝙸𝙴𝚆 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝙾𝚃𝙷𝙴𝚁𝚂'📚 can also be found on my blog: ╰┈➤KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS
🍎'𝐓H𝐄 𝐀P𝐏L𝐄 𝐓R𝐄E'🍎
Is the second full length age gap book within the (Sunday Morning) trilogy by author Jewel E. Ann. 'Spoken in dual perspectives.' Eve & Kyle.
Age gap romance books usually aren’t ones I gravitate towards but this book made me out to be a liar, also it's Jewel E. Ann, anything she writes I'll read it! Plus after being introduced to Eve in Sunday Morning she was the one sister I couldn't wait to read about, I knew her sassy quick witted ways would be a book I wanted to get my hands on. And I was right..Jewel's humor bled out of Eve making her come alive on the pages showcasing what a truly remarkable writer this author is putting her in a league of her own.
I fell in love with this story within the very first chapter and from that point onwards I was hooked.
It's 1987, eighteen year old Eve is the middle child of the only pastor residing at Devil’s Head in Missouri. We were introduced to her older sister Sarah in the previous book. And the younger sister will be up next. Newly graduated from highschool, living at home, and cleaning at the local motel Eve doesn't know what she wants to do with her life, but her rebellious nature knows that she needs to branch out and get out from under her parents controlling thumbs.
‘𝙾𝚑, 𝚢𝚎𝚊𝚑. 𝙴𝚟𝚎 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎𝚜 𝚝𝚘 𝚏𝚒𝚜𝚑, 𝚜𝚝𝚊𝚛𝚐𝚊𝚣𝚎, 𝚜𝚔𝚒𝚙 𝚛𝚘𝚌𝚔𝚜 𝚊𝚕𝚘𝚗𝚐 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚠𝚊𝚝𝚎𝚛, 𝚙𝚒𝚌𝚔 𝚊𝚙𝚙𝚕𝚎𝚜 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚋𝚊𝚔𝚎 𝚙𝚒𝚎𝚜, 𝚍𝚊𝚗𝚌𝚎 𝚝𝚘 𝚐𝚘𝚘𝚍 𝚖𝚞𝚜𝚒𝚌, 𝚐𝚘 𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚖𝚘𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚜 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚏𝚛𝚒𝚎𝚗𝚍𝚜, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚖𝚊𝚔𝚎 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎 𝚒𝚗 𝚏𝚒𝚎𝚕𝚍𝚜 𝚘𝚏 𝚠𝚒𝚕𝚍𝚏𝚕𝚘𝚠𝚎𝚛𝚜.’
Twenty eight year old Kyle Collins, a hot as sin math teacher and football coach and his wee boy of five Josh, move in next door and one look at his glorious abs on display and his devilish grin, Eve was quickly smitten which escalated into a binocular spying obsessed female.
‘𝚃𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚠𝚊𝚜 𝚗𝚘 𝚠𝚊𝚢 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚐𝚞𝚢 𝚠𝚊𝚜 𝚊 𝚖𝚊𝚝𝚑 𝚝𝚎𝚊𝚌𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚊 𝚔𝚒𝚍. 𝙼𝚊𝚝𝚑 𝚝𝚎𝚊𝚌𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚜 𝚑𝚊𝚍 𝚙𝚘𝚌𝚔𝚎𝚝 𝚙𝚛𝚘𝚝𝚎𝚌𝚝𝚘𝚛𝚜 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚐𝚕𝚊𝚜𝚜𝚎𝚜 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚝𝚛𝚊𝚗𝚜𝚒𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗 𝚕𝚎𝚗𝚜𝚎𝚜, 𝚗𝚘𝚝 𝚑𝚊𝚛𝚍 𝚊𝚋𝚜’
Once her mother offers her up as a handy babysitter living right next door, Eve was quick to agree.
January 28, 2025
4.5⭐️ The Sunday Morning series needs to be on your TBR immediately!!
I loved Sunday Morning with all my heart and The Apple Tree did not let me down! This is the story of Eve, Sarah’s younger sister, and Kyle, a high school math teacher/football coach who has a 5 year old son and moves in next door. Eve is fiery 18 year old who always has a witty joke to crack; Kyle is a 28 year old single dad who never saw her coming. Their love story is filled with hilarious banter, undeniable chemistry, and difficult trials as they figure out what do to with their relationship that goes against social norms.
This was so much frun to read and I LOVE this series with all my heart. Jewel E Ann has a way of making you laugh, blush, cry, and feel conflicted in the best kind of way while reading her books. They are raw, real, and messy, just like life and I adore her for that.
What to expect:
✨Forbidden romance
✨Preacher’s daughter
✨Age Gap
✨Single Dad
✨Small Town
✨Trauma/emotional
Thank you to Jewel E Ann and Valentine PR for gifting me this ARC.
I loved Sunday Morning with all my heart and The Apple Tree did not let me down! This is the story of Eve, Sarah’s younger sister, and Kyle, a high school math teacher/football coach who has a 5 year old son and moves in next door. Eve is fiery 18 year old who always has a witty joke to crack; Kyle is a 28 year old single dad who never saw her coming. Their love story is filled with hilarious banter, undeniable chemistry, and difficult trials as they figure out what do to with their relationship that goes against social norms.
This was so much frun to read and I LOVE this series with all my heart. Jewel E Ann has a way of making you laugh, blush, cry, and feel conflicted in the best kind of way while reading her books. They are raw, real, and messy, just like life and I adore her for that.
What to expect:
✨Forbidden romance
✨Preacher’s daughter
✨Age Gap
✨Single Dad
✨Small Town
✨Trauma/emotional
Thank you to Jewel E Ann and Valentine PR for gifting me this ARC.
March 12, 2025
4 stars
I love a good age-gap romance and after reading the first book in this series, I couldn't wait to get to Eve's story. She's the sister that intrigued me most and her book didn't disappoint. I loved Eve and Kyle's romance. Add in little Josh and I was smitten. This book took me over two weeks to read because of life and I think it took me out of the story a bit (the constant putting down and picking up) and there were a few things mentioned that rubbed me the wrong way, but aside from that I loved it. It had so much five start potential for me, but missed the mark just a bit.
