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The Valentine Inn
I, Charlotte Valentine, am mostly of sound mind. Typically, I make really good choices. I mean, I went to college, never did drugs...I even brush and floss every day. That’s not to say I don’t make poor decisions - believe me, I do. They always seem to involve men - everything from gluing my eye shut (don’t ask) to falling in love with my boss. Did I mention he was famous? Oh, Drake Foster, you beautiful creature, you. My sister told me not to accept the position as his personal assistant. Apparently, she thinks it’s emotionally unhealthy for me to work for the object of my desire. What does she know?
Well, she knew enough to tell me not to go on a little jaunt with him through a blizzard. She was definitely against us sharing the only room left at the coziest inn ever. And what happened after that she was adamant should have never happened. But, hey, it all worked out. I got the inn and the cutest kid ever. Unfortunately, Drake has no idea about either one - he really should answer his phone more - until, that is, he decides to take a trip down memory lane and shows up at my beloved inn. Let’s just say he’s surprised. But he’s not the only one. Who knew our connection would be just as strong as it always was and that all this time, I’ve haunted him as much as he’s haunted me? But this time, will love come to stay, or is it checking out for good?
USA Today best-selling author Jennifer Peel presents a swoony, laugh-out-loud, magical story that will make you believe in the power of true love.
Well, she knew enough to tell me not to go on a little jaunt with him through a blizzard. She was definitely against us sharing the only room left at the coziest inn ever. And what happened after that she was adamant should have never happened. But, hey, it all worked out. I got the inn and the cutest kid ever. Unfortunately, Drake has no idea about either one - he really should answer his phone more - until, that is, he decides to take a trip down memory lane and shows up at my beloved inn. Let’s just say he’s surprised. But he’s not the only one. Who knew our connection would be just as strong as it always was and that all this time, I’ve haunted him as much as he’s haunted me? But this time, will love come to stay, or is it checking out for good?
USA Today best-selling author Jennifer Peel presents a swoony, laugh-out-loud, magical story that will make you believe in the power of true love.
Audible Audio
First published January 22, 2022
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About the author
Jennifer Peel
63 books1,363 followersJennifer Peel is the mother of three amazing kiddos. Wife to her one and only for the past twenty-two years. Lover of late night talks, beach vacations, the mountains, pink bubble gum ice cream, tours of model homes, and southern living. She can frequently be found with her laptop on, fingers typing away, indulging in chocolate milk, and writing out the stories that are constantly swirling through her head.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 317 reviews
October 20, 2022
*2nd read through was me listening to the audio! Y'all it was so much fun! I loved how the narrator brought everything to life. She was delightful to listen to. And these characters pulled me in again and had me invested in their story. I laughed and giggled and sighed and cheered them all on during this second go round. This is one I will be returning. Keep reading to see more of my thoughts about the book.*
Be still my heart!!! This book had me smiling and giggling so much. There might have possibly been a few tears as well. *Happy Sigh* I just love when this author releases a new book and I can snuggle up and read it! I don't want to stop or let anything interrupt me. This book had all the feels! I couldn't help but grin and cheer for Charlotte and Drake! The magic of the Valentine Inn is real people! It called to Charlotte. George and his sweet wife (she's passed away) were charming. I loved how they added to the magic of this inn.
Charlotte's personality made me feel like I was hanging out with my bestie and that I could share anything and everything and that we would be ok because we have each other's backs. Do you have a bestie like that? I do! And the further I read into the book, the more I just adored her character!!! Soooo much! She's so sweet and gentle. But she has spunk and this wonderful inner strength. She's deeply loyal and caring! I just adore her so much! And I loved when she would start hearing her sister's warnings in her mind. Hahaha! Her sister Izzy was so much fun! She had me cracking up laughing too! I can't wait for her story to be written!
Drake, oh Drake. What can I say but he's funny and wonderful and frustratingly frustrating! But that charm. He has a few secrets that keep him to himself. Charlotte is going to have to work hard to break down those walls. But that might not happen. Especially after her secret comes out!
Amidst all of the fun and giggles and smiles and swoony moments, there are some serious moments and conversations. Drake and Charlotte have to work out some of their issues, one of them is the fact that he doesn't know he has a son. Jameson is darling!!! I loved how well written his character was. He stole my heart just like he did his dad's and everyone else who meets him! He had his mom's sense of humor and was just such a loving and accepting child. This family needs to work out several of their struggles but you'll love the journey that they go on. Drake is such a fun father to watch. He struggles and doesn't know the first thing about kids but man was he adorable as he tried to figure out life and fatherhood!!! I loved watching them learn to love and forgive and help each other!
This book is magical and I loved seeing how Charlotte kept hope in soul mates. If you don't believe in true love and soul mates, this book just might have you changing your mind!!!
There were so many great one liners and scenes that had me laughing out loud. Probably a good thing that I was at my house and not reading the book in public. I might have had a few funny looks! Hee Hee!!!
You need to make sure that you have plenty of time set aside to read this book because I promise once you pick it up, you won't want to set it down.
