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The Montgomery Brothers #3-3.5
Stay with Me / More of Me
Two Great Books in One! Book #3 plus the Bonus Novella in Samantha Chase's popular Montgomery Brothers series.
Stay with Me
Mackenzie Montgomery is floored when he reluctantly agrees to help out an old childhood friend and finds she's grown into a gorgeous woman...
More of Me
When Ryder Montgomery shows up on her doorstep ten years after breaking her heart, Casey can't decide which burns hotter- her desire to be with him or the pain he left her with...
What readers are saying:
"The Montgomery Brothers are perfect romance! Love it, love it, love it!"
"Wow! Samantha Chase, thank you for yet another stellar Montgomery Brothers story."
"Perfectly executed, great characters, tasteful passionate scenes...a great series"
"Truly a beautiful, heartfelt story."
"Refreshing... Samantha Chase really knows how to tell a story."
"Sweet, sassy and sexy."
321 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 7, 2015
61 people are currently reading
244 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Chase
142 books2,359 followersSamantha Chase is a New York Times and USA Today bestseller of contemporary romance that’s hotter than sweet, sweeter than hot. She released her debut novel in 2011 and currently has more than seventy titles under her belt – including THE CHRISTMAS COTTAGE which was a Hallmark Christmas movie in 2017! She’s a Disney enthusiast who still happily listens to 80’s rock. When she’s not working on a new story, she spends her time reading romances, playing way too many games of Solitaire on Facebook, wearing a tiara while playing with her sassy pug Maylene…oh, and spending time with her husband of 30 years and their two sons in Wake Forest, North Carolina.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 38 reviews
June 4, 2015
Slick's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
3.25 Stars Overall
STAY WITH ME 2.5 stars
Sometimes a book labeled as romance is missing romance and that’s the case with Stay With Me by Samantha Chase. Yes there were two people who fell in love but they spent part of their time together denying their attraction, the other hiding their intimate relationship, and a good part of the book at odds and while they seemed to have an appreciation for each other I didn’t really feel a complete connection between them.
Gina Micelli is returning to North Carolina to spend time with her dying father she hasn’t seen in years. Following her parent’s nasty divorce Gina has been living with her mother in California and only saw her father when he came to visit, something that tapered off in the recent years. Gina is angry at her father but she wants to see him before he’s gone forever. She’s glad his best friend William and his wife and their sons will be around for some moral support but what she doesn’t expect is for his oldest son, Mackenzie Montgomery, to be the one to pick her up at the airport, the man she had a crush on as a young girl.
I appreciated that these two hadn’t seen each other in years and both were attracted from the start and I even gave Mac a lot of credit for trying to do the right thing given Gina’s circumstances and keep their relationship as just friends. As Gina uncovers how little she really knew about her Dad’s desire to have her with him, her emotional state is even more fragile and try as he might Mac will do anything to help her through it even when he worries he won’t be what she needs long term. I had issues with the fact that so much of what these two discussed was superficial, especially from Mac who simply refused to let Gina into his life. As each person close to him berated him for his bad behavior including Gina he just couldn’t see it so his complete turnaround really didn’t seem realistic. I liked these characters despite Mac being a broody, and somewhat self centered ass and as Gina woke up and started realizing she really hadn’t lived her life I really liked her but I would have liked to see some really heart to heart talks and some big emotional break through from Mac.
There just seemed to be so much thrown into this book that the relationship, romance, love part was lost in the subplot of Gina’s father dying, Mac’s one brother having a baby, the other one happily married and house shopping, his parents on a 10 day cruise…a lot of it just felt like filler and really added nothing to the story and did not advance the plot much at all.
Although disappointed in this story, I’m not sorry I missed it I just wish there had been more romance between Mac and Gina and as for the ending; a thrift store boom box would have made that scene so much better.
MORE OF ME 4 stars
Wow, More of Me was such a delight to read after the heavy, unsatisfying Stay With Me. As the wedding of Mac and Gina from Stay With Me approaches, Gina is needed in California to assist her ailing mother and Mac is needed in London to finish up a job. Mac’s father, William is more than willing to help but finding out that the happy couple’s wedding planner Casey Peterson once dated his nephew, Ryder he puts on his matchmaking hat once again. A whole lot of fun, a little bit of drama and some supreme sensuality made More Of Me a delight to read.
Ryder walked away from Casey twelve years ago determined to make his mark in the family company but seeing her again he knows that while he’s been successful in business what he really wants is Casey back in his life. I’ll admit I really enjoyed watching Casey make Ryder squirm by not sharing anything about her current life and leaving him guessing and making assumptions. I’m sure for her it was somewhat gratifying given that he broke her heart years ago. I respected Ryder in that he was up front about wanting to get to know Casey again but that he put the ball in her court knowing that she had to be the one to make the decision to trust him again. The chemistry between these two was off the charts and you could also see the familiarity in the way they were with one another.
This is a couple that once they figured out they could move past what happened when they were teens, they went into a relationship eyes open. I think Ryder went a long way to repairing the damage he did as a teen by sacrificing things in his life to be with Casey.
More of Me just proves sometimes love is truly better the second time around!
Review copy provided for an honest review.
3.25 Stars Overall
STAY WITH ME 2.5 stars
Sometimes a book labeled as romance is missing romance and that’s the case with Stay With Me by Samantha Chase. Yes there were two people who fell in love but they spent part of their time together denying their attraction, the other hiding their intimate relationship, and a good part of the book at odds and while they seemed to have an appreciation for each other I didn’t really feel a complete connection between them.
Gina Micelli is returning to North Carolina to spend time with her dying father she hasn’t seen in years. Following her parent’s nasty divorce Gina has been living with her mother in California and only saw her father when he came to visit, something that tapered off in the recent years. Gina is angry at her father but she wants to see him before he’s gone forever. She’s glad his best friend William and his wife and their sons will be around for some moral support but what she doesn’t expect is for his oldest son, Mackenzie Montgomery, to be the one to pick her up at the airport, the man she had a crush on as a young girl.
I appreciated that these two hadn’t seen each other in years and both were attracted from the start and I even gave Mac a lot of credit for trying to do the right thing given Gina’s circumstances and keep their relationship as just friends. As Gina uncovers how little she really knew about her Dad’s desire to have her with him, her emotional state is even more fragile and try as he might Mac will do anything to help her through it even when he worries he won’t be what she needs long term. I had issues with the fact that so much of what these two discussed was superficial, especially from Mac who simply refused to let Gina into his life. As each person close to him berated him for his bad behavior including Gina he just couldn’t see it so his complete turnaround really didn’t seem realistic. I liked these characters despite Mac being a broody, and somewhat self centered ass and as Gina woke up and started realizing she really hadn’t lived her life I really liked her but I would have liked to see some really heart to heart talks and some big emotional break through from Mac.
There just seemed to be so much thrown into this book that the relationship, romance, love part was lost in the subplot of Gina’s father dying, Mac’s one brother having a baby, the other one happily married and house shopping, his parents on a 10 day cruise…a lot of it just felt like filler and really added nothing to the story and did not advance the plot much at all.
Although disappointed in this story, I’m not sorry I missed it I just wish there had been more romance between Mac and Gina and as for the ending; a thrift store boom box would have made that scene so much better.
