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Shore Secrets Trilogy #3
Back To Us: A Small Town Romantic Comedy
When her ex-boyfriend refuses to sell her his
land unless she dates him for a month, an uncompromising winemaker learns that
some bargains are worth making for a second chance at love.
Ward Cantrell’s never missed an opportunity to take the long shot. That recklessness cost him his college scholarship, his chance to play pro ball, and worst of all, the girl next door. The town–and the girl–never forgave him. But now he's taking one last long shot—opening a boutique distillery on the family farm he inherited.
Piper Morrissey’s high school boyfriend overshadowed her with his golden-boy glory. When his reputation tarnished, she dumped him. And made herself over so that she could shine. Maintaining her spotless image–and that of her family's winery–is paramount. So it’s a problem when Ward agrees to sell the acres to start her precious port line..if she agrees to date him for one month.
Ward hopes a month is all it'll take to convince his former sweetheart that he’s changed. Piper sees the one thing that hasn’t changed is how much he loves her. But the chance arises to thumb his nose at the town who rejected him when a developer offers to buy his land for triple the price Piper offers. Suddenly, he can’t afford not to reject Piper’s offer. Will that make her reject his love–for good?
Ward Cantrell’s never missed an opportunity to take the long shot. That recklessness cost him his college scholarship, his chance to play pro ball, and worst of all, the girl next door. The town–and the girl–never forgave him. But now he's taking one last long shot—opening a boutique distillery on the family farm he inherited.
Piper Morrissey’s high school boyfriend overshadowed her with his golden-boy glory. When his reputation tarnished, she dumped him. And made herself over so that she could shine. Maintaining her spotless image–and that of her family's winery–is paramount. So it’s a problem when Ward agrees to sell the acres to start her precious port line..if she agrees to date him for one month.
Ward hopes a month is all it'll take to convince his former sweetheart that he’s changed. Piper sees the one thing that hasn’t changed is how much he loves her. But the chance arises to thumb his nose at the town who rejected him when a developer offers to buy his land for triple the price Piper offers. Suddenly, he can’t afford not to reject Piper’s offer. Will that make her reject his love–for good?
251 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 13, 2015
4 people are currently reading
150 people want to read
About the author
Christi Barth
61 books783 followersUSA TODAY bestselling author Christi Barth earned a Masters degree in vocal performance and embarked upon a career on the stage. A love of romance then drew her to wedding planning. Ultimately she succumbed to her lifelong love of books and now writes award-winning contemporary romance, including the Naked Men and Aisle Bound series.
Christi can always be found either whipping up gourmet meals (for fun, honest!) or with her nose in a book. She lives in Maryland with the best husband in the world.
Christi can always be found either whipping up gourmet meals (for fun, honest!) or with her nose in a book. She lives in Maryland with the best husband in the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
July 13, 2015
Originally posted on The Book Nympho
Ward Cantrell and Piper Morrissey have a history we've been waiting to learn about. They were high school sweethearts and something happened to pull them apart twelve years ago. Since they were part of a unit of friends, they found a way to rebuild that aspect of their lives for the sake of the group. Now Ward, who's never stopped loving Piper, is going to go all in to win back her heart.
I must admit when I discovered what Ward did to cause his breakup with Piper, I was ready to dump him myself and I was a big fan. He had a big hole to dig out of and he accomplished that in a big way. I also liked that while Piper's feelings for him had never changed, it was realistic that her distrust was a barrier to them moving forward.
The relationship of the friends was a very important part of the story. Ward's interactions with Casey and Ella were hilarious most of the time, only eclipsed by his antics involving their fiancés.
This was a light hearted story tinged with some heartbreaking moments. Piper had some growing up to do, too, and her journey was equally compelling. I've looked forward to Ward and Piper's story and it met my expectations. Nice ending to the series.
(I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review)
Ward Cantrell and Piper Morrissey have a history we've been waiting to learn about. They were high school sweethearts and something happened to pull them apart twelve years ago. Since they were part of a unit of friends, they found a way to rebuild that aspect of their lives for the sake of the group. Now Ward, who's never stopped loving Piper, is going to go all in to win back her heart.
I must admit when I discovered what Ward did to cause his breakup with Piper, I was ready to dump him myself and I was a big fan. He had a big hole to dig out of and he accomplished that in a big way. I also liked that while Piper's feelings for him had never changed, it was realistic that her distrust was a barrier to them moving forward.
The relationship of the friends was a very important part of the story. Ward's interactions with Casey and Ella were hilarious most of the time, only eclipsed by his antics involving their fiancés.
This was a light hearted story tinged with some heartbreaking moments. Piper had some growing up to do, too, and her journey was equally compelling. I've looked forward to Ward and Piper's story and it met my expectations. Nice ending to the series.
(I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review)
July 13, 2015
Slick's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
4.5 Stars
The third book in Christi Barth's Shore Secrets series took me by surprise with its infinite charm, sexy seduction and the hurtful history between the two main characters that not only set the tone for this story but complicated their way back to one another. Any time a relationship ends, reuniting is always hard but Ward Cantrell didn't just break Piper Morrissey's heart he broke the town's heart and although he's made great strides in repairing his reputation with the town he still hasn't managed to move past strained friendship with Piper. This is the story of love lost and the hard road to get it back is filled with twists, turns, and potholes of epic proportions and that sometimes the repair is more than you can handle yourself and a crew is not only necessary but essential. From beginning to end I was caught up in this couple's life and while at times it was hard to watch them make mistakes I loved every minute of their struggle to get it right because after all...third time is charmed!
I always love small town romances and have always imagined living in one, but the drawback to small town living is everyone knows all your business and your every mistake and years after Ward Cantrell not only broke the town's sweetheart's heart, he trashed his chances of ever playing pro ball with a spectacular and unplanned stunt of his own doing. He's returned home to Seneca Lake and has managed to turn his father's failing farm into a successful distillery but his plans for expansion aren't likely since he can't get a loan anywhere after his credit rating was trashed cleaning up his father's mess. But finding out Piper needs some land gives him an idea to win back her heart if only she'll agree to it.
I will never in my life understand parents who don't love and support their children unconditionally so it was easy for me to want to bundle up Piper and give her a big old motherly hug and tell her what an awesome person she is despite everything her parents did or said her whole life. Piper has issues because she's never felt like she's been "enough" for anyone; not to her parents and not to Ward back when she caught him kissing another girl in college. She's a successful businesswoman at her family's winery yet again it's never enough for her father and when she tries to convince him to let her develop a wine that was her grandfather's dying wish he knocks her down a peg once again. I was so thankful she had such great friends to stand by her side and offer her comfort, support and to help her realize she was an asset to not only her family's business but the world. Her teenage relationship with Ward scarred her heart but she's never stopped loving him even when they didn't speak for years and now that he's proposed they date again she agrees because in addition to spending at least one month with him he is offering her something that will help make her grandfather's wish and her dream a reality.
There was something really special about the friendship between these two and perhaps that was because they were friends for many years before they became more in high school and have managed to be civil years later despite the breakup that affected them both so much. So yes, it was difficult going backwards and beginning to date again when you already know the other person so well but it was fun watching them both be nervous taking that step again and worrying about what the other was thinking or feeling and their dates...I love all the thought Ward put into their dates. They didn't rush the intimacy part of their relationship which built the anticipation and made their connection that much better. I also won't lie and say they had an easy go of it because they didn't; Ward made some serious missteps and even though I understood his reasoning, his lack of forethought as to how his decisions would affect Piper proved he really had a hard time thinking things completely through when it involved her and Piper was always very quick to judge and I do understand that's because of her fears of inadequacy and rejection but it doesn't excuse her behavior. All that being said I was glad they had good friends to help them through their tough spots even when they were quick to point out everything they'd done wrong and help them figure out how to make it right.
If any two people deserved happiness it was this couple and despite it all they manage to figure that out and announce it in the most perfect way for the town of Seneca Lake. Witty, endearing, yet with a healthy dash of simmering sensuality Back To Us is a fantastic romance.
PS--Any hero who can talk about the Sound of Music with such insight is a catch!
Review copy provided for an honest review.
4.5 Stars
The third book in Christi Barth's Shore Secrets series took me by surprise with its infinite charm, sexy seduction and the hurtful history between the two main characters that not only set the tone for this story but complicated their way back to one another. Any time a relationship ends, reuniting is always hard but Ward Cantrell didn't just break Piper Morrissey's heart he broke the town's heart and although he's made great strides in repairing his reputation with the town he still hasn't managed to move past strained friendship with Piper. This is the story of love lost and the hard road to get it back is filled with twists, turns, and potholes of epic proportions and that sometimes the repair is more than you can handle yourself and a crew is not only necessary but essential. From beginning to end I was caught up in this couple's life and while at times it was hard to watch them make mistakes I loved every minute of their struggle to get it right because after all...third time is charmed!