Content: There are some mild swear words scattered throughout (h*ll, d*mn). Some mild innuendos and the couple spends a night together. The scene fades to black and doesn't go into detail. Mostly just kissing.
I received an ARC from the author but have also purchased my own copy. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
Be still my heart!!! This book had me smiling and giggling so much. There might have possibly been a few tears as well. *Happy Sigh* I just love when this author releases a new book and I can snuggle up and read it! I don't want to stop or let anything interrupt me. This book had all the feels! I couldn't help but grin and cheer for Charlotte and Drake! The magic of the Valentine Inn is real people! It called to Charlotte. George and his sweet wife (she's passed away) were charming. I loved how they added to the magic of this inn.
Charlotte's personality made me feel like I was hanging out with my bestie and that I could share anything and everything and that we would be ok because we have each other's backs. Do you have a bestie like that? I do! And the further I read into the book, the more I just adored her character!!! Soooo much! She's so sweet and gentle. But she has spunk and this wonderful inner strength. She's deeply loyal and caring! I just adore her so much! And I loved when she would start hearing her sister's warnings in her mind. Hahaha! Her sister Izzy was so much fun! She had me cracking up laughing too! I can't wait for her story to be written!
Drake, oh Drake. What can I say but he's funny and wonderful and frustratingly frustrating! But that charm. He has a few secrets that keep him to himself. Charlotte is going to have to work hard to break down those walls. But that might not happen. Especially after her secret comes out!
Amidst all of the fun and giggles and smiles and swoony moments, there are some serious moments and conversations. Drake and Charlotte have to work out some of their issues, one of them is the fact that he doesn't know he has a son. Jameson is darling!!! I loved how well written his character was. He stole my heart just like he did his dad's and everyone else who meets him! He had his mom's sense of humor and was just such a loving and accepting child. This family needs to work out several of their struggles but you'll love the journey that they go on. Drake is such a fun father to watch. He struggles and doesn't know the first thing about kids but man was he adorable as he tried to figure out life and fatherhood!!! I loved watching them learn to love and forgive and help each other!
This book is magical and I loved seeing how Charlotte kept hope in soul mates. If you don't believe in true love and soul mates, this book just might have you changing your mind!!!
There were so many great one liners and scenes that had me laughing out loud. Probably a good thing that I was at my house and not reading the book in public. I might have had a few funny looks! Hee Hee!!!
You need to make sure that you have plenty of time set aside to read this book because I promise once you pick it up, you won't want to set it down.
Content: There are some mild swear words scattered throughout (h*ll, d*mn). Some mild innuendos and the couple spends a night together. The scene fades to black and doesn't go into detail. Mostly just kissing.
I received an ARC from the author but have also purchased my own copy. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
March 7, 2025
5+ Stars!
Y'all. Where in the world do I even begin to tell you how much I absolutely love this book?! If I'm being honest, love is an understatement! What's bigger than love? Because whatever it is, that's what I feel for this book!
You know when people ask you who your favorite fictional couple is and you freak out because there are just SO many of them? I mean, how can you pick just one?! It's not possible! Well. If you were to ask me that right now, hands down, it would be Charlotte and Drake! These two are fantastic!
Charlotte is beautiful, feisty, sassy, sarcastic, fun, loyal, loves fiercely, is not afraid to be real, and is the best friend, sister and mom. Drake is gorgeous, debonair, broody, lost, doesn't do feelings, hates to be humanized, and, even though he'd never admit it, has an amazing heart and has so much love to give.
The journey of Charlotte and Drake was so real, so raw, so heart achingly beautiful. You can't help but cheer them on while watching them figure out how to wade through the rough waters of life. Life threw them some curveballs and there were things that could've torn them apart but their love for each other held them together and made them stronger. I read a quote recently that fits Charlotte and Drake perfectly. "If two hearts are meant to be together, no matter how long it takes, how far they go, how tough it seems, fate will always bring them back together."
I would be remiss to leave out little Jameson. Y'all. I loved this kid! He's the best! I found myself busting out laughing time and again with his antics. You can't help but fall in love with this little guy. He's absolutely perfect and just who Drake needs to snap him out of his broodiness. The bond between this father and son was a special one.
Y'all. Clear your schedules and prepare yourself for the ultimate book hangover! Once you pick this book up, you are not going to want to put it down! And the moment you finish it, you may or may not want to start it all over again. This book has all the feels and will have you swooning like there's no tomorrow!
I am still in awe of Ms. Peel's talent. I've said this before and I'll say it again. Every time I think I've found my new favorite book of hers, she turns to her next couple and says: "Hold my Dr. Pepper. I'm about to prove her wrong... again!" This book is a perfect example of why she is and always will be one of my favorite authors. I cannot wait to see what she has in store for us next!
As for my casting... *dreamy sigh* Y'all! I. Am. In. Love! What do you think?!
Y'all. Where in the world do I even begin to tell you how much I absolutely love this book?! If I'm being honest, love is an understatement! What's bigger than love? Because whatever it is, that's what I feel for this book!
