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Sugarville Grove #9
Sweet Fortune
This small-town kindergarten teacher is about to make a Christmas bargain with a billionaire…
Allie Lawrence has never cared about money. She grew up running around the family dairy farm with her beloved big brothers, treasuring all the joys in life that don’t cost a thing.
But when she becomes a kindergarten teacher at the elementary school in small town Sugarville Grove, a project that could help her students captures her heart and her imagination.
If only she could find the budget to help the children’s dreams come true.
When a struggling student’s father steps in and makes her an unbelievable offer, Allie is too excited to overthink the conditions. What’s a little tutoring and a fake date or two in exchange for the Christmas miracle she has been praying for?
But as Allie spends more time with the handsome single dad, and the little girl she secretly wishes could be her own, she starts to realize she’s in too deep.
Worse than the threat of losing the bargain, the thing she’s about to lose just might be her heart.
Welcome to Sugarville Grove, where clean & wholesome Christmas romance await you on every corner. Life is sweet in Sugarville Grove! Be sure to read the whole heartwarming series from authors Clara Pines and Tess Thompson!
Allie Lawrence has never cared about money. She grew up running around the family dairy farm with her beloved big brothers, treasuring all the joys in life that don’t cost a thing.
But when she becomes a kindergarten teacher at the elementary school in small town Sugarville Grove, a project that could help her students captures her heart and her imagination.
If only she could find the budget to help the children’s dreams come true.
When a struggling student’s father steps in and makes her an unbelievable offer, Allie is too excited to overthink the conditions. What’s a little tutoring and a fake date or two in exchange for the Christmas miracle she has been praying for?
But as Allie spends more time with the handsome single dad, and the little girl she secretly wishes could be her own, she starts to realize she’s in too deep.
Worse than the threat of losing the bargain, the thing she’s about to lose just might be her heart.
Welcome to Sugarville Grove, where clean & wholesome Christmas romance await you on every corner. Life is sweet in Sugarville Grove! Be sure to read the whole heartwarming series from authors Clara Pines and Tess Thompson!
- GenresRomance
248 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 10, 2026
135 people are currently reading
19 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
February 12, 2026
Sweet Fortune tells the story of Ash, a single dad in a new small town, and Allie, a kindergarten teacher who would do anything to help her students, even pretend to be the girlfriend of the handsome newcomer.
Allie and Ash come from different worlds: a farm girl and a teacher the first and a city business man the latter, so they are understandbly guarded at the start of their relationship. At times Allie fear doesn't allow her to see the real feelings they share, fortunately Ash support and fascination are unconditional.
I liked these characters, they deserved to end up with one another and to get their own fairytale.
Clara Pines delivered a new enjoyable story, her writing always makes me feel warm, with the winter small town charm and the fake relationship trope this novel definitely conquered me.
Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.
February 10, 2026
This is another wonderfully sweet, delightfully charming and utterly heart melting romance that perfectly showcases why I like this author's writing so much. The characters are lovable, the plot honest and the emotions genuine. Add in glimmers of humor, tons of heart and a rock-solid base of realism that really make the feelings and emotions shine like diamonds and you have a memorable and deeply moving romance that is utterly enchanting.
February 7, 2026
Allie Lawrence loves her small town called Sugarville Grove and her job as a kindergarten teacher. She loves living and working in her hometown. She now wants to see about having a greenhouse project for the young children to stretch their legs and get the wiggles out of them. Some children have a hard time being still just like she did when she was little. Now if she can find sponsors.