I always love small town romances and have always imagined living in one, but the drawback to small town living is everyone knows all your business and your every mistake and years after Ward Cantrell not only broke the town's sweetheart's heart, he trashed his chances of ever playing pro ball with a spectacular and unplanned stunt of his own doing. He's returned home to Seneca Lake and has managed to turn his father's failing farm into a successful distillery but his plans for expansion aren't likely since he can't get a loan anywhere after his credit rating was trashed cleaning up his father's mess. But finding out Piper needs some land gives him an idea to win back her heart if only she'll agree to it.
I will never in my life understand parents who don't love and support their children unconditionally so it was easy for me to want to bundle up Piper and give her a big old motherly hug and tell her what an awesome person she is despite everything her parents did or said her whole life. Piper has issues because she's never felt like she's been "enough" for anyone; not to her parents and not to Ward back when she caught him kissing another girl in college. She's a successful businesswoman at her family's winery yet again it's never enough for her father and when she tries to convince him to let her develop a wine that was her grandfather's dying wish he knocks her down a peg once again. I was so thankful she had such great friends to stand by her side and offer her comfort, support and to help her realize she was an asset to not only her family's business but the world. Her teenage relationship with Ward scarred her heart but she's never stopped loving him even when they didn't speak for years and now that he's proposed they date again she agrees because in addition to spending at least one month with him he is offering her something that will help make her grandfather's wish and her dream a reality.
There was something really special about the friendship between these two and perhaps that was because they were friends for many years before they became more in high school and have managed to be civil years later despite the breakup that affected them both so much. So yes, it was difficult going backwards and beginning to date again when you already know the other person so well but it was fun watching them both be nervous taking that step again and worrying about what the other was thinking or feeling and their dates...I love all the thought Ward put into their dates. They didn't rush the intimacy part of their relationship which built the anticipation and made their connection that much better. I also won't lie and say they had an easy go of it because they didn't; Ward made some serious missteps and even though I understood his reasoning, his lack of forethought as to how his decisions would affect Piper proved he really had a hard time thinking things completely through when it involved her and Piper was always very quick to judge and I do understand that's because of her fears of inadequacy and rejection but it doesn't excuse her behavior. All that being said I was glad they had good friends to help them through their tough spots even when they were quick to point out everything they'd done wrong and help them figure out how to make it right.
If any two people deserved happiness it was this couple and despite it all they manage to figure that out and announce it in the most perfect way for the town of Seneca Lake. Witty, endearing, yet with a healthy dash of simmering sensuality Back To Us is a fantastic romance.
PS--Any hero who can talk about the Sound of Music with such insight is a catch!
Review copy provided for an honest review.
July 31, 2025
4 Stars
Back to Us is the third book in the Shore Secrets Trilogy by Christi Barth. It is a sweet and charming Rom Com. It is a second chance romance with all the feels.
The characters have a shared painful past. I wanted to smack Ward, he is reckless and has things to prove, and I wanted to shake stubborn Piper at times, it was clear they were meant for each other, but the road back together was not paved in hearts and roses. We have seen them in the previous books dancing around one another.
Needing each other to expand their businesses they come to an arrangement after not getting what they want elsewhere. But Ward has another proposal and Piper agrees, and this is where their journey changes and things get interesting. Has he really changed and is she ready to risk her heart again?
Back To Us is an emotionally charged fun romantic tale set in a small town where everyone knows everyone’s business. At times I was laughing out loud and others I was sighing and shaking my head.
Make sure to read the first two books before diving into this one as all the characters crossover. You won’t be able to put them down.
I look forward to more from Christi.
Back to Us is the third book in the Shore Secrets Trilogy by Christi Barth. It is a sweet and charming Rom Com. It is a second chance romance with all the feels.
The characters have a shared painful past. I wanted to smack Ward, he is reckless and has things to prove, and I wanted to shake stubborn Piper at times, it was clear they were meant for each other, but the road back together was not paved in hearts and roses. We have seen them in the previous books dancing around one another.
Needing each other to expand their businesses they come to an arrangement after not getting what they want elsewhere. But Ward has another proposal and Piper agrees, and this is where their journey changes and things get interesting. Has he really changed and is she ready to risk her heart again?
Back To Us is an emotionally charged fun romantic tale set in a small town where everyone knows everyone’s business. At times I was laughing out loud and others I was sighing and shaking my head.
Make sure to read the first two books before diving into this one as all the characters crossover. You won’t be able to put them down.
I look forward to more from Christi.
July 29, 2025
The final book in the Shore Secrets Trilogy was my favorite with a classic friends to lovers, second chance trope. Of the 4 core best friends, Ward and Piper tried dating back in high school and things didn’t work out. We find them years later still holding onto feelings, but trying to bring the friendship back and possibly do business together. We see the friendship tested with the start of their business venture, and get more involved with Pipers family drama. Gotta love family dysfunction. Glad to see some other loose ends within the small town tied up and will be sad to leave this community. Fun afterward by author explains the lakes area with the wineries and this little towns “mailbox” dear Abby system exists! How fun!
Thanks to BookSirens for this ARC and I’m leaving my thoughts voluntarily as always.
Thanks to BookSirens for this ARC and I’m leaving my thoughts voluntarily as always.
July 18, 2015
This was another super cute installment from Barth. I just adore her books, and this friends to lovers, second chance romance was so great. I adored Ward and Piper and I wish there was an opportunity to see more of them in future books, but I think this is the last in the series. :(
Full review at www.thebookpushers.com
Full review at www.thebookpushers.com
Read
August 1, 2025Ward Cantrell knew he made a colossal mistake years ago when it came to Piper Morrissey, he has regretted it since. Now he has an opportunity to make things right and hopefully get another chance to prove himself to Piper.
Piper is not sure she can trust Ward again, but agreeing to fake date for a month gives her a chance to see if he has really changed. Ward has always held her heart and she gets to know him again she realizes she is falling again, but has Ward really turned a new leaf?
I really enjoyed this one. This second chance romance had a few twists that I think enhanced the story. I really loved Piper and Ward together but their road is not easy. Terrific story, great for a lazy day where you want to curl up with a book and a drink.
Piper is not sure she can trust Ward again, but agreeing to fake date for a month gives her a chance to see if he has really changed. Ward has always held her heart and she gets to know him again she realizes she is falling again, but has Ward really turned a new leaf?
I really enjoyed this one. This second chance romance had a few twists that I think enhanced the story. I really loved Piper and Ward together but their road is not easy. Terrific story, great for a lazy day where you want to curl up with a book and a drink.
July 17, 2015
Reviewed for Read Your Writes Book Reviews
by Kim
Back to Us is the second chance love story of Piper Morrissey and Ward Cantrell. The two are part of a group of four best friends from junior high. During high school, the two became a couple and their relationship continued on to college. Unfortunately, due to distance and loneliness their relationship didn’t work out. In the previous books, you see the tension Piper and Ward have when they’re around each other, but it isn’t until their story when readers find out why they broke up and the town of Seneca Lake dislikes Ward.
Ward wants to expand his distillery business but is denied the loan based on his past. Wanting to fulfill a deathbed promise, Piper is met with roadblock after roadblock. Realizing that they can both help each other, Ward offers to sell land to Piper. Not only will Piper pay him money for the land, but Ward wants him and Piper to date for a month. He wants to prove her that they can be as good, if not better than they were before. Having never stopped loving Ward, Piper agrees.
Piper and Ward’s relationship is one that has to overcome their past issues with each other and themselves. There are a group of people in Seneca Lake who refuse to allow the past to stay in the past and like to remind Piper and Ward about it whenever they get the chance. Trust and honesty are the cornerstones of any relationship and these two have shown that they both have problems with those things.
I like Ward because he always tries to do the right thing. But sometimes he over thinks and just makes things worse. With having three women as best friends for over fifteen years, you would have thought that he would have learned how they think and what they want. Piper tends to spend too much of her time focusing on appearances and what people will think as opposed to truly living her life for herself and not for her parents or the people in town.
One of the reasons I was looking forward to reading Back to Us was for the secondary romance between another couple. The two liked each other from afar for about three years but never said anything until the second book, All for You. I was disappointed with the way their storyline played out. I know Back to Us is roughly 95,000 words, encompassing 243 pages, but I think this couple and the readers deserved more from their story.
I would like to say Back to Us is a standalone read. However, I read a review where the person didn't read the first two books in the series. That person felt the book was a standalone, but still felt they were missing something. Having read the previous book and part of the first, I can see why someone would think they were missing something. I think you would definitely get more enjoyment out of Back to Us if you've read the previous books. You miss the true extent of the friendship between the main characters and secondary characters.
As with all of her books, Christi Barth continues to show that true family is those people you want and allow to be a part of your life. All the characters have an extremely close relationship with each other which is one of the things I love about her books.
**Received a free ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased opinion.**
by Kim
Back to Us is the second chance love story of Piper Morrissey and Ward Cantrell. The two are part of a group of four best friends from junior high. During high school, the two became a couple and their relationship continued on to college. Unfortunately, due to distance and loneliness their relationship didn’t work out. In the previous books, you see the tension Piper and Ward have when they’re around each other, but it isn’t until their story when readers find out why they broke up and the town of Seneca Lake dislikes Ward.