You know when people ask you who your favorite fictional couple is and you freak out because there are just SO many of them? I mean, how can you pick just one?! It's not possible! Well. If you were to ask me that right now, hands down, it would be Charlotte and Drake! These two are fantastic!
Charlotte is beautiful, feisty, sassy, sarcastic, fun, loyal, loves fiercely, is not afraid to be real, and is the best friend, sister and mom. Drake is gorgeous, debonair, broody, lost, doesn't do feelings, hates to be humanized, and, even though he'd never admit it, has an amazing heart and has so much love to give.
The journey of Charlotte and Drake was so real, so raw, so heart achingly beautiful. You can't help but cheer them on while watching them figure out how to wade through the rough waters of life. Life threw them some curveballs and there were things that could've torn them apart but their love for each other held them together and made them stronger. I read a quote recently that fits Charlotte and Drake perfectly. "If two hearts are meant to be together, no matter how long it takes, how far they go, how tough it seems, fate will always bring them back together."
I would be remiss to leave out little Jameson. Y'all. I loved this kid! He's the best! I found myself busting out laughing time and again with his antics. You can't help but fall in love with this little guy. He's absolutely perfect and just who Drake needs to snap him out of his broodiness. The bond between this father and son was a special one.
Y'all. Clear your schedules and prepare yourself for the ultimate book hangover! Once you pick this book up, you are not going to want to put it down! And the moment you finish it, you may or may not want to start it all over again. This book has all the feels and will have you swooning like there's no tomorrow!
I am still in awe of Ms. Peel's talent. I've said this before and I'll say it again. Every time I think I've found my new favorite book of hers, she turns to her next couple and says: "Hold my Dr. Pepper. I'm about to prove her wrong... again!" This book is a perfect example of why she is and always will be one of my favorite authors. I cannot wait to see what she has in store for us next!
As for my casting... *dreamy sigh* Y'all! I. Am. In. Love! What do you think?!
February 14, 2024
It started good and I was intrigued to see what would happen but then it got frustrating. I get that the author wanted it to look like a hallmark movie where everything is good and magic and they lived happilly ever after, I'm a sucker for this, but come on! Make the fmc a little bit more hard to get after she was supposedly heartbroken. And that "magic" where she was listening to dead previous owner it was a little bit stretch.
February 20, 2023
2,5⭐️
i loooove single mom & second chance tropes but this one simply did not give what needed to be gave:/
i loooove single mom & second chance tropes but this one simply did not give what needed to be gave:/
March 3, 2022
I need more than 5 stars to rate this book!! Oh! My! Goodness!!! I know I say that a lot when reviewing Jennifer Peel's books but it's true. EVERY. TIME. I listened to the audiobook (it's 8.5 hours) and breezed through it in no time at all and no, I don't listen at double speed. I started listening at night and couldn't wait to finish it the next morning. I listened while cooking dinner, cleaning the kitchen, soaking in the bath, checking email, you get the idea. I love a good second chance love story and this one had me hooked; I was completely wrapped up in Charlotte and Drake's story. I had to see how they would work everything out.
Charlotte is adorable (she hates being called that) but with her overalls, messy bun and petite height how else would you describe her? But don't let her appearance fool you, she's fiercely loyal and not to be messed with. Mess with her son, Jameson, or anyone Charlotte cares about and she becomes a mama bear, tiger, or whatever you consider scary. I would love to be friends with her. I loved her relationship with her sister Izzy and wish I had that kind of relationship with my sister.
As another reviewer said "Drake is frustratingly frustrating" but he's also very charming and I could totally see how Charlotte fell for him. He's got some things to work through and it takes him awhile to let Charlotte in to see the stuff he hasn't allowed anyone to see. These two definitely had some hard things to work through but with the magic of the Valentine Inn helping them along, they'll be fine.
I can't leave out the wonderful side characters--George and his deceased wife Daisy, little Jameson and Charlotte's sister Izzy. The reader can tell how much George loved Daisy and she sounds like the cutest little thing. Jameson is as adorable as any 5 year boy could be and Izzy is so funny, I can't wait to read Izzy's story.
WARNING: if you're reading the paperback or ebook this book is a sleep stealer. Proceed at your own risk...you've been warned.
The narrator is fantastic. I've listened to other books Stefanie Kay has narrated and she always does a great job voicing the characters and getting the emotions across.
Here are a couple of my favorite quotes: Drake to Charlotte "Don't let anyone make you feel insignificant today, especially yourself." and George quoting his late wife Daisy "If you aren't happy, then it's not over. Some happily ever afters take some time, but don't ever give up."
Charlotte is adorable (she hates being called that) but with her overalls, messy bun and petite height how else would you describe her? But don't let her appearance fool you, she's fiercely loyal and not to be messed with. Mess with her son, Jameson, or anyone Charlotte cares about and she becomes a mama bear, tiger, or whatever you consider scary. I would love to be friends with her. I loved her relationship with her sister Izzy and wish I had that kind of relationship with my sister.