MORE OF ME 4 stars
Wow, More of Me was such a delight to read after the heavy, unsatisfying Stay With Me. As the wedding of Mac and Gina from Stay With Me approaches, Gina is needed in California to assist her ailing mother and Mac is needed in London to finish up a job. Mac’s father, William is more than willing to help but finding out that the happy couple’s wedding planner Casey Peterson once dated his nephew, Ryder he puts on his matchmaking hat once again. A whole lot of fun, a little bit of drama and some supreme sensuality made More Of Me a delight to read.
Ryder walked away from Casey twelve years ago determined to make his mark in the family company but seeing her again he knows that while he’s been successful in business what he really wants is Casey back in his life. I’ll admit I really enjoyed watching Casey make Ryder squirm by not sharing anything about her current life and leaving him guessing and making assumptions. I’m sure for her it was somewhat gratifying given that he broke her heart years ago. I respected Ryder in that he was up front about wanting to get to know Casey again but that he put the ball in her court knowing that she had to be the one to make the decision to trust him again. The chemistry between these two was off the charts and you could also see the familiarity in the way they were with one another.
This is a couple that once they figured out they could move past what happened when they were teens, they went into a relationship eyes open. I think Ryder went a long way to repairing the damage he did as a teen by sacrificing things in his life to be with Casey.
More of Me just proves sometimes love is truly better the second time around!
Review copy provided for an honest review.
June 2, 2020
Stay with me – Gina comes home to say goodbye to her dying father, but what she does not expect is the support of Mac, who she had a crush on when they were younger. But is Mac just helping her out because of a sense of loyalty to her father or does the feelings he has for her honest and true. Can this workaholic put Gina first or is Gina once again left alone to pick up the pieces? This is an emotional story, from laughter to tears, this book had it all. Another great installment in the Montgomery series.
More of Me - Another great Montgomery family book. Ryder and Casey were in love 12 years ago, but Ryder walked away to pursue his mark in the Montgomery business. But when Casey is the wedding planner for Mac and Gina's wedding, the two reunite. The love and attraction are still there but will they be able to make it work living on opposite coastlines. This was a beautiful story about getting a second chance at love. With a heartwarming storyline and typically wonderful Samantha Chase style characters it is another great installment of the series.
More of Me - Another great Montgomery family book. Ryder and Casey were in love 12 years ago, but Ryder walked away to pursue his mark in the Montgomery business. But when Casey is the wedding planner for Mac and Gina's wedding, the two reunite. The love and attraction are still there but will they be able to make it work living on opposite coastlines. This was a beautiful story about getting a second chance at love. With a heartwarming storyline and typically wonderful Samantha Chase style characters it is another great installment of the series.
February 25, 2018
Reviewed by JoAnne
Book provided by Netgalley
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
This book is a contemporary romance that had both a full length story in the Montgomery Brothers series along with a novella, More of Me, that continues where book 3, Stay With Me, leaves off. These are the first two books in the series that I have read but I will definitely be reading Wait for Me and Trust in Me so I can fill in some of the gaps and also get to know the Montgomery’s better! Even without reading the first two books the story flowed smoothly. The author is reminiscent to me of Sherryl Woods, Susan Wiggs and Susan Mallery where family is everything.
Stay with Me is book 3 in the series and is Mackenzie and Gina’s story. While there is an underlying sadness throughout and some tears due to Gina’s father being ill there were enough happy moments to bring the book up. Since Gina had been essentially estranged from her father for many years because of her controlling mom and their divorce she learned a lot about her father when she finally came to her childhood hometown in North Carolina and found out how much she had missed out on by never being allowed to visit. The Montgomery’s, who were family friends, took her under their wing to get her through the tough times. She felt a closeness to all of them even though she hadn’t seen most of them for ten years and a lot of fond memories were evoked. Watching her and Mac try to figure out their friendship which then leads to more was fun to watch at times but other times was heartbreaking especially when Mac wanted Gina to make her own decisions about her life without interfering but didn’t let her in on it. Their chemistry was through the roof but one or the other always seemed to be running scared. There were family, friends, illness, work, a new baby to coo over, enlightenment in both Gina and Mac’s eyes, beautiful descriptions of the homes and grounds, lots of love between family members and plenty of romance and loving too. It was great to see how the Montgomery brothers and their spouses interacted with each other and the brother’s parents since they were a very close family. The prologue set the stage for the story and the epilogue tied up a lot of the loose ends and gave nice closure. There was a happily ever after in the offing and I couldn’t be happier!
More of Me continues the story of Stay with Me since we immediately are thrown into wedding plans but neither the bride nor groom are available to finalize some of the plans. Enter wedding planner, Casey, and Mac’s cousin, Ryder, who have a history from twelve years before when they had dated and broken up. When they connect to help out Mac and Gina, against Casey’s will – she’d rather work with Mac’s father on the plans – the chemistry is still there and the sparks do fly. Casey’s running scared since Ryder had hurt her many years before and she had doubts that he had staying power this time around. Watching how they really did know each other without having been together for twelve years was fun to watch. There was a depth to Ryder that Casey didn’t realize and he did everything in his power to get her to believe in them again. It was fun to watch the give and take as well as see how they interacted when they visited wedding venues for Mac and Gina. The elderly ex-aunts of the bride that they met up with at one of the weddings were founts of knowledge about romance but also a hoot with the comments they came out with. There was plenty of romance and love as well as family, memories brought up, sadness, fear, happiness and gorgeous descriptions of the land, the beach and the homes. The prologue set the stage once again and there was some closure and a happily ever after in the offing.
I can ‘t wait to read, Return to You and Meant For You, the next two books in the series since I’ll once again be connecting with many Montgomerys! Chase is a new to me author and her books will be added to my always growing TBR pile. I love finding new authors to read.
Favorite Quote:
Stay With Me: She pulled out of his grasp. “I want honesty; I want to know how you feel. But all you can do is hand me this line of bull. Well, congratulations, you’re like Switzerland. You managed to be so neutral that you can’t actually form a personal opinion.”
More of Me: “I never get tired of that sound,” she said as she took a sip of wine. “I can sit outside for hours, no matter what time of day it is, and just listen to the waves.”
Book provided by Netgalley
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
This book is a contemporary romance that had both a full length story in the Montgomery Brothers series along with a novella, More of Me, that continues where book 3, Stay With Me, leaves off. These are the first two books in the series that I have read but I will definitely be reading Wait for Me and Trust in Me so I can fill in some of the gaps and also get to know the Montgomery’s better! Even without reading the first two books the story flowed smoothly. The author is reminiscent to me of Sherryl Woods, Susan Wiggs and Susan Mallery where family is everything.
Stay with Me is book 3 in the series and is Mackenzie and Gina’s story. While there is an underlying sadness throughout and some tears due to Gina’s father being ill there were enough happy moments to bring the book up. Since Gina had been essentially estranged from her father for many years because of her controlling mom and their divorce she learned a lot about her father when she finally came to her childhood hometown in North Carolina and found out how much she had missed out on by never being allowed to visit. The Montgomery’s, who were family friends, took her under their wing to get her through the tough times. She felt a closeness to all of them even though she hadn’t seen most of them for ten years and a lot of fond memories were evoked. Watching her and Mac try to figure out their friendship which then leads to more was fun to watch at times but other times was heartbreaking especially when Mac wanted Gina to make her own decisions about her life without interfering but didn’t let her in on it. Their chemistry was through the roof but one or the other always seemed to be running scared. There were family, friends, illness, work, a new baby to coo over, enlightenment in both Gina and Mac’s eyes, beautiful descriptions of the homes and grounds, lots of love between family members and plenty of romance and loving too. It was great to see how the Montgomery brothers and their spouses interacted with each other and the brother’s parents since they were a very close family. The prologue set the stage for the story and the epilogue tied up a lot of the loose ends and gave nice closure. There was a happily ever after in the offing and I couldn’t be happier!