Ward wants to expand his distillery business but is denied the loan based on his past. Wanting to fulfill a deathbed promise, Piper is met with roadblock after roadblock. Realizing that they can both help each other, Ward offers to sell land to Piper. Not only will Piper pay him money for the land, but Ward wants him and Piper to date for a month. He wants to prove her that they can be as good, if not better than they were before. Having never stopped loving Ward, Piper agrees.
Piper and Ward’s relationship is one that has to overcome their past issues with each other and themselves. There are a group of people in Seneca Lake who refuse to allow the past to stay in the past and like to remind Piper and Ward about it whenever they get the chance. Trust and honesty are the cornerstones of any relationship and these two have shown that they both have problems with those things.
I like Ward because he always tries to do the right thing. But sometimes he over thinks and just makes things worse. With having three women as best friends for over fifteen years, you would have thought that he would have learned how they think and what they want. Piper tends to spend too much of her time focusing on appearances and what people will think as opposed to truly living her life for herself and not for her parents or the people in town.
One of the reasons I was looking forward to reading Back to Us was for the secondary romance between another couple. The two liked each other from afar for about three years but never said anything until the second book, All for You. I was disappointed with the way their storyline played out. I know Back to Us is roughly 95,000 words, encompassing 243 pages, but I think this couple and the readers deserved more from their story.
I would like to say Back to Us is a standalone read. However, I read a review where the person didn't read the first two books in the series. That person felt the book was a standalone, but still felt they were missing something. Having read the previous book and part of the first, I can see why someone would think they were missing something. I think you would definitely get more enjoyment out of Back to Us if you've read the previous books. You miss the true extent of the friendship between the main characters and secondary characters.
As with all of her books, Christi Barth continues to show that true family is those people you want and allow to be a part of your life. All the characters have an extremely close relationship with each other which is one of the things I love about her books.
**Received a free ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased opinion.**
July 15, 2015
Overlooking the fact that Ward cheers for the wrong MLB team — hell, he’s in the wrong league — he does have three best friends who are chicks, since high school, so he can’t be all bad.
I had to giggle as Piper approached Ward alone for the first time since they broke up YEARS ago after dismissing her inattentive date, who Ward ctritizes because of his name... Ward... Neil.... People in glass houses....
The chemistry between these two is off the charts from the get go. And Ward’s determination and his deep feelings for Piper are clear.
This says it all:
“Thinking about her wasn’t a choice. It was an involuntary reaction, like blinking and breathing.”
He wants her and is willing to go the extra mile, or mountain — whatever it takes — to get her back. So, he comes up with a scheme to make her date him for a month in exchange for her use of a piece of land he owns to fullfill the dream her dad keeps shooting down at work. He knocks her off her feet.
“Piper blinked a few times, clearing her eyes because she couldn’t figure out how to blink clear the words from her ears. Because they made no sense. As nonsensical as painting Easter eggs to look like jack-o’-lanterns. As ridiculous as looking out at the thirty-six-mile expanse of Seneca Lake and saying that you couldn’t see the water.”
I really like his pitch, especially his closer... Meow! He knocks her socks off with a kiss so hot, she’d sex him up on the spot.
Barth gives great descriptions and knows how to blend humor and serious. Their friends are great foils too.
There are times that I wanted to wring Piper’s neck, even if she’s justified at least in the beginning in being suspicious and distrustful of him and his motives. He did cheat on her in the past, if only by kissing another college student back when, effectively ending their relationship.
I like the quirky journal where townspeople for generations anonymously write down what’s troubling them, questions and people can make suggestions to help.
But, the problem with anonymity is that it doesn’t factor in the human element, those little and sometimes huge factors and quirks that make us all unique. Thus, what works for one or even most, doesn’t work for all.
This pair has a lot of baggage to work through. Each has parent issues, he’s still shunned by half the town and she has trouble getting past what others will think of her every action. Then there’s their past relationship, their continued friendship, which up until this point has only been renewed only as long as their two BFFs are present in their dealings. They otherwise snipe. But, the month trial terms are that it’s all on dating.
While the kissing is great and they’re rubbing all over each other like cats in heat, he keeps holding her off, determined to work on things before they have sex.
There are a lot of rocky moments during those four weeks, and more than once things come to a head, with her planning to call it off. But, he’s nothing if not determined, refusing to give up or let her get away with half measures.
I had to giggle as Piper approached Ward alone for the first time since they broke up YEARS ago after dismissing her inattentive date, who Ward ctritizes because of his name... Ward... Neil.... People in glass houses....
The chemistry between these two is off the charts from the get go. And Ward’s determination and his deep feelings for Piper are clear.
This says it all:
“Thinking about her wasn’t a choice. It was an involuntary reaction, like blinking and breathing.”
He wants her and is willing to go the extra mile, or mountain — whatever it takes — to get her back. So, he comes up with a scheme to make her date him for a month in exchange for her use of a piece of land he owns to fullfill the dream her dad keeps shooting down at work. He knocks her off her feet.
“Piper blinked a few times, clearing her eyes because she couldn’t figure out how to blink clear the words from her ears. Because they made no sense. As nonsensical as painting Easter eggs to look like jack-o’-lanterns. As ridiculous as looking out at the thirty-six-mile expanse of Seneca Lake and saying that you couldn’t see the water.”
I really like his pitch, especially his closer... Meow! He knocks her socks off with a kiss so hot, she’d sex him up on the spot.
Barth gives great descriptions and knows how to blend humor and serious. Their friends are great foils too.
There are times that I wanted to wring Piper’s neck, even if she’s justified at least in the beginning in being suspicious and distrustful of him and his motives. He did cheat on her in the past, if only by kissing another college student back when, effectively ending their relationship.
I like the quirky journal where townspeople for generations anonymously write down what’s troubling them, questions and people can make suggestions to help.
But, the problem with anonymity is that it doesn’t factor in the human element, those little and sometimes huge factors and quirks that make us all unique. Thus, what works for one or even most, doesn’t work for all.
This pair has a lot of baggage to work through. Each has parent issues, he’s still shunned by half the town and she has trouble getting past what others will think of her every action. Then there’s their past relationship, their continued friendship, which up until this point has only been renewed only as long as their two BFFs are present in their dealings. They otherwise snipe. But, the month trial terms are that it’s all on dating.
While the kissing is great and they’re rubbing all over each other like cats in heat, he keeps holding her off, determined to work on things before they have sex.
There are a lot of rocky moments during those four weeks, and more than once things come to a head, with her planning to call it off. But, he’s nothing if not determined, refusing to give up or let her get away with half measures.
July 13, 2015
My Review:
I know, I know...how have I gone this long without reading a Christi Barth book? I'm kicking myself, because I really, really enjoyed this one. But I will admit, I'm not sure how much of my love for this book was for the story and how much of it was for a region of the country which I absolutely adore...the Fingerlakes region of NY state. Oh, heck, let's face it...it was all good. And it did feature my favorite trope...friends to lovers.
Ward and Piper have a complicated history. They were friends, then dated in high school...until Ward went to college and cheated on her, then they broke up. There was a 3 year time period after that break-up where they didn't speak. That was really tough because they are a part of a small group of four best friends....3 girls and Ward. For the last couple of years, they've gotten better although they've never reached that fully comfortable level of comfort they had before. They are still bff's though.
But for Ward that day meant much more than the mistake he made with Piper...that was also the day he lost ALL of his dreams. He screwed everything up and has been trying to fix that for the last ten years in this small town with a long memory. And the majority of the way he's been doing that is with his distillery. And that brings us to another theme I love...alcohol...specifically, Ward runs a distillery and Piper runs a winery. LOVE.
I need to just take note here though...wow, this guy really did not do anything all that horrible (a single kiss), but he paid for it in the most awful, long-lasting ways. My heart broke for him and that loss. Such a tiny mistake cost him so much and he's such a good guy. I also felt like he was so much more invested in him and Piper than she was. I understood her being gun-shy, but I thought she should have been more in earlier in the book than she was. I had a harder time liking her character because it did take her so long to make that commitment.
There's so much happy in this book...it's like it was written exactly for me. The setting, the characters, the trope, their careers. As a writer, reading this book made me itch to write. As a reader, I wanted to go out and buy every single one of Christi Barth's books (besides, she spells her name RIGHT...I love that about her.)
I really did love reading it and definitely recommend it. This is the third book in the series, but not once was I confused because I haven't read the others, so it works amazingly well as a stand-alone. But now I need to go read the others.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
I know, I know...how have I gone this long without reading a Christi Barth book? I'm kicking myself, because I really, really enjoyed this one. But I will admit, I'm not sure how much of my love for this book was for the story and how much of it was for a region of the country which I absolutely adore...the Fingerlakes region of NY state. Oh, heck, let's face it...it was all good. And it did feature my favorite trope...friends to lovers.
