The must-read companion to country singer-songwriter Caylee Hammack’s new album, coauthored by Hammack and New York Times–bestselling author Carolyn Brown.
On the run after her heart’s broken, Sam starts to wonder if she should have listened to her daddy’s don’t get a vintage car until you know how to fix one. Now she’s stranded—along with her dog, Nibbler—in a middle-of-nowhere town no bigger than a matchbox until she can get her 1965 Mustang repaired.
Jack, owner of the one and only mechanic shop in remote Homestead, Texas, is a tall drink of water. And Sam quickly recognizes she’s his type from the glint in his pretty green eyes. So she’s pleasantly surprised when he offers up the refuge of his grandmother’s B&B, the Rose Garden, while he fixes what’s under the hood.
Still, Sam intends to be on her way in a few days—but then Ms. Kathleen offers her free room and board in exchange for helping out at her flower shop. Distracted by the blooms that surround her charming new home, Sam starts to feel settled for the first time in forever. But when local bookstore owner Noah catches her eye, she’s forced to confront her heartache head-on. Will she be able to let down her guard and trust again? Or will she follow her instincts and run for the hills?
With chapters inspired by Caylee Hammack’s album of the same name, Bed of Roses takes readers on a journey from heartbreak to healing. Shaped by the stories that molded her into the artist she is today, this novel is a rare opportunity to become fully immersed in her authentic sound and heartfelt storytelling—and a reminder to hopeless romantics everywhere that we need not wait for someone to bring us roses; we can grow them all on our own.
“A songbook for the heart!” —Jill Shalvis, New York Times–bestselling author of the Lucky Harbor series
“An absolutely charming story about starting over, rich with friendship, heartbreak, true bonds, and new love.” —Lori Foster, New York Times–bestselling author of the Indiana Summers series
“Filled with smalltown charm, Bed of Roses will warm your heart and put a smile on your face.” —Rachel Gibson, New York Times–bestselling author of the Lovett, Texas, series
“A heartwarming smalltown gem that had me cheering on our heroine Sam from the very first page. . . . Her tenacity and tenderness shine through as she navigates the drama and gossip of a quirky little town. The characters are as colorful as they come—a few good, a few bad, and few you will never forget. And then there’s Noah, who owns the bookstore. Cue swooning. . . . Bed of Roses is a must-read. It’s Steel Magnolias meets your favorite country song. You’ll laugh, cry, and maybe even find yourself humming a tune by the end.” —Nancy Naigle, USA Today–bestselling author of the Adams Grove series
I was looking through Hoopla and they were advertising this music album and accompanying Romance novel which sounded cool and I already kinda liked Caylee Hammack's music. So I used my last borrow of the month to get Bed of Roses by Caylee Hammack and Carolyn Brown.
I regret that choice.
The premise of the book is simple, classic Contemporary Romance. Sam's long-time boyfriend cheated on her with her best friend so Sam is running away from her hometown. Her old car breaks down in the small town of Homestead, Texas. Jack the tow truck driver shows up and alternates between hitting on her and badmouthing just about every character that will show up in the book. At the mechanic shop, she turns him down for a date so he leaves her to walk several miles to the Bed & Breakfast on the edge of town. Right past the bookstore she just must stop at and meet Noah, the owner. Who has a girlfriend. Sam refuses to let him give her a ride and goes to the B&B which is run by a pair of elderly ladies who are totally just friends who have purchased a couples' gravestone for the two of them. The car is going to cost more to repair than it's worth, so Sam just sells it and stays.
**Spoiler Warning**
As for the music album, that's great. Genuinely, some great music. But it has so little to do with the novel that I wonder if they just gave Carolyn Brown the song titles and went "Work these in where you can!"
Also, score one more for the parents-killed-in-a-small-aircraft-crash. I swear that there's an epidemic of that in Romance.