I was wind and fire- destructive and out of control. He was earth and water- a grounding, calm force
I love a good age-gap romance and after reading the first book in this series, I couldn't wait to get to Eve's story. She's the sister that intrigued me most and her book didn't disappoint. I loved Eve and Kyle's romance. Add in little Josh and I was smitten. This book took me over two weeks to read because of life and I think it took me out of the story a bit (the constant putting down and picking up) and there were a few things mentioned that rubbed me the wrong way, but aside from that I loved it. It had so much five start potential for me, but missed the mark just a bit.
April 8, 2025
Eve Jacobson, recent high school graduate and preacher’s daughter, is trying to figure out what comes next for her beyond working in housekeeping at the local motel. Kyle Collins is a high school coach and single dad struggling to take care of his young son alone. When Eve agrees to babysit his son Josh, Kyle agrees. But their immediate connection leads to trouble for them as both try to fight the inevitable.
Like the first book in the series, Sunday Morning, I was slower to become invested in this one. However, once it hit, it hit HARD. This story is angsty in the way I love, but also a heck of a lot of fun primarily because Eve is such a spitfire and Kyle her equal. The banter between these two sets this book far apart, but the dance scene completely stole the show. Incredibly romantic and filled with the intense chemistry these two have in spades, that scene was pure perfection (and now has me playing Lady in Red on repeat).
The supporting characters are an also pivotal to the story. Her parents are both incredibly unique and familiarly frustrating. Josh is the cutest little boy, although I may be biased since I have a Josh of my own. His character added an important emotional layer to the story and his pure love of Eve was incredibly heartwarming.
I both love and hate when I finish a book and immediately want to turn around and reread it and this is definitely the case with The Apple Tree. While this is a series about sisters with each book featuring a different sister, it can easily be read as a standalone without any spoilers to book one.
I highly recommend picking this one up if you are a fan of any of the tropes included. And while there is no audio yet for this one, it is so worth the eyeball read.
Read if you like:
▪️age gap (10 years)
▪️forbidden love
▪️single dad x babysitter
▪️next door neighbors
▪️swoony romance
▪️books set in the 1980s
▪️Heartless by Elsie Silver
CW: There may be triggers for some. Please research or DM prior to reading if you are more sensitive to some.
Like the first book in the series, Sunday Morning, I was slower to become invested in this one. However, once it hit, it hit HARD. This story is angsty in the way I love, but also a heck of a lot of fun primarily because Eve is such a spitfire and Kyle her equal. The banter between these two sets this book far apart, but the dance scene completely stole the show. Incredibly romantic and filled with the intense chemistry these two have in spades, that scene was pure perfection (and now has me playing Lady in Red on repeat).
The supporting characters are an also pivotal to the story. Her parents are both incredibly unique and familiarly frustrating. Josh is the cutest little boy, although I may be biased since I have a Josh of my own. His character added an important emotional layer to the story and his pure love of Eve was incredibly heartwarming.
I both love and hate when I finish a book and immediately want to turn around and reread it and this is definitely the case with The Apple Tree. While this is a series about sisters with each book featuring a different sister, it can easily be read as a standalone without any spoilers to book one.
I highly recommend picking this one up if you are a fan of any of the tropes included. And while there is no audio yet for this one, it is so worth the eyeball read.
Read if you like:
▪️age gap (10 years)
▪️forbidden love
▪️single dad x babysitter
▪️next door neighbors
▪️swoony romance
▪️books set in the 1980s
▪️Heartless by Elsie Silver
CW: There may be triggers for some. Please research or DM prior to reading if you are more sensitive to some.
January 11, 2025
Eve’s book was amazing. I knew based on Sunday Morning that she would be a lot of fun and trouble. I was right. I ate this story up. I couldn’t put it down.
Eve and Kyle were so freaking good together. The age gap worked because of tantalizing dialogue and chemistry between the two of them. I was invested from their first meeting. I had no clue how they would find their HEA but it was an emotional journey, that definitely hurt at times but it was so worth it.
JEA knows how to incorporate angst and clever humor into her stories and The Apple Tree is no different. I’m so tickled by her witty dialogue and the angst that comes sneaking up. So well balanced. Gahhhhhhh The Apple Tree deserves all my praises. Highly recommend this gem of a book.
Eve and Kyle were so freaking good together. The age gap worked because of tantalizing dialogue and chemistry between the two of them. I was invested from their first meeting. I had no clue how they would find their HEA but it was an emotional journey, that definitely hurt at times but it was so worth it.
JEA knows how to incorporate angst and clever humor into her stories and The Apple Tree is no different. I’m so tickled by her witty dialogue and the angst that comes sneaking up. So well balanced. Gahhhhhhh The Apple Tree deserves all my praises. Highly recommend this gem of a book.
January 28, 2025
5 🍎 APPLES
This age gap story checked all my boxes including two checks for the witty banter. ✔️✔️ I am not usually a fan of this trope of stories but this couple won me over.
This age gap story checked all my boxes including two checks for the witty banter. ✔️✔️ I am not usually a fan of this trope of stories but this couple won me over.
January 26, 2025
Laugh hard, cry harder. Signature Jewel E. Ann book.
My first 5 ⭐book of the year (FW and IF were a reread so they don't count)
Dedication: For rebel girls with reckless hearts, find a hero who sees your potential before you do.
An emotional ride, full of healing, discovery, love and romance, historical comedy vibes, and the best hits for the best moments.
Kyle, 28, is the hottest small-town single dad and romantic at heart. Eve, 18, is the firefurnace preacher's daughter. Their romance is a love across the years.
I really enjoy the pacing and the romance build-up in these books.
Knowing the characters, it only feels natural for them to fall in love and for us to appreciate their romance.
This one is a similar attracts, with a 10 year age gap. Yet, you never feel it in the book.
It mixes maturing, healing, and loving all in the context of 1987 Missouri.
Eve's secret, as the blurb suggests, is hiding right in front of us. It blew right over my head. (I love when that happens)
And the journey to heal and get the HEA is as beautiful as the road to falling in love.
Thank you Jewel E. Ann and Valentine PR for the ARC. I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review. But I would have found my way to it either way. It's Jewel E. Ann!
--
Pre-read:
Okay Jewel E. Ann has to be it. She usually manages to pull all my emotions 🤞🏻
Also, the hardcover is A.D.O.R.A.B.L.E. and simple.
My first 5 ⭐book of the year (FW and IF were a reread so they don't count)
Dedication: For rebel girls with reckless hearts, find a hero who sees your potential before you do.
An emotional ride, full of healing, discovery, love and romance, historical comedy vibes, and the best hits for the best moments.