Ward and Piper have a complicated history. They were friends, then dated in high school...until Ward went to college and cheated on her, then they broke up. There was a 3 year time period after that break-up where they didn't speak. That was really tough because they are a part of a small group of four best friends....3 girls and Ward. For the last couple of years, they've gotten better although they've never reached that fully comfortable level of comfort they had before. They are still bff's though.
But for Ward that day meant much more than the mistake he made with Piper...that was also the day he lost ALL of his dreams. He screwed everything up and has been trying to fix that for the last ten years in this small town with a long memory. And the majority of the way he's been doing that is with his distillery. And that brings us to another theme I love...alcohol...specifically, Ward runs a distillery and Piper runs a winery. LOVE.
I need to just take note here though...wow, this guy really did not do anything all that horrible (a single kiss), but he paid for it in the most awful, long-lasting ways. My heart broke for him and that loss. Such a tiny mistake cost him so much and he's such a good guy. I also felt like he was so much more invested in him and Piper than she was. I understood her being gun-shy, but I thought she should have been more in earlier in the book than she was. I had a harder time liking her character because it did take her so long to make that commitment.
There's so much happy in this book...it's like it was written exactly for me. The setting, the characters, the trope, their careers. As a writer, reading this book made me itch to write. As a reader, I wanted to go out and buy every single one of Christi Barth's books (besides, she spells her name RIGHT...I love that about her.)
I really did love reading it and definitely recommend it. This is the third book in the series, but not once was I confused because I haven't read the others, so it works amazingly well as a stand-alone. But now I need to go read the others.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
July 15, 2015
Christi Barth is another new-to-me author and may I say, “So far, so good.” After reading Back to Us, book three in the Shore Secrets series at Barth’s request, I wish I had read the first two. The story can absolutely stand on its own and doesn’t require reading from the start of the series, but Back to Us is on the short side at under 300 pages. I had the sense that reading Up to Me and All for You would have filled out the book with history and sub-text in a way that didn’t require more pages.
The story itself is somewhat unremarkable as romance novels go, friends become lovers, but Barth shines with her command of dialogue. The banter was outstanding and I would even dare to compare her to Gilmore Girl’s Amy Sherman-Palladino. I genuinely enjoyed phrases like, “male-patterned obtuseness” and “Latin’s a dead language—there are no emergencies in Latin.” My favorite quote was, “Why can’t college kids ever find a bathroom…. That ought to be a half-credit class: acceptable bathroom substitutes as an adult. Woods? Yes. On the hubcap of a forty-thousand dollar vehicle? No.”
I will say that having grown up in California’s wine country, Back to Us sucked me in faster than it otherwise might have. Although Back to Us was set in the Finger Lakes district at the other end of the country, it was easy to bring up memories of walking among the rows and rows of grapevines. Also, there was a reference to hand folding a thousand paper cranes with twenty-seven steps each that had me cracking up. My sister-in-law really did this for her sister’s wedding, folding about 500 that left her fingers bleeding. A pure act of love, because who else but your sister or best friend would do such a thing? Clearly Barth was pulling from enough reality to ground her characters well.
With such a compact story, there is only one real moment of stress and it doesn’t last long. I liked that the book is upbeat and the characters proactive. I liked both the main characters, Piper and Ward, and found neither of them to be whiny or annoyingly immature. When it threatened, friends stepped in to verbally slap them upside the head—as they should. Rather, Piper and Ward dealt with an appropriate amount of self-consciousness and pride for their age. These people do not wallow and do behave like adults. So refreshing. This is your August poolside read.
Full Review Posted on: http://twimom227.com/2015/07/review-b...
The story itself is somewhat unremarkable as romance novels go, friends become lovers, but Barth shines with her command of dialogue. The banter was outstanding and I would even dare to compare her to Gilmore Girl’s Amy Sherman-Palladino. I genuinely enjoyed phrases like, “male-patterned obtuseness” and “Latin’s a dead language—there are no emergencies in Latin.” My favorite quote was, “Why can’t college kids ever find a bathroom…. That ought to be a half-credit class: acceptable bathroom substitutes as an adult. Woods? Yes. On the hubcap of a forty-thousand dollar vehicle? No.”
I will say that having grown up in California’s wine country, Back to Us sucked me in faster than it otherwise might have. Although Back to Us was set in the Finger Lakes district at the other end of the country, it was easy to bring up memories of walking among the rows and rows of grapevines. Also, there was a reference to hand folding a thousand paper cranes with twenty-seven steps each that had me cracking up. My sister-in-law really did this for her sister’s wedding, folding about 500 that left her fingers bleeding. A pure act of love, because who else but your sister or best friend would do such a thing? Clearly Barth was pulling from enough reality to ground her characters well.
With such a compact story, there is only one real moment of stress and it doesn’t last long. I liked that the book is upbeat and the characters proactive. I liked both the main characters, Piper and Ward, and found neither of them to be whiny or annoyingly immature. When it threatened, friends stepped in to verbally slap them upside the head—as they should. Rather, Piper and Ward dealt with an appropriate amount of self-consciousness and pride for their age. These people do not wallow and do behave like adults. So refreshing. This is your August poolside read.
Full Review Posted on: http://twimom227.com/2015/07/review-b...
August 17, 2015
I’m really disappointed to say this is the first of the Shore Secrets series that I’ve read because these friends are fantastic together. They are so supportive and caring for each other, but they aren’t afraid to give each other a hard time when needed (and sometimes when not :) ). You can definitely read Back To Us as a standalone – there are a few references to the previous stories … but they just taunted me with the goodness that I had missed.
Barth could have easily been lazy on the relationship between Piper and Ward, using their history as an excuse to not craft decent interactions between the two, but lucky for us she doesn’t. We don’t get the back and forth of them getting to know each other, but she’s able to show their connection and attraction. As they tiptoe closer, I found myself happier and happier for them, waiting for them to get to a point when they finally bury their past and look toward a future together.
I think my only complaint is how much both Ward and Piper let that past influence their choices now. I’m going to tell you what he did so if you don’t want to know then stop reading now … last chance …. He kissed another girl, when he was 18, on his own for the first time at college, feeling lonely, and Piper saw it … Yes, I’m sure that was awful – they’d been friends for ages and he broke her heart, plus the wounds at that age can definitely have far reaching effects – but it was just a kiss. Granted they never talked about it, so she didn’t know that was all it was. He did, though, and should have manned up and taken care of this before now. Except they let it fester and turn into a big deal and now they have to work thru it. Maybe this is where not having the history of the other books plays against me because I’m sure that Ward and Piper and their feelings are a pretty big part in the other stories considering how close these friends are. I will say that Barth does a fantastic job setting it up and having them work thru it. So while I think that they allowed themselves to blow it all out of proportion, the trust issue is handled very realistically and she gets them to a satisfying HEA.
If this is your first Shore Secrets (and you don’t want to go back and start at the beginning), you’ll be OK but based on what I see here I think you’ll want to get the other two as well, just so you can spend more time with this great group of people.
(Complimentary copy provided in exchange for an honest review)
Barth could have easily been lazy on the relationship between Piper and Ward, using their history as an excuse to not craft decent interactions between the two, but lucky for us she doesn’t. We don’t get the back and forth of them getting to know each other, but she’s able to show their connection and attraction. As they tiptoe closer, I found myself happier and happier for them, waiting for them to get to a point when they finally bury their past and look toward a future together.
I think my only complaint is how much both Ward and Piper let that past influence their choices now. I’m going to tell you what he did so if you don’t want to know then stop reading now … last chance …. He kissed another girl, when he was 18, on his own for the first time at college, feeling lonely, and Piper saw it … Yes, I’m sure that was awful – they’d been friends for ages and he broke her heart, plus the wounds at that age can definitely have far reaching effects – but it was just a kiss. Granted they never talked about it, so she didn’t know that was all it was. He did, though, and should have manned up and taken care of this before now. Except they let it fester and turn into a big deal and now they have to work thru it. Maybe this is where not having the history of the other books plays against me because I’m sure that Ward and Piper and their feelings are a pretty big part in the other stories considering how close these friends are. I will say that Barth does a fantastic job setting it up and having them work thru it. So while I think that they allowed themselves to blow it all out of proportion, the trust issue is handled very realistically and she gets them to a satisfying HEA.
If this is your first Shore Secrets (and you don’t want to go back and start at the beginning), you’ll be OK but based on what I see here I think you’ll want to get the other two as well, just so you can spend more time with this great group of people.
(Complimentary copy provided in exchange for an honest review)
July 13, 2015
Back to Us by Christi Barth is the 3rd book in her Shore Secrets series. Piper Morrissey is our heroine, and she is best friends with the two previous heroines in this series. Ward Cantrell is our hero, and he is best friends with all three of the girls. For a long time, Piper and Ward were on the outs, since their breakup during their high school days, where she caught him cheating with another girl. Rather than ruin their group friendship, they remained civil to each other in front of the group. However, both Piper and Ward secretly still have feelings for each other, but neither will act on it.