As another reviewer said "Drake is frustratingly frustrating" but he's also very charming and I could totally see how Charlotte fell for him. He's got some things to work through and it takes him awhile to let Charlotte in to see the stuff he hasn't allowed anyone to see. These two definitely had some hard things to work through but with the magic of the Valentine Inn helping them along, they'll be fine.
I can't leave out the wonderful side characters--George and his deceased wife Daisy, little Jameson and Charlotte's sister Izzy. The reader can tell how much George loved Daisy and she sounds like the cutest little thing. Jameson is as adorable as any 5 year boy could be and Izzy is so funny, I can't wait to read Izzy's story.
WARNING: if you're reading the paperback or ebook this book is a sleep stealer. Proceed at your own risk...you've been warned.
The narrator is fantastic. I've listened to other books Stefanie Kay has narrated and she always does a great job voicing the characters and getting the emotions across.
Here are a couple of my favorite quotes: Drake to Charlotte "Don't let anyone make you feel insignificant today, especially yourself." and George quoting his late wife Daisy "If you aren't happy, then it's not over. Some happily ever afters take some time, but don't ever give up."
January 23, 2022
Jennifer Peel book days are the BEST days. There is just something about the way this author writes characters and stories that makes me feel like I'm there too. I'm invested, I'm interested and I feel the emotions. This book found me on a sad day and it wrapped around my heart in the best way.
Charlotte is my favorite. Drake was awesome too (he has the best one liners) but Charlotte. I connected with her. She made me smile so many times and smiling always feels good. She loves her boy, she's devoted to her new business project and she believes in love and maybe magic too. "Miracles are magic brought to life." Honestly, I want to be her friend.
I loved this story, beginning to end. It was such a happy escape. I'm ready to read it again right now!
Charlotte is my favorite. Drake was awesome too (he has the best one liners) but Charlotte. I connected with her. She made me smile so many times and smiling always feels good. She loves her boy, she's devoted to her new business project and she believes in love and maybe magic too. "Miracles are magic brought to life." Honestly, I want to be her friend.
I loved this story, beginning to end. It was such a happy escape. I'm ready to read it again right now!
February 14, 2023
I just knew this book would become a favorite of mine! I adored A Pumpkin and a Patch, so I was thrilled to start this one. Well friends, it delivered and made my sappy heart sing gooey praises.
Full of romance, humor, forgiveness, and hope. This adorable book is so endearing, with characters I grew to adore and a plot that kept me turning the pages. Absolutely loved it!
Full of romance, humor, forgiveness, and hope. This adorable book is so endearing, with characters I grew to adore and a plot that kept me turning the pages. Absolutely loved it!
February 21, 2022
I love realistic magic and this inn is like Cupid. Charlotte and her sister, Izzy, are restoring the inn that changed Charlotte's life and those cupid arrows are like magnets, reeling back the one who got away--mega celebrity, Drake.
Peel always writes such strong characters and I loved this combo. Not only was their chemistry palpable, but they each had flaws and issues; no one was innocent and no one was to blame. I'm also a sucker for a celebrity and a non-famous person getting together. Those were the hopes and dreams that sustained me as a teen and I guess I just haven't given them up yet.
I read to escape and this story transported me. All the feels are in place--I laughed, teared up, cheered, rolled my eyes, and swooned. And the Valentine's Ball dress? Perfection! If you're looking for a magically delicious treat, this one is it. I can't wait for Izzy's story!
Content: mild+ romance (kissing, innuendo, closed door); moderate language (mild words, but throughout)
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
Peel always writes such strong characters and I loved this combo. Not only was their chemistry palpable, but they each had flaws and issues; no one was innocent and no one was to blame. I'm also a sucker for a celebrity and a non-famous person getting together. Those were the hopes and dreams that sustained me as a teen and I guess I just haven't given them up yet.
I read to escape and this story transported me. All the feels are in place--I laughed, teared up, cheered, rolled my eyes, and swooned. And the Valentine's Ball dress? Perfection! If you're looking for a magically delicious treat, this one is it. I can't wait for Izzy's story!
Content: mild+ romance (kissing, innuendo, closed door); moderate language (mild words, but throughout)
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
March 1, 2024
Loved this book!!! It was a cute, fast little romance book with just a pinch of magic added in for a surprise!
February 10, 2022
Charlotte Valentine is madly in love with her boss but she's careful enough to not show her feelings. However, one weekend they get stuck in a remote inn and the cold nights turn very hot. She will cherish that weekend for the rest of her life, since well, she got pregnant. Six years later, and after a heartbreaking unofficial break up, Drake, the most famous and hottest Hollywood actor comes back into her life and he's about to come across a massive surprise, named Jameson.
All in all, it was a cute and fun romance book; a nice option for February and Valentine's Day. It was well written and I liked the story, but I didn't enjoy it very much. First of all, the main character was way too goofy and romantic and very immature from time to time. The male protagonist was boring and his actions weren't fully understood, at least by me. Yes, we got a glimpse from his childhood but nothing too fancy. And we pretty much got a glimpse of everything, we never got to the bottom. It was way too unrealistic and romantic, way too fast paced, there were so many storylines that could have turned into more drama, or at least keep me interesting but everything was being brushed off quickly. Yes, we would get to the happy ending eventually, but not so fast. I do hope we get a book for Izzy though, cause at least she seemed challenging.
