I can’t get over the past. And my too-charming high school nemesis refuses to let me forget.
After my big-city life in Chicago goes up in flames, I’m back in Silver Ridge with nothing but my cat and a mountain of regrets to my name.
This town is full of memories—like my best friend who died in high school. And Callum O’Neal, the arrogant jock who was my nemesisl.
Now he’s a volunteer firefighter with a golden-retriever smile, working side by side with me at my grandfather’s brewery. Worse? He insists he doesn’t know why I hate him, then has the nerve to start charming me. Turns out I can’t resist that backward cap or the naughty gleam in his eyes.
But when long-buried secrets come to light, Callum’s the only one standing between me and danger. Now, I don’t know what frightens me more.
The real truth about what happened back then… or the possibility that I’ll fall for him.
A rivals-to-lovers romance packed with fast-paced banter, a steamy cooking lesson, emotional secrets revealed, and heart-pounding suspense!
✔️ Black cat x Golden retriever ✔️ Childhood enemies ✔️ Workplace rivals ✔️ Coworkers with benefits ✔️ Reformed playboy ✔️ Small-town romantic suspense
Can be read as a standalone. Note to readers: contains scenes of suspense, danger, and death. Please check the "Before you read" page in the sample.
I write suspenseful romance with pulse-pounding danger, fun & flirty banter, and tons of heart (plus spice!). Both a Californian and a Texan in my past, I now live in the Colorado mountains with my family.
Enemies to lovers and edge-of-your-seat suspense? Yes, please. I started this for the flirty tension and stayed up way too late because the twists totally blindsided me. The mystery adds an addictive layer to the story, and Callum—ugh, that golden-retriever energy—made me melt. I think he's my favorite of all the Hart County characters so far. This book was funny, steamy, and surprisingly intense in all the best ways. I couldn’t put it down. Counting the days until the next book in the series!
I received an advance review copy and am leaving this review voluntarily.
As per usual, a stunning read. I was locked in within the first few paragraphs which is what I look for in a book (I get bored fast), but ohmygoddd, Zandra was flawless. I can never resist a black cat fmc with a feisty attitude! And Callummmm 🫠! *chef's kiss* x10! Mr Callum-backwards-cap-tattooed-💦s-in-his-pants-and-says-grab-onto-the-headboard-O'Neal.
Anywaaay, I'm obsessed with this series. These books always give me heart palpitations because of all the twists and unexpected turns this series has had so far. I loved it, and I'm so excited for the next book in series!
Thank you for trusting me with your book and reviewing it fairly.
3 "it was alright" stars. I almost didn't finish it at first because the heroine started out as a raging bitch for no discernible reason. She disliked the H in the beginning because "everyone liked him" and was horribly rude to him. The *16" years later she comes back and is STILL a raging bitch to him, her reasoning is asinine. But once we got through all that,(about 20%) it was an alright book. The h became much more likeable over time, although she was still not my preferred heroine type, but she played well off the H. He was able to take her surliness in stride and somehow turned it around. They had fun banter and were cute together, the sex scenes were pretty good. Although, I unlocked a new "ick" and that's when the heroine called the Hero "Baby boy" 🤢🤢🤢🤢🤢🤢 NO, Nope, noooo no no no no. just no. Hated it. Hope that's never used again. Also, there was way too much going on with the whole murder mystery/stalker/blackmailers/ex boyfriend thing going on and the end was like a freaking Scooby Doo mystery with all the ridiculous false suspects. *The mean jock must be the killer, no, he's just blackmailing the brother, so it's not him! must be the brother! nooo, not him, he's just trying to keep his psychotic mom somewhere between committing murder and being committed, so it's the mom! no, the mom is just the one stalking her dead daughter's best friend and leaving her creepy messages, must have been the secret jock lover, if only we knew who that was, wait! the secret lover is none other than the loyal employee! Watch out! He seems to have possibly sinister intent! oh whew, the cheerleader friend is here to save us from the secret lover, she's going to take us home. We're just gonna take a pitstop to the creek my best friend was murder at all those years ago, in the middle of the night, by ourselves., that sounds like a great idea...Egads! it's the cheerleader/best friend's brother's ex who was *so* inexplicably supportive of us after our best friend was murdered! She was the killer the whole time! Oh no! she's trying to drown us to keep us from exposing the fact that she's the killer! Better punch her in the jaw and have her hit her head in the same way my best friend died. Luckily for her, I have my phone this time. No one's dying today!* Then the cheerleader chick is like "And I would have gotten away with it too, if it wasn't for my attempt to murder you for knowing information that apparently wasn't admissible in court anyways" 😂😂😂 That's the truly hilarious part of it all, we're told that "it's been too long to prove the cheerleader killed the best friend, so she's just in jail for attempting to murder the heroine" Well, then why did she attempt to kill her? lmfao! It gets funnier the longer I think about it all. 🤦🏼♀️🤦🏼♀️🤦🏼♀️ Anyways, all in all, it wasn't a terrible book. The pacing and structure was pretty good, the writing at the sentence level was competent and eventually both the MC's are fairly likeable. I'll take it.