Piper has grown up to be more independent, and she helps run her family’s successful winery. Piper wants to honor her deceased grandfather, and add a line of port to the winery, which her father steadfastly denies.
Ward runs a distillery, which he inherited from his deceased father that was in huge deb. He has fulfilled the debt, but is desperately trying to get a loan to help cover the cost of increasing and improving his business. When he finds out from his friends that Piper is still determined to start her dream, Ward uses this opportunity to try and win Piper back. He offers to lease her some unused land that he has, but there is a catch. She must date him for a month. Piper accepts the deal, as she still cares deeply for Ward, but does not want to get hurt again.
What follows is a sweet delightful story of a second chance romance of two people who never stopped loving each other. It was fun, and funny at times to watch them rekindle their romance, and Ward’s determination to go slow, which has Piper doing all she can to to entice him. In the midst of their deal, Ward is offered something that could help give him money to do what he wants with the business, but at the same time it would hurt Piper. Will Ward hurt Piper again?
The great thing about this series is that we get to spend a lot of time with all the characters in all three books of this series. It was a lot of fun, and it is this wonderful friendship that will help bring this to a happy ever after for all of them. Secret Shores is a fun series, with great couples. Christi Barth always gives us sweet delightful romances. I suggest you read this series, and start with the first book, Up To Me.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
Piper has grown up to be more independent, and she helps run her family’s successful winery. Piper wants to honor her deceased grandfather, and add a line of port to the winery, which her father steadfastly denies.
Ward runs a distillery, which he inherited from his deceased father that was in huge deb. He has fulfilled the debt, but is desperately trying to get a loan to help cover the cost of increasing and improving his business. When he finds out from his friends that Piper is still determined to start her dream, Ward uses this opportunity to try and win Piper back. He offers to lease her some unused land that he has, but there is a catch. She must date him for a month. Piper accepts the deal, as she still cares deeply for Ward, but does not want to get hurt again.
What follows is a sweet delightful story of a second chance romance of two people who never stopped loving each other. It was fun, and funny at times to watch them rekindle their romance, and Ward’s determination to go slow, which has Piper doing all she can to to entice him. In the midst of their deal, Ward is offered something that could help give him money to do what he wants with the business, but at the same time it would hurt Piper. Will Ward hurt Piper again?
The great thing about this series is that we get to spend a lot of time with all the characters in all three books of this series. It was a lot of fun, and it is this wonderful friendship that will help bring this to a happy ever after for all of them. Secret Shores is a fun series, with great couples. Christi Barth always gives us sweet delightful romances. I suggest you read this series, and start with the first book, Up To Me.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
December 1, 2015
Ward was a pretty stand-up guy who did his best to do the right thing. He made some mistakes – like keeping things from Piper – but I understood why he made them.
I have to be honest, Piper drove me crazy for most of the book. For an adult woman of almost 3o, she really let other people dictate her life. Her concern over what everyone thought was silly and immature, and the way she jumped to conclusions about Ward and went off on him based on her assumptions was frustrating. Ward wasn’t perfect, but his regard for her came across clearly. He admired and respected, as well as loved, her. I didn’t get the sense she felt the same; not by her actions. Oddly enough, I really liked her. She was funny and warm and had a great sense of family. I just didn’t necessarily love the way she acted toward Ward. I did think she redeemed herself in the end, though. She realized she was repeating the same mistakes over and over and corrected them.
There were a lot of loose ends that weren’t tied up. For example, Ward mentions Spencer quite a bit. He was his mentor and the man who acted as a father to him once he went to college. Yet Ward never visits him. Piper questions him about it and he brushes it aside, then it’s never revisited. I would have liked to know why he doesn’t visit and what their relationship is like now.
That aside, I really fell into the story. I loved the friendships the characters had with each other. There were strong family bonds there, even though they weren’t blood related. I also really liked the winery backdrop.
I have to be honest, Piper drove me crazy for most of the book. For an adult woman of almost 3o, she really let other people dictate her life. Her concern over what everyone thought was silly and immature, and the way she jumped to conclusions about Ward and went off on him based on her assumptions was frustrating. Ward wasn’t perfect, but his regard for her came across clearly. He admired and respected, as well as loved, her. I didn’t get the sense she felt the same; not by her actions. Oddly enough, I really liked her. She was funny and warm and had a great sense of family. I just didn’t necessarily love the way she acted toward Ward. I did think she redeemed herself in the end, though. She realized she was repeating the same mistakes over and over and corrected them.
There were a lot of loose ends that weren’t tied up. For example, Ward mentions Spencer quite a bit. He was his mentor and the man who acted as a father to him once he went to college. Yet Ward never visits him. Piper questions him about it and he brushes it aside, then it’s never revisited. I would have liked to know why he doesn’t visit and what their relationship is like now.
That aside, I really fell into the story. I loved the friendships the characters had with each other. There were strong family bonds there, even though they weren’t blood related. I also really liked the winery backdrop.
May 12, 2015
Ward his quite vocal in his feelings, "I want you.” There went his voice, dropping again into a growl that reverberated through her skin straight to her nerve endings. “I’ve never stopped wanting you. I can’t get you out of my mind." Piper can be vocal about her wants as welling stunning Ward stupid, "that’s not surprising. I wanted to gobble it down. And all I can think about right now is getting my mouth all over you.” Ward’s eyes darkened. He didn’t shift his stance, but she could tell all of him tightened." Ward is a simple man when it comes to Piper, "babe, I don’t care about a rule book. If you’re in front of me, I want a kiss. Simple as that." I like the thoughts of Piper and where they're heading, "and now you are definitely all man.” The muscles, the beard, the self-confidence and determination. Ward Cantrell was, without a doubt, the manliest man she’d ever dated." A man who doesn't believe in undergarments no that's hot, "he rolled off the bed just long enough to take off his pants. Only his pants. Piper’s eyes widened. And not just at the impressive spear of his erection. “No underwear? God, that’s… that’s just hot." I loved this book, I loved Ward.
May 28, 2017
ARC requested through Netgalley, and kindly provided by Carina Press in exchange for an honest review.
This is a great summer read. Ward and Piper’s story, set in a small community with vineyards and distilleries in the background, was sweet and heartwarming.
Ward has made some mistakes in his past, including losing Piper. He now has a plan to win her back. I enjoyed Ward and Piper finding their way to back to one another, though some of Piper’s fits of anger towards Ward had me scratching me head. Ward’s attempt to redeem himself, not only with Piper, but with the whole town was very satisfying.
Though this book can be read as standalone, I really wish I had read the first 2 books in the series before reading this one. The secondary characters in this book, who each have their own stories told in the first 2 books, were really interesting and I would have liked to be fully up to speed on them before digging into Ward and Piper’s story. I will now be going back to catch up on their full stories!
This is a great summer read. Ward and Piper’s story, set in a small community with vineyards and distilleries in the background, was sweet and heartwarming.
Ward has made some mistakes in his past, including losing Piper. He now has a plan to win her back. I enjoyed Ward and Piper finding their way to back to one another, though some of Piper’s fits of anger towards Ward had me scratching me head. Ward’s attempt to redeem himself, not only with Piper, but with the whole town was very satisfying.
Though this book can be read as standalone, I really wish I had read the first 2 books in the series before reading this one. The secondary characters in this book, who each have their own stories told in the first 2 books, were really interesting and I would have liked to be fully up to speed on them before digging into Ward and Piper’s story. I will now be going back to catch up on their full stories!
July 31, 2015
I was a bit hesitant to read this book as I had not read any of the books in the Shore Secrets Trilogy series. Even though there was a lot to take in in one read remembering all of the characters and their connections, at no point was I disappointed with the read, nor lost. Lots of witty banter between each of the characters and so much heat and tension between Piper and Ward that had this reader continuing to turn the pages :) Even the co-starring characters were entertaining. The best friend dynamic of Piper, Ward, Casey and Ella flowed really well throughout the story and added a further layer to the read. A feel good read with drama, passion and many laugh-out-loud lines.
4 stars
*Review copy received from the Author/Carina Press
4 stars
*Review copy received from the Author/Carina Press
September 7, 2015
I started reading and before I knew it the story was done, it’s an easy read. Worth the read if you are a fan of the series, and like a very gentle romance.
Full Review: http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/reviews/...
Full Review: http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/reviews/...
October 20, 2015
I liked how Christi Barth brought the characters together it was beautiful it has equal parts love passion romance angst and of course intimacy. she does not disappoint at all if you are looking for a great read look no further.
July 3, 2015
Favorite in the series. Full review to come.
August 18, 2025
Back to Us is not only a sweet second-chance romance but a beautiful book about friendship, set in a charming small town with a unique winery and distillery backdrop!