More of Me continues the story of Stay with Me since we immediately are thrown into wedding plans but neither the bride nor groom are available to finalize some of the plans. Enter wedding planner, Casey, and Mac’s cousin, Ryder, who have a history from twelve years before when they had dated and broken up. When they connect to help out Mac and Gina, against Casey’s will – she’d rather work with Mac’s father on the plans – the chemistry is still there and the sparks do fly. Casey’s running scared since Ryder had hurt her many years before and she had doubts that he had staying power this time around. Watching how they really did know each other without having been together for twelve years was fun to watch. There was a depth to Ryder that Casey didn’t realize and he did everything in his power to get her to believe in them again. It was fun to watch the give and take as well as see how they interacted when they visited wedding venues for Mac and Gina. The elderly ex-aunts of the bride that they met up with at one of the weddings were founts of knowledge about romance but also a hoot with the comments they came out with. There was plenty of romance and love as well as family, memories brought up, sadness, fear, happiness and gorgeous descriptions of the land, the beach and the homes. The prologue set the stage once again and there was some closure and a happily ever after in the offing.
I can ‘t wait to read, Return to You and Meant For You, the next two books in the series since I’ll once again be connecting with many Montgomerys! Chase is a new to me author and her books will be added to my always growing TBR pile. I love finding new authors to read.
Favorite Quote:
Stay With Me: She pulled out of his grasp. “I want honesty; I want to know how you feel. But all you can do is hand me this line of bull. Well, congratulations, you’re like Switzerland. You managed to be so neutral that you can’t actually form a personal opinion.”
More of Me: “I never get tired of that sound,” she said as she took a sip of wine. “I can sit outside for hours, no matter what time of day it is, and just listen to the waves.”
September 2, 2018
Samantha Chase sure knows how to write incredible, hot, and addictive reads. Her stories are charming, luring, and beautifully woven. She is a New York Times best-selling author whose novels are loved by countless readers all over the world. This collection of hers has two amazing novels for the price of one. Stay with Me is about a young man who is shocked to find that the one friend whom he reluctantly agreed to help is now a beautifully grown woman who stirs something deep within him. More of Me is about a cousin of the Montgomery’s who had a relationship with their wedding planer ten years ago and wants to reconnect with her. But will, she will to reconnect with him after ten years went by where he broke her heart?
Stay with Me by Samantha Chase is one exceptionally hot, sweet, and addictive story. Readers everywhere will instantly fall in love with all the characters and not just the main ones. A romance that sizzles with each turning page. Samantha Chase knows how to lure her readers in from just the first few lines. Her stunning plot gets hotter as two friends now adults are placed together everyday so close to each other. Gina was seven years younger than Mac but followed him everywhere. He was the one out of the three brothers who caught her heart when she was a teenager. But soon er parents’ rocky marriage turns to a divorce with her mother taking her away from her father, home, and friends. Everything she ever knew was left behind. And her father never chased after her or her mom. Gina thought it was because her father never cared but soon she is taken back to the place she left. Her father has very little time left and is dying. His best friend helps with planning on getting Gina matched up with his oldest son, Mac. But will these two be able to feel a connection. Mac is sent to to pick Gina up at the airport. But what he wasn’t expecting was for her to be all grown up and gorgeously beautiful. Just seeing her has him all messed up. His father though forces Mac to watch over Gina while she’s back visiting her father in the hospital. Soon things get heated in more than one way when the two are left alone. But can Mac, a super control freak be brave enough to let in Gina? Or will he lose her forever? Stay with Me is definitely one read readers won’t want to miss. Overall, I rate it a five out of five stars.
More of Me by Samantha Chase is just as amazing as story before it. The Montgomery men are the most incredible, sexy, and irresistible men that readers will ever find. Mac Montgomery and his fiancee Gina are planning their wedding. Gina’s mom fell and broke her hip and Gina needs to go help her mom and Mac has a business trip that he needs to attend at the same time. So, they hire Mac’s father to help them. The same man who helped Mac and Gina find love with each other and helped his younger to brothers find their perfect match. But, Mac’s father isn’t finished playing matchmaker yet. The wedding planner turns out to know their cousin Ryder Montgomery. Apparently they dated briefly. And Mac’s father didn’t hesitate in getting Casey, the wedding planner, and Ryder Montgomery into working with each other. Ryder stops by Casey’s house wher he finds out that he as been hired to help her choose a wedding location for his cousin Mac’s wedding. Ryder enjoys the chance to work with Casey as he want s her back in his life. But Casey doesn’t want Ryder back in her life. Can Ryder convince Casey to let him back into her life or will he lose the woman of his dreams forever?
A hot and unpredictable romance that will heat up readers in way that sends them back reading more. Samantha Chase has a talent for writing the most incredible stories that heart warming and realistically believable. Readers will have no trouble falling for each one of the characters as well as for the story. The plot takes readers deep into each characters heart and on a journey where they discover the truth and what they really want in life. Each one of the Montgomery men have had to search deeply into their minds and heart asking themselves what they really need in life. I found them each one to spectacular and give each novel a five out of five stars. Stay with Me and More of Me are must reads!
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review!
Stay with Me by Samantha Chase is one exceptionally hot, sweet, and addictive story. Readers everywhere will instantly fall in love with all the characters and not just the main ones. A romance that sizzles with each turning page. Samantha Chase knows how to lure her readers in from just the first few lines. Her stunning plot gets hotter as two friends now adults are placed together everyday so close to each other. Gina was seven years younger than Mac but followed him everywhere. He was the one out of the three brothers who caught her heart when she was a teenager. But soon er parents’ rocky marriage turns to a divorce with her mother taking her away from her father, home, and friends. Everything she ever knew was left behind. And her father never chased after her or her mom. Gina thought it was because her father never cared but soon she is taken back to the place she left. Her father has very little time left and is dying. His best friend helps with planning on getting Gina matched up with his oldest son, Mac. But will these two be able to feel a connection. Mac is sent to to pick Gina up at the airport. But what he wasn’t expecting was for her to be all grown up and gorgeously beautiful. Just seeing her has him all messed up. His father though forces Mac to watch over Gina while she’s back visiting her father in the hospital. Soon things get heated in more than one way when the two are left alone. But can Mac, a super control freak be brave enough to let in Gina? Or will he lose her forever? Stay with Me is definitely one read readers won’t want to miss. Overall, I rate it a five out of five stars.