Kyle, 28, is the hottest small-town single dad and romantic at heart. Eve, 18, is the firefurnace preacher's daughter. Their romance is a love across the years.
I really enjoy the pacing and the romance build-up in these books.
Knowing the characters, it only feels natural for them to fall in love and for us to appreciate their romance.
This one is a similar attracts, with a 10 year age gap. Yet, you never feel it in the book.
It mixes maturing, healing, and loving all in the context of 1987 Missouri.
Eve's secret, as the blurb suggests, is hiding right in front of us. It blew right over my head. (I love when that happens)
And the journey to heal and get the HEA is as beautiful as the road to falling in love.
Thank you Jewel E. Ann and Valentine PR for the ARC. I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review. But I would have found my way to it either way. It's Jewel E. Ann!
--
Pre-read:
Okay Jewel E. Ann has to be it. She usually manages to pull all my emotions 🤞🏻
Also, the hardcover is A.D.O.R.A.B.L.E. and simple.
February 14, 2025
2.5 stars. The Apple Tree is the second book following Sunday Morning. This author’s books have always been hit and miss for me, but Sunday Morning took me by surprise last year and I really enjoyed it so I decided to jump the 2nd book since it recently released. This series takes place in the late 1980s which I really love seeing contemporary authors do recently, it gives that moody nostalgia but with a modern eye. This book overall didn’t super work for me.
This is an age gap (she’s 18, he’s 28), forbidden (she’s the preacher’s daughter), single dad x babysitter, forced proximity (neighbors) romance. Just like Sunday Morning, this book takes place right after the heroine has graduated high school. So it’s the summer after graduation, Eve is 18 and feels like she’s an adult but she’s still treated like a child living with her family, and she’s trying to figure out what she’ll do with her life.
Eve has always been the rebel of the family, she’s the middle child and her father is the preacher in town. Kyle is new to town with his 5-year old son, they move in right next door to Eve’s family and she’s immediately smitten with the math teacher/football coach. Not only is her age a factor, but she’s newly out of high school and he’s a new teacher in town, but her father is the preacher and also friends with his brother. So a lot of layers to this story. I just wasn’t a fan of Eve as a character, she very much gave immature vibes (which I get it, she’s 18) but her trying to be with him so hard, it just didn’t work for me.
This is an age gap (she’s 18, he’s 28), forbidden (she’s the preacher’s daughter), single dad x babysitter, forced proximity (neighbors) romance. Just like Sunday Morning, this book takes place right after the heroine has graduated high school. So it’s the summer after graduation, Eve is 18 and feels like she’s an adult but she’s still treated like a child living with her family, and she’s trying to figure out what she’ll do with her life.
Eve has always been the rebel of the family, she’s the middle child and her father is the preacher in town. Kyle is new to town with his 5-year old son, they move in right next door to Eve’s family and she’s immediately smitten with the math teacher/football coach. Not only is her age a factor, but she’s newly out of high school and he’s a new teacher in town, but her father is the preacher and also friends with his brother. So a lot of layers to this story. I just wasn’t a fan of Eve as a character, she very much gave immature vibes (which I get it, she’s 18) but her trying to be with him so hard, it just didn’t work for me.
January 24, 2025
I wish I could erase my memory and read this book again!❤️🔥 This is one of the best age-gap romances I’ve ever read, and I highly recommend it to anyone who also likes such stories.
Kyle is a 28-year-old single dad who works as a math teacher and football coach🤤 Eve is an 18-year-old pastor’s daughter with a fiery personality. Together, they’re the perfect mix. Their banter is chef’s kiss—I laughed out loud so many times, and even now, some scenes still make me smile when I think about them.
I’m melting over Kyle. He’s the perfect man—always choosing Eve, trusting her with his child, and supporting her. He also believed in her and in them.
“𝘽𝙖𝙗𝙮,” 𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙞𝙥𝙥𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙧, 𝙡𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙨𝙥𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙖𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜, “𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙣𝙡𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙄 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙫𝙚𝙞𝙣𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙮𝙤𝙪.” 🫠
Although Eve is young and made some mistakes, the way she tried to prove to everyone that she was grown up, the way she embraced Josh as her own son—I was in awe of her loyalty and selflessness. This couple captivated me from the very first page.
Gabby’s story is still ahead, but I can already confidently say that this series will be one of my favorites❤️
Tropes:
🍎Single Dad
🍎Age Gap
🍎Forbidden Romance
🍎Small Town
🍎Preacher’s Daughter
Kyle is a 28-year-old single dad who works as a math teacher and football coach🤤 Eve is an 18-year-old pastor’s daughter with a fiery personality. Together, they’re the perfect mix. Their banter is chef’s kiss—I laughed out loud so many times, and even now, some scenes still make me smile when I think about them.
I’m melting over Kyle. He’s the perfect man—always choosing Eve, trusting her with his child, and supporting her. He also believed in her and in them.
“𝘽𝙖𝙗𝙮,” 𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙞𝙥𝙥𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙧, 𝙡𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙨𝙥𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙖𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜, “𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙣𝙡𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙄 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙫𝙚𝙞𝙣𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙮𝙤𝙪.” 🫠
Although Eve is young and made some mistakes, the way she tried to prove to everyone that she was grown up, the way she embraced Josh as her own son—I was in awe of her loyalty and selflessness. This couple captivated me from the very first page.
Gabby’s story is still ahead, but I can already confidently say that this series will be one of my favorites❤️
Tropes:
🍎Single Dad
🍎Age Gap
🍎Forbidden Romance
🍎Small Town
🍎Preacher’s Daughter
January 24, 2025
5 Stars!
(ARC provided by Valentine PR)
Eve Marie Jacobson wasn’t sure what she wanted her future to look like, but she was tired of living at home with her parents. She had a lot of expectations to live up to as the middle child of the pastor at the only church in Devil’s Head, Missouri. She had two sisters, and she was often considered a handful since she was the impulsive one that liked to push boundaries. Her small town was kind of boring, and then the most gorgeous guy buys the farmhouse next door. He’s all man, and she quickly develops a massive crush, and can’t quit thinking about him. He’s fun to flirt with, and he gets her sense of humor. Will her obsession lead to heartbreak, or will she get everything she’s always wanted?