Ward, Piper, Casey, and Ella were all best friends in high school. Ward was the only guy, but it somehow worked until Ward and Piper became more. They were inseparable, and it didn't mess up the dynamics of the bigger friend group until Ward made a tragic mistake and broke Piper's heart. Fast forward a decade, and they are all still friends, even if it is hard for Piper and Ward to be friendly with each other. Ward has never gotten over losing Piper. He now has the perfect opportunity to win her heart again if she will agree to his terms.
The book delves into the complexities of trust and honesty in relationships, as Ward and Piper navigate their past and present. I loved everything about this book: the storyline, the characters, and the setting. The book opens with Ward being turned down again for a loan to expand his distillery. It isn't for professional reasons; it's personal. All those years ago, when Ward messed up with Piper, he also messed up with the townspeople. Some of them are still holding grudges. Piper wants to expand her winery business, including a line featuring ports. It was a promise she made to her grandfather, but her father refuses. Ward has land he is willing to lease or sell to Piper. He needs the capital for his expansion, but he also sees an opportunity to win Piper again. He will lease her the land at an unbeatable rate if she agrees to date him for one month. She agrees, and things are going really well. They may actually get the happily ever after their two other besties did, but without spoiling anything, a huge obstacle threatens that. Will they be able to trust each other and be honest with one another to have the future they both want together?
Ward and Piper, with their imperfections, were characters I found myself rooting for. Their relatable flaws made them endearing, and while there were moments I wished I could shake some sense into them, their pasts added depth to their present relationship. Piper's independence and determination to achieve her goals were inspiring, and Ward's sense of humor was charming. The supporting characters, Ella, Graydon, Casey, and Zane, rounded out the story beautifully, making it a truly engaging read.
The small-town setting and its quirky inhabitants were the true gems of the book. It's a place I could easily see myself living in, and it would resonate with fans of small-town settings. The flashbacks of the friendship between Ward, Piper, Casey, and Ella added a layer of depth to the story, and the book's emphasis on the enduring beauty of friendship elevated it beyond a typical romance novel. While I haven't yet read the first two books that delve into Ella and Graydon's and Casey and Zane's stories, I'm eagerly looking forward to doing so!
Ward, Piper, Casey, and Ella were all best friends in high school. Ward was the only guy, but it somehow worked until Ward and Piper became more. They were inseparable, and it didn't mess up the dynamics of the bigger friend group until Ward made a tragic mistake and broke Piper's heart. Fast forward a decade, and they are all still friends, even if it is hard for Piper and Ward to be friendly with each other. Ward has never gotten over losing Piper. He now has the perfect opportunity to win her heart again if she will agree to his terms.
The book delves into the complexities of trust and honesty in relationships, as Ward and Piper navigate their past and present. I loved everything about this book: the storyline, the characters, and the setting. The book opens with Ward being turned down again for a loan to expand his distillery. It isn't for professional reasons; it's personal. All those years ago, when Ward messed up with Piper, he also messed up with the townspeople. Some of them are still holding grudges. Piper wants to expand her winery business, including a line featuring ports. It was a promise she made to her grandfather, but her father refuses. Ward has land he is willing to lease or sell to Piper. He needs the capital for his expansion, but he also sees an opportunity to win Piper again. He will lease her the land at an unbeatable rate if she agrees to date him for one month. She agrees, and things are going really well. They may actually get the happily ever after their two other besties did, but without spoiling anything, a huge obstacle threatens that. Will they be able to trust each other and be honest with one another to have the future they both want together?
Ward and Piper, with their imperfections, were characters I found myself rooting for. Their relatable flaws made them endearing, and while there were moments I wished I could shake some sense into them, their pasts added depth to their present relationship. Piper's independence and determination to achieve her goals were inspiring, and Ward's sense of humor was charming. The supporting characters, Ella, Graydon, Casey, and Zane, rounded out the story beautifully, making it a truly engaging read.
The small-town setting and its quirky inhabitants were the true gems of the book. It's a place I could easily see myself living in, and it would resonate with fans of small-town settings. The flashbacks of the friendship between Ward, Piper, Casey, and Ella added a layer of depth to the story, and the book's emphasis on the enduring beauty of friendship elevated it beyond a typical romance novel. While I haven't yet read the first two books that delve into Ella and Graydon's and Casey and Zane's stories, I'm eagerly looking forward to doing so!
July 26, 2025
Ward and Piper – Another Chance ? . . .
Ward Cantrell is waiting for Frank Rogers to get back to his office at the bank to meet with him about a loan. Frank was already 15 minutes late, probably on purpose. And when he arrived, he was rude. Ward’s dad had died 3 years ago and his crazy schemes and money-sucking projects were all gone now. No more alpacas… and no more genetically engineered red and white striped pumpkins for Christmas. The farm now belongs to Ward and he needs a loan to start his distillery. Frank insulted him over his business choice of turning it into a booze-making barn. For a man who drove his own recycling down to Corning so nobody would talk about the number of bottles he drank in a week, Frank had nerve to criticize him for his choices for the farm land where he at least would be buying fruit he used from the locals. It was difficult to hold his temper. He and his dad had been bullied by Frank for many years, and holding back his own anger was difficult. Seneca Lake had plenty of wineries already, and some breweries had been added. But Ward’s business was the only distillery in town. It had done well for 3 years, and now he wants to expand. The bank manager didn’t bother to look down at the folder Ward had diligently prepared. Instead he sneered, shoved the folder back at Ward, and told him “Banks don’t gamble. And if we did? This one would never gamble on you.” In fact, the bank manager and the town never forgave him when his recklessness lost him the chance to play pro ball. Will he have to find another way to afford the expansion if he can’t get the bank to do business with him?
Ward is also hopeful of getting his ex-girlfriend Piper Morrissey back. He had kissed another girl back in his teens and didn’t bother to talk to Piper about it and that it meant nothing to him. Piper seems to be the type who often can’t think for herself, so she would easily follow the advice of others on how to react. But Ward still cares for her and makes a deal that he will lease her the 3 acres of land she needs for her winery business’ new port line if she will date him for a month. The fair price would be enough to let him expand without needing a loan. And maybe he could win her back. Or will an issue over a wind farm wanting those same 3 acres and what his sister Lori plans if he doesn’t pay money to her cause more trouble between Ward and Piper? Will he lose everything? Has he betrayed Piper again?
Ward Cantrell is waiting for Frank Rogers to get back to his office at the bank to meet with him about a loan. Frank was already 15 minutes late, probably on purpose. And when he arrived, he was rude. Ward’s dad had died 3 years ago and his crazy schemes and money-sucking projects were all gone now. No more alpacas… and no more genetically engineered red and white striped pumpkins for Christmas. The farm now belongs to Ward and he needs a loan to start his distillery. Frank insulted him over his business choice of turning it into a booze-making barn. For a man who drove his own recycling down to Corning so nobody would talk about the number of bottles he drank in a week, Frank had nerve to criticize him for his choices for the farm land where he at least would be buying fruit he used from the locals. It was difficult to hold his temper. He and his dad had been bullied by Frank for many years, and holding back his own anger was difficult. Seneca Lake had plenty of wineries already, and some breweries had been added. But Ward’s business was the only distillery in town. It had done well for 3 years, and now he wants to expand. The bank manager didn’t bother to look down at the folder Ward had diligently prepared. Instead he sneered, shoved the folder back at Ward, and told him “Banks don’t gamble. And if we did? This one would never gamble on you.” In fact, the bank manager and the town never forgave him when his recklessness lost him the chance to play pro ball. Will he have to find another way to afford the expansion if he can’t get the bank to do business with him?
Ward is also hopeful of getting his ex-girlfriend Piper Morrissey back. He had kissed another girl back in his teens and didn’t bother to talk to Piper about it and that it meant nothing to him. Piper seems to be the type who often can’t think for herself, so she would easily follow the advice of others on how to react. But Ward still cares for her and makes a deal that he will lease her the 3 acres of land she needs for her winery business’ new port line if she will date him for a month. The fair price would be enough to let him expand without needing a loan. And maybe he could win her back. Or will an issue over a wind farm wanting those same 3 acres and what his sister Lori plans if he doesn’t pay money to her cause more trouble between Ward and Piper? Will he lose everything? Has he betrayed Piper again?
August 13, 2025
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars
A perfect story for anyone who loves romance and second chances.
Piper and Ward were high school sweethearts and, awesomely, best friends. But that all changed one fateful night, and Ward has never stopped regretting it. Knowing that Piper is his one true love, he comes up with a scheme to have her agree to date him for a month, promising that she can rent some land on his property (at a discount, of course) to finally realise her grandfather's dream of adding port to the repertoire of Morrissey Vineyards (The family Winery). He hopes that within this month, he can convince Piper to fall hopelessly in love with him again, and the two of them can ride off into the sunset, happily ever after. Other shenanigans go down, of course, and Ward and Piper learn how love is sometimes better when aged and matured (urgh, I know, terrible wine reference, but I couldn’t resist).
So firstly, having a secret journal that the whole town spills their secrets into is such a magical idea, and I can’t believe that it is an actual thing! So cool. I thought this was a sweet idea, and really, this alone made me want to go and read the rest of the books in the series.