More of Me by Samantha Chase is just as amazing as story before it. The Montgomery men are the most incredible, sexy, and irresistible men that readers will ever find. Mac Montgomery and his fiancee Gina are planning their wedding. Gina’s mom fell and broke her hip and Gina needs to go help her mom and Mac has a business trip that he needs to attend at the same time. So, they hire Mac’s father to help them. The same man who helped Mac and Gina find love with each other and helped his younger to brothers find their perfect match. But, Mac’s father isn’t finished playing matchmaker yet. The wedding planner turns out to know their cousin Ryder Montgomery. Apparently they dated briefly. And Mac’s father didn’t hesitate in getting Casey, the wedding planner, and Ryder Montgomery into working with each other. Ryder stops by Casey’s house wher he finds out that he as been hired to help her choose a wedding location for his cousin Mac’s wedding. Ryder enjoys the chance to work with Casey as he want s her back in his life. But Casey doesn’t want Ryder back in her life. Can Ryder convince Casey to let him back into her life or will he lose the woman of his dreams forever?
A hot and unpredictable romance that will heat up readers in way that sends them back reading more. Samantha Chase has a talent for writing the most incredible stories that heart warming and realistically believable. Readers will have no trouble falling for each one of the characters as well as for the story. The plot takes readers deep into each characters heart and on a journey where they discover the truth and what they really want in life. Each one of the Montgomery men have had to search deeply into their minds and heart asking themselves what they really need in life. I found them each one to spectacular and give each novel a five out of five stars. Stay with Me and More of Me are must reads!
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review!
May 3, 2021
This was my first Samantha Chase read(s) and overall, Stay with Me and More of Me, both, were sweet romances. The added family dynamic made the story all the more wholesome and comforting. However, I think it will be a disservice if I don't mention the fact that I am a mood reader. By that I mean, books like the Montgomery series need me to be in a certain mood and definitely after something super angsty.
Romance's are predictable. But then again, we do favour this genre because we know, that no matter what the circumstances the couple will come out strong and they will get their Happy Ever After. We love the happy endings. So keeping that in mind, while both the stories were very predictable, i.e., you could point out exactly where things would go wrong and where things would turn out wonderfully. Yes, they were sweet and wholesome romances that make you believe in the fairy tale, however, it wasn't what I was looking for at the moment.
3 Stars!
Romance's are predictable. But then again, we do favour this genre because we know, that no matter what the circumstances the couple will come out strong and they will get their Happy Ever After. We love the happy endings. So keeping that in mind, while both the stories were very predictable, i.e., you could point out exactly where things would go wrong and where things would turn out wonderfully. Yes, they were sweet and wholesome romances that make you believe in the fairy tale, however, it wasn't what I was looking for at the moment.
3 Stars!
November 11, 2020
the stories both follow the general plot of "knew each other/dated when younger, forced to spend time together as adults, almost immediately want a relationship." I usually enjoy these books so it might just be 2020 getting to me, but I feel like the stories were tired. The language is also from an older generation even though the characters aren't much older than I am.
October 14, 2018
Looking for more. It’s 1:19 am and going to start Return to you! Yes
June 18, 2019
A great read. Loved it as I have all the books in this series. MS Chase keeps you engrossed with the story. I have a hard time putting her books down
November 2, 2016
need tissues
June 14, 2015
I am enjoying reading each book in the Montgomery series by author Samantha Chase. This is a perfect series to read at the beach or on summer vacation. Each book contains well paced storylines interesting characters and fabulous dialogue. William Montgomery is the central character in all of the Montgomery books. He has a new passion-- finding spouses for his sons, nephews and nieces! His matchmaking skills are tested in Stay With Me and More of Me!
STAY WITH ME
Stay With Me is a very emotional, compelling story of love and forgiveness. I adored the hero workaholic Mackenzie Montgomery and his heroine Gina Micelli. Their story is a twist on the opposites attract trope.
Gina travels to North Carolina to visit with her terminally ill father Arthur Micelli who is William Montgomery's best friend. Gina settles in in the Montgomery guesthouse to be near the hospital. Before heading out of town, William gives his oldest son Mac an ultimatum. He is to leave the office by 5pm or take an extended leave of absence. William asks Mac to check in on Gina while he is away. Mac shows up at the guesthouse with pizza and beer and forgets all about work when he sees Gina by the pool.
Samantha Chase takes a potentially heartbreaking situation and provides the characters with a positive life lesson. Gina is given a huge gift by her father; the opportunity for happiness. During their conversations at the hospital, Arthur encourages Gina to figure out what she wants to do--not what others expect her to do. This part of the book was very emotional and well - written. The honest Father- Daughter discussions brought tears to my eyes. Loved the conversations between Gina and Mac. They took time to listen and appreciate each other and became friends.. Mac is impacted by this lesson as well. He realizes that he is looking forward to spending time with Gina and his family and learns that there is more to life than Montgomery Industries.
The last few chapters of this full length novel are well-paced and superbly crafted. I was invested in the characters and their story and finished the book in an afternoon. The conflict, characters, dialogue and storyline were spot on. Enjoyed how Mac's parents and brothers and their brides were woven into the story as it added to the continuity of the series, I found the ending rewarding and absolutely loved Mac's grand gesture!!
MORE OF ME
William Montgomery asks his nephew Ryder Montgomery to meet with wedding planner Casey Peterson in More of Me. I enjoyed this classic second chance at romance. It's a fun story filled with passion and fabulous characters and is a perfect beach read.
Ryder meets former girlfriend Casey while jogging on the beach. He is unaware that his uncle has suggested that Ryder step in due to a family crisis and decide on his cousins wedding venue. Ryder feels guilty because he ended things with Casey badly when they broke up twelve years ago. He's very attracted to Casey and decides to use this opportunity to win back Casey's heart..
Samantha Chase infuses More of Me with a lot of great dialogue and quirky characters. I loved the fact that when Ryder saw Casey with her partner's baby, he mistakenly assumed it was Casey's child. Ryder stressed over this for a few days. And Casey let him stew! My favorite scene in the novel occurred when Casey and Ryder were observing a wedding venue. Two elderly guests, Minnie and Izzy, find Ryder and Casey hiding by the a big potted plant and accuse the couple of hanky panky at their nieces wedding . The Ladies suggest that they get a room! Ryder explains that there is no hanky panky going on-it's all about business and mentions that Casey is married. The aunts take Casey's side in the situation when she explains her side if the story. The aunts invite the couple to sit at their table at the wedding reception. The conversations between the aunts (there are a total of five), Casey and Ryder are loud out loud funny!!!
More of Me is an enjoyable, light read told with lots of style and humor. I love a great second chance at love story. Enjoyed how the couple talked through (with the Aunts help!) what happened when Ryder left Casey. I felt it was important that Casey admitted she was hurt and wasn't sure if she could trust Ryder. I appreciated that couple needed to learn to trust each other and that it would take time and effort to succeed. Loved, loved the ending of the novel as it provided a few surprises for Ryder and Casey !
STAY WITH ME
Stay With Me is a very emotional, compelling story of love and forgiveness. I adored the hero workaholic Mackenzie Montgomery and his heroine Gina Micelli. Their story is a twist on the opposites attract trope.
Gina travels to North Carolina to visit with her terminally ill father Arthur Micelli who is William Montgomery's best friend. Gina settles in in the Montgomery guesthouse to be near the hospital. Before heading out of town, William gives his oldest son Mac an ultimatum. He is to leave the office by 5pm or take an extended leave of absence. William asks Mac to check in on Gina while he is away. Mac shows up at the guesthouse with pizza and beer and forgets all about work when he sees Gina by the pool.