Anything with Carolyn Brown’s name on it is an automatic read, even if it’s a laundry detergent bottle. I adored this book. I loved Kathleen and Loretta because they offered wisdom from years of experience and the school of hard knocks. Noah was dreamy! It’s punctuated with down home humor and wit and charm. My only regrets is Nibbler didn’t lift his leg on Laura or get to bite Jack. Thanks to Podium Publishing and Valentine PR for the digital copy.
Why didn't y'all tell me this was a comedy? This gives soap opera and lifetime movie vibes. 💀
I've got a theory: every chapter that says the words "bread and butter" was only written because the editor told the author that it needs more "bread and butter" to fill the book because she thought it was cute. 😭
I only recommend if you are looking for a book to dislike so much you laugh at it.
"Bed of Roses" by Caylee Hammack and Carolyn Brown can be so corny at times. I guess this is an accompaniment to a country album? It sure feels like it could be, country bumpkin-type of plot. It is like The Hallmark Channel vomited all over this story. Don't get me wrong, I love a good cheesy, cozy, comfy, fluffy small-town romance novel, but this one did not do it for me. The main character, Sam, gets stuck in a small town called Homestead, TX, after her dad's vintage car breaks down, and she decides to see where life takes her while she's there waiting for it to get fixed. She gets a job at the local bookstore, owned by Noah, whom she is instantly attracted to. Unfortunately for Sam, Noah has a girlfriend, and she is not about to be "the other woman," especially considering *she* was recently cheated on by both her ex-boyfriend and her best friend. Still, that doesn't stop her from admiring him from afar...and vice versa. The authors make Noah's girlfriend the worst person she could possibly be: a literal dog-kicking, small-town-hating liar and cheater, so we, the readers, empathize and sympathize when Noah and Sam's budding friendship that eventually turns into more. I wasn't convinced because they have absolutely no chemistry with one another. To me, their forced proximity was just that: convenient. Sam is in town, possibly temporarily, and Noah happens to live there. She is recently heartbroken. He is recently heartbroken. Bing-bang-boom-coupled-up?? I never once felt anything other than an extremely surface-level friendship between the two of them. Heck, he had more friendly chemistry with his ex-girlfriend's mother! While seemingly waiting for Noah to decide to break up with his girlfriend, a woman whom he has clearly expressed disinterest in on multiple occasions, Sam casually sees a man named Jack, even though she (and everyone in town) knows he is a scoundrel, a jerk, a cheater, and a terrible person. This led me to question everyone's thought processes!! Why are these people sitting around wasting their time like this?! If you dislike someone so much that you don't want to be with them, just break up with them and move on! It's not rocket science! If you know a guy is bad news, don't date him! If everyone in town is telling you, "this person is awful," don't date them, even casually!! If you were recently cheated on, don't turn around and do the same thing to someone else, even if they kicked your dog! This story is also simultaneously too short and too long. It is all over the place in terms of its story, and I didn't find the writing anything to, well, write home about. The authors keep piling on the melodrama to the point where it all starts to feel like a midday soap opera. I also did not love the audiobook narration by Cassandra Myles. There was not enough differentiation between the characters' voices for me to be able to keep everyone straight. I am sorry to say I did not like this one.
Thank you to Caylee Hammack, Carolyn Brown, and Valentine PR for the complimentary ALC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
This is a sweet story spun from starting over, self discovery, and the wisdom & love of guidance from older women. I really enjoyed listening to the story of Sam, who is leaving behind her ex & betrayal and starting over on her own. Little did she know that her car breaking down, would put her on the path of true friendship and love. Narrated elegantly by Cassandra Myles, this is a must listen!
Caylee Hammack’s Bed of Roses is a captivating and emotionally charged exploration of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. Blending elements of country music with heartfelt storytelling, Hammack crafts a poignant tale that feels both personal and universal.
The novel follows Samantha, struggling with the betrayal of her best friend and boyfriend hooking up behind her back, seeking a fresh start, and finding herself in the process. When Sam’s car breaks down in Homestead, Texas, she becomes enamored by the town and it’s eccentric inhabitants. Hammack’s writing is rich with vivid imagery and emotion, pulling readers into Sam’s world and the town of Homestead. The way she weaves themes of resilience and healing into the narrative makes the book not only a journey through romantic entanglements but also one of personal growth.