I was so excited when I saw on Instagram that there were ARC spaces for this book. I have been waiting patiently for it. But when I didn’t hear anything I just thought I would wait for the release date. I then got an email saying not to forget my book….. beyond excited.
Having loved Callum’s personality from book one, I’m so happy he found love with a special lady. He sounded just adorable, funny, charming, sexy and super cute. I was half expecting his love interest to be Piper, but I’m so pleased it wasn’t and can’t wait for Pipers story next.
Anyway onto the book review, really enjoyed this one. Read it in two days which is not unusual once I get gripped!! It was obvious to me that there was an attraction between the two of them because of their love hate relationship. She was always going to get charmed by that cheeky chap. And the sex just sounded 🥵. The way they both fell was just gorgeous. I had my suspicions on the bad guy, at first I thought Tommy but then swayed to Leo. Did not see the mum and Winnie twists in there at all.
Thank you Hannah for another great story, and inviting me to read a copy first. 😍
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I’m not a huge enemies to lovers fan. I always feel like one of them is just mean. This one was handled well and it didn’t last long.
These two grew up together and then grew apart. They weren’t really close but knew each other as all small towns do.
When she comes back to town the past comes back. They both want to be friends with benefits but end up falling. They build each other up and have some fun flanter.
Getting to see these two build a base for their relationship and then push through to be together was fun.
I did figure out one of the twists in this one which was new. I felt like maybe I was supposed to in order to keep some others a secret.
It was still good. Solid 3.5 stars. I can’t wait to read the next one.
I was lucky enough to be selected to be an ARC reader for this 4th installment of the Hart County series and boy was I not disappointed!
I have read all of Hannah's books at this point and I mean it when I say with each one I read I say "THIS is my favourite couple!" I thought Teller Landry was fabulous but Callum O'Neal....
Hannah has been on my auto-read list for some time now and always will be at this rate. If you enjoy a little bit of mystery with your romance then these are the books for you - I didn't even predict the outcome for this one. Callum and Zandra have incredible chemistry from page one and - I'm serious this time - THIS IS MY FAVOURITE COUPLE 😍
The mystery from the beginning was so great specially to keep someone ‘nosy’ like me engaged. I was here for all the tea 🍵 and the spice that Z brought was such a classic (obsessed!). NGL, I wish there could have been more push back from her before they finally became friends and the sunflower nickname was a little cringe to me, but the way Callum was going for every chance he could was really adorable. And the plot twists towards the end when they were trying to figure out who actually killed Jessa was incredible. I was at the edge of my seat the whole time. I did not see it coming out the way it did. Callum & Z are just a couple horn dogs lol 😂 they were doing it everywhere and I am here for it !!!
Thank you boundtolovepr & Hannah Shield for this arc
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
“Sunkissed Colorado” is the fourth book in the “Hart County Series.” A rivals-to-lovers romance packed with fast-paced banter, a steamy cooking lesson, emotional secrets revealed, and heart-pounding suspense! At age sixteen, Zandra’s Alvarez’s best friend Jessa died in a tragic accident at the creek. Her high school nemesis was Callum O’Neal, captain of the football team and Homecoming King. “Callum was hot, and he knew it. He looked more like twenty-five than eighteen. Tall, leanly muscled, wavy brown hair. A big dumb grin that drew teen girls like purple coneflowers attract honey bees.” Between Callum and losing her best friend Jessa, high school had been hell! After she graduated, she moved away as far as possible….now she is back!
“Sixteen. It had been sixteen years since the last time I’d called Silver Ridge, Colorado, home.” The last time she had called Silver Ridge home, her best friend had still been alive. When her six year relationship with Ian ended, she decided to return home to offer help with her grandpa Manny whom had fallen at Hearthstone Brewery, shattering his hip and fracturing his femur. A week later, he was still at Hart County General. For Zandra, this was also a fresh start, downside, it also meant dealing with her parents. Of course, that went pretty much as she expected….”Then I don’t even see why you stopped by, Zandra. You didn’t bother to tell us about Ian or warn us you were on your way. You’ve made it clear you don’t need us. You never do.”
“I was a Hart County boy. A native who, despite playing football for the high school team and then a stint in the military, had never wanted to live anywhere else. I loved Silver Ridge, and I loved Hearthstone. But that didn’t mean I lacked ambition.” He is in his mid thirties, unmarried, as he is convinced that he is not built for relationships, hence he does one-and-only’s, no repeats. Currently, he manages the bar at Hearthstone Brewery, but with Manny looking like he will step down, he is hoping he will be offered the General Manager’s job for the brewery. “Next, I would just have to convince Manny I was the guy for the job.” Little does he realise that the most gorgeous woman, the stunning brunette, that knocked him back, is also competing for the position - Manny’ granddaughter!