Kyle Collins needs a change, and decides to start over in a new town where he will be the new math teacher and football coach at the local high school. It will be a fresh start for him and his son. Just as they’re getting settled in he meets the girl next door. They share an instant connection and an undeniable attraction, but she’s off limits since she’s the preacher’s daughter and ten years younger than him. As they get to know each other better he recognizes something in her that feels familiar. She’s unpredictable and dangerously irresistible. When they are together he starts to feel something all consuming, and reckless inside. Will he cross the line and risk scandal, or will he follow his heart and fight for what he truly wants?
The Apple Tree by Jewel E. Ann is the second book in her amazing Sunday Morning series. It’s a standalone, small town, single dad, preacher’s daughter, neighbors, age gap romance about family, self discovery and forbidden love. It’s a unique, captivating story full of emotion, humor, angst, passion and playful banter. I love these Jacobson sisters, and can’t wait for the next book! This series is fantastic! <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DF8VHGR5/...
(ARC provided by Valentine PR)
Eve Marie Jacobson wasn’t sure what she wanted her future to look like, but she was tired of living at home with her parents. She had a lot of expectations to live up to as the middle child of the pastor at the only church in Devil’s Head, Missouri. She had two sisters, and she was often considered a handful since she was the impulsive one that liked to push boundaries. Her small town was kind of boring, and then the most gorgeous guy buys the farmhouse next door. He’s all man, and she quickly develops a massive crush, and can’t quit thinking about him. He’s fun to flirt with, and he gets her sense of humor. Will her obsession lead to heartbreak, or will she get everything she’s always wanted?
Kyle Collins needs a change, and decides to start over in a new town where he will be the new math teacher and football coach at the local high school. It will be a fresh start for him and his son. Just as they’re getting settled in he meets the girl next door. They share an instant connection and an undeniable attraction, but she’s off limits since she’s the preacher’s daughter and ten years younger than him. As they get to know each other better he recognizes something in her that feels familiar. She’s unpredictable and dangerously irresistible. When they are together he starts to feel something all consuming, and reckless inside. Will he cross the line and risk scandal, or will he follow his heart and fight for what he truly wants?
The Apple Tree by Jewel E. Ann is the second book in her amazing Sunday Morning series. It’s a standalone, small town, single dad, preacher’s daughter, neighbors, age gap romance about family, self discovery and forbidden love. It’s a unique, captivating story full of emotion, humor, angst, passion and playful banter. I love these Jacobson sisters, and can’t wait for the next book! This series is fantastic! <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DF8VHGR5/...
January 22, 2025
An angsty, yet charming, coming of age forbidden romance! It has a lot of the staples we expect from Jewel e Ann and more. I have truly been surprised by this series and how real it feels while also having that bit of fantasy.
Eve is a rebel child and we've known it from Sunday Morning. Only, her older sister Sarah has already used up the black sheep status and it would really blow her family apart if Eve were to bust out of her shell. So she shoves most of it all down deep and keeps it throttled while self medicating when she can.
Then there is the hot new neighbor: Her dad's Best Friend's younger brother. Who also happens to be a single dad and the new football coach and math teacher. He's a sexy present of temptation and Eve is basically his new nanny. She starts falling from the word "go".
Kyle is a good-natured guy and I found him very likeable. He sees a lot of himself in Eve, actually, and they get along so well. Of course there is also a spark and try as he might, it's gonna be tough to resist.
I loved watching these two fall but the struggles they face are very real. And it's more than just their age difference and town opinion. I was really rooting for them through everything. Even when it hurt.
There were some TRULY difficult things to read in this book and a lot of them came out of nowhere and some of them were simmering below the surface, if you only pay attention. But I did love these two together so much and their HEA felt very hard earned.
4 Stars
2 on the spice scale
CW: alcoholism, accidental overdose, depression, forced rehab, accidental harm to a child
*Thank you to Valentine PR and the author for an ARC of this title*
Eve is a rebel child and we've known it from Sunday Morning. Only, her older sister Sarah has already used up the black sheep status and it would really blow her family apart if Eve were to bust out of her shell. So she shoves most of it all down deep and keeps it throttled while self medicating when she can.
Then there is the hot new neighbor: Her dad's Best Friend's younger brother. Who also happens to be a single dad and the new football coach and math teacher. He's a sexy present of temptation and Eve is basically his new nanny. She starts falling from the word "go".
Kyle is a good-natured guy and I found him very likeable. He sees a lot of himself in Eve, actually, and they get along so well. Of course there is also a spark and try as he might, it's gonna be tough to resist.
I loved watching these two fall but the struggles they face are very real. And it's more than just their age difference and town opinion. I was really rooting for them through everything. Even when it hurt.
There were some TRULY difficult things to read in this book and a lot of them came out of nowhere and some of them were simmering below the surface, if you only pay attention. But I did love these two together so much and their HEA felt very hard earned.
4 Stars
2 on the spice scale
CW: alcoholism, accidental overdose, depression, forced rehab, accidental harm to a child
*Thank you to Valentine PR and the author for an ARC of this title*
April 26, 2025
this book was so ridiculous and very frustrating but i actually enjoyed it a lot 3.5 ⭐️
January 23, 2025
‼️‼️‼️‼️UPDATE‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️
It has literally taken me days to formulate my thoughts on this book. I have so much to say and I get so excited that my thoughts just get jumbled together 🤦🏼♀️🤣 I can’t promise they won’t still so here goes!
I have looked forward to Eves story since we got a snippet of her in Sunday Morning (this is the first book in the series they can be read as standalones but I would highly suggest reading in order) where she, to me, was the picture for the typical preachers daughter.
When we begin, Eve is 18, just graduated and working at the local motel cleaning rooms because she has no idea what she wants to do with her life and oh yeah she’s grounded for drinking at the creek🤣
There will be so many readers that won’t like her because she’s immature, whiny, wishy washy, flippant and so many more adjectives. I am gonna make a case for her because she is one of the most precious fmc’s I’ve read in a long time. I fell in love with her because of all of those things and more. She was so refreshing and she was a little broken inside and I wanted to just wrap her up in a big huge hug!
While she’s grounded she is looking through binoculars to the place next door and sees there is a new tenant! This is where we meet our MMC Kyle Collins and his young son Josh along with Kyle’s best friend Adam. Kyle is a coach and teacher at the local high school and the hot older single dad.
When they meet for the first time Eve knew what she wanted and the chemistry was electric! You could feel it emanating off the page!!! They connected in so many ways and that was one of the most beautiful things about the book to me. It was simply more.