One of the standout aspects of Bed of Roses is Hammack’s lyrical prose, which mirrors the rhythm and soul of her country music. Her ability to convey deep emotional truths through her characters' experiences is impressive, making for a book that resonates long after it’s been put down. While Bed of Roses is undoubtedly a love story, it also emphasizes the importance of self-empowerment and the understanding that sometimes, healing requires letting go. Hammack does a wonderful job of blending moments of tenderness with hard-hitting reality, showing that love isn't just about finding someone to share your life with—it’s also about learning to love yourself.
The characters in Bed of Roses are complex and relatable, each with their own flaws and virtues that make them feel like real people. As Sam navigates her journey, readers will find themselves rooting for her every step of the way, hoping she finds the happiness she so deserves.
Ultimately, Bed of Roses is a beautifully written novel that will speak to anyone who has ever been in love, lost, or learned to rise above adversity. Caylee Hammack’s storytelling offers a blend of heart and authenticity that leaves a lasting impression.
This is easily my new favorite comfort read. It’s cozy, charming, and has just enough spice. I’m a sucker for a small town romance and this absolutely delivered. It was a relatively quick read and when I finished I immediately wanted more. From the town of Homestead and the beautiful imagery of the Rose Garden B&B to the character dynamics, reading this felt personal in the way that every character felt real and even the town itself felt tangible, while the beautiful phrasing left me with the lasting feeling of being in a fragrant daydream. I pray there will be more stories to come out of this town! Seriously, I want more of every single character we were introduced to. Kathleen and Loretta?! Legends. Caylee Hammack’s ability to balance the realness of growing from heartbreak and the internal battle that goes on when you’re drawn to someone you feel you shouldn’t be at your most vulnerable, is impeccable. Her charm and wisdom transcends through every chapter and it’s obvious from the very first page she’s a natural and gifted storyteller. I can’t wait to read this again (and again and again and again) while listening to the album and utterly submerge myself into this beautiful universe Caylee has created.
Bed of Roses is such a cozy read and I just love the writings of the authors! Sam finds herself running away from her hometown after a bad heartbreak but then her car breaks down. It leaves her stranded in this small town and she is taken under the wing of two lovely ladies from a B&B. Trying to figure out what to do next she stumbles upon this cute little bookstore with the handsome owner Noah. She is trying to get over a heartbreak and rediscover herself. But will a new attraction bloom or will struggles get in the way? You must pick up a copy of this book because it is just so captivating. It details love, loss, rediscovering yourself, forgiveness, and emotions. There are so many turns in this story as well that will keep you on your toes and wanting more! Really enjoyed!!
After walking in on Liza Beth, her best friend, and Chase, boyfriend, Sam takes a road trip from Rosepine, Louisiana to Mena, Arkansas when her 1965 Mustang breaks down in a small-town Homestead, Texas. Jake the owner of Jake’s Auto Shop comes across Sam on the side of the road and offers to tow her back to his shop where his partner Buster can take a look under the hood to fix up the car. Jake suggests Sam to stay at Rose Garden Bed and Breakfast. Once Sam arrives at Rose Garden, Kathleen offers her free room and board for the time she is there if willing to help out at the bed and breakfast.
Bed of Roses was a super quick, easy read and I found myself invested very shortly in the book and didn’t want to put it down! I loved the touch of found family along with the grief of losing your best friend and boyfriend. You can feel the heartache and healing along with how important forgiveness is and what it is like to be set free from it.
If you like friends to lovers and small-town romances I feel as though this book is for you!!!
I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for my honest review.
I loved this book. From the slow burn to the friends to lovers dynamic it had me hooked. Samantha’s journey through hardships was truly moving as she not only learned how to love again but also how to love herself. I really appreciated the religious aspects of God’s guidance and her wise “sages” help throughout the book as it added depth to the story. This is not a book with heavy romance scenes but the relationship and storyline was a huge dynamic. I only disliked that it was in third person point of view and would have felt more personal and touching in first person point of view from a few of the characters. Overall, it was a great book and a quick read.