Manny has a proposition for them. A two-month trial period - they are to work together. Callum is to help Zandra get to know Hearthstone as it operates today. Show her the ropes, she knows plenty, but never worked for a restaurant or a brewery before. Zandra will help Callum get up to speed on the business, logistics, and management side. All to be overseen by him. “At the end of the two months, I’ll hire the best person for the job, whether or not they’re related to me.”
Two months….will they be able to work together? Will Zandra be able to put the past behind her to get what she wants? After she eventually airs her issues to Callum and discovers that he was not responsible, she starts to enjoy his company. For Callum, he hasn’t hooked up with a single person since Zandra arrived back in town or even looked at any of the tourists coming to the brewery. The only person that made his blood rush was Zandra. For her, he made her laugh and relaxed, extra bonus, he was pretty good to look at! Callum had opened her up and all the things I kept hidden were about to spill out with a soft look and some kind words.
As per every book, there is always a memorable scene….mine is when Callum is teaching Zandra to make Brownies - it is hot! “I could hardly breathe as he guided my hand, slowly turning the ingredients over to gently mix them. But I was hardly concentrating on the batter. His scent was everywhere. That woodsy cologne and the herbs from the pot pie, mixing with the sweetness of chocolate and sugar….I wanted to eat him up.”
🌻Black cat x Golden retriever🌻Childhood enemies🌻Workplace rivals🌻Coworkers with benefits🌻Reformed playboy🌻Small-town romantic suspense
There is never a dull moment! This book is everything you expect from a alpha male small town romance! I’m very happily hooked - I did not want it to end! Once I started reading, I could not put this book down! A thoroughly enjoyable read from one chapter to the next - at times you are metaphorical “on the edge of your chair” wondering what will happen next. You will fall in love with Callum and Zandra, hoping that everything with work out for them, will they have a future together. I cannot wait for the next book in this series. Overall, I would highly recommend this book and you will not be disappointed 😊
“The past had a way of reaching out and pulling us back, no matter how much time had gone by. No matter how much we tried to let it go.”
I loved this!! Sunkissed Colorado is fourth in the Hart County series but the first of Hannah's books I've read and now I cannot wait to go back to the beginning and catch up! Callum O'Neal is a charmer, a guy used to getting any girl he wants until he wants Zandra, the one woman who hates him. Both Callum and Zandra are competing for the general manager position at Hearthstone Brewing but who will win the role? And what would happen if they start to become more than just workplace rivals?
I loved the fun and flirty banter and the way Callum looked out for Zandra, protective and possessive, never giving up and willing to do anything to keep her safe. The slow burn, the angst, the sweetness wrapped in spice. I loved it all! From morning pistachio lattes to cooking lessons to snuggle sex, there were so many great elements worked into the plot. And I loved Grandpa Manny so, so much!
“When we were together like this, breathless and moving in sync as he brought me to ever-greater pleasure, I could imagine—for a little while—what it might be like to truly be his.”
Callum and Zandra's romance was messy and complicated but full of love and understanding. I loved how Callum stood by Zandra through everything, breaking down her walls and exposing her vulnerability, opening her up to share the broken parts of herself with him. Callum may have fallen first but I loved that Zandra kissed him first! They were a perfect match, each other's anchors, falling into an all-consuming love!
This story was about grief and healing, trust and secrets, love and forgiveness, memories of the past and moving on. It was about overcoming the fear of losing someone and loving them anyway. The mystery/suspense element had so many twists and turns, surprising me over and over with jaw-dropping moments. Trust me, you won't figure this one out on your own. A solid five stars!!
“I think this is what perfect looks like.”
✨️Small town romance ✨️Enemies to lovers ✨️Black cat x golden retriever ✨️Coworkers with benefits ✨️Reformed playboy ✨️Forced proximity ✨️She kisses him first ✨️Mystery and suspense
*Special thanks to author Hannah Shield and Bound to Love PR for the ARC!
Back at it with the romance and suspense in Hart County! Both a “who done it?” and a “when they realize their feelings?”. So, I’ve been reading this series from the very beginning and I have one question, when am I going to pop up in this book? I feel like I’m part of the small town. I know everyone’s business and my way around. Let me be a customer who drops a random comment that makes them bring everything together, or even the one thst dies. But anyways, this was a great book 4 in this series and I’m sad the next book will be the last in the series.
But what is this book about? Zandra and her life not going her way. A crappy ex boyfriend ruined her reputation and lost all her money. Now she’s home in a town she never wanted to come back to. Why would she when everything is a constant reminder of her best friend who died 16 years ago? Her grandfather wants what’s best for her but doesn’t want to just hand her his business he created from the ground up. No, he’s going to be fair and make her compete with the other person vying for the job. Callum. The man she hated in high school and now despises after what he did.