All in all, it was a cute and fun romance book; a nice option for February and Valentine's Day. It was well written and I liked the story, but I didn't enjoy it very much. First of all, the main character was way too goofy and romantic and very immature from time to time. The male protagonist was boring and his actions weren't fully understood, at least by me. Yes, we got a glimpse from his childhood but nothing too fancy. And we pretty much got a glimpse of everything, we never got to the bottom. It was way too unrealistic and romantic, way too fast paced, there were so many storylines that could have turned into more drama, or at least keep me interesting but everything was being brushed off quickly. Yes, we would get to the happy ending eventually, but not so fast. I do hope we get a book for Izzy though, cause at least she seemed challenging.
February 15, 2022
I had planned on reading this yesterday, for Valentine's Day but stuff got in the way. I was happy I had some time today to curl up and read this baby in one sitting. Such a fun story to escape into and I totally wish I could stay at the Valentine Inn!
I jumped into this one without reading anything about it, a new favorite thing for me. Charlotte is the personal assistant to superstar Drake Foster. She also has a major crush on him, when they get stranded in a snow storm in an idyllic inn their walls come down and they end up taking things past the friend zone. Fast forward six years, they havent spoken since that weekend and Charlotte has a secret she has been keeping from him.
I thought this was a fun read and kept me glued to the pages. Charlotte and Drake have great chemistry and it was fun to see her shake up his world. Loved the setting and just thought it was a fun story. I look forward to reading Christmas at Valentine Inn this fall!
Content Rated PG+
Romance: Kissing. Closed door intimacy. Mild innuendo
Language: Moderate, mild swearing throughout
Violence: None
I jumped into this one without reading anything about it, a new favorite thing for me. Charlotte is the personal assistant to superstar Drake Foster. She also has a major crush on him, when they get stranded in a snow storm in an idyllic inn their walls come down and they end up taking things past the friend zone. Fast forward six years, they havent spoken since that weekend and Charlotte has a secret she has been keeping from him.
I thought this was a fun read and kept me glued to the pages. Charlotte and Drake have great chemistry and it was fun to see her shake up his world. Loved the setting and just thought it was a fun story. I look forward to reading Christmas at Valentine Inn this fall!
Content Rated PG+
Romance: Kissing. Closed door intimacy. Mild innuendo
Language: Moderate, mild swearing throughout
Violence: None
January 24, 2022
“ This inn was a money pit. A beautiful, wonderful money pit.”
Oh the magic if the Valintines Inn is wonderful. This book hits all those emotions you want from a good book. If I could go stay at the Valintines Inn I would. I love Charlotte and Drake but I really loved the George and Daisy. They both spoke to me in so many way. This book has an amazing spirit about it that just warms the heart! I loved this book so much!
Thanks to the author for an ARC!
Oh the magic if the Valintines Inn is wonderful. This book hits all those emotions you want from a good book. If I could go stay at the Valintines Inn I would. I love Charlotte and Drake but I really loved the George and Daisy. They both spoke to me in so many way. This book has an amazing spirit about it that just warms the heart! I loved this book so much!
Thanks to the author for an ARC!
December 27, 2022
Hilarious and heartwarming, romantic comedy at its finest!
I finished The Valentine Inn so quickly- I literally just ate this book up. I would’ve finished sooner but one of my kids had a rough night and kept me up, lol.
Charlotte Valentine is secretly in love with her famous boss, and one fateful evening one thing leads to another and things happen (all closed door scenes). Drake quickly breaks things off afterwards, only to show up in Charlotte’s life years later, quite unexpectedly.
The Valentine Inn itself was a special part of the story. I loved George and the special magic the inn held for those who stayed there. The way sparks flew around Charlotte and Drake as they stayed at the inn, and how it kept bringing them back together was tender and sweet.
I laughed my head off at some of Charlotte’s thoughts and mental metaphors. She is hilarious and kept me giggling throughout the story, especially with Jameson involved. The elements of love, forgiveness, hope and redemption were powerful and gave such depth to the story.
And what a hunk Drake is! I loved how real he is too- he’s no perfect Prince Charming, but gosh you just love him and the way he grows and loves Charlotte.
Jennifer Peel has a gift. One of my favorite things about her books is that she tackles hard things, but in a way that makes you laugh and cry and keeps you riveted til the end. Another fantastic book!!!!
**I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review**
I finished The Valentine Inn so quickly- I literally just ate this book up. I would’ve finished sooner but one of my kids had a rough night and kept me up, lol.
Charlotte Valentine is secretly in love with her famous boss, and one fateful evening one thing leads to another and things happen (all closed door scenes). Drake quickly breaks things off afterwards, only to show up in Charlotte’s life years later, quite unexpectedly.