Being a preachers kid can’t be easy not even in a book. Poor Eve…man, she was dealing with more than just that. In so many ways she was confident and in so many others she was almost a scared little girl and I love that we got to see these sides of her. She was so busy trying to be what she thought everyone wanted and forgot about Eve. She, imo, didn’t put her wants, dreams and aspirations first, she wasn’t selfish enough for her and I think that’s why the things happened as they did. I can also say the same for Kyle. I think you have to be a little selfish in this life or else there’s a disconnect and you get trampled on and end up lost.
I thought about myself when I was her age while I was reading and I was exactly like her in so many ways. I mean even if you are an “old soul” you still are just 18 and everyone seems to know what’s best for you and couldn’t care less what you think. At 18 it’s all about the number. I could also see things from Kyle’s perspective as I was a single mom. You have to think of that young life that you created and are now responsible for and you don’t think you have time for dating or relationships especially with someone 10 years younger. But in the words of Selena Gonez…the heart wants what it wants!!!! Thank you Lord🙌🏻🙌🏻
I will say that Grandma Bonnie and Adam were two of the best things in this book! I found myself laughing out loud several times!! And bless Grandma Bonnie’s heart she came in CLUTCH there in the end and I was thankful for it!!!
I have said it a million times and I will say it again. I have YET to read a bad book by JEA and I honestly don’t know what is wrong with yall that aren’t on this train because holy moly she’s the absolute bomb!!!!
Oh and on a closing note the sexy time was sexy and spicy 🥵
I was given an advanced copy of the book by the author for review
It has literally taken me days to formulate my thoughts on this book. I have so much to say and I get so excited that my thoughts just get jumbled together 🤦🏼♀️🤣 I can’t promise they won’t still so here goes!
I have looked forward to Eves story since we got a snippet of her in Sunday Morning (this is the first book in the series they can be read as standalones but I would highly suggest reading in order) where she, to me, was the picture for the typical preachers daughter.
When we begin, Eve is 18, just graduated and working at the local motel cleaning rooms because she has no idea what she wants to do with her life and oh yeah she’s grounded for drinking at the creek🤣
There will be so many readers that won’t like her because she’s immature, whiny, wishy washy, flippant and so many more adjectives. I am gonna make a case for her because she is one of the most precious fmc’s I’ve read in a long time. I fell in love with her because of all of those things and more. She was so refreshing and she was a little broken inside and I wanted to just wrap her up in a big huge hug!
While she’s grounded she is looking through binoculars to the place next door and sees there is a new tenant! This is where we meet our MMC Kyle Collins and his young son Josh along with Kyle’s best friend Adam. Kyle is a coach and teacher at the local high school and the hot older single dad.
When they meet for the first time Eve knew what she wanted and the chemistry was electric! You could feel it emanating off the page!!! They connected in so many ways and that was one of the most beautiful things about the book to me. It was simply more.
Being a preachers kid can’t be easy not even in a book. Poor Eve…man, she was dealing with more than just that. In so many ways she was confident and in so many others she was almost a scared little girl and I love that we got to see these sides of her. She was so busy trying to be what she thought everyone wanted and forgot about Eve. She, imo, didn’t put her wants, dreams and aspirations first, she wasn’t selfish enough for her and I think that’s why the things happened as they did. I can also say the same for Kyle. I think you have to be a little selfish in this life or else there’s a disconnect and you get trampled on and end up lost.
I thought about myself when I was her age while I was reading and I was exactly like her in so many ways. I mean even if you are an “old soul” you still are just 18 and everyone seems to know what’s best for you and couldn’t care less what you think. At 18 it’s all about the number. I could also see things from Kyle’s perspective as I was a single mom. You have to think of that young life that you created and are now responsible for and you don’t think you have time for dating or relationships especially with someone 10 years younger. But in the words of Selena Gonez…the heart wants what it wants!!!! Thank you Lord🙌🏻🙌🏻
I will say that Grandma Bonnie and Adam were two of the best things in this book! I found myself laughing out loud several times!! And bless Grandma Bonnie’s heart she came in CLUTCH there in the end and I was thankful for it!!!
I have said it a million times and I will say it again. I have YET to read a bad book by JEA and I honestly don’t know what is wrong with yall that aren’t on this train because holy moly she’s the absolute bomb!!!!
Oh and on a closing note the sexy time was sexy and spicy 🥵
I was given an advanced copy of the book by the author for review
February 16, 2025
Almost Perfect—A Book That Stole My Heart!
You know that rare feeling when a book sweeps you off your feet, pulling you into its world so completely that you don’t want it to end? The Apple Tree and Sunday Morning by Jewel E. Ann did exactly that. The love, the emotion, the chemistry. I laughed, I cried, and I fell in love right alongside the characters.
Once in a while, I read a book that touches me profoundly—not because it’s a story that changes the world, but because it speaks to me in a way that feels unexpectedly and undeniably personal. Jewel E. Ann has managed to do that for me multiple times. Not all of her books are a perfect match, but the ones that resonate are unforgettable.
Both The Apple Tree and Sunday Morning struck just the right chord. These books follow the love stories of three sisters, daughters of a preacher, and maybe that’s part of why they captivated me—the contrast between their upbringing and their choice of partners, men who aren’t what their parents envisioned but who are perfect for them. The love between the couples leaps off the pages, the passion ignites everything, and my heart raced with the possibilities.
I have a soft spot for new adult romances—maybe because of the intensity of first love, the angst, or the journey of figuring things out and making mistakes along the way. But beyond that, the emotions Jewel E. Ann conveys in her writing bring everything to life. What I particularly loved in Sunday Morning was how similar the main couple was. It was such an interesting twist—their humor matched, they understood each other like no one else, and there was even talk of recognizing one another on a deeper level, which I felt so strongly!
As someone who enjoys single-parent romances, this book checked another box for me. Josh, Kyle’s young son, was adorable and served as a beautiful connection between the couple. The age gap was another element I loved—it added a tiny touch of forbidden romance, though it was handled perfectly (especially since she had already graduated high school and was no longer his student). It’s no exaggeration to say I loved everything about this book. The way the characters fell so deeply in love made it an unputdownable read.
The Apple Tree was almost as perfect as Sunday Morning. Jewel E. Ann has a gift for writing emotional stories that bring tears to my eyes, and The Apple Tree was no exception. By the time I finished the last page, I found myself hoping for a book about Gabby. The three sisters were so different, each uniquely fascinating, and I can’t wait to see how Gabby’s love story unfolds.