Samantha Chase takes a potentially heartbreaking situation and provides the characters with a positive life lesson. Gina is given a huge gift by her father; the opportunity for happiness. During their conversations at the hospital, Arthur encourages Gina to figure out what she wants to do--not what others expect her to do. This part of the book was very emotional and well - written. The honest Father- Daughter discussions brought tears to my eyes. Loved the conversations between Gina and Mac. They took time to listen and appreciate each other and became friends.. Mac is impacted by this lesson as well. He realizes that he is looking forward to spending time with Gina and his family and learns that there is more to life than Montgomery Industries.
The last few chapters of this full length novel are well-paced and superbly crafted. I was invested in the characters and their story and finished the book in an afternoon. The conflict, characters, dialogue and storyline were spot on. Enjoyed how Mac's parents and brothers and their brides were woven into the story as it added to the continuity of the series, I found the ending rewarding and absolutely loved Mac's grand gesture!!
MORE OF ME
William Montgomery asks his nephew Ryder Montgomery to meet with wedding planner Casey Peterson in More of Me. I enjoyed this classic second chance at romance. It's a fun story filled with passion and fabulous characters and is a perfect beach read.
Ryder meets former girlfriend Casey while jogging on the beach. He is unaware that his uncle has suggested that Ryder step in due to a family crisis and decide on his cousins wedding venue. Ryder feels guilty because he ended things with Casey badly when they broke up twelve years ago. He's very attracted to Casey and decides to use this opportunity to win back Casey's heart..
Samantha Chase infuses More of Me with a lot of great dialogue and quirky characters. I loved the fact that when Ryder saw Casey with her partner's baby, he mistakenly assumed it was Casey's child. Ryder stressed over this for a few days. And Casey let him stew! My favorite scene in the novel occurred when Casey and Ryder were observing a wedding venue. Two elderly guests, Minnie and Izzy, find Ryder and Casey hiding by the a big potted plant and accuse the couple of hanky panky at their nieces wedding . The Ladies suggest that they get a room! Ryder explains that there is no hanky panky going on-it's all about business and mentions that Casey is married. The aunts take Casey's side in the situation when she explains her side if the story. The aunts invite the couple to sit at their table at the wedding reception. The conversations between the aunts (there are a total of five), Casey and Ryder are loud out loud funny!!!
More of Me is an enjoyable, light read told with lots of style and humor. I love a great second chance at love story. Enjoyed how the couple talked through (with the Aunts help!) what happened when Ryder left Casey. I felt it was important that Casey admitted she was hurt and wasn't sure if she could trust Ryder. I appreciated that couple needed to learn to trust each other and that it would take time and effort to succeed. Loved, loved the ending of the novel as it provided a few surprises for Ryder and Casey !
October 4, 2020
My review originally posted on Romancing-the-Book.com is below:
This book is a contemporary romance that had both a full length story in the Montgomery Brothers series along with a novella, More of Me, that continues where book 3, Stay With Me, leaves off. These are the first two books in the series that I have read but I will definitely be reading Wait for Me and Trust in Me so I can fill in some of the gaps and also get to know the Montgomery’s better! Even without reading the first two books the story flowed smoothly. The author is reminiscent to me of Sherryl Woods, Susan Wiggs and Susan Mallery where family is everything.
Stay with Me is book 3 in the series and is Mackenzie and Gina’s story. While there is an underlying sadness throughout and some tears due to Gina’s father being ill there were enough happy moments to bring the book up. Since Gina had been essentially estranged from her father for many years because of her controlling mom and their divorce she learned a lot about her father when she finally came to her childhood hometown in North Carolina and found out how much she had missed out on by never being allowed to visit. The Montgomery’s, who were family friends, took her under their wing to get her through the tough times. She felt a closeness to all of them even though she hadn’t seen most of them for ten years and a lot of fond memories were evoked. Watching her and Mac try to figure out their friendship which then leads to more was fun to watch at times but other times was heartbreaking especially when Mac wanted Gina to make her own decisions about her life without interfering but didn’t let her in on it. Their chemistry was through the roof but one or the other always seemed to be running scared. There were family, friends, illness, work, a new baby to coo over, enlightenment in both Gina and Mac’s eyes, beautiful descriptions of the homes and grounds, lots of love between family members and plenty of romance and loving too. It was great to see how the Montgomery brothers and their spouses interacted with each other and the brother’s parents since they were a very close family. The prologue set the stage for the story and the epilogue tied up a lot of the loose ends and gave nice closure. There was a happily ever after in the offing and I couldn’t be happier!
More of Me continues the story of Stay with Me since we immediately are thrown into wedding plans but neither the bride nor groom are available to finalize some of the plans. Enter wedding planner, Casey, and Mac’s cousin, Ryder, who have a history from twelve years before when they had dated and broken up. When they connect to help out Mac and Gina, against Casey’s will – she’d rather work with Mac’s father on the plans – the chemistry is still there and the sparks do fly. Casey’s running scared since Ryder had hurt her many years before and she had doubts that he had staying power this time around. Watching how they really did know each other without having been together for twelve years was fun to watch. There was a depth to Ryder that Casey didn’t realize and he did everything in his power to get her to believe in them again. It was fun to watch the give and take as well as see how they interacted when they visited wedding venues for Mac and Gina. The elderly ex-aunts of the bride that they met up with at one of the weddings were founts of knowledge about romance but also a hoot with the comments they came out with. There was plenty of romance and love as well as family, memories brought up, sadness, fear, happiness and gorgeous descriptions of the land, the beach and the homes. The prologue set the stage once again and there was some closure and a happily ever after in the offing.
I can‘t wait to read, Return to You and Meant For You, the next two books in the series since I’ll once again be connecting with many Montgomerys! Chase is a new to me author and her books will be added to my always growing TBR pile. I love finding new authors to read.
Favorite Quotes:
Stay With Me: She pulled out of his grasp. “I want honesty; I want to know how you feel. But all you can do is hand me this line of bull. Well, congratulations, you’re like Switzerland. You managed to be so neutral that you can’t actually form a personal opinion.”
More of Me: “I never get tired of that sound,” she said as she took a sip of wine. “I can sit outside for hours, no matter what time of day it is, and just listen to the waves.”
This book is a contemporary romance that had both a full length story in the Montgomery Brothers series along with a novella, More of Me, that continues where book 3, Stay With Me, leaves off. These are the first two books in the series that I have read but I will definitely be reading Wait for Me and Trust in Me so I can fill in some of the gaps and also get to know the Montgomery’s better! Even without reading the first two books the story flowed smoothly. The author is reminiscent to me of Sherryl Woods, Susan Wiggs and Susan Mallery where family is everything.
Stay with Me is book 3 in the series and is Mackenzie and Gina’s story. While there is an underlying sadness throughout and some tears due to Gina’s father being ill there were enough happy moments to bring the book up. Since Gina had been essentially estranged from her father for many years because of her controlling mom and their divorce she learned a lot about her father when she finally came to her childhood hometown in North Carolina and found out how much she had missed out on by never being allowed to visit. The Montgomery’s, who were family friends, took her under their wing to get her through the tough times. She felt a closeness to all of them even though she hadn’t seen most of them for ten years and a lot of fond memories were evoked. Watching her and Mac try to figure out their friendship which then leads to more was fun to watch at times but other times was heartbreaking especially when Mac wanted Gina to make her own decisions about her life without interfering but didn’t let her in on it. Their chemistry was through the roof but one or the other always seemed to be running scared. There were family, friends, illness, work, a new baby to coo over, enlightenment in both Gina and Mac’s eyes, beautiful descriptions of the homes and grounds, lots of love between family members and plenty of romance and loving too. It was great to see how the Montgomery brothers and their spouses interacted with each other and the brother’s parents since they were a very close family. The prologue set the stage for the story and the epilogue tied up a lot of the loose ends and gave nice closure. There was a happily ever after in the offing and I couldn’t be happier!