The Valentine Inn itself was a special part of the story. I loved George and the special magic the inn held for those who stayed there. The way sparks flew around Charlotte and Drake as they stayed at the inn, and how it kept bringing them back together was tender and sweet.
I laughed my head off at some of Charlotte’s thoughts and mental metaphors. She is hilarious and kept me giggling throughout the story, especially with Jameson involved. The elements of love, forgiveness, hope and redemption were powerful and gave such depth to the story.
And what a hunk Drake is! I loved how real he is too- he’s no perfect Prince Charming, but gosh you just love him and the way he grows and loves Charlotte.
Jennifer Peel has a gift. One of my favorite things about her books is that she tackles hard things, but in a way that makes you laugh and cry and keeps you riveted til the end. Another fantastic book!!!!
**I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review**
February 3, 2022
I seem to be in the minority here, but I did NOT like this book. I thought both of the main characters were incredibly one-dimensional and quite unlikeable. I tend to have a love-hate relationship with this author's books.... no, that is too strong, a like-dislike relationship. Some of them I really like and have re-read several times, and some I don't like at all. Maybe because the plot reminded me a little of Sariah Wilson's #Starstruck, which I loved, and this one didn't come close to the chemistry and sweetness of that story of a famous actor and an assistant.
February 7, 2024
I wanted to read a cute little romance for Valentine’s Day so I was trying to ignore the fact that I don’t really care for the secret baby trope. It felt like the author was flirting with magical realism but never quite committed to it and got there. So this one just wasn’t for me.
January 24, 2022
(4.5 stars) Finding romance - and family
Charlotte has a major crush on her hot, actor boss, and after getting snowed in with him at a romantic inn for a weekend, finds herself in the family way.
Fast forward 6 years & Charlotte has a little boy & now owns that romantic inn when she is reunited with Drake.
Drake isn't always the most likeable guy & Charlotte's got quite a bit of insecurities - and there's a lot of baggage they have to work thru - but it's the positive, healing, make things right (or at least better) kind that feels heartwarming.
Speaking of heartwarming, the story flirts with a hint of the supernatural about soulmates that's maybe a little cheesy but really sweet.
My favorite Jennifer Peel stories are the ones with kids & newfound family 🥰
*Romance level: passionate kisses, nothing graphic
*Language: About a dozen "mild" swears; a
little "earthy" - tampons, boobs, pushup bras, awkwardly unnecessary talk about sperm to a kid
Charlotte has a major crush on her hot, actor boss, and after getting snowed in with him at a romantic inn for a weekend, finds herself in the family way.
Fast forward 6 years & Charlotte has a little boy & now owns that romantic inn when she is reunited with Drake.
Drake isn't always the most likeable guy & Charlotte's got quite a bit of insecurities - and there's a lot of baggage they have to work thru - but it's the positive, healing, make things right (or at least better) kind that feels heartwarming.
Speaking of heartwarming, the story flirts with a hint of the supernatural about soulmates that's maybe a little cheesy but really sweet.
My favorite Jennifer Peel stories are the ones with kids & newfound family 🥰
*Romance level: passionate kisses, nothing graphic
*Language: About a dozen "mild" swears; a
little "earthy" - tampons, boobs, pushup bras, awkwardly unnecessary talk about sperm to a kid
January 25, 2022
This book is reminiscent of her older work and I loved it. Definitely recommend it.
January 29, 2022
Don’t Plan on Getting Any Sleep
If you’re reading before bed, don’t count on sleeping until you’ve finished. Jennifer Peel’s books are that spell binding!
Charlotte fell in love with her boss several years ago. After one glorious weekend together he pushed her away. Now she and her sister bought and are fixing up an inn in Idaho and who wants to stay for the night? Charlotte’s former boss, Drake. There are some secrets that are bound to come out!
I loved Charlotte and Drake. Life is messy. Their lives in particular. Seeing them work everything out was a beautiful journey. Jameson was the cutest! I also loved the magic of Valentine Inn with Daisy and George. I can’t wait to see the inn wreak temporary havoc on other people’s lives!
Content: clean PG-13 (intimacy behind closed doors, making out, mild curse words, less than 5 non-minor curses)
If you’re reading before bed, don’t count on sleeping until you’ve finished. Jennifer Peel’s books are that spell binding!
Charlotte fell in love with her boss several years ago. After one glorious weekend together he pushed her away. Now she and her sister bought and are fixing up an inn in Idaho and who wants to stay for the night? Charlotte’s former boss, Drake. There are some secrets that are bound to come out!
I loved Charlotte and Drake. Life is messy. Their lives in particular. Seeing them work everything out was a beautiful journey. Jameson was the cutest! I also loved the magic of Valentine Inn with Daisy and George. I can’t wait to see the inn wreak temporary havoc on other people’s lives!
Content: clean PG-13 (intimacy behind closed doors, making out, mild curse words, less than 5 non-minor curses)
February 15, 2022
I really enjoyed this sweet love story! Peel’s writing is so easy to get lost in.