This is a very sweet romance novel that I’ve been anticipating it and it did not let me down. I am not familiar with Caylee Hammock’s music but after listening to the audiobook I must listen to her album of the same name.
The book started off very strong and continued to be strong throughout. I enjoyed the story and the romance. Sam’s growth throughout the book is truly amazing. I was rooting for her the entire time.
The way the two authors can make me feel emotions towards these characters takes talent. I hated some characters and loved the others. This is a must read for any romance fans.
Thank you so much to the authors and Valentine PR for an ALC of this book.
Anything carolyn brown writes, Is an absolute must read. Her books are an absolute hoot.
This book had me glued to the pages, turning them not nearly fast.Enough.
This one starts with a road trip, a 1965 Mustang.my favorite. nibbler sam's dog. A story that pulls at your heart and you will love every character along the way a story to fall in love with.
And the rose garden has a story all itself.I didn't see coming, but I loved this story. I highly recommend this one to everyone.
Bed of Roses is a charming story about Sam, who leaves her hometown—and a terrible ex—behind in search of a fresh start. When her car breaks down, fate leads her to exactly where she’s meant to be.
Noah is absolutely adorable, and I especially loved that he owns a bookstore—it adds such a cozy touch to the story.
This is a short, easy read, but that ending left me wondering… could there be a sequel in the works?
This is a companion novel to country singer-songwriter Caylee Hammack’s new album, coauthored by Hammack and New York Times-bestselling author Carolyn Brown. While I haven’t listened to Caylee Hammack’s music until now I really enjoyed the story on its own as well. It’s equal parts romantic and sweet but with some really nice themes of self worth and letting go of the past. There is a cute dog and a very quaint small town setting - all made for a fast easy sweet romance read that made me smile.
Wonderful Story & Listen🎧 Sweet & Heartwarming! Bed of Roses By: Carolyn Brown, Caylee Hammack Narrated by: Cassandra Myles
“Bed of Roses” is a charming small town romance that captivates your attention and warms your heart. The characters are realistic, relatable and easy to connect with, easy to root for, too. Sam’ had her heart broken when she caught her boyfriend cheating on her with her best friend, a double heartbreak. She needed to get away, so she packed up and took her dog Nibbler on a road trip in her vintage ‘65 Mustang, against her father’s advisement, heading to her cousin’s place in Arkansas, except her car breaks down in the middle of nowhere, Texas, not too far from Homestead, a quaint small town. Luckily, the only mechanic, Jack, in miles saw her stranded and brought her and her car to town. She did not get the best vibes from Jack, but with limited cell service, she had no choice but to put her trust in him. Leaving her car at the mechanic, she set off for the one B&B in town, The Rose Garden. On the way there, she met Noah, the owner of the local bookstore and there was a spark between them, but it couldn’t go anywhere, since he was involved with someone and she was nursing a broken heart and was not looking for a rebound. The ladies at The Rose Garden B & B were very welcoming and, knowing her car situation, they offered her a job and accommodations. Sam fit in well with the locals and made friends, including Noah, and it was great to learn more about them all. I loved all the layers of this beautifully written and plotted story, and how it all played out, with the perfect balance of drama, heartwarming moments, heartfelt emotions and a slow burn, but so worth the wait romance. Carolyn Brown and Caylee Hammack, thank you for this wonderful story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 Cassandra Myles did a fantastic job bringing the characters to life, giving each their own voice, making it easy to follow along and tell who is who. She covered the voices for all the roles and was great with the male voices and delivered the back-and-forth dialogue effortlessly, never missing a beat. Her portrayal of each character was spot on, grasping their personalities and demeanor perfectly, and she was a natural in Sam’s role. She set the right tone for the story, captured all the characters’ emotions and had you feeling them all. Myles is an entertaining storyteller and her performance holds your attention captive and elevates the story to another level.