More of Me continues the story of Stay with Me since we immediately are thrown into wedding plans but neither the bride nor groom are available to finalize some of the plans. Enter wedding planner, Casey, and Mac’s cousin, Ryder, who have a history from twelve years before when they had dated and broken up. When they connect to help out Mac and Gina, against Casey’s will – she’d rather work with Mac’s father on the plans – the chemistry is still there and the sparks do fly. Casey’s running scared since Ryder had hurt her many years before and she had doubts that he had staying power this time around. Watching how they really did know each other without having been together for twelve years was fun to watch. There was a depth to Ryder that Casey didn’t realize and he did everything in his power to get her to believe in them again. It was fun to watch the give and take as well as see how they interacted when they visited wedding venues for Mac and Gina. The elderly ex-aunts of the bride that they met up with at one of the weddings were founts of knowledge about romance but also a hoot with the comments they came out with. There was plenty of romance and love as well as family, memories brought up, sadness, fear, happiness and gorgeous descriptions of the land, the beach and the homes. The prologue set the stage once again and there was some closure and a happily ever after in the offing.
I can‘t wait to read, Return to You and Meant For You, the next two books in the series since I’ll once again be connecting with many Montgomerys! Chase is a new to me author and her books will be added to my always growing TBR pile. I love finding new authors to read.
Favorite Quotes:
Stay With Me: She pulled out of his grasp. “I want honesty; I want to know how you feel. But all you can do is hand me this line of bull. Well, congratulations, you’re like Switzerland. You managed to be so neutral that you can’t actually form a personal opinion.”
More of Me: “I never get tired of that sound,” she said as she took a sip of wine. “I can sit outside for hours, no matter what time of day it is, and just listen to the waves.”
April 9, 2015
3.5 stars--STAY WITH ME is the third installment in Samantha Chase’s adult, contemporary The Montgomery Brothers romance series focusing on the Montgomery family of Charlotte, North Carolina. This is eldest brother Mac Montgomery, and childhood friend Gina Micelli’s storyline. STAY WITH ME can be read as a stand alone but for cohesion and series backstory I would suggest reading in order.
Told from third person perspective STAY WITH ME is a story about friendship, loss and letting go. Family patriarch William Montgomery likes to play matchmaker and in this, he and his best friend Art Micelli hope to see love for their two remaining children.
Gina Micelli has returned to North Carolina to take care of her dying father Art. At fifteen years old, Gina’s parents divorced and Gina was whisked across country and had rarely seen or spoken to her father since. With her return comes guilt and the knowledge that her mother’s controlling ways kept Gina distanced from her father-on purpose. As Art Micelli nears the end of his life, Gina finds herself heartbroken and in pain for a father who has never stopped loving his only daughter.
Mac Montgomery doesn’t do relationships. With his two brothers married and starting families, Mac knows that his well meaning but meddling father has one final goal to see Mac happily married. Thinking Gina’s return was more of a matchmaking set up than a father/daughter reunion, Mac denies his attraction to Gina with the hopes of pushing away the woman with whom he is falling in love.
The relationship between Mac and Gina is a friends to lovers storyline between two people who have not seen one another for years. As Gina struggles with her father’s impending death, Mac struggles with his attraction and desire. As in the previous storylines, the $ex scenes are implied and fade to black. My only wish is that more of the family history between the Micelli’s and Montgomery’s was revealed. It would have been nice to see the earlier years and the developing friendships.
All of the previous storyline characters play a supporting and secondary role. Lucas and Jason’s wives take Gina under their wings with the knowledge that Mac will come to his senses-one of these days.
STAY WITH ME is an emotional storyline especially the scene where Gina says goodbye to her father, and William Montgomery says goodbye to a friend. Keep handy a box of tissues-you are probably going to need it.
~~~~~
3.5 stars--MORE OF ME is the fourth installment and novella in Samantha Chase’s adult, contemporary The Montgomery Brothers romance series. MORE OF ME introduces the Montgomery cousins and can be found as a bonus story in STAY WITH ME. This is Ryder Montgomery, and wedding planner Casey Peterson’s story. MORE OF ME can be read as a stand alone story without any difficulty.
Told from third person perspective MORE OF ME finds William Montgomery, once again, playing matchmaker but this time it is with his nephew Ryder Montgomery. As Mac and Gina (Stay With Me #3) prepare for their upcoming nuptials, Gina is suddenly called back home on a family emergency. Enter William Montgomery who suggests Ryder check out the wedding venues with Casey Peterson. The twist-Casey is Ryder’s ex girlfriend and they haven’t spoken to one another in a dozen years.
MORE OF ME is a second chance storyline for two people who have never stopped loving one another. Twelve years earlier Ryder left North Carolina for the West Coast where he eventually began work with the Montgomery West Coast offices leaving a heartbroken Casey to pick up the pieces of a destroyed relationship. Fast forward twelve years, where Casey finds herself working with Ryder Montgomery on his cousin’s upcoming wedding-and all of the old feelings and emotions come rushing to the surface.
There is very little angst or anxiety with the reconciliation. Casey and Ryder are now adults who know what it is to love and loss. Ryder has never stopped loving Casey and in this, he continues to apologize for his behavior, years before. The $ex scenes are all implied and fade to black. There is definitely a happily ever after for this couple.
MORE OF ME is a fun and quick read; a romantic story of reconciliation and second chances from the pen of Samantha Chase
copy supplied by Netgalley
Told from third person perspective STAY WITH ME is a story about friendship, loss and letting go. Family patriarch William Montgomery likes to play matchmaker and in this, he and his best friend Art Micelli hope to see love for their two remaining children.
Gina Micelli has returned to North Carolina to take care of her dying father Art. At fifteen years old, Gina’s parents divorced and Gina was whisked across country and had rarely seen or spoken to her father since. With her return comes guilt and the knowledge that her mother’s controlling ways kept Gina distanced from her father-on purpose. As Art Micelli nears the end of his life, Gina finds herself heartbroken and in pain for a father who has never stopped loving his only daughter.
Mac Montgomery doesn’t do relationships. With his two brothers married and starting families, Mac knows that his well meaning but meddling father has one final goal to see Mac happily married. Thinking Gina’s return was more of a matchmaking set up than a father/daughter reunion, Mac denies his attraction to Gina with the hopes of pushing away the woman with whom he is falling in love.
The relationship between Mac and Gina is a friends to lovers storyline between two people who have not seen one another for years. As Gina struggles with her father’s impending death, Mac struggles with his attraction and desire. As in the previous storylines, the $ex scenes are implied and fade to black. My only wish is that more of the family history between the Micelli’s and Montgomery’s was revealed. It would have been nice to see the earlier years and the developing friendships.