Ash Tailor is a billionaire and a single dad who wants to spend more time with his daughter, Maya now that he’s divorced. All he and his ex did was work. Time to step back from all of that. He moves to Sugarville Grove for peace and quiet. No one knows he’s wealthy and that’s what he wants. To be liked for themselves. He meets Maya’s teacher, Allie and he offers her the Greenhouse project for the time she tutors his daughter. They both find each other attractive but both are cautious. Allie shouldn’t want to be attracted to her students’s parent. As they spend time together, they agree to a fake engagement because of his horrible ex wife. Can the two pull it off? What does her family think about it? It happened fast. Will they be disappointed that she’s helping Ash? Allie is starting to fall for him and his lovely, smart, energetic daughter. Ash is trying to find a way to prove that he’s in it for the long haul. Will she believe him? Will she open her heart to him and Maya? They both have trust issues. Can they let the past go? Will she finally have a family of her own? I was rooting for them. They deserve to be together. Will they? Characters are wonderful. The series is wonderful. I received this book for my honest review. I give it voluntarily
Ash Tailor is a billionaire and a single dad who wants to spend more time with his daughter, Maya now that he’s divorced. All he and his ex did was work. Time to step back from all of that. He moves to Sugarville Grove for peace and quiet. No one knows he’s wealthy and that’s what he wants. To be liked for themselves. He meets Maya’s teacher, Allie and he offers her the Greenhouse project for the time she tutors his daughter. They both find each other attractive but both are cautious. Allie shouldn’t want to be attracted to her students’s parent. As they spend time together, they agree to a fake engagement because of his horrible ex wife. Can the two pull it off? What does her family think about it? It happened fast. Will they be disappointed that she’s helping Ash? Allie is starting to fall for him and his lovely, smart, energetic daughter. Ash is trying to find a way to prove that he’s in it for the long haul. Will she believe him? Will she open her heart to him and Maya? They both have trust issues. Can they let the past go? Will she finally have a family of her own? I was rooting for them. They deserve to be together. Will they? Characters are wonderful. The series is wonderful. I received this book for my honest review. I give it voluntarily
February 11, 2026
Clara Pines has done it again! She has a knack for three-dimensional character descriptions and for painting a full picture of the world they live in. I was looking forward to Allie's story and I was not disappointed. She is a kindergarten teacher and she worries about the ethics of falling for the father of one of the kids. Allie agrees to a fake relationship in exchange for getting the school a greenhouse. But she can't help developing feelings for Ash and for his charming daughter.
Ash has made deal with his daughter Maya's teacher, but he finds he is falling for Allie. Unfortunately, the trouble he had with his ex causes him to hesitate about a new romance. I love the Lawrence family and the Sugarville Grove community. The beautiful writing and the likable characters will keep you engaged until the end.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Ash has made deal with his daughter Maya's teacher, but he finds he is falling for Allie. Unfortunately, the trouble he had with his ex causes him to hesitate about a new romance. I love the Lawrence family and the Sugarville Grove community. The beautiful writing and the likable characters will keep you engaged until the end.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 13, 2026
I really liked sweet Allie, handsome Ash and cutie Maya.
Allie has lived in Sugarville Grove all her life and is teaching at the local primary school. She loves her job and is a dedicated teacher.
Ash has come from the city where he has made his fortune in the big drinks industry. He moves to Sugarville with Maya to give her a better standard of living and where they can spend more quality time together.
Young Maya hits it off straight away with her teacher Miss Lawrence and when she introduces her Dad to Allie, well there's definitely a connection.
Its not all plain sailing at first, he's a big business owner after all but their attraction is so strong that it can overcome any obstacles.
I look forward to the next chapter in the Sugarville stories they are easy to read, clean, no swearing and lovely characters.
Thankyou Clara.
Allie has lived in Sugarville Grove all her life and is teaching at the local primary school. She loves her job and is a dedicated teacher.
Ash has come from the city where he has made his fortune in the big drinks industry. He moves to Sugarville with Maya to give her a better standard of living and where they can spend more quality time together.
Young Maya hits it off straight away with her teacher Miss Lawrence and when she introduces her Dad to Allie, well there's definitely a connection.
Its not all plain sailing at first, he's a big business owner after all but their attraction is so strong that it can overcome any obstacles.
I look forward to the next chapter in the Sugarville stories they are easy to read, clean, no swearing and lovely characters.
Thankyou Clara.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sweet Fortune (Sugarville Grove Book 9)
By: Clara Pines
5 Stars
Allie has been in and out of the books so far, but this was all about her. Being a kindergarten teacher is the light of her life. When a special little girl, and her dad, come into town Allie finds herself falling.
Oh, how I loved this story. It was sweet from start to finish. Allie has been a favorite from afar, but I loved HER story. Ash brought a little rough and tough to this ever-growing town. Being a single father to little Maya keeps him busy, until he meets the right teacher for his little girl and possibly, him. This is another Christmas season steeped in its dramas and romance, magic and understanding. I was once again sucked in and loved every minute.
*I want to thank the publisher and author for this book in return for my honest review*
Stormi Ellis
Boundless Book Reviews
By: Clara Pines
5 Stars
Allie has been in and out of the books so far, but this was all about her. Being a kindergarten teacher is the light of her life. When a special little girl, and her dad, come into town Allie finds herself falling.