🌹 “Bed of Roses” – A Sweet, Slow-Burn Small-Town Romance 🌹
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (3.5/5 stars) rounded up
“Bed of Roses” is a cozy, heartwarming read perfect for fans of small-town romance, second chances, and sweet, slow-burn love stories. Inspired by Caylee Hammack’s album of the same name, the book blends music, healing, and romance into an easygoing, comforting read.
Sam, fresh off a heartbreak and traveling with her loyal pup Nibbler, finds herself stranded in the tiny town of Homestead, Texas. What starts as a temporary detour soon turns into something more when she’s embraced by the town’s kind-hearted locals. Between helping at a flower shop, finding a sense of belonging, and catching feelings for charming bookstore owner Noah, Sam is faced with the ultimate question: Can she open her heart again, or will she let fear push her away?
What I Loved: 🌿 The setting is delightfully charming! Homestead, Texas, feels like the kind of small town you’d love to visit, with its welcoming community and cozy vibes. 🐶 Sam’s bond with Nibbler adds a cute, heartfelt touch—bonus points for a lovable dog! 📖 Noah, the bookstore owner/love interest, is kind, patient, and swoon-worthy in an understated way. 🎶 The musical inspiration behind the novel makes for an interesting concept, tying the story to the emotions of Hammack’s album.
What Fell a Bit Short: 💔 The pacing felt a little slow in parts, particularly in the middle where not much happened beyond day-to-day town life. 🌀 Some of Sam’s internal conflict felt repetitive—her hesitation to trust again was understandable, but it sometimes stalled the romance. 💞 The chemistry between Sam and Noah was sweet but could have used more tension and build-up to make their connection feel deeper.
Overall, Bed of Roses is a light, feel-good romance that thrives on its small-town charm and themes of healing and fresh starts. While the story didn’t completely sweep me off my feet, it’s a pleasant read for anyone who loves Hallmark-style romances with a touch of country music inspiration. If you’re in the mood for something comforting and easy to sink into, this one is worth checking out!
📚 Would I recommend it? Yes, especially if you love small-town settings and gentle, character-driven romances. It’s not overly dramatic or steamy, but it delivers a satisfying, hopeful love story.
*I was provided an ARC copy in change for my complete honest review*
Thanks to Valentines PR for selecting me for this ALC. And a HUGE!!! thank you to the wonderful author for writing this amazing book. THANK YOU!!! ❤❤❤
This is the type of small town romance that I love. I didn't want Noah and Sam's story to end. The feeling of this book was so beautiful.
Noah and Sam were just so perfect for each other. They were a will they won't they and I was just so on edge. But I was here for the journey of them getting together. Noah had to move on from his ex and Sam needed to heal from her past and from Jack. I wanted to jump him so bad. I mean as much as I wasn't a fan of Laura, nobody deserved to be treated that way and then what almost happened to Sam? My heart I tell you nearly gave out. That bloodline is just pure scum and can we talk about how his uncle died? Lol that's a twist I never saw coming but was here for it.
As a believer in God, I was very happy to see how He was mentioned in such a positive way. When Sam forgave that girl for what she did was very mature. A relationship made on someone else's tears won't last is the saying or something like that lol. But yeah. Sam leaving that town and moving to this town was the beat decision ever. What made it obvious Gods plans was how as soon as she showed up, the women gravitated to her and offered her a job. I just loved the found family of it all.
Overall I give this audiobook ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5. I wanted more to be honest, I finished it in less than a day and I would've taken more if it was offered lol. I love Noah and Sam. They were meant to be from the jump and the way he loved her dog and how they had books in common. They're perfect.
Let’s set the scene: You’re on a road trip, blasting your I’m Over Him playlist, feeling like the main character—when BAM. Your car decides it’s done with your drama and breaks down in the middle of nowhere. Welcome to Homestead, Texas, where the population is tiny, the gossip is thriving, and hot men are apparently in unlimited supply.