Callum is competing for a job to run the place he loves. He just needs to prove to the owner that he’s more than a charming guy. But a charming and capable guy. He knows he can do it and just needs everyone else to also see it. But he can’t for the life of him understand why Zandra, his competition hates him. It’s more than just competing for the same job, but he can’t figure out why she hates him. His brother says it’s because he’s annoying, but he knows that’s not it.
But when things start to happen and danger seems closer than they would like, their dynamic changes. Now they aren’t just competing for the same job but trying to figure out who is threatening Zandra and becoming friends. And then maybe more than that.
As someone who has read this whole series, everyone was on my suspect list, even myself. But, I still got shocked on who it was. So if you want a great read with romance and a dash of mystery, then this is the book for you. Even though this is the 4th book in the series, it can be read as a standalone.
Thank you to Hannah Shield for this ARC
Spice Rating: ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
💜 Golden Retriever x Black Cat 💜 Workplace Rivals 💜 Reformed Playboy 💜 Co-Workers with Benefits 💜 Teenage Enemies 💜 Dual POV
This grumpy/sunshine, rivals to lovers romance is funny and entertaining with a slightly darker undercurrent. The death of her best friend and the emotional aftermath sent Zandra running fifteen years ago, just after her high school graduation. Now she is back in town to help out at her grandfather’s brewery and restaurant while he recovers from a nasty fall. With her life imploding in Chicago, she plans to stay at least long enough to regroup and make new plans for her future that do not include her untrustworthy ex. Unfortunately, she also has to deal with her critical and controlling parents as well as compete with Callum, her high school nemesis, for the general manager job at her grandfather’s business. It is enough to make anyone grumpy.
Callum is definitely all grown up and even more handsome than he was in high school, but he is still a player and not at all humble about his ability to attract the ladies. He has the sunshiny personality in this story. He is the easy-going, optimistic, very gregarious guy who seems to draw everyone to him. Everyone except Zandra who wants nothing to do with him, but has to be at least civil while they are competing for the job. He is determined to find out why she doesn’t like him and to turn her attitude around. He is aiming for just friends, but somewhere along the way he starts to want much more. Clearing the air between them, leads them down a road neither ever expected… one that takes them from rivals to lovers. Meanwhile, the past comes back to haunt Zandra, adding danger and intrigue to their story.
While Zandra and Callum seem like complete opposites, they do in fact fit each other well. She grounds Callum, motivates him to be a better man and challenges him both personally and professionally. He makes Zandra see the lighter side of life, shows her that she is loved just as she is, encourages her and believes in her, something that was lacking in her relationships with her ex and her parents. They protect each other and make a formidable team, and not just professionally.
This very enjoyable book has my wholehearted recommendation.
I normally only read romance novels, I have never read romance/suspense novels until now and I am so glad I did.
Callum and Zandra's story has everything, enemies to lovers, suspense, crime and leaves you constantly wondering who is responsible?
Callum is working behind the bar in the brewery he manages, when a beautiful woman sits across from him. She knows him but he cannot remember who she is and it bugs him no end. When he eventually realises who she is he is shocked to find she hates him and he cannot for the life of him think why. Callum cannot stop thinking about Zandra, and the fact that she won't give him the time of the day makes him even more curious. Callum is the first to admit he has never had a relationship, never wanted one and never been with a woman for more than one night but Zandra is different and he will do anything to keep her in his life.
Zandra moves back home after her professional and personal lives fell apart. She knew it was going to be difficult and that she would need to face her past and the man she 'hated.' Being back in the place she once called home brings up so many unhappy memories but her grandpa was in hospital and she had nowhere else to go. Zandra needs a fresh start and her Grandpa is the one to give her it, the opportunity to run the family brewery after he officially retires in 2 months time. What she doesn't bank on is having to work alongside the man she 'hates,' the man who made her last few months at school hell. Working together however resolves the misunderstanding from their past and they start to work together side by side, building a friendship and eventually a relationship.
Their happily ever after however is overshadowed by their past, a tragedy that shook the town. When someone starts to harass Zandra, blaming her for the aforementioned tragedy, Callum will do everything he can to protect her. Long held secrets are revealed and an ending neither of them saw coming.
Never mind Callum and Zandra, even I didn't see that ending coming. This shows how Hannah's writing keeps you guessing from the first page to the last.