You know that rare feeling when a book sweeps you off your feet, pulling you into its world so completely that you don’t want it to end? The Apple Tree and Sunday Morning by Jewel E. Ann did exactly that. The love, the emotion, the chemistry. I laughed, I cried, and I fell in love right alongside the characters.
Once in a while, I read a book that touches me profoundly—not because it’s a story that changes the world, but because it speaks to me in a way that feels unexpectedly and undeniably personal. Jewel E. Ann has managed to do that for me multiple times. Not all of her books are a perfect match, but the ones that resonate are unforgettable.
Both The Apple Tree and Sunday Morning struck just the right chord. These books follow the love stories of three sisters, daughters of a preacher, and maybe that’s part of why they captivated me—the contrast between their upbringing and their choice of partners, men who aren’t what their parents envisioned but who are perfect for them. The love between the couples leaps off the pages, the passion ignites everything, and my heart raced with the possibilities.
I have a soft spot for new adult romances—maybe because of the intensity of first love, the angst, or the journey of figuring things out and making mistakes along the way. But beyond that, the emotions Jewel E. Ann conveys in her writing bring everything to life. What I particularly loved in Sunday Morning was how similar the main couple was. It was such an interesting twist—their humor matched, they understood each other like no one else, and there was even talk of recognizing one another on a deeper level, which I felt so strongly!
As someone who enjoys single-parent romances, this book checked another box for me. Josh, Kyle’s young son, was adorable and served as a beautiful connection between the couple. The age gap was another element I loved—it added a tiny touch of forbidden romance, though it was handled perfectly (especially since she had already graduated high school and was no longer his student). It’s no exaggeration to say I loved everything about this book. The way the characters fell so deeply in love made it an unputdownable read.
The Apple Tree was almost as perfect as Sunday Morning. Jewel E. Ann has a gift for writing emotional stories that bring tears to my eyes, and The Apple Tree was no exception. By the time I finished the last page, I found myself hoping for a book about Gabby. The three sisters were so different, each uniquely fascinating, and I can’t wait to see how Gabby’s love story unfolds.
January 28, 2025
I had a hard time connecting with characters and really struggled with the age gap in this one. Normally I don't have a problem but it was a little much for me.
Thank you to Valentine PR and the author for an advanced copy! I hate that it didn't click with me :/
Thank you to Valentine PR and the author for an advanced copy! I hate that it didn't click with me :/
January 10, 2025
4.5 Stars – A Thoughtful and Heartfelt Romance
I have to start by saying that age-gap romances are a newer trope for me, and, as a teacher, stories where an 18-year-old falls for an older love interest can sometimes feel uncomfortable. However, Jewel E. Ann skillfully eases this tension, showcasing the maturity differences and self-control of her characters in a way that feels authentic and respectful.
What truly stood out to me was the depth and sincerity of the romance. Jewel’s talent for crafting beautifully written love stories is undeniable. Her characters are complex, their emotions palpable, and their connection intense yet tender. Beyond the romance, I appreciated how she wove important, weighty themes—such as the impact of alcoholism—into the narrative with sensitivity and nuance. It’s this ability to balance heartfelt romance with real-life struggles that set her apart as an author.
The Apple Tree is an emotional, captivating read that explores love, choices, and personal growth. It left me feeling invested in the characters’ journeys and deeply satisfied by the story’s resolution. If you’re a fan of slow-burn romance with emotional depth, this one is worth picking up.
I have to start by saying that age-gap romances are a newer trope for me, and, as a teacher, stories where an 18-year-old falls for an older love interest can sometimes feel uncomfortable. However, Jewel E. Ann skillfully eases this tension, showcasing the maturity differences and self-control of her characters in a way that feels authentic and respectful.
What truly stood out to me was the depth and sincerity of the romance. Jewel’s talent for crafting beautifully written love stories is undeniable. Her characters are complex, their emotions palpable, and their connection intense yet tender. Beyond the romance, I appreciated how she wove important, weighty themes—such as the impact of alcoholism—into the narrative with sensitivity and nuance. It’s this ability to balance heartfelt romance with real-life struggles that set her apart as an author.
The Apple Tree is an emotional, captivating read that explores love, choices, and personal growth. It left me feeling invested in the characters’ journeys and deeply satisfied by the story’s resolution. If you’re a fan of slow-burn romance with emotional depth, this one is worth picking up.
January 20, 2025
RATING: ∞ 'Lady in Red & Nerd' HEARTS! <3
The Apple Tree is a lush, heartwarming, and utterly romantic story, Jewel E. Ann unyieldingly, but masterfully, playing on our heartstrings with gut-wrenching prose and gorgeously genuine characters.
“If I’m doing the math correctly, and I let my heart love you as much as it’s dying to love you, then you’ll never want for more than me, my messy son, and that needy dog.”
What makes this story so achingly beautiful is how effortlessly Ms. Ann creates characters that feel like a piece of ourselves flung out into the world; their vulnerability bleeding into the pages as strength and courage in navigating a life full of tribulations and triumphs. Eve is our beautifully nuanced heroine, unapologetically living her life, harmonizing with the highs and lows with an understanding that exceeds her young years. Kyle is the quintessential good guy with a heart of gold, his cemented devotion and protective orbit for his son opening, slowly but surely, for Eve as she finds a home in his and his son’s lives.
“I like the world through her eyes. I like her young, wild heart, and I think it would be tragic if she ever conformed to anything but staring at the stars, picking apples, and … making love in wildflower fields.”
The romance between the two is a breathtaking dance between banter and chemistry, each push and pull flowing seamlessly to keep them riding passion’s edge without unnecessary drama. Theirs is a love story that is irrevocably swoony. There's really no bigger, better, more descriptive word for it.
“I love that you’ll never stop taking my breath away. And when I’m old and on my deathbed, I’m going to give you this smile with my last breath, and doing so will be the greatest honor of my life.”
Overall, The Apple Tree is a deeply compelling story of destiny, strength, and true love—Ms. Ann vividly capturing the kaleidoscope of human emotions, leaving the topography of our hearts forever changed by the shape of her characters’ footprints.
IF YOU LOVE:
♥ Forbidden Romance
♥ Age Gap Romance
♥ Small Town Romance
♥ Neighbours to Lovers
♥ Single Dad
♥ Set in the 80s
*I received an ARC from the publisher, Valentine PR, in exchange for my honest review.*
Posted: January 20, 2025
January 23, 2025
*This is an ARC review
DNF at about 15%.