Our girl Samantha is down bad. Her best friend and boyfriend did the horizontal tango behind her back (rude), so she’s escaping for a fresh start. Except fate—and a very questionable car engine—have other plans. Enter Jack, the town’s resident mechanic and smooth talker, and Noah, the quiet, bookish sweetheart who owns the local bookstore. One’s got grease on his hands, the other’s got ink under his nails, and honestly? Sam’s got choices.
But wait! This isn’t just a love triangle—it’s a Hallmark movie with spice, featuring: ✔️ Two adorable old ladies, Kathleen and Loretta, who will absolutely adopt you whether you like it or not. ✔️ A florist shop, because what’s a small-town romance without one? ✔️ A dog named Nibbler, because if there’s no dog, did the book even happen? ✔️ Enough Southern charm to make you say “y’all” unironically.
The real magic? This book isn’t just about romance. It’s about picking yourself up after life drop-kicks you, finding unexpected friendships, and realizing that maybe, just maybe, you were meant to get stuck in a tiny town with really good-looking men all along.
Final Verdict: Bed of Roses is like a warm biscuit straight out of the oven—comforting, a little messy, but exactly what you needed. Read it, fall in love, and start Googling small towns in Texas.
From start to finish this book held my attention. I loved the story of a young women who was reeling from a heartbreak but she is resilient and stronger than she realizes. When she is on her way to a new place for a couple of months, her car breaks down in a small town and she is stranded along with her best friend her dog, Nibbler. She is rescued by Jack, the only game in town to tow her car to his mechanic shop where she is told that her car just may have more problems than she knows. But again she finds a place to stay while her car is looked after and she even gets a job at the B&B and the florist shop on the premises. And meeting two of the sweetest ladies who Ms Kathleen and her BFF Ms Loretta , take her under their wing. And little did she know that two men would be vying for her hand. One Jack the lady killer and Noah the sweetheart of a man who owns the bookstore and if it's one thing Sam likes is books. Who would win the heart of the fair maiden Sam and will come to mean more to her and can she see a future in this small town with the man who wins that heart.
Carolyn Brown and Caylee Hammack are a match made in heaven. They have created a story that will have you feeling like a warm blanket on a cold night. The characters are both sweet and sassy and you will become fast friends with them. It has all that southern charm and wit that is pure Carolyn Brown and with the adds from Caylee. A must for all Carolyn Brown fans and you will soon be fast fan of Caylee Hammack too. I hope we have more calibrations from these two ladies.
Caylee Hammack and Carolyn Brown did a wonderful job with this book! I listened to the audiobook and I just fell in love with this story. I have been reading Carolyn Brown for years and it's just like the rest of her books this was pure PERFECTION!! Caylee and Carolyn were amazing together. The story and characters were well written. I felt like I was in this town with them and part of this story so many times.
The narrator Cassandra Myles did a wonderful job telling this beautiful story. She held my attention throughout the entire book and kept me entertained. She helped me feel a connection with the characters as well.
Sam leaves home in her 1965 Mustang and ends up being stranded on the side of the road in a small town called Homestead. She ends up staying at a B&B and is taken in by these two lovely ladies. When she stumbles upon a bookstore she meets Noah. Oh NOAH!! He's such a great character. Sam will have to learn to open up and except these people as her friends and found family.
This book will have you going through your emotions but in such a great way. I love these kind of books where small town people come together as a family to help one another. Everyone is either family, friends or found families. It's just so much fun getting to know all of these people. There is one character that isn't a good person but otherwise you will fall in love with the rest. I would definitely recommend this audiobook.
Thank you Valentine PR for allowing me to listen to this ALC for my honest opinion.
What an absolute peach of a read! Bed of Roses is a charming tale set in a small town, filled with engaging characters and country witticisms that will make you chuckle. The small-town vibes and the heartwarming relationships between the characters will transport you to a simpler, more nostalgic time. You'll find yourself rooting for Sam and Noah's connection, shedding a tear or two, and hoping for their happily ever after. It's the perfect book to cuddle up with and escape.