February 2, 2022
Sweet Romance
The Valentine Inn is a sweet romance by one of my favorite authors. I enjoyed it and look forward to the next book in the series.
Although this a clean read, it has some mild curse words, and there is a tiny bit of spice.
The Valentine Inn is a sweet romance by one of my favorite authors. I enjoyed it and look forward to the next book in the series.
Although this a clean read, it has some mild curse words, and there is a tiny bit of spice.
February 16, 2022
I have never liked single mom or single dad tropes, so I was sure I wouldn’t really enjoy this book, but I was so so so wrong. This book was the sweetest thing and is the perfect mushy gushy romance. The plot is so interesting and so are all the side characters. I would definitely recommend this.
January 25, 2024
Very very cute romance book, with some twists and no annoying tropes! A wonderful and easy read; will definitely be reading more from this author.
March 21, 2022
4.5 ⭐️ review to come
March 3, 2024
Cute, but nothing special.
January 28, 2022
Jennifer Peel’s “The Holiday Ex-Files” was one of the best things I read in 2021, so I was super excited to read this book too! This was a sweet RomCom about finding your way back to each other amid complicated circumstances. I LOVED the relationship between Charlotte and Drake-Drake is 100% book boyfriend material, and I love that he got a HEA♥️! I did find the “soulmate” angle a little odd and sometimes the story and language felt strange, but in general I really enjoyed this sweet love story about second chances and happily ever afters!
February 15, 2022
Very fun and cute rom-com! It's slightly steamy but overall fairly clean. I liked the fun premise. The characters were well-developed for this genre. The writing was witty and entertaining. I loved the bit of magic to the story and how the inn was tied in to more than just Drake and Charlotte's romance. Predictable but it didn't detract from me enjoying the book at all. I laughed at so many places, especially when Jameson warns Drake about not sharing a certain something with his mom! ha ha ha ha!!! Such an enjoyable, fast read! There's a teaser at the end of the book about a sequel with Izzy's story, so I look forward to reading that one later this year!!
Content: Clean, with mild language and mention of sex but never descriptions
Content: Clean, with mild language and mention of sex but never descriptions
February 20, 2022
There were things that bugged me—the big reveal about Drake’s “issues” seemed pretty stupid and forgiveness happening so magically didn’t ring true. The end also felt quite unsatisfying. BUT, I still love Jennifer Peel’s writing style, humor and storytelling. It was entertaining and fun.
February 14, 2022
“Charlotte,” he crooned my name, making me feel all sorts of swoony and toasty warm. “Please don’t tempt me. I have done very few things right in my life, and you are the last person I want to do wrong by.”
Besides, I couldn’t ruin the trope we had going here. If romance books had taught me anything, and believe me, they had taught me plenty-the one thing I knew for sure was that when you get stranded in a snowstorm with a handsome man, a celebrity no less, the universe demands there can only be one room available in the entire town and you must sleep in it together.
Drake sighed. He knew I was a hopeless romantic-unfortunately, it was him I was hopelessly in love with.
“How about let’s go get our pjs on and get ready for bed?” I countered.
“Listen, Mom, I had a long day at school. A boy needs to unwind.”
“Oh, really? Kindergarten is that rough?” I smiled.
“Yeah. I read like four books today and wrote my name ten times. And then when I got home, I built two snowmen.”
“That is a rough day. I guess we better have a dance-off.”
“Yes!” Jameson shouted.
Not that I needed him to rescue me. I was looking for more of a partner in crime. Someone who would take me in his arms at night and tell me I was a good mother, but still see me as a woman. And he would make me feel all womanly things and show me how beautiful I was in his eyes.
“You don’t stop loving someone just because you tell your heart to stop.”
“Charlotte, don’t you get it? I wanted you so damn bad. For three years I spent all my energy not crossing the line with you. Every day I told myself to fire you, thinking I couldn’t hold out any longer, but then you would show up and smile at me and I would find the will-power to withstand the temptation one more day, just to see you smile.”
“You either just stabbed Drake or made out with Martez,” I said jokingly.
She draped herself dramatically on her bed. “Oh, I would love to maim Drake, but kissing Martez wasn’t too bad,” she sang.
Women need a reason to kiss someone. Men, for the most part, just need an excuse-like she’s willing and able and has a pulse.
“The best happily ever afters take more time.”
“Charlotte, you are always free to walk away from me. I would understand.”
I stilled in his arms. “Is that what you want?”
He tipped my chin with his finger, his eyes boring into mine. “I want you,” he said succinctly. “I want Jameson.”
My eyes welled with tears. He had no idea how much I needed to hear those words. “I want you too.”
“I know.” He grinned devilishly before kissing my nose, tickling me with his layer of dark scruff.
I gently pulled away. “Tell me more.”
“I’d rather kiss you.”
“I thought we decided we were keeping it mostly platonic for now.” I smiled.
“Says the woman who crawled in bed with me and just kissed me. By the way, I didn’t agree to that plan.”
“Let me at least pretend I can keep you at arm’s length.”