Absolutely brilliant and another author I have added to my list.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 🌶️🌶️🌶️ Perfection. That’s the only word that comes to mind when describing this book. I’ve read every installment in the Hart County series, and each one earns a solid five stars—but Sunkissed Colorado might just be my favorite yet. Hannah Shield continues to raise the bar with every story. This book follows Zandra and Callum, two characters with a complicated past. Sixteen years ago, Zandra fled Colorado after the tragic murder of her best friend, Jessa. Though the killer was never found, suspicion and blame unfairly fell on Zandra, leaving deep emotional scars. Now, after ending a six-year relationship and walking away from a failed business venture, she returns to Colorado seeking a fresh start. Her grandfather Manny is hospitalized and needs help running the beloved Hearthstone Brewery, which brings Zandra face-to-face with the ghosts of her past—and the people who once turned their backs on her. Callum, once a high school football star with a tense history with Zandra, has spent the last 16 years serving in the military. Now, he’s a volunteer firefighter and bar manager at the Hearthstone, hoping to be promoted to General Manager. Their paths cross again, and what begins as cautious interaction slowly blossoms into something deeper. The evolution of Zandra and Callum’s relationship is beautifully written. Their communication grows stronger, truths are revealed, and healing begins. Callum’s unwavering support and protectiveness toward Zandra is heart-melting. You can’t help but root for them. The writing pulls you in from page one. The town feels alive, and the characters are so well-developed you’ll swear they’re real. I found myself wishing I could move to Hart County and be part of this warm, resilient community. I’m already counting down the days until Homeward Colorado is released!
“Never knew I could love someone this much, baby.”
My favorite theme: Player finds his forever playmate First off, I have loved all these characters throughout the entire series! The O’Neal crew of three and the mysterious missing brother. The members of the Lonely Harts Club, most of whom have found their forever love; by my count we only have one left. They make me want to visit the fictitious Silver Ridge, Colorado. In the prologue we are told that Zandra lost her best friend Jessa at the beginning of their senior year of high school and Jessa’s death is a suspected murder. Zandra goes off to college never to live in Silver Ridge again. After getting her business degree, she works and lives in Chicago. Then, Z’s business idea flops, she finds out that her long-time boyfriend Ian had been lying to her and she is totally broke and nearly broken. She goes home to Silver Ridge where she never expected to be again. Her grandfather Manny owns the brewery and its attached bar where she gets a job. Manny has decided to make replacing himself as the general manager a contest between Zandra his granddaughter and Callum O’Neal, the player from high school and current bar manager, whom Z hates. Oh, this can go so many ways but Ms. Shield always finds the most delectable ways to bring her main characters together! I loved this book. Already purchased the next one which will be about Cal’s missing brother. I literally cannot wait. I have heard his story in several other books; I know there is much more to his story. If you like a book with a perfect amount of spice to story with two amazing characters who deserve a better ending with banter that will have you laughing or rolling your eyes, read this book! I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through BookSirens. LOVE the cover!
I do so love Hannah Shield's books, and Sunkissed Colorado is no exception. Youngest brother Callum gets his story here, and Zandra (love the name) is his perfect match. Callum truly is a human golden retriever, happy and loving and so freaking adorable, it hurts. And yet he isn't shallow. Z is more complicated, returning home to Colorado after years in Chicago, and not fully convinced she should be there. It's a grumpy-sunshine novel at its best, and it's a trope I like when the dude is the sunshine. But Z isn't cold, either. They get the competitive angst out of the way fairly quickly; that is, though the story is heavy on the romance, the romance isn't the main element of the plot.
I love romantic suspense, and Shield did keep me guessing. I had my suspicions early on (it's my superpower), but even so, there were enough twists and turns that I wasn't fully sure until the reveal. That said, I do wish the suspense has been a little more thought out. There were secrets that didn't really make sense—it's hard to elaborate without spoilers, but Z mentions early on that her high school BFF was keeping secrets. After learning what they were, I felt a little meh, because they didn't seem secret worthy (at least from one's best friend).
But the relationship between Callum and Z is tres adorbs, and I gobbled this book up in a day. It's fourth in a series and connected to other series (that are connected to other series), so just read them all.
I received an ARC of this book for free from the author and BookSirens. I'm writing this review voluntarily, and it reflects my honest opinion. Thanks!
❤️📖 This is the 4th book in the Hart County series, release day October 29th. 📖❤️
Here we go! First we get the inside into the past with a crime, and this mistery is the base for the whole story. And let me tell you you wonn't be able to tell till the end who is responsible! Really really great plot by Ms. Shield!
Callum next member of O'Neill family sweared to never do relationships, he is a happy member of The Lonely Harts club and enyojs his job, friends and family. Only as everyone around finds their happy place and partners he decides to achieve more. There is only one problem called Zandra - his biggest chalange ever, because no woman ever told him NO and he is determined to win over her to get the manager job.
Zandra is a perfect parner for Callum, because only one woman who hates him can bring all his qualities into the game.
Zandra came back home after few years away, back to the place that keeps so many heartbroken memories, but as a strong and detemined woman she is ready to start here again. Soon she finds Callum is a different than she thought he is and step by step his personality and actions changes him into her favorite person.