All of the previous storyline characters play a supporting and secondary role. Lucas and Jason’s wives take Gina under their wings with the knowledge that Mac will come to his senses-one of these days.
STAY WITH ME is an emotional storyline especially the scene where Gina says goodbye to her father, and William Montgomery says goodbye to a friend. Keep handy a box of tissues-you are probably going to need it.
~~~~~
3.5 stars--MORE OF ME is the fourth installment and novella in Samantha Chase’s adult, contemporary The Montgomery Brothers romance series. MORE OF ME introduces the Montgomery cousins and can be found as a bonus story in STAY WITH ME. This is Ryder Montgomery, and wedding planner Casey Peterson’s story. MORE OF ME can be read as a stand alone story without any difficulty.
Told from third person perspective MORE OF ME finds William Montgomery, once again, playing matchmaker but this time it is with his nephew Ryder Montgomery. As Mac and Gina (Stay With Me #3) prepare for their upcoming nuptials, Gina is suddenly called back home on a family emergency. Enter William Montgomery who suggests Ryder check out the wedding venues with Casey Peterson. The twist-Casey is Ryder’s ex girlfriend and they haven’t spoken to one another in a dozen years.
MORE OF ME is a second chance storyline for two people who have never stopped loving one another. Twelve years earlier Ryder left North Carolina for the West Coast where he eventually began work with the Montgomery West Coast offices leaving a heartbroken Casey to pick up the pieces of a destroyed relationship. Fast forward twelve years, where Casey finds herself working with Ryder Montgomery on his cousin’s upcoming wedding-and all of the old feelings and emotions come rushing to the surface.
There is very little angst or anxiety with the reconciliation. Casey and Ryder are now adults who know what it is to love and loss. Ryder has never stopped loving Casey and in this, he continues to apologize for his behavior, years before. The $ex scenes are all implied and fade to black. There is definitely a happily ever after for this couple.
MORE OF ME is a fun and quick read; a romantic story of reconciliation and second chances from the pen of Samantha Chase
copy supplied by Netgalley
October 14, 2018
Stay With Me (Montgomery Brothers Book 3) by Samantha Chase
Samantha Chase really goes above and beyond in Stay With Me. Samantha Chase proves that she has what it takes to be an amazing author. She really delivers in this book.
Mac Mongomery is all about work. His life is all about order. Mac Montgomery does not like chaos.
Gina Micelli is a childhood friend of the Montgomery's. Her father and Mac's father are best friends. Gina had a childhood crush on Mac Montgomery. When Mac and Gina get together all kinds of emotions and passion begins to surface.
Stay With Me is thus far the best of all the Montgomery Brothers books. Samantha Chase really went above and beyond the usual in writing this book. Stay With Me has all the elements that really do make a great book. I found my heart swooning at times and also cried and laughed. In Stay With Me, you feel all kinds of emotions. In my opinion that makes a great read. I found myself feeling everything. This story was truly realistic. The struggles that both characters go through are real everyday struggles that people go through. I really enjoyed reading this book. I found myself not wanting to put the book down and when I finished I re-read it a second time because it was that good. This book is the best. Samantha Chase is truly a gifted writer. I loved all the elements of this book. Go ahead and grab your copy and see why I love Samantha Chase and Say with Me. I dare you!
More Of Me (Montgomery Brothers Book 3.5)
As Mac and Gina (Stay With Me book 3) prepare for their upcoming nuptials they hire Casey Peterson as their wedding planner. When Gina is called back home on a family emergency William Montgomery suggests Ryder Montgomery help out with the planning.
Casey and Ryder used to date. They definitely have history. They haven’t spoken or seen one another in years.
Years ago Ryder left North Carolina and Casey to make a name for himself. Casey was left heartbroken and had to find a way to move forward with out Ryder. When Casey and Rydaer come together once again emotions come rushing to the surface. When Ryder and Casey come together it doesn't take long for things to heat up.
MORE OF ME is a great novella. I love second chance romances and More Of Me is definitely a great second chance read. Samantha Chase really wrote a great story. This is a story of love lost and heartache and forgiveness and possibly loving again. The struggles that Ryder and Casey experience are realistic and easy for the reader to relate with. You can't help but fall in love with the Montgomery family. I highly recommend this book and both stories. This is a great book and of course written by the truly talented and obviously gifted Samantha Chase.
April 21, 2015
***ARC provided through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review***
Stay with Me
William Montgomery is up to his old matchmaking tricks again. Seriously, he should create a matchmaking website. While golfing one day, his best friend Arthur tells him he is dying of cancer. Arthur's daughter Gina decides to come home and spend some much needed time with her ailing father. Her parents were divorced years before. Expecting to find William Montgomery at the airport waiting to pick her up, she is shocked to see her childhood crush Mac Montgomery instead.
William and his wife Monica are leaving on a vacation, so William asks Mac to keep an eye on Gina. Of course, he has a really good reason for doing so. Mac tries his best to keep his distance, but Gina is not making it easy on him. He finally decides to stop fighting it.
This was my favorite Montgomery Brothers story so far. I think I probably related more to Gina. She is fun-loving and quirky at times, and you can't help but to smile when she gets caught dancing and singing when she thinks no one else is around.
I absolutely loved the scene with Mac and Gina at the airport close to the end. One of the sweetest romantic scenes I've read in a while. Mac was paying attention to those 80's movies he was watching with Gina (which I loved, by the way).
More of Me
William wants to take the credit for pushing Ryder and Casey (Mac and Gina's wedding planner) into working together. But the truth is, Ryder was looking for Casey when he went back to Wrightsville Beach. They used to date as teenagers and she was the one that got away.
After seeing Casey with a baby, Ryder is disappointed. He thought he was too late, she already had a family. It doesn't stop him from letting her know how he feels eventually. Besides, her husband is never around. Maybe he's not in the picture anymore?
Ryder isn't one of the Montgomery brothers but he is a cousin. And apparently they have a bunch more cousins that need to be hooked up. William, the matchmaker, will be overjoyed at the new tasks. He says the men in his family can't see what's right in front of their faces, they need a little push from him.
These stories, like the other ones in the series, are good, clean romances. They're sure to make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. They are different enough to where you don't feel burnt out and similar enough that if you liked one, you're sure to like the others as well.
I would recommend this book, especially to romance fans.
Stay with Me
William Montgomery is up to his old matchmaking tricks again. Seriously, he should create a matchmaking website. While golfing one day, his best friend Arthur tells him he is dying of cancer. Arthur's daughter Gina decides to come home and spend some much needed time with her ailing father. Her parents were divorced years before. Expecting to find William Montgomery at the airport waiting to pick her up, she is shocked to see her childhood crush Mac Montgomery instead.
William and his wife Monica are leaving on a vacation, so William asks Mac to keep an eye on Gina. Of course, he has a really good reason for doing so. Mac tries his best to keep his distance, but Gina is not making it easy on him. He finally decides to stop fighting it.
This was my favorite Montgomery Brothers story so far. I think I probably related more to Gina. She is fun-loving and quirky at times, and you can't help but to smile when she gets caught dancing and singing when she thinks no one else is around.
I absolutely loved the scene with Mac and Gina at the airport close to the end. One of the sweetest romantic scenes I've read in a while. Mac was paying attention to those 80's movies he was watching with Gina (which I loved, by the way).