Oh, how I loved this story. It was sweet from start to finish. Allie has been a favorite from afar, but I loved HER story. Ash brought a little rough and tough to this ever-growing town. Being a single father to little Maya keeps him busy, until he meets the right teacher for his little girl and possibly, him. This is another Christmas season steeped in its dramas and romance, magic and understanding. I was once again sucked in and loved every minute.
*I want to thank the publisher and author for this book in return for my honest review*
Stormi Ellis
Boundless Book Reviews
February 9, 2026
4 Star Review Sweet Fortune (Trinity Falls Romance - Home For Christmas #9) by Clara Pines
by Clara Pines
Falling for single dad Ash and his five year old daughter was not in get plans but the heart wants who the heart wants but that’s what happens to kindergarten teacher, Allie Lawrence.
Set in Sugarville Grove, Pennsylvania, this was a sweet, well written story that left me with a smile on my face.
I enjoy single parent stories, add in that it is set around Christmas, my favorite holiday of the year and the small town of Sugarville Grove and for me it was a win all around.
The writing is so descriptive that I can easily see Trinity Falls in my mind whilst reading.
by Clara Pines
Falling for single dad Ash and his five year old daughter was not in get plans but the heart wants who the heart wants but that’s what happens to kindergarten teacher, Allie Lawrence.
Set in Sugarville Grove, Pennsylvania, this was a sweet, well written story that left me with a smile on my face.
I enjoy single parent stories, add in that it is set around Christmas, my favorite holiday of the year and the small town of Sugarville Grove and for me it was a win all around.
The writing is so descriptive that I can easily see Trinity Falls in my mind whilst reading.
February 10, 2026
What a great addition to the Sugarville Grove series! I loved Allie and Ash’s story! What started out as a fake engagement turned into so much more! I loved how great they were together. Ash’s daughter was adorable! She is a student in Allie’s kindergarten class. The three of them made the perfect family. Will their fake relationship turn to a forever family? I love all of Clara’s books and look forward to her next book!
February 12, 2026
Another great small town romance story around Christmas time. This story is about Ash and Allie’s romance, so sweet and encouraging. Single dad and his little daughter’s teacher are as opposite as they come but the hyper energetic girl brings them together to help her, but obviously it goes beyond that.
I admire author’s talent showcasing the characters the way you can’t help but love them.
Mischievous moments, laughter and love fill the pages of this wonderful story.
I admire author’s talent showcasing the characters the way you can’t help but love them.
Mischievous moments, laughter and love fill the pages of this wonderful story.
February 13, 2026
Once upon a time, and happily ever after
That was Allie's wish and Ash made it come true. This story is like a fairy tale and I truly enjoy a good fairy tale!
Beautifully written, a dashing hero and beautiful princess, all the ups and downs of a fairy tale and an incredible happy ending.
Now is only Tripp can find his forever love.
Thank you Clara Pines for a delightful bedtime story.
That was Allie's wish and Ash made it come true. This story is like a fairy tale and I truly enjoy a good fairy tale!
Beautifully written, a dashing hero and beautiful princess, all the ups and downs of a fairy tale and an incredible happy ending.
Now is only Tripp can find his forever love.
Thank you Clara Pines for a delightful bedtime story.
February 10, 2026
Do fairy tales really come true? When kindergarten teacher Allie, meets Ash, the father of her student Maya, sparks fly. The pair enter into a business arrangement, but true feelings begin to emerge. Sugarville Grove has a small town vibe, with lots of community support. The Lawrence family does support and look out for their own. Allie proves she
Is not the baby sister anymore. Ash is a single divorced dad and a savy businessman. He moves to Sugarville Grove to provide a good home for his daughter.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. This review is my honest opinion.
Is not the baby sister anymore. Ash is a single divorced dad and a savy businessman. He moves to Sugarville Grove to provide a good home for his daughter.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. This review is my honest opinion.
February 10, 2026
Another amazing story in the Sugarville Grove series! the story of Ally and Ash is probably my favorite in the series. Their unexpected pairing to happily ever after is unexpected yet sweet. Love this series!
February 11, 2026
Wonderful Read!
I enjoy the sweetness and positivity of each book in this series. Of course with each book becomes a favorite until the next one is published. The last one is always the favorite book.
I enjoy the sweetness and positivity of each book in this series. Of course with each book becomes a favorite until the next one is published. The last one is always the favorite book.
February 19, 2026
I just love these books. I have my bag packed ready to move to Sugarville Grove. Sweet, clean, small-town romance. Also if you read these, don't forget to click in the link at the end off the book for the free Bonus chapter, which is a small follow up of the main characters.