I loved there was enough time for their relationship to develop, it was not rushed, Callum was quite patient with Zandra and was everytime she needed her biggest supporter. And Zandra didn't stay behind, they both found comfort and support and both became perfect partner in their worklife and personal life too.
Expect again great plot, many unexpected moments and we get closer to the story of their last brother Grayden.
Hannah never disappoints, if you like men that turn into overprotective heros when their women are in danger, then Sunkissed Colorado is right up your alley.
16 years after leaving her hometown, Zandra returns when she's notified that her grandpa Manny has had a fall. Betrayed by her ex-boyfriend and losing the business they both started, she takes on the challenge to become manager of her grandpa's pub. Unfortunately her opponent is non other than Callum, the guy she's hated for years because of rumours that have been spread by someone who hated both Zandra and Callum.
They start off avoiding one another but once things are cleared up, they get to know each other better and feelings are thrown in the mix. What started out as a competition soon turns into a strong relationship. Trouble however isn't far away when Zandra is still targeted which turns Callum into overprotective mode.
While IMO this books primarily concentrates on Zandra and Callum's relationship, I also loved the bit of suspense in the form of someone still harassing Zandra. It took me a while to guess who the culprit was as Hannah just kept on putting me on the wrong foot.
It was great to see the interaction between both Callum and Zandra's family and I'm super excited that the last book in the series will be about the last O'Neal brother. If there's one story I been curious about it's Grayden's, and reading that Piper will be his love interest.... I can't wait!!!
**ARC kindly recieved from the author via Booksirens. I'm happily leaving an honest review.**
This book is everything I love in a small-town rivals-to-lovers romance — sharp banter, emotional depth, and just the right amount of steam and suspense. Hannah Shield delivers a story that’s equal parts heartfelt, nostalgic, and utterly addictive. When Teller Landry’s life in Chicago crashes and burns, she returns to her hometown of Silver Ridge — a place filled with painful memories and ghosts from her past. Chief among them? Callum O’Neal — her infuriating, too-charming high school nemesis turned volunteer firefighter with a heart (and smile) of gold.
Working side by side at her grandfather’s brewery was not in her comeback plan. But between stolen glances, witty arguments, and a cooking lesson that quickly turns from flirty to fiery, Teller finds herself falling for the one man she swore she’d never forgive.
As secrets from the past start surfacing — and danger comes too close for comfort — she’ll have to decide if she can finally trust Callum… or if loving him will only break her again.
Tropes: 🔥Enemies to lovers 🔥Small-town romantic suspense 🔥Coworkers with benefit 🔥Reformed playboy 🔥Black cat x golden retriever energy
Sun-Kissed Colorado is a perfect balance of tension, tenderness, and second chances. Teller and Callum’s chemistry leaps off the page — from enemies to something much deeper. If you love small-town romance with emotional stakes, mystery, and spice, this one’s a must-read!
This book starts, gets going, and just doesn’t stop. After school, Callum went into the military before headed back home to Hart County. It was so different for Zandra, who left town and hoped to never go back. She got several years out of the small town but now she is headed back, ready to start over.
Flashing back to high school, Zandra tries to avoid Callum. He's popular, a football player, homecoming king, everyone loves him. Everyone but Zandra. You have to read the book to find out what happens.
Now the present, Zandra is back in Hart County, needs a home, needs a job. Her grandfather Manny, owns the local brewery Hearthstone, and was injured recently, so she is looking to help out there. But Manny wants to retire soon and is looking for someone to take over. Zandra has a business degree and feels like she can do the job.
Callum has worked at Hearthstone for several years now. After the military he needed a job, and started working at the bar. Now the Bar Manager, and a volunteer firefighter, he stays pretty busy. With his experience at Hearthstone and his love for the town, job, and people, he thinks he can take over for Manny.
There is so much to unpack in this story. If you haven’t read the series, I recommend it, all the stories are so good. Entertaining, never a dull moment, and love the world created. Looking forward to the final book! Thank you #BoundtoLovePR
"Sunkissed Colorado" is pure perfection. I’ve adored every book in this series, but Zandra and Callum’s story might just be my favorite yet. Hannah Shield delivers everything I’ve come to love from her writing — humor, heart, and just the right touch of heat and suspense.
After losing her footing in Chicago, Zandra returns to Silver Ridge carrying a load of regret and memories she’d rather forget — especially the one involving her high school nemesis, Callum O’Neal. He’s no longer the cocky jock she remembers, but a volunteer firefighter with a golden-retriever grin and a knack for getting under her skin. Working side by side at her grandfather’s brewery, the sparks that fly between them are impossible to ignore — even when Zandra tries her hardest to keep her walls up.
This is a masterclass in enemies-to-lovers: the tension is sharp, the banter is addictive, and the slow-burn payoff is oh-so worth it. Callum’s transformation from reformed playboy to protective, patient hero made me melt, and Zandra’s journey through grief and forgiveness gave the story such emotional depth.