One of the things I loved about this book was the relationships. Barth really captures the feeling of found family in this, and I loved it; from Zane's little factoids, to Gray's moodiness in the morning, from the love both these men clearly had for Ella and Casey, all the way to the relationship between Joel and Dawn, which OMG I needed more of. I also loved the home truths Ella, and especially Casey, dished out when talking to Piper at the end. One thing I will say is that I would have liked more moments between Piper and Ward, without other muscling in. Quite a few scenes had one person or another putting in their two cents about the relationship. It would have been nice to have had a few more moments just the two of them, working out their new relationship and what it meant for both of them.
On the whole, this was a warm and cosy read, and I enjoyed hanging out on Seneca Lake with the host of wonderful characters Barth created. I would recommend this to anyone looking for a summer romance that focuses on second chances and found family in a cosy, feel-good setting.
A perfect story for anyone who loves romance and second chances.
Piper and Ward were high school sweethearts and, awesomely, best friends. But that all changed one fateful night, and Ward has never stopped regretting it. Knowing that Piper is his one true love, he comes up with a scheme to have her agree to date him for a month, promising that she can rent some land on his property (at a discount, of course) to finally realise her grandfather's dream of adding port to the repertoire of Morrissey Vineyards (The family Winery). He hopes that within this month, he can convince Piper to fall hopelessly in love with him again, and the two of them can ride off into the sunset, happily ever after. Other shenanigans go down, of course, and Ward and Piper learn how love is sometimes better when aged and matured (urgh, I know, terrible wine reference, but I couldn’t resist).
So firstly, having a secret journal that the whole town spills their secrets into is such a magical idea, and I can’t believe that it is an actual thing! So cool. I thought this was a sweet idea, and really, this alone made me want to go and read the rest of the books in the series.
One of the things I loved about this book was the relationships. Barth really captures the feeling of found family in this, and I loved it; from Zane's little factoids, to Gray's moodiness in the morning, from the love both these men clearly had for Ella and Casey, all the way to the relationship between Joel and Dawn, which OMG I needed more of. I also loved the home truths Ella, and especially Casey, dished out when talking to Piper at the end. One thing I will say is that I would have liked more moments between Piper and Ward, without other muscling in. Quite a few scenes had one person or another putting in their two cents about the relationship. It would have been nice to have had a few more moments just the two of them, working out their new relationship and what it meant for both of them.
On the whole, this was a warm and cosy read, and I enjoyed hanging out on Seneca Lake with the host of wonderful characters Barth created. I would recommend this to anyone looking for a summer romance that focuses on second chances and found family in a cosy, feel-good setting.
July 29, 2025
Reviewed at Happily Ever After Romance
Back to Us is the third (and final) title in the Shore Secrets series, bringing us Piper’s and Ward’s tumultuous relationship. I have not yet read the earlier books in this series, and didn’t feel lost as what I needed to know was delivered within the dialogue or the narrative. Oh, of course, I would have benefited from background knowledge, but it didn’t stop this story from being engaging or enjoyable.
Piper and Ward are… well, complicated would be an understatement. Part of a group of friends, high school sweethearts until Ward did something totally stupid and broke their relationship into pieces that Piper has no plan to put back together. Years later, she’s still holding onto her hurt, and the townsfolk won’t let Ward’s past stay in the past, no matter what he does today. They each need something from the other, and Ward has a rather ingenious way to ensure they both can get what they need. Date him again for one month, and he’ll sell her the land she needs for her thwarted plans, and he’ll have the capital he needs as well. Naturally, he’s hoping to prove himself worthy of her love once again, but he has no chance until he shows her that his love is in it for the long haul. If she can forgive his younger self’s mistake, they’d have a future worth fighting for. But, that’s a big “if”.
Back to Us by Christi Barth is well-written, emotional, funny, filled with dramatic moments, and friendships so tight that a whisper couldn’t come between them. Both Piper and Ward have issues that need to be addressed, and watching them navigate their past, coming to terms with mistakes, and allowing love to blossom once again was an emotional journey. I had fun with their story, enough so that I’ll go back to the beginning of the series for the other stories I missed.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or the author’s team via Booksprout, and I sincerely thank them for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Back to Us is the third (and final) title in the Shore Secrets series, bringing us Piper’s and Ward’s tumultuous relationship. I have not yet read the earlier books in this series, and didn’t feel lost as what I needed to know was delivered within the dialogue or the narrative. Oh, of course, I would have benefited from background knowledge, but it didn’t stop this story from being engaging or enjoyable.
Piper and Ward are… well, complicated would be an understatement. Part of a group of friends, high school sweethearts until Ward did something totally stupid and broke their relationship into pieces that Piper has no plan to put back together. Years later, she’s still holding onto her hurt, and the townsfolk won’t let Ward’s past stay in the past, no matter what he does today. They each need something from the other, and Ward has a rather ingenious way to ensure they both can get what they need. Date him again for one month, and he’ll sell her the land she needs for her thwarted plans, and he’ll have the capital he needs as well. Naturally, he’s hoping to prove himself worthy of her love once again, but he has no chance until he shows her that his love is in it for the long haul. If she can forgive his younger self’s mistake, they’d have a future worth fighting for. But, that’s a big “if”.
Back to Us by Christi Barth is well-written, emotional, funny, filled with dramatic moments, and friendships so tight that a whisper couldn’t come between them. Both Piper and Ward have issues that need to be addressed, and watching them navigate their past, coming to terms with mistakes, and allowing love to blossom once again was an emotional journey. I had fun with their story, enough so that I’ll go back to the beginning of the series for the other stories I missed.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or the author’s team via Booksprout, and I sincerely thank them for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
August 25, 2025
Finally! Readers of the previous books knew that Ward and Piper barely tolerated each other when spending time with their childhood best friends but they why behind their behavior was a well - kept secret. Now, in Back to Us, Christi Barth pulls back the curtain to reveal their high school days and the incident that caused the years long rift!
Ward wants to right the wrongs so he comes up with a business proposition for Piper that would prove to her that he is a changed man and worthy of her trust in friendship and in business. He is an insanely attractive man of few words who hold ins feeling close and fights his own battles. Seneca Lake, the small hometown of our main characters, has a charming vibe and meddlesome townspeople. I really felt for Ward because he has silently carried the judgements of those people on his shoulders for years. He is making a success of the mess he inherited from his father but even as he makes good choices, he somehow gets in his own way.
Piper, on the other hand, successfully runs her family's vineyard and is beautifully put together, mentally sharp and the ultimate professional in every way. Her outer self hides her inner insecurities including her relationship with her parents.
She is forced to take a good hard look at herself before she can trust her reactions to situations and people, especially Ward.
I love Back to Us and the 2 previous books in the Shore Secrets Series. They are based on four best friends and are filled with honest banter that comes from deep friendship, unquestioning support and hilarious situations. I want more so I am looking foward to reading stories more by Christi Barth.
I received an advance review copy and am leaving my volutary review based solely on my personal reading experience.
Ward wants to right the wrongs so he comes up with a business proposition for Piper that would prove to her that he is a changed man and worthy of her trust in friendship and in business. He is an insanely attractive man of few words who hold ins feeling close and fights his own battles. Seneca Lake, the small hometown of our main characters, has a charming vibe and meddlesome townspeople. I really felt for Ward because he has silently carried the judgements of those people on his shoulders for years. He is making a success of the mess he inherited from his father but even as he makes good choices, he somehow gets in his own way.
Piper, on the other hand, successfully runs her family's vineyard and is beautifully put together, mentally sharp and the ultimate professional in every way. Her outer self hides her inner insecurities including her relationship with her parents.
She is forced to take a good hard look at herself before she can trust her reactions to situations and people, especially Ward.
I love Back to Us and the 2 previous books in the Shore Secrets Series. They are based on four best friends and are filled with honest banter that comes from deep friendship, unquestioning support and hilarious situations. I want more so I am looking foward to reading stories more by Christi Barth.
I received an advance review copy and am leaving my volutary review based solely on my personal reading experience.
August 13, 2025
Back to Us is the third instalment of Christi Barth’s Shore Secrets series, and follows best friends to lovers to exes to best friends, Piper Morrissey and Ward Cantrell. After ten years, Ward wants Piper back, and he’s going to prove he deserves her by asking her to date him for a month in return for three acres of his land. It’s a pretty crazy plan, but one that Piper gets behind, because she wants him just as much. Now… when I found out the reason for their breakup, it did affect how I felt about the story. Maybe it was explained too soon in the story, before readers are able to connect emotionally to the characters, making it almost impossible to do so after finding out what happened. The story flowed well, although I felt it was a little rushed at the end. The characters were well written, with distinct characteristics and strong friendships. But I felt like Piper worked harder for the relationship than Ward did, when if anything it should’ve been the other way around, and her friends were nowhere near as supportive as they should have been, which was a shame as they clearly had a strong bond. My favourite character was Piper, although I felt like she was naive, or maybe just misunderstood. My least favourite character was Ward, as I spent most of the book thinking he was disloyal and dishonest, and he only really changed towards the end. ‘The weird connection between past and present. Knowing they’d done this before, in this very room, and yet never done anything quite like this before.’