“Why would I do that when I would rather hold you in my arms?”
“Don’t let anyone make you feel insignificant today, especially yourself.”
Note to self: Do not sleep with your famous boss, ever. Definitely don’t keep his child a secret from him. Unfortunately, I had to learn the hard way.
Charlotte is feisty, sassy, sarcastic, fun and loyal. Drake is gorgeous, broody, lost, doesn’t do feelings, but has so much love to give. Jameson is the kind of kid that everyone loves. He’s fun, sweet, caring, and funny. I laughed out loud so many times during this book because of Jameson and his antics. Izzy and George made great side characters. I adore them and thought that they made the story even sweeter. Izzy is Charlotte’s older sister and she’s even more sassier than Charlotte. George was the owner of the Inn before Charlotte and Izzy brought the inn from George. If you like hilarious, heartwarming romantic comedy, you should pick up this book. This book will make you feel all the feelings. 4 stars.
Besides, I couldn’t ruin the trope we had going here. If romance books had taught me anything, and believe me, they had taught me plenty-the one thing I knew for sure was that when you get stranded in a snowstorm with a handsome man, a celebrity no less, the universe demands there can only be one room available in the entire town and you must sleep in it together.
Drake sighed. He knew I was a hopeless romantic-unfortunately, it was him I was hopelessly in love with.
“How about let’s go get our pjs on and get ready for bed?” I countered.
“Listen, Mom, I had a long day at school. A boy needs to unwind.”
“Oh, really? Kindergarten is that rough?” I smiled.
“Yeah. I read like four books today and wrote my name ten times. And then when I got home, I built two snowmen.”
“That is a rough day. I guess we better have a dance-off.”
“Yes!” Jameson shouted.
Not that I needed him to rescue me. I was looking for more of a partner in crime. Someone who would take me in his arms at night and tell me I was a good mother, but still see me as a woman. And he would make me feel all womanly things and show me how beautiful I was in his eyes.
“You don’t stop loving someone just because you tell your heart to stop.”
“Charlotte, don’t you get it? I wanted you so damn bad. For three years I spent all my energy not crossing the line with you. Every day I told myself to fire you, thinking I couldn’t hold out any longer, but then you would show up and smile at me and I would find the will-power to withstand the temptation one more day, just to see you smile.”
“You either just stabbed Drake or made out with Martez,” I said jokingly.
She draped herself dramatically on her bed. “Oh, I would love to maim Drake, but kissing Martez wasn’t too bad,” she sang.
Women need a reason to kiss someone. Men, for the most part, just need an excuse-like she’s willing and able and has a pulse.
“The best happily ever afters take more time.”
“Charlotte, you are always free to walk away from me. I would understand.”
I stilled in his arms. “Is that what you want?”
He tipped my chin with his finger, his eyes boring into mine. “I want you,” he said succinctly. “I want Jameson.”
My eyes welled with tears. He had no idea how much I needed to hear those words. “I want you too.”
“I know.” He grinned devilishly before kissing my nose, tickling me with his layer of dark scruff.
I gently pulled away. “Tell me more.”
“I’d rather kiss you.”
“I thought we decided we were keeping it mostly platonic for now.” I smiled.
“Says the woman who crawled in bed with me and just kissed me. By the way, I didn’t agree to that plan.”
“Let me at least pretend I can keep you at arm’s length.”
“Why would I do that when I would rather hold you in my arms?”
“Don’t let anyone make you feel insignificant today, especially yourself.”
Note to self: Do not sleep with your famous boss, ever. Definitely don’t keep his child a secret from him. Unfortunately, I had to learn the hard way.
Charlotte is feisty, sassy, sarcastic, fun and loyal. Drake is gorgeous, broody, lost, doesn’t do feelings, but has so much love to give. Jameson is the kind of kid that everyone loves. He’s fun, sweet, caring, and funny. I laughed out loud so many times during this book because of Jameson and his antics. Izzy and George made great side characters. I adore them and thought that they made the story even sweeter. Izzy is Charlotte’s older sister and she’s even more sassier than Charlotte. George was the owner of the Inn before Charlotte and Izzy brought the inn from George. If you like hilarious, heartwarming romantic comedy, you should pick up this book. This book will make you feel all the feelings. 4 stars.
April 20, 2025
This is the sweetest second chance romance book ever and perfect for Valentine's Day!! I absolutely loved it so much!! Literally, I could not put it down and finished it in one sitting. It's about making mistakes, finding forgiveness, and getting that magical HEA ending. I love that it gave me all the feels! 🩷
"For it was not into my ear you whispered, but into my heart. It was not my lips you kissed, but my soul!"
"For it was not into my ear you whispered, but into my heart. It was not my lips you kissed, but my soul!"
February 3, 2022
This book is one I hope becomes the next silver screen romcon. Charolette and Drake had so much chemistry and I was rooting for them till the very end. One day I want to find a place that has so much magic like the inn. I’m so ready for the sequel to come out and see how Izzy, Charolette, Drake, and Jameson handle Christmas.
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