Hannah Shield has once again delivered a story that made me laugh, swoon, tear up, and stay up way too late reading. "Sunkissed Colorado" is emotional, steamy, and beautifully written — a shining highlight in the Hart County series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
FMC: Zandra Alvarez MMC: Callum O’Neal Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ Pages: 410 Tropes: Enemies to Lovers, Reformed Playboy, Firefighter Romance, Workplace Romance, Golden Retriever x Black Cat, Small Town Romance, Romantic Suspense Setting: Silver Ridge, Colorado
Thoughts: I liked this book. I thought Callum was a little goofy. He acted like a big kid a lot and was never very serious, but when the situation called for it, he could be possessive and protective, something that came as a bit of a surprise given his past behavior as a secondary character. I liked his relationship with his roommates and the way he wanted to prove that he could be the general manager and be taken seriously. Zandra was the grumpy to Callum’s sunshine, but it was the thing that drew him to her. She didn’t put up with his antics and made Callum work to earn her favor. Once they finally talked about their past, their relationship rapidly changed. Zandra no longer had to contain the way Callum made her smile and Callum fought for a real shot with Zandra. There were several twists that kept me guessing. Both Zandra and Callum grew over the course of the book. Zandra had some major issues with her parents and Callum had been the town floozy for a decade. I liked the way they supported each other and worked together. Overall a good book. I can’t wait to read the next installment with Piper and Grayden.
Callum is such a cinnamon roll! He got me at hello! After her big-city life in Chicago goes up in flames, Zandra is back in Silver Ridge with nothing but her cat and a mountain of regrets to her name. The town is full of memories—like her best friend who died in high school. And Callum O’Neal, the arrogant jock who was her nemesis. Now he’s a volunteer firefighter with a golden-retriever smile, working side by side with her at her grandfather’s brewery. But when long-buried secrets come to light, Callum’s the only one standing between her and danger. Now, she doesn’t know what frightens her more. The real truth about what happened back then… or the possibility to fall for him. I enjoyed a lot these enemies to friends to lovers full of tension and romance. They are both amazing characters. Zandra frustrated me at the beginning, but then I really liked her. Callum is my kind of MMC, sexy and adorable in the best possible way. He is a carer and protects her all the way. They have this amazing crazy chemistry that I loved. There’s also a bit action-packed scenes and a bit of mystery to solve that didn’t see it coming. I’ve read all this author’s books and I highly recommend all of them. It was great seeing characters from previous books and I’ll be restless waiting for the next and final one. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Coming home to Silver Ridge was not really something Zandra thought about. Too many memories. Too much heartache. Plus her parents would never fully understand and accept her. But when her Grandad fell and ended up in hospital she knew she had to be there for him. It also gave her space from her ex, who still wasn't accepting their breakup. Working at Hearthstone would be a welcome reprive from her troubles. Callum enjoyed his job as bar manager, and he volunteered at the Fire department which fit in perfectly. Working behind the bar his flirty, fun loving personality was perfect for tourists who could resist his smile and cheeky winks. But that's all he wanted one night and no repeats. But then the gorgeous woman walked in and he knew he had to get to know her. Zandra recognised him as soon as she saw him. Her Grandad never mentioned he worked there, and now they would be working together. Could she leave the past behind. Would he even remember her. This is the third book in this series and I loved it. Between the angst and attraction will they fall for each other or would it end in tears. Especially when the past doesn't want to stay hidden. This steamy suspense story just keeps you on your toes wondering who is hiding secrets, and who you can trust. I really can't wait for the next in this series
Zandra returns to her hometown after 16 years because her grandpa had a fall. As her ex boyfriend betrayed her and lost their buisness she has nothing to stop her coming home. As soon as she arrives the past she's run from comes back to haunt her.
Callum is a typical people pleaser, he works as the bar manager and also volunteers as a firefighter- he has a history with Zandra and while based on misunderstandings, she still hates him all the same.
After her grandpa sets them up in competition for the managers job - they have 2 months to teach the other everything they know.
After the misunderstanding is cleared up a colleagues with benefits situation is agreed while they compete.
But Zandra's past and the town tragedy catches up with suspicious happenings, accusatory notes and Zandra feeling like she's being watched - questions over what happened that night 16 yrs ago seem to be unanswerable.
This book is number 4 in the Hart County and all of them can be read as stand-alone romantic suspense. Each one with enough twists, secrets, suspicion and intrigue to keep you reading, whilst also having the small town feel and chemistry between the main characters.