Samantha is delightful, caring, and ready to trust those who deserve it when she breaks down in the quaint little town of Homestead. Finding the quirky owner of the B&B and flower shop, Kathleen, who takes Sam under her wing, is pure luck, as is her best friend, Loretta. Sam is fortunate that both women are looking for a new employee when she needs to make a little money. But the town's hidden gem is the bookshop and the handsome man who welcomes Sam and her dog Nibbler within its warm, cozy interior. Noah makes her broken heart go pitty-pat and starts the healing process. Unfortunately, things don't always go according to plan, and you just have to accept the Fates' plans. Will Noah and Sam get their HEA, or are the Fates conspiring against them?
Grab a copy of Bed of Roses, your favorite beverage, and find your cozy spot. Be prepared to fall in love with the residents of Homestead and wish you could move there.
I adore Small Town Romances they are comfort reads to me and Bed of Roses was a surpringly comfortable and warm one. Samantha's story was so easy and pleasant to listen to with the Narration by Cassandra Myles who brought the story to life by her voice.She did an Amazing job at portraying each character and letting the emotions flow freely she gave the book a whole new experience and I thoroughly enjoyed listening to her. Sam was running away from heartbreak after finding her boyfriend cheating,it was enough for her to pack her things and leave. On her journey she has to stop over in a small town to get her car fixed and end up falling in love with the town and the people and stays for longer than she planned. There she meets Noah a bookstore owner who she has a connection with,she also meets the florist and finds herself helping out there. Day by day and moment by moment Sam is sucked in by this charming little town even finding someone she could fall in love with. But with her past heartbreak she is guarded and wants to protect herself could she be open to another relationship.?....The town and Noah help her discover who she is again and heal her jaded heart. From the start until the end I was captivated listening to this story it was a heartwarming,endearing and romantic book that I thoroughly enjoyed listening to. My first experience of Caylee Hammack and Carolyn Brown was a very positive one. Loved it 5 Stars.
I adore Small Town Romances they are comfort reads to me and Bed of Roses was a surpringly comfortable and warm one. Samantha's story was so easy and pleasant to listen to with the Narration by Cassandra Myles who brought the story to life by her voice.She did an Amazing job at portraying each character and letting the emotions flow freely she gave the book a whole new experience and I thoroughly enjoyed listening to her. Sam was running away from heartbreak after finding her boyfriend cheating,it was enough for her to pack her things and leave. On her journey she has to stop over in a small town to get her car fixed and end up falling in love with the town and the people and stays for longer than she planned. There she meets Noah a bookstore owner who she has a connection with,she also meets the florist and finds herself helping out there. Day by day and moment by moment Sam is sucked in by this charming little town even finding someone she could fall in love with. But with her past heartbreak she is guarded and wants to protect herself could she be open to another relationship.?....The town and Noah help her discover who she is again and heal her jaded heart. From the start until the end I was captivated listening to this story it was a heartwarming,endearing and romantic book that I thoroughly enjoyed listening to. My first experience of Caylee Hammack and Carolyn Brown was a very positive one. Loved it 5 Stars.- Cat W.
This is a very sweet, heartfelt romance and fun story. It follows Samantha through heartbreak, healing and self discovery after she decides to head out of town after finding her boyfriend and best friend together. Only problem is she doesn’t listen to her dad’s warning about her vintage mustang and she breaks down stranded with her dog, Nibbler. She ends up in Homestead, Texas while waiting for her car to be repaired, which seems to take longer than expected.
While staying at the Rose Garden B&B she is taken under the wing of Ms. Kathleen the owner and her friend Loretta. Since Adam has a love for books she meets Noah the owner of the small town’s bookstore and their friendship begins.
I loved the storyline and I’ll say most of the characters. Ms. Kathleen and Loretta much older would give Sam wise advise and sometimes some humor sprinkled in. Definitely some small town feels, with heartwarming and emotional depth that had me gushing until the end. A lighthearted read anyone who loves a contemporary romance would enjoy.