August 16, 2025
This is the 3rd book in the Shore Secrets Trilogy. It is a sweet romcom with second chances, angst from the past and so much more all set in a small beautifully described town. The authors attention to detail really brought this story and the characters to life for me. I actually felt like I was there experience what the characters were seeing and experiencing.
This is Ward and Pipers story.
Ward and Piper have a history, they were young sweethearts but something happened and then split. Fast forward to today and Ward is realising how much of a mistake he made.
Piper has moved on, removed herself from the tarnish of Wards reputation and is rebuilding her life free from anything that may soil the reputation and image she wants the world to see. But what happens when Ward comes back into her life? Can the incidents of the past be forgotten so that they have a second chance of romance? Or will Piper be too worry about her reputation and too scared to that the risk?
I must admit when I found out what Ward did and why they split I could understand Piper's reluctance to even consider trying again. However even though Ward had a huge mountain to climb to make up for his past mistakes I felt he did that and so much more.
This is a very sweet second chance romance, and one I enjoyed as Piper didn't make the journey to win her easy for Ward even though her feelings never changed she was confident enough and sure of herself to not just give in which I feel is a great lesson for women today.
This is Ward and Pipers story.
Ward and Piper have a history, they were young sweethearts but something happened and then split. Fast forward to today and Ward is realising how much of a mistake he made.
Piper has moved on, removed herself from the tarnish of Wards reputation and is rebuilding her life free from anything that may soil the reputation and image she wants the world to see. But what happens when Ward comes back into her life? Can the incidents of the past be forgotten so that they have a second chance of romance? Or will Piper be too worry about her reputation and too scared to that the risk?
I must admit when I found out what Ward did and why they split I could understand Piper's reluctance to even consider trying again. However even though Ward had a huge mountain to climb to make up for his past mistakes I felt he did that and so much more.
This is a very sweet second chance romance, and one I enjoyed as Piper didn't make the journey to win her easy for Ward even though her feelings never changed she was confident enough and sure of herself to not just give in which I feel is a great lesson for women today.
August 18, 2025
Graydon Locke loves Ella, Zane Buchaman loves Casey, Joel McMurray loves Dawn, and Ward Cantrell used to love Piper Morrisey. Casey, Ella, Ward and Piper made a school pact to remain best friends and confidants while in high school, and for the most part the pact has lasted for 10 years. Except for Ward and Piper – both headstrong and proud with adjacent Finger Lakes businesses – she’s a vintner from a long line of vintners and he runs a distillery in one of the richest grape growing regions of the country. He’s got what she needs, and she’s got what he wants. But you know what they say, be careful what you wish for, you just might get it!
Author Christi Barth pulls from actual sites and customs of the region (be sure to read her Dedication) as she unwinds the complicated relationships between the protagonists, Ward and Piper. For the most part, it is a satisfying read which could perhaps be improved by editing down page-upon-page of repetitive agonizing on the part of the main characters, specifically slights, hurts, miscommunications and salacious thoughts about one another. The story ensues within, 30-day pact of dating/trying again. Character development is descriptively well rounded; however one might expect a little more self-insight from two 28-year-old, college educated professionals. Being familiar with this grape growing region of New York, I felt Barth did justice to the beauty, environment and commerce that constitutes the Finger Lakes region. If you’re looking for a fast-reading cozy romance with just a touch of “glory days”, this is the book for you.
Author Christi Barth pulls from actual sites and customs of the region (be sure to read her Dedication) as she unwinds the complicated relationships between the protagonists, Ward and Piper. For the most part, it is a satisfying read which could perhaps be improved by editing down page-upon-page of repetitive agonizing on the part of the main characters, specifically slights, hurts, miscommunications and salacious thoughts about one another. The story ensues within, 30-day pact of dating/trying again. Character development is descriptively well rounded; however one might expect a little more self-insight from two 28-year-old, college educated professionals. Being familiar with this grape growing region of New York, I felt Barth did justice to the beauty, environment and commerce that constitutes the Finger Lakes region. If you’re looking for a fast-reading cozy romance with just a touch of “glory days”, this is the book for you.
August 17, 2025
The third book in the Shore Secrets Series had me racing to turn the pages!
Ward Cantrell favours the long shot; he always has, but it hasn't always panned out for him. In fact, taking long shots that don't work out seems to be a trait he got from his father, and together, their long shots have left Ward a long way from where he would rather be. In a last-ditch effort, Ward takes (at least) one more long shot, one that might fix all his others.
Piper Morrissey has spent a considerable amount of time recovering from the most significant heartbreak of her life. She has made a remarkably successful life for herself since then and is actively working to move on from him. But when fulfilling a deathbed promise means she might have to give him a second chance, she has to realise that it's not just as simple as falling back into where they were, but also unpacking everything that she didn't realise she was still holding onto.
Christi Barth shares the stories of Ward and Piper with all the emotions of the roller coaster; the slow-burning passion, the heartbreak, the pining, the feelings of friendship, family and community and of course, of love! I couldn't read through their stories quick enough and was right there with them sharing their ups and downs, hoping that each down had an up coming straight after it!
Ward Cantrell favours the long shot; he always has, but it hasn't always panned out for him. In fact, taking long shots that don't work out seems to be a trait he got from his father, and together, their long shots have left Ward a long way from where he would rather be. In a last-ditch effort, Ward takes (at least) one more long shot, one that might fix all his others.
Piper Morrissey has spent a considerable amount of time recovering from the most significant heartbreak of her life. She has made a remarkably successful life for herself since then and is actively working to move on from him. But when fulfilling a deathbed promise means she might have to give him a second chance, she has to realise that it's not just as simple as falling back into where they were, but also unpacking everything that she didn't realise she was still holding onto.
Christi Barth shares the stories of Ward and Piper with all the emotions of the roller coaster; the slow-burning passion, the heartbreak, the pining, the feelings of friendship, family and community and of course, of love! I couldn't read through their stories quick enough and was right there with them sharing their ups and downs, hoping that each down had an up coming straight after it!
August 17, 2025
I didn’t realize this was a book in a series when I picked it up so I went back and read the first two. Could be a stand alone but since the characters are in all the books I learned some back story. Ward and Piper are two in the best friend circle of four friends, they meet for breakfast multiple times a week, and always avoid each other. Ward and Piper used to date in high school and now act like they can’t stand each other. Piper confessed she loved him to her friends and Ward quietly takes care of Piper like it is second nature. Ward owns a boutique distillery and Piper runs her family’s winery. Ward agrees to sell her some land if she will date him for a month. He is hoping to rekindle their love and start over and Piper can see how much he still loves her. There is a lot of hurt and history between these two and we also learn more about Ward being shunned by the town and Piper’s family. I love the small town and all the characters that live in it. I love the fun banter between characters and that Ward has three girl best friends that he has listened to and loved for years. I love that the first two characters and their love interests are still in this book too. This was a fun series full of laughs and small town charm and the finger lakes and the journal really do exist which was cool to learn about!
July 22, 2025
Small Finger Lakes Town, Tight Friend Group as Family, Can He Win Her Back?!?!?
This is the third book of a series set in the Upstate NY Finger Lakes Wine / Distillery region which sounds truly lovely. It is easily read as a standalone novel but the background characters are more meaningful if you have read the previous books in the series. Ward and Piper have been lifelong friends although they also dated their last year in high school until things fell apart -mostly for Ward- in college. Ward is now back in town, trying to redeem himself, build a business and win Piper back. I did find myself really respecting him for turning his life around even without family and many of the townspeople's support while also trying to find ways to win Piper back. On the other hand, I was often annoyed with Piper for not giving him a chance and for digging in and getting so "set in her perfect ways". However, it was easier to understand her behavior with the way her family treated her under the guise of "supporting" her. The growth of their new relationship and seeing them find their way back to each other as adults was enjoyable to read. I look forward to reading what this author writes next!
I was sent an ARC by the author and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
This is the third book of a series set in the Upstate NY Finger Lakes Wine / Distillery region which sounds truly lovely. It is easily read as a standalone novel but the background characters are more meaningful if you have read the previous books in the series. Ward and Piper have been lifelong friends although they also dated their last year in high school until things fell apart -mostly for Ward- in college. Ward is now back in town, trying to redeem himself, build a business and win Piper back. I did find myself really respecting him for turning his life around even without family and many of the townspeople's support while also trying to find ways to win Piper back. On the other hand, I was often annoyed with Piper for not giving him a chance and for digging in and getting so "set in her perfect ways". However, it was easier to understand her behavior with the way her family treated her under the guise of "supporting" her. The growth of their new relationship and seeing them find their way back to each other as adults was enjoyable to read. I look forward to reading what this author writes next!
I was sent an ARC by the author and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
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