February 11, 2026
Loved It
Loved It - such a sweet story that'll make your heart sing, and how sweet was that little girl and it was just so easy to love her to pieces.
Loved It - such a sweet story that'll make your heart sing, and how sweet was that little girl and it was just so easy to love her to pieces.
February 11, 2026
A billionaire and small town girl fake an engagement. What can go wrong? what will go right? A truly interesting story of love and happiness
Review of advance copy
Sweet Fortune
Clara Pines
Allie is a kindergarten teacher and loves her job. Ash's daughter is one of her students. It's Christmas time and lots of things are going on when Ash get a call from the principals office say Maya pushed another student. When it came down to the truth Maya was sticking of foe another student.
Clara Pines
Allie is a kindergarten teacher and loves her job. Ash's daughter is one of her students. It's Christmas time and lots of things are going on when Ash get a call from the principals office say Maya pushed another student. When it came down to the truth Maya was sticking of foe another student.
February 17, 2026
Sweet Fortune is the Sugarville Grove book by author Clara Pines we’ve been waiting for. All the Lawrence brothers – Tag, Zane, West and Cash – have found their soulmates, the love of their lives. Little Sister Allie Lawrence isn’t so little anymore. She’s happy, though; she loves Sugarville Grove, loves living with her parents, loves being Aunt Allie and loves her job as a kindergarten teacher. But sometimes a little wishful thinking creeps in. Not envy or jealousy, but at times she just wishes she could have what her brothers and parents have: that special someone, a family of her own. She can’t imagine living anywhere but Sugarville Grove but going somewhere new and different for a little while would be nice, perhaps meeting someone she hasn’t grown up with. Her life is good, full of satisfying work, friends, family, activities, but it’s not exactly the way she dreamed it as a young girl – marriage, children, a home of her own.
Ash Tailor and his little daughter Maya are new in town. Ash is friendly but understated, keeps to himself most of the time and Sugarville Groves residents don’t know much about his background or why he moved to town. Maya is in Allie’s kindergarten class. She’s exuberant, active, always on the move and reminds Allie of herself at that age. Maya also already has a strongly developed sense of right and wrong and of the necessity of always standing up for the underdog, which gets her into a bit of trouble on the playground, leading to the parent-teacher meeting where Allie and Ash meet.
Allie is a little smitten but quickly chides herself, he’s the father of her student, she can’t have a crush on him. Ash sees her not only as a competent, dedicated, charming (and beautiful) woman but as the person who is in Maya’s corner, who goes to extra lengths to redirect some of Maya’s excess energy, who doesn’t criticize or dismiss her as “not normal” or “too much.” Ash amazes himself when he thinks about a small gift to show his appreciation for Allie being in Maya’s corner, but instead of the usual teacher gifts like coffee mugs and tote bags, his mind gets a little mushy and romantic – he’s thinking flowers and chocolate. Stop, not appropriate, this is about Maya.
Allie agrees to tutor Maya and Ash offers to support Allie’s vision of a greenhouse for the school. Perfectly harmless and appropriate: parent-teacher, two new friends, both with all the students in mind. Allie offers to show Ash and Maya around town during the Sugarville Grove holiday celebrations, they spend time together, feel so right and so comfortable – and then when Ash’s ex-wife’s partner makes a cruel remark about Maya, Allie jumps in and blurts out that she and Ash are engaged. Where did that come from? Maybe some of that wishful thinking, not on the surface but at a deep level. And what are they going to do about it. Believe me, it’s so much fun finding out.
Sweet Fortune is another wonderful, relaxing, satisfying holiday story by Clara Pines, set in the beautiful town of Sugarville Grove where holidays are big and loud and joyous, where everybody knows your business but mostly have your best interests at heart and where magic happens. I received an advance copy of Sweet Fortune. I loved Ash and Allie’s story, spending time with the Lawrences and the Hayes family from Tess Thompson’s other half of the Sugarville Grove series, enjoying the celebrations and the romance and the wonderful people. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
Ash Tailor and his little daughter Maya are new in town. Ash is friendly but understated, keeps to himself most of the time and Sugarville Groves residents don’t know much about his background or why he moved to town. Maya is in Allie’s kindergarten class. She’s exuberant, active, always on the move and reminds Allie of herself at that age. Maya also already has a strongly developed sense of right and wrong and of the necessity of always standing up for the underdog, which gets her into a bit of trouble on the playground, leading to the parent-teacher meeting where Allie and Ash meet.