Narrator: Cassandra Myles ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I enjoyed the narration and loved some use of a country accent. It gave me country small town feels. I was able to visualize the characters and the setting of the story. I do enjoy dual and duets more than 3rd person but I thought Cassandra Myers did a wonderful job. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Bed of Roses by Caylee Hammack and Carolyn Brown is a warm and uplifting small-town romance that beautifully weaves together themes of heartbreak, healing, and hope. With a strong female main character, a slow-burn love story, and a deep appreciation for books, this novel is perfect for readers who enjoy heartfelt, faith-driven stories with a touch of Southern charm.
At its core, this is a story of forgiveness and second chances, as the FMC overcomes past heartbreak on her journey to happily ever after. Surrounded by a found family of loyal friends and a lovable dog who steals the show, she finds the strength to rebuild her life and open her heart again. The slow-burn romance unfolds naturally, making every tender moment all the more rewarding.
While the book steers clear of spice, it delivers plenty of emotional depth, small-town warmth, and the kind of love story that lingers in your heart. If you’re looking for a book filled with literary references, faith, healing, and a feel-good romance, Bed of Roses is a perfect pick.
I really enjoyed the concept of having an album coordinate with a book. As for the book, it was difficult to get into and many times throughout, I got lost in the timeline of things. It was difficult for me to connect with the book mostly because it is written in third-person. There was something missing in the connection between Sam and Noah for me; I wish we got more of how their friendship unfolded and more romance. It felt a little forced.
Now for the things I enjoyed: I absolutely love Kathleen and Loretta! They bring so much life to the story and probably the best parts of it, to be honest. I didn't realize we'd have religion in the book, but it was a pleasant inclusion and really hones in on the forgiveness lesson. Also, Nibbler. Can you ever really dislike a dog companion?
Thank you to Valentine PR and the authors for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
i went into this book very blind as it was a blind book date at my local bookstore, and honestly it was as expected! the description of this was “country romance & a feel good read” and although i agree with that, i still feel like a lot was missing.
this book was fairly short, around 230 pages, and that’s all it needed to be. the book was very predictable, cute, and witty. the setting was honestly fantastic. it felt like a movie that i was able to picture in my head so clear. the characters description was also very on point.
the only reason i am docking 2 stars is because 1) it felt SOOOO LONG. i feel like a lot of the sentences were over described making them run on sentences, and 2) i felt like we didn’t even know our characters. there were too many to follow in this short book that it made me not connect with them.
for what this was, it was a good read, but it’s not my favorite “country romance”.
Bed of Roses is Sam and Jake’s friends to lovers, small town romance and it’s a captivating and entertaining read. This is the first book I have read by these authors but it won’t be the last. Sam needs a fresh start after waking in on her best friend and her boyfriend so she packs up her 1965 Mustang and takes a road trip to Mena, Arkansas. But she breaks down in Homestead, Texas and that’s where she meets Jake…… Jake owns Jake’s Auto Shop and when he comes across Sam stranded on the side of the road he tows her into town and tells her to head to the Rose Garden B&B while she waits for her car to be repaired. Sam can’t believe her luck when the owner of the B&B offers her free room and board if she is willing to help out. Could this be the new start Sam needs…. Bed of Roses is a beautifully written love story, it’s about friendships, new beginnings and love.
Sam is traveling from her hometown to house sit for someone. She found her boyfriend of three years in bed with her best fiend and she wants out of her small town. She is driving at 65 mustang that quits on her in a small town of Homestead, Texas. Doesn't look like she going anywhere soon and Jack the guy that picks her up and tows her car is a good-looking guy. When she goes to the local B&B, the Rose Garden Ms. Kathleen offers her room and board to work with her and her friend. She knows that Jack is bad news and she meets Noah who owns the local bookstore, and he has a steady girlfriend. Sam is only in town until her Mustang is fixed and doesn't want any involvement while she is there. She spends time at the bookstore and finds that she is attracted to Noah, but she knows he is taken. This is a story of healing her heartbreak and moving forward in her new town.