So I thought I didn't mind about age gap but turn out I still have a limit. A 18 years old girl with a 30 ish year old man is a big no for me. The story is good it's really just the age gap that turn me off
Thank you so much Valentine PR/and the author for the advance copy❤️
DNF at about 15%.
So I thought I didn't mind about age gap but turn out I still have a limit. A 18 years old girl with a 30 ish year old man is a big no for me. The story is good it's really just the age gap that turn me off
Thank you so much Valentine PR/and the author for the advance copy❤️
July 1, 2025
got completely swept up in this! 5🌟
✨”My dream wasn’t a place. It was a person.” ✨🍎❤️
-80’s small town setting (they go to Dirty Dancing in the theater and listen to Lady in Red on the radio on the way there, she contemplates getting a perm!)
✨”He’s not your Maverick. He’s mine. My Pete Mitchell. My Daniel La Russo. My Johnny Castle.” ✨
-amazing fun banter, sassy FMC
✨”now you can go home and be mad”✨
-cute kid, single dad football coach she’s the nanny
✨”I’m gonna love ya, and if you don’t like that, that’s just too bad. I’m not even a little sorry. “✨
-10 yr age gap: I put off reading this bc I thought it would ick me out given her age (18) but JEA made it work here.
✨”It’s not right.” “Yeah well, it doesn’t feel wrong either.” ✨
-coming of age/family dynamics and substance abuse issues are handled well
-Eve, Kyle and Josh are such loveable characters. Same fam from Sunday Morning.
✨”i’m not a chill person…you’re on my mind 24/7. I look for you through my bedroom window-with binoculars. Every song I hear is about you. I can’t shower without touching myself and thinking of you. When I go for a run I’m chasing you. My life went from boring to amazing because you moved into this house with the world’s cutest little boy. I watch Josh and make dinner or an apple dessert and I pretend that this is my house too, and he’s my son.”✨
✨”My dream wasn’t a place. It was a person.” ✨🍎❤️
-80’s small town setting (they go to Dirty Dancing in the theater and listen to Lady in Red on the radio on the way there, she contemplates getting a perm!)
✨”He’s not your Maverick. He’s mine. My Pete Mitchell. My Daniel La Russo. My Johnny Castle.” ✨
-amazing fun banter, sassy FMC
✨”now you can go home and be mad”✨
-cute kid, single dad football coach she’s the nanny
✨”I’m gonna love ya, and if you don’t like that, that’s just too bad. I’m not even a little sorry. “✨
-10 yr age gap: I put off reading this bc I thought it would ick me out given her age (18) but JEA made it work here.
✨”It’s not right.” “Yeah well, it doesn’t feel wrong either.” ✨
-coming of age/family dynamics and substance abuse issues are handled well
-Eve, Kyle and Josh are such loveable characters. Same fam from Sunday Morning.
✨”i’m not a chill person…you’re on my mind 24/7. I look for you through my bedroom window-with binoculars. Every song I hear is about you. I can’t shower without touching myself and thinking of you. When I go for a run I’m chasing you. My life went from boring to amazing because you moved into this house with the world’s cutest little boy. I watch Josh and make dinner or an apple dessert and I pretend that this is my house too, and he’s my son.”✨
January 23, 2025
We were a tinderbox, and every touch and look sparked an uncontrollable flame.
Honestly, I don’t even know what I’m allowed to say about this book other than it’s a forbidden age gap romance that’s so emotionally charged that it put me through the wringer and had me up early into the morning reading to see what would happen. Eve, the preacher’s freshly graduated “rebel” middle daughter and Kyle, the new next door neighbor, who is a single dad and the high school math teacher just can’t seem to stay away from each other even though they know they probably should. I loved their story because of course it’s forbidden and angsty, but it also goes deeper than their romance in ways that will make you care for these characters.
Anyway. If you enjoy forbidden age gap romance that will hit all the emotional checkpoints, while still being funny, steamy, and relatable, then The Apple Tree is the perfect read for you!
AVAILABLE NOW!
*ARC
Honestly, I don’t even know what I’m allowed to say about this book other than it’s a forbidden age gap romance that’s so emotionally charged that it put me through the wringer and had me up early into the morning reading to see what would happen. Eve, the preacher’s freshly graduated “rebel” middle daughter and Kyle, the new next door neighbor, who is a single dad and the high school math teacher just can’t seem to stay away from each other even though they know they probably should. I loved their story because of course it’s forbidden and angsty, but it also goes deeper than their romance in ways that will make you care for these characters.
Anyway. If you enjoy forbidden age gap romance that will hit all the emotional checkpoints, while still being funny, steamy, and relatable, then The Apple Tree is the perfect read for you!
AVAILABLE NOW!
*ARC
February 2, 2025
2.5 Stars
This story just didn’t quite click for me.
I found the character of Eve to be a bit too childish at times, which made it hard to connect with her or take her seriously.
As for the plot, it leaned a little too heavily on that insta-love trope, which felt unrealistic. I find that it always makes the story feel a bit shallow.
I am still a big fan of this author though.
This story just didn’t quite click for me.
I found the character of Eve to be a bit too childish at times, which made it hard to connect with her or take her seriously.
As for the plot, it leaned a little too heavily on that insta-love trope, which felt unrealistic. I find that it always makes the story feel a bit shallow.
I am still a big fan of this author though.
January 22, 2025
I really struggled with this one. I honestly had to force myself to pick it up and finish. Eve was very immature. It makes sense since she’s 18. But the interaction between her and Kyle felt odd. She keeps pushing him, and they have this attraction to each other. He tries to fight it but fails. I think this book felt a bit weird to me because it’s not YA/New Adult but also not fully Adult.
I also don’t think I believed the relationship. I can get past an age gap, but just feel like something was missing between them.
I think I also wanted a bit more from the family interactions, especially after the drama at the end. There was more that could have been fleshed out.
Overall just ok.
Thanks Valentine PR for the early copy.
I also don’t think I believed the relationship. I can get past an age gap, but just feel like something was missing between them.
I think I also wanted a bit more from the family interactions, especially after the drama at the end. There was more that could have been fleshed out.
Overall just ok.
Thanks Valentine PR for the early copy.