Allie is a little smitten but quickly chides herself, he’s the father of her student, she can’t have a crush on him. Ash sees her not only as a competent, dedicated, charming (and beautiful) woman but as the person who is in Maya’s corner, who goes to extra lengths to redirect some of Maya’s excess energy, who doesn’t criticize or dismiss her as “not normal” or “too much.” Ash amazes himself when he thinks about a small gift to show his appreciation for Allie being in Maya’s corner, but instead of the usual teacher gifts like coffee mugs and tote bags, his mind gets a little mushy and romantic – he’s thinking flowers and chocolate. Stop, not appropriate, this is about Maya.
Allie agrees to tutor Maya and Ash offers to support Allie’s vision of a greenhouse for the school. Perfectly harmless and appropriate: parent-teacher, two new friends, both with all the students in mind. Allie offers to show Ash and Maya around town during the Sugarville Grove holiday celebrations, they spend time together, feel so right and so comfortable – and then when Ash’s ex-wife’s partner makes a cruel remark about Maya, Allie jumps in and blurts out that she and Ash are engaged. Where did that come from? Maybe some of that wishful thinking, not on the surface but at a deep level. And what are they going to do about it. Believe me, it’s so much fun finding out.
Sweet Fortune is another wonderful, relaxing, satisfying holiday story by Clara Pines, set in the beautiful town of Sugarville Grove where holidays are big and loud and joyous, where everybody knows your business but mostly have your best interests at heart and where magic happens. I received an advance copy of Sweet Fortune. I loved Ash and Allie’s story, spending time with the Lawrences and the Hayes family from Tess Thompson’s other half of the Sugarville Grove series, enjoying the celebrations and the romance and the wonderful people. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
February 12, 2026
Do you love small town, clean HEA romance books? Then this book written by Clara Pines is a must read. Actually, any book by Clara Pines is a must read because she is this amazing author who is able to catch your attention right from the start and hold it until you are finished.
In this book Sweet Fortune, there is the FMC, Allie Lawrence who is not only the youngest but the only girl, so her older brothers are always looking out for her. She is a kindergarten teacher at the local elementary and loves her job. Part of the reason is because she herself understands what some of these kids are going through with their energy level because she went through it herself. Through patience, understanding, activities and more, she sees it is working, especially with this new girl, Maya, in her class. What she wasn’t expecting though is to place herself in a slightly awkward situation, but maybe it isn’t so awkward but something she needs in her life.
Ash Tailor’s daughter, Maya, has this endless energy that he needs to find an outlet for. Maybe moving to a small town, with lots of outdoor activities will help her. Especially since there seems to be he might need a village to help raise his child. Sugarville Grove seems to be the answer. He wasn’t expecting though have an instant connection Maya’s kindergarten teacher. A connection that might benefit all of them beyond their wildest dreams.
Thanks to 1852 Media and the author for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
In this book Sweet Fortune, there is the FMC, Allie Lawrence who is not only the youngest but the only girl, so her older brothers are always looking out for her. She is a kindergarten teacher at the local elementary and loves her job. Part of the reason is because she herself understands what some of these kids are going through with their energy level because she went through it herself. Through patience, understanding, activities and more, she sees it is working, especially with this new girl, Maya, in her class. What she wasn’t expecting though is to place herself in a slightly awkward situation, but maybe it isn’t so awkward but something she needs in her life.
Ash Tailor’s daughter, Maya, has this endless energy that he needs to find an outlet for. Maybe moving to a small town, with lots of outdoor activities will help her. Especially since there seems to be he might need a village to help raise his child. Sugarville Grove seems to be the answer. He wasn’t expecting though have an instant connection Maya’s kindergarten teacher. A connection that might benefit all of them beyond their wildest dreams.
Thanks to 1852 Media and the author for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Clara Pines delivers again! Small town romance set at Christmas and another Lawrence finds her HEA. Being the only girl in a large family and the baby in the family has its ups and downs. Older brothers tend to be protective and dating with Allie’s hectic schedule is also a setback. Having her dream job as the Kindergarten teacher has some challenges but she loves it. Shaping the students takes patience and creativity and finding ways to help burn off the extra energy works especially well for a sweet little girl that is new. But when Maya gets in trouble at school and the principal has a meeting with all concern things are set in motion for Allie.