Can't wait to finally get Grayden and Piper's story next. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
This fourth book in Hart County was fantastic! What a great read! Zandra and Callum were such a great couple with so much chemistry. I loved Callum! Once he set his mind to something, there was no turning back. It was especially entertaining when he realized that he was falling in love after he had been a “manwhore” and a “no relationship” guy for so long. Zandra hated Callum ever since high school because she thought he was behind all the lies about her, and when she went to her grandfather’s brewery, she was shocked to see Callum behind the bar and that he was the bar manager. Zandra’s grandfather offered her the job of General Manager, but she would be in competition with Callum for the job. They had two months to prove to her grandfather who would make the best General Manager. During the two months, Zandra found out Callum was not behind all the lies in high school like she thought he was. Over the course of the two months, and with having to work together closely, they both fell in love. There was also suspense in the book, which made it even more of a great read. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a good suspenseful and enemies-to-lovers book. I can’t wait for Callum’s older brother, Grayden, and Piper’s book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I HAVE NO WORDS, give me 10 more of these and I’ll read every single one of them in one sitting! 👀🫣
I officially have another author to add to my automatic reads pile, because I don’t know what Hannah put into this book but I’m hooked! 🥹🤭🥰
Z & Cal, have officially made it into my top 5 couples for 2025. Let me start off by saying CAL, the man that he is, I was a little bit worried about him being a mansl*t but Hannah wrote his character incredibly, I mean I didn’t even care about his past, I loved the second chance feels we got in this one! Z, sweet grumpy girl that she is stole the show! 🤭
I don’t want to share too much about this story because it was so much better going in blind but let me say that all my romantic suspense girlies, this book is for you, make it your next read, you will not regret it at all! 🤭❤️
Everything about this book was perfect, the pacing, the chemistry between Zandra & Cal, also the banter between these two was absolutely incredible, it’s been a while since I’ve had tears rolling down my cheeks from laughing so hard, the suspense was perfect it had me on the edge of my seat and of course the spice was spicing 🥵
Honestly I wish I could forget everything about this book just to read it again! Thank you for the Arc, it truly was unforgettable! 🤭😭🥹✨
Zandra Alvarez has returned to Silver Ridge after a disastrous career. She had left after high school and the death of her best friend, Jessa. She was with Jessa, but had briefly stepped away, but had thought she had heard another voice in the area. Jessa’s death was never solved, but Zandra became a target until she left town. She has nowhere to stay as she refuses to stay at home with her disapproving parents. Her grandfather, who owns Hearthstone Brewing, has had a health scare and she is able to fill in for him. What she hadn’t planned on was working with Callum O’Neal, her nemesis from high school. Callum is the bar manager and her grandfather decides that they will compete for manager, but will they be able to work together? He realizes the trauma that Zandra went through and knows that someone is reminding her that they blame her for Jessa’s death. As they spend more time together, she realizes that she had been completely wrong about him, but is there a chance for them now? The mystery may soon be solved when Jessa’s brother returns to town and she will uncover a clue as to who else may have been there the night Jessa died. Is her life in danger now? A beautiful and emotional story. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
I could NOT PUT THIS BOOK DOWN! I don't know what it was about this book, but it was completely addictive. This book had all the tropes... small-town romance, element of suspense, amazing banter, first real love, he fell hard, grumpy / sunshine (golden retriever) dynamic... Everything about this book was perfection. Easy 5 stars!
I have to admit that Manny, Zandra's grandfather, was an absolute delight. He was hilarious on page and I couldn't help but giggle whenever his character made an appearance. Zandra and Callum were just a wonderful pairing and their romance was perfection.
*** I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. ***
I devoured this book in just over a day and found myself incapable of stepping away. The writing is solid and the romance and angst were palatable. Even with the twist I thought I had it figured out, but that definitely kept me on my toes... One of the twists I guessed right before I read the chapter, but the final one... unexpected! I highly encourage this read to anyone who loves angsty love, a solid golden retriever MMC and a found family element. I couldn't help but root for this couple the entire time.
Thank you Hannah Shield and Bound to Love PR for this ARC copy of Sunkissed Colorado! I know that I have said this after each of these books but this one is my new favorite of the Hart County series!
I love the way that Hannah Shield weaves in the perfect mystery that keeps you guessing and spinning trying to figure out who done it!
This one kept me guessing the whole time, just ask @bookology_bytala I kept changing my mind and guessing and plotting and yeah I was soooo off base 😂
This was a second chance of sorts, just not in the way you think, it was a second chance for Zandra and her home town, a place she ran from the second she graduated after tragedy struck…
She came home and after some drama with and ex and he grandfather ending up in the hospital, after working through some trauma with Callum (the MMC and her high school nemesis) and the way that these two bonded and the chemistry that they share was too notch! I don’t wanna give away any spoilers so I’m gonna leave this review here… 😂
Tropes: 🥃 Second Chance (but with the town) 🌻Former Playboy 🥃Battling for the same job 🌻He Falls First 🥃Touch Her and Die 🌻Romantic Suspense 🥃No Third Act Break Up 🌻He calls her Sunflower or Baby 🥃She calls him Baby Boy 🤭 🌻Black Cat x Golden Retriever