March 6, 2025
DNF @ 40% - the age gap felt really icky to me and I couldn’t push through after the first sex scene because it made me WILDLY uncomfortable. Eve seemed so different in this book to how she was in the first book? The writing didn’t flow and felt really choppy. I skipped to the end to see what ends up happening and I’m glad I didn’t continue 🫣
Thank you to Valentine PR for the gifted advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to Valentine PR for the gifted advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
February 11, 2025
would’ve been 5 stars if I didn’t find the fmc to be so unbelievably annoying 🫠 LOVE YOU JEWEL E ANN!
January 23, 2025
Eve + Kyle
The year is 1987 and pastor daughter Eve is 18 years old. She is done with school and has no idea what to do next.
Enter Kyle. The 28 year old single dad to five year old Josh moves in next door. Kyle is the new Highschool Math teacher and Football Coach - and little brother to Eve's dad's best pastor buddy!
Eve's mom offers her daughter as a baby sitter and Eve is all for it. She's super attracted to the hot new neighbor.
But it would be so wrong for Kyle to fall for the young girl, right?
He has his kid to think about. And his new job and reputation in this small town. Right?
What will happen with Eve and Kyle?
Will there be a HEA?
READ THE BOOK TO FIND OUT!
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That was adorable!
Single dad stories always have something really cute and sexy.
I still don't really understand why this series needs to take place in the 1980ies? And I still hate that the dad is a pastor. I hate religion so much.
But the story was still cute.
It was sweet and funny and sexy and the little boy is such a cutie!
But I also kind of hated the 'secret' Eve is keeping from everybody. I hate that in books - not the secret part - but what it is!
And also... the huge drama that I was expecting... it didn't really happen. There were some minor things, but nothing mega huge. I expected a bit more.
The whole book was a bit slow and uneventful - especially the first half.
But it was still a very sweet and adorable pastor-daughter-falls-for-ten-years-older-single-dad-neighbor. I liked reading it. I would've loved it more without all the religious stuff and I would've made Eve a couple of years older - she was too immature for me!
I'm excited to see what the third sister will have to tell us in her book - I really hope it's not too religious again. The title doesn't give me much hope though: A Good Book!
THE APPLE TREE was such a sweet and funny and sexy and heartbreaking age gap love story. Full of family. Friends. Neighbors. Love. Apples. Expectations. Rebellion. Secrets. Small Town things...and so much more! I loved it. Go read it!
If you can't click the buy-links
from your phone - click ► HERE!
💜
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January 24, 2025
Loved, loved, loved this story so much!!! Kyle and Eve were perfection. Jewel E Ann writes the absolute best banter, and always has this ability to make me instantly love the couple the book is about. My 80’s lovin’ heart loved this book and I definitely recommend!!!
February 16, 2025
2.5 Stars
Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The premise, the pacing, and the H's son Josh.
The Not-So-Good: The ending felt like an epilogue thrown in for those of us that feel like they need it (🙋🏻♀️) but too rushed and even felt like it was a pretty bow to put on after the conflict was barely resolved right before.
The Bad: The lack of connection I felt between and with the characters.
Overall: Dang it. I was disappointed with this one. I don't feel like it was up to the Jewel E. Ann caliber. While I'm always frustrated with her endings and this one had an epilogue and enough for me to call it a "HEA", the rest of it felt like maybe she wrote this fast or something because I didn't connect or feel as much as I usually do. The premise was awesome. The characters were likable but also flawed like her characters usually are, but I think I struggled with certain aspects of the characters in this enough to not connect with them (h - cringey immature behavior and H - hot and cold in confronting way). I'm thinking Ms. Ann is definitely a hit or miss author now for me and this one was sadly a miss.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Eve and Kyle's story. Kyle and his young son, Josh, move in next door to the small town pastor and his family. When he meets Eve, he is instantly attracted but she is way too young for him. Eve ends up babysitting and is infatuated instantly with both Kyle and Josh. There are lines crossed, secrets revealed, and sexy times...and they get a HEA ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Eve and Kyle's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: No, but instant attraction and connection.
H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Kyle. I liked how he cared for the h and supported her wild ways, however, I got frustrated with his hot and cold behavior.
h (heroine) rating: 3.5 stars. Eve. While I liked her sass and comfort in her self identity, I wanted her to have a little more dignity when it came to the H. It was kind of cringey at times.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed - sadly.
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Just mild jealousy
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ends with a cute epilogue where I will call it an HEA . However, I felt like it was just thrown in to appease those of us that need a certain amount of closure, but it wasn't fleshed out very much and not as much as I would've hoped we got. I know I'm picky 🫣
Safety: This one is probably Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences
Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The premise, the pacing, and the H's son Josh.
The Not-So-Good: The ending felt like an epilogue thrown in for those of us that feel like they need it (🙋🏻♀️) but too rushed and even felt like it was a pretty bow to put on after the conflict was barely resolved right before.
The Bad: The lack of connection I felt between and with the characters.
Overall: Dang it. I was disappointed with this one. I don't feel like it was up to the Jewel E. Ann caliber. While I'm always frustrated with her endings and this one had an epilogue and enough for me to call it a "HEA", the rest of it felt like maybe she wrote this fast or something because I didn't connect or feel as much as I usually do. The premise was awesome. The characters were likable but also flawed like her characters usually are, but I think I struggled with certain aspects of the characters in this enough to not connect with them (h - cringey immature behavior and H - hot and cold in confronting way). I'm thinking Ms. Ann is definitely a hit or miss author now for me and this one was sadly a miss.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Eve and Kyle's story. Kyle and his young son, Josh, move in next door to the small town pastor and his family. When he meets Eve, he is instantly attracted but she is way too young for him. Eve ends up babysitting and is infatuated instantly with both Kyle and Josh. There are lines crossed, secrets revealed, and sexy times...and they get a HEA ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Eve and Kyle's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: No, but instant attraction and connection.
H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Kyle. I liked how he cared for the h and supported her wild ways, however, I got frustrated with his hot and cold behavior.
h (heroine) rating: 3.5 stars. Eve. While I liked her sass and comfort in her self identity, I wanted her to have a little more dignity when it came to the H. It was kind of cringey at times.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed - sadly.
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Just mild jealousy
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ends with a cute epilogue where I will call it an HEA . However, I felt like it was just thrown in to appease those of us that need a certain amount of closure, but it wasn't fleshed out very much and not as much as I would've hoped we got. I know I'm picky 🫣
Safety: This one is probably Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences
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