Ash made the difficult decision to move with his daughter to a small town hoping that the lifestyle would be a good fit for his very energetic daughter. When he is called to meet at the principal office, he is confused what happened since that wasn’t Maya nature. Relieved that the principal and Maya teacher were both good listeners and got to the bottom of the story had him confirming that this move was the right decision. Noticing the extra care and time Ms. Lawrence takes with not only Maya but all her students has him wanting to know her better. And Maya is all for it.
Love the sweet, clean romance, the old familiar characters from the previous books. You can enjoy as a standalone, but I am sure you will love the previous books. Can’t wait to see who is next. Thank you for this ARC, the opinions expressed are solely my own.
Ash made the difficult decision to move with his daughter to a small town hoping that the lifestyle would be a good fit for his very energetic daughter. When he is called to meet at the principal office, he is confused what happened since that wasn’t Maya nature. Relieved that the principal and Maya teacher were both good listeners and got to the bottom of the story had him confirming that this move was the right decision. Noticing the extra care and time Ms. Lawrence takes with not only Maya but all her students has him wanting to know her better. And Maya is all for it.
Love the sweet, clean romance, the old familiar characters from the previous books. You can enjoy as a standalone, but I am sure you will love the previous books. Can’t wait to see who is next. Thank you for this ARC, the opinions expressed are solely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sugarville Grove is a lovely place, and it's great to return to the adventures of the Lawrence family. This time it's Allie Lawrence's story. She's the youngest child and only daughter, and teaches kindergarten in town. Allie is full of ideas to improve her student's lives, whether it's as simple as rearranging her classroom to allow for exercising or as complex as a new greenhouse so that children can learn about how things grow.
Ash Tailor has moved to Sugarville Grove because he wants to spend more time with his young daughter, Maya. She needs space to play and run around. He wants to fit in with the local people, so he keeps quiet about his wealth. He's impressed by Allie Lawrence's work with his daughter, her understanding of Maya's inability to sit still.
Allie finds herself claiming to be his fiancee, and he's delighted to keep up the facade. Even as their feelings grow, both find themselves holding back. Ash is treating it like a business deal. Allie is struggling with whether he's being fully honest with her. I felt that this story really reached to the heart of both characters motivations; Allie's concerns about Ash and whether her feelings were true; and Ash's competitive drive leading him astray. The author handles this beautifully, and this is one HEA that feels realistic and well deserved.
I appreciate the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. I wholeheartedly recommend this book, and the entire series.
Ash Tailor has moved to Sugarville Grove because he wants to spend more time with his young daughter, Maya. She needs space to play and run around. He wants to fit in with the local people, so he keeps quiet about his wealth. He's impressed by Allie Lawrence's work with his daughter, her understanding of Maya's inability to sit still.
Allie finds herself claiming to be his fiancee, and he's delighted to keep up the facade. Even as their feelings grow, both find themselves holding back. Ash is treating it like a business deal. Allie is struggling with whether he's being fully honest with her. I felt that this story really reached to the heart of both characters motivations; Allie's concerns about Ash and whether her feelings were true; and Ash's competitive drive leading him astray. The author handles this beautifully, and this is one HEA that feels realistic and well deserved.
I appreciate the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. I wholeheartedly recommend this book, and the entire series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
We are back in Sugarville Grove, VT with another clean, sweet and touching story. This one belongs to Kindergarten teacher Allie Lawrence and wealthy businessman , single dad, Ash Tailor.
Allie loves her job and her kids. She would love the create a greenhouse for the children but her proposition is turned out because it’s an expensive long term project.
Ash’s little girl Maya is full of energy, reminding Allie of herself. Determined to help the child, Allie creates a safe and helpful arrangement of chairs to allow not only Maya, but also the other kids to thrive. Ash is so impressed he considers helping Allie with the greenhouse.
When Ash’s ex shows up unexpectedly, Allie decides to help him and says she’s his girlfriend.
The fake engagement starts to feel real but Allie’s doubts of a future with Ash and what she overhears, has her uncertain of that future.
This was another wonderful story by this talented author. One that always gives us stories about family, hope, and finding love when the characters least expect it.
This reader enjoyed “visiting” with characters of previous stories.
Looking forward to more stories by this author.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Allie loves her job and her kids. She would love the create a greenhouse for the children but her proposition is turned out because it’s an expensive long term project.
Ash’s little girl Maya is full of energy, reminding Allie of herself. Determined to help the child, Allie creates a safe and helpful arrangement of chairs to allow not only Maya, but also the other kids to thrive. Ash is so impressed he considers helping Allie with the greenhouse.
When Ash’s ex shows up unexpectedly, Allie decides to help him and says she’s his girlfriend.
The fake engagement starts to feel real but Allie’s doubts of a future with Ash and what she overhears, has her uncertain of that future.
This was another wonderful story by this talented author. One that always gives us stories about family, hope, and finding love when the characters least expect it.
This reader enjoyed “visiting” with characters of previous stories.
Looking forward to more stories by this author.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sweet Fortune is kindergarten teacher Allie Lawrence and wealthy businessman and single dad, Ash Tailor’s story. It’s book nine in (A Small Town Christmas Romance): Sugarville Grove Series and this is a story magical movies are made from.
Ash has moved to Sugarville Grove after his divorce with his energetic daughter Maya in the hope of giving her a life and future she deserves away from the hustle and bustle of big city life. Kindergarten is the first step in small town living and that’s where he meets Allie…….
Allie only wants to start school life off in the right direction for her kindergarten students and she is always looking for creative ideas and this time it’s an expensive greenhouse project. Seeing a lot of herself in Maya she does everything she can to help the energetic little girl settle in to her new life but a chance meeting with Maya’s mum has her blurting out she is engaged to Ash to help him out………
So what happens when feelings come into play.
What follows is beautifully written heartwarming, fake relationship with wonderful characters. I fell hard and fast for Ash and I want Allie as my new best friend but it was watching the adorable Maya thrive in Sugarville Grove that took this book to the next level.
Ash has moved to Sugarville Grove after his divorce with his energetic daughter Maya in the hope of giving her a life and future she deserves away from the hustle and bustle of big city life. Kindergarten is the first step in small town living and that’s where he meets Allie…….
Allie only wants to start school life off in the right direction for her kindergarten students and she is always looking for creative ideas and this time it’s an expensive greenhouse project. Seeing a lot of herself in Maya she does everything she can to help the energetic little girl settle in to her new life but a chance meeting with Maya’s mum has her blurting out she is engaged to Ash to help him out………
So what happens when feelings come into play.
What follows is beautifully written heartwarming, fake relationship with wonderful characters. I fell hard and fast for Ash and I want Allie as my new best friend but it was watching the adorable Maya thrive in Sugarville Grove that took this book to the next level.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If a were to say one word about Ms. Pines' books, it would be “magical” and Sweet Fortune is no exception. This is Allie Lawerence’s story. We’ve met her in prior books, she is the Lawerence’s brothers baby sister. Sadly that is how most of the town sees her as well. Not as an independent woman who is a school teacher but as the Lawrence brothers' little sister. That is until she meets Ash Tailor. He is a single father to one of her students, Maya. He’s new to town having moved to Sugerville, Vermont after his divorce in hopes of giving his daughter a better life. Ash sees the real Allie and they both feel that instant spark upon meeting. To top it off, they soon find themselves in a fake engagement due Allie’s quick wit and blurted out words when Ash’s ex wife and boyfriend show up and start spewing snobbish comments about Ash and Maya.
From here the storyline takes off with lots of laughs, smiles, romance and secret wishes that the engagement is real. Watching Allie and Ash’s story unfold is amazing. Of course it’s not without its bumps along the way including lots of self doubts and nosey friends and family. But it’s one book you don’t want to miss. I highly recommend grabbing it up asap.
2 Thumbs Up and 5+ Stars!
From here the storyline takes off with lots of laughs, smiles, romance and secret wishes that the engagement is real. Watching Allie and Ash’s story unfold is amazing. Of course it’s not without its bumps along the way including lots of self doubts and nosey friends and family. But it’s one book you don’t want to miss. I highly recommend grabbing it up asap.
2 Thumbs Up and 5+ Stars!
February 16, 2026
A lovely story - the author's creates these wonderful holiday family stories. Very enjoyable.
Amazon synopsis:
Allie Lawrence has never cared about money. She grew up running around the family dairy farm with her beloved big brothers, treasuring all the joys in life that don’t cost a thing.
But when she becomes a kindergarten teacher at the elementary school in small town Sugarville Grove, a project that could help her students captures her heart and her imagination.
If only she could find the budget to help the children’s dreams come true.
When a struggling student’s father steps in and makes her an unbelievable offer, Allie is too excited to overthink the conditions. What’s a little tutoring and a fake date or two in exchange for the Christmas miracle she has been praying for?
But as Allie spends more time with the handsome single dad, and the little girl she secretly wishes could be her own, she starts to realize she’s in too deep.
Worse than the threat of losing the bargain, the thing she’s about to lose just might be her heart.
Amazon synopsis:
Allie Lawrence has never cared about money. She grew up running around the family dairy farm with her beloved big brothers, treasuring all the joys in life that don’t cost a thing.
But when she becomes a kindergarten teacher at the elementary school in small town Sugarville Grove, a project that could help her students captures her heart and her imagination.
If only she could find the budget to help the children’s dreams come true.
When a struggling student’s father steps in and makes her an unbelievable offer, Allie is too excited to overthink the conditions. What’s a little tutoring and a fake date or two in exchange for the Christmas miracle she has been praying for?
But as Allie spends more time with the handsome single dad, and the little girl she secretly wishes could be her own, she starts to realize she’s in too deep.
Worse than the threat of losing the bargain, the thing she’s about to lose just might be her heart.
Read
February 9, 2026What an outstanding book! Ash and his energetic daughter Maya have moved to Sugarville Grove and are trying to fit it with small town life. Allie is the Kindergarten teacher who sees a lot of herself in Maya. When Ash and Allie meet they both see the possibility of a relationship but a meeting with his ex and some careless words about Maya have them arranging a business proposition. As time goes by they both want to get serious but the past has a way of making them both leary of any future. Sometimes we have to remember that life’s journeys are never perfect and just enjoy the road we are on. Can Ash and Allie find their happy ever after? Can the magic of Christmas, Sugarville Grove and family help them realize that life is a compromise and you take each day as it comes? You definitely don’t want to miss this book and I can’t wait for more. 5+ stars. This is a standalone but trust me you will soon seek out the other books.
February 15, 2026
This is another wonderful winter holiday story in the Sugarville Grove series. The book is about the kindergarten teacher Allie Lawrence. Allie is the youngest of the Lawrence family. This is the story about Allie, who loves teaching her kindergarten children. Allie also has an important project for her class, wanting to get a greenhouse. A venture that needs money and donations. Little Maya in Allie's class has trouble and needs a bit of help. Maya is new to Sugarville Grove having moved there with her father Ash when Maya's mother left them for someone else. Allie gets to know Ash and spends a lot of time with both Ash and his daughter Maya. The story is well put together and it was really nice to meet with the Lawrence family and their members again. The sweet family moments and how Maya is included in the "pack". The family spirit, gathering for the traditional yearly snowball fight and lots more. The sweet ending makes the book so good and delightful.
Charlotte N
Charlotte N
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Clara Pines brings it once again! I loved “Sweet Fortune” -A Small Town Christmas Romance & the 9th must read in the ‘Sugarville Grove’ series... With a magical storyline, real-to-life characters set in a familiar small community with loving friends & family, provides funny & touching scenes... Ash is a single dad with a precocious 5 year old lovable daughter, both who fall under the spell of a sweet, caring teacher... But will Allie keep her feelings to herself thinking this was too good to be true?... I was hooked from the start and despite some ups & downs, I was satisfied to see my must-have happy ending! ... Even tho I volunteered to read this book, these are my own opinions without any outside influences... So I can honestly recommend this page-turner to all fans of fiction of any age & I can’t wait for more, but I will ;)
Review of advance copy received from Author
This series is one that I like to settle back into, and simply inhale. It's family, teaching good values, and a supportive community. Allie is the youngest of the big Lawrence family and the only girl. (she has a LOT of protectors). She loves being a kindergarten teacher. One student is her favorite - Maya Tailor - who is energetic & smart, just like Allie was as a child. Allie is very creative in dealing with her students' differences. Some conflict arises amongst students in Allie's class, and she meets Ash Tailor. A meetup with Maya's divorced mother throws Allie & Ash into a fake relationship. There are some hiccups, but they both learn how to have a real romance. I enjoyed seeing the 3 children in the initial conflict, learn to be good friends. As always, this is a heart warming story.
Review of advance copy
We are nine books into this series and I just can’t get enough. The characters are all so warm and inviting and although Sugarville Grove is a fictitious town you fall in love with the people and especially the Lawrence family. Allie Lawrence is the kindergarten teacher and she is like sunshine on a cloudy and rainy day and she meets Ash Tailor when his young daughter is in Allie’s class. The attraction is instant but when Allie pretends to be Ash’s fiancée they both harbour for the feelings to be real. Eventually they fake relationship becomes real and everyone in Sugarville Grove is so happy for them both. Clara Pine has become a favourite author of mine because all her books are all filled with positive storylines and characters that truly touch your heart and become family. Cannot wait for more books in this series.
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