More of Me
William wants to take the credit for pushing Ryder and Casey (Mac and Gina's wedding planner) into working together. But the truth is, Ryder was looking for Casey when he went back to Wrightsville Beach. They used to date as teenagers and she was the one that got away.
After seeing Casey with a baby, Ryder is disappointed. He thought he was too late, she already had a family. It doesn't stop him from letting her know how he feels eventually. Besides, her husband is never around. Maybe he's not in the picture anymore?
Ryder isn't one of the Montgomery brothers but he is a cousin. And apparently they have a bunch more cousins that need to be hooked up. William, the matchmaker, will be overjoyed at the new tasks. He says the men in his family can't see what's right in front of their faces, they need a little push from him.
These stories, like the other ones in the series, are good, clean romances. They're sure to make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. They are different enough to where you don't feel burnt out and similar enough that if you liked one, you're sure to like the others as well.
I would recommend this book, especially to romance fans.
April 3, 2016
Stay With Me
This was a sweet romance with two people who are total opposites but learn to love each other's quirks and find that being together is the only thing that really matters. I enjoyed this story, though I found parts of it sad as Gina is dealing with the terminal illness of her father, that being the reason she is back in town and has met up with Mac, a family friend whom she had a crush on when she was younger. Gina is a fun, vivacious young woman while Mac, who is a few years older is a reserved workaholic. But together they clicked and though there are no open door scenes there is still a good amount of sexual tension throughout the story. I liked the camaraderie of Mac's family and his relationship with his siblings, as well as the touching relationship Gina now has with her ill father. It was a quick and entertaining read. 3 stars.
More of Me
This sweet reunited lovers romance is the story of Casey and Ryder who had broken up after high school but are reunited when Casey's job as a wedding planner means she's involved with Ryan's cousin Mac's wedding. As it turns out, Ryder is there to help her with choosing the venue and though their initial teenage parting left her heartbroken, it's obvious that there are still sparks between them. I liked how this story unfolded (and I get a kick out of Ryder's uncle William and his continued matchmaking attempts which are the backbone to this series) and there was good chemistry between Casey and Ryder. It was good to see that Casey didn't hold a grudge against Ryder for long and realized that his efforts at making things up to her for what happened as teenagers were sincere. They were both friendly, likeable characters and it was a quick and enjoyable read. 3.5 stars.
Note: a copy of this collection was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
This was a sweet romance with two people who are total opposites but learn to love each other's quirks and find that being together is the only thing that really matters. I enjoyed this story, though I found parts of it sad as Gina is dealing with the terminal illness of her father, that being the reason she is back in town and has met up with Mac, a family friend whom she had a crush on when she was younger. Gina is a fun, vivacious young woman while Mac, who is a few years older is a reserved workaholic. But together they clicked and though there are no open door scenes there is still a good amount of sexual tension throughout the story. I liked the camaraderie of Mac's family and his relationship with his siblings, as well as the touching relationship Gina now has with her ill father. It was a quick and entertaining read. 3 stars.
More of Me
This sweet reunited lovers romance is the story of Casey and Ryder who had broken up after high school but are reunited when Casey's job as a wedding planner means she's involved with Ryan's cousin Mac's wedding. As it turns out, Ryder is there to help her with choosing the venue and though their initial teenage parting left her heartbroken, it's obvious that there are still sparks between them. I liked how this story unfolded (and I get a kick out of Ryder's uncle William and his continued matchmaking attempts which are the backbone to this series) and there was good chemistry between Casey and Ryder. It was good to see that Casey didn't hold a grudge against Ryder for long and realized that his efforts at making things up to her for what happened as teenagers were sincere. They were both friendly, likeable characters and it was a quick and enjoyable read. 3.5 stars.
Note: a copy of this collection was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
April 30, 2015
Read the full review and more like this at: Polkadot's Book Blog
I recieved this copy in return for an honest review through Publishers at NetGalley
"As long as you appreciate it, Will. Embrace it."
Stay With Me focuses on the last son Mac Montgomery and his lost love Gina. While More of Me links and continues with the extended family, this being their cousin Ryder Montgomery and his rekindled love, as William puts hit matchmaking ways to use for Mac and Gina's wedding planner Casey.
Something that I loved with Stay with Me was that I felt that it had much more emotion involved with it mainly due to Gina dealing with her Father's illness. It put a lot more depth into the character that I felt the previous books slightly lacked. Again the family feel that always runs deep within this series was present and something that I highly anticipated so I was really glad that it wasn't lost, even when it transitions into the larger extended family with More of Me.
All in all, Stay with Me and More of Me has the sweet and loving romance that was present in all Montgomery series books. Plus it still has the added family dynamic that is so comforting and caring that it makes the story stand out that little bit more. But what brings it down a little in my opinion is the predictability of the story. You just know when you start it that the guy will get the girl and everything will turn out wonderfully. Having said this I will definitely continue on with the series because who can't get enough of that sweet romance and compelling family dynamic that Chase interweaves into all of her stories.
April 8, 2016
Stay with Me:
A sweet & tender story in the Montgomery series. MacKenzie “Mac” Montgomery is busy and can't seem to open up to the idea of love. A demanding job leaves no time for romance.
Gina Micelli heads home to visit her father unsure of what awaits. When Gina leans on an old family friend she'll have to work through regret, pain and secrets. Will she have someone to help her or must she do it alone?
This book is another beautiful opportunity for William Montgomery to work some meddling magic. Can Gina finally find happiness without regrets?
I love a story that has characters that are raw and real with a rage of emotion. Who will Gina confide in and can she trust Mac?
I received this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
More of Me:
Ryder Montgomery is a cousin to the first three men in this series and William the matchmaker’s nephew.
Ryder needs to put the past aside when he's asked to help with a family wedding and it means working with Casey Peterson, his former love. Will he let her slip away a second time? Will he embrace his second chance?
Will they reconcile and love again?
Another fantastic must read book in a series that has it all – romance, secrets, twists and turns.
This contemporary romance series is absolutely inspiring and magical. With great writing, loveable characters and continuous carryover of these characters from one book to the next its a fabulous choice this summer! If you are wondering if there will be a happily ever after then you MUST download this book now and find out.
I received this book from the author for a fair and honest review.
A sweet & tender story in the Montgomery series. MacKenzie “Mac” Montgomery is busy and can't seem to open up to the idea of love. A demanding job leaves no time for romance.
Gina Micelli heads home to visit her father unsure of what awaits. When Gina leans on an old family friend she'll have to work through regret, pain and secrets. Will she have someone to help her or must she do it alone?
This book is another beautiful opportunity for William Montgomery to work some meddling magic. Can Gina finally find happiness without regrets?
I love a story that has characters that are raw and real with a rage of emotion. Who will Gina confide in and can she trust Mac?
I received this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
More of Me:
Ryder Montgomery is a cousin to the first three men in this series and William the matchmaker’s nephew.
Ryder needs to put the past aside when he's asked to help with a family wedding and it means working with Casey Peterson, his former love. Will he let her slip away a second time? Will he embrace his second chance?
Will they reconcile and love again?
Another fantastic must read book in a series that has it all – romance, secrets, twists and turns.
This contemporary romance series is absolutely inspiring and magical. With great writing, loveable characters and continuous carryover of these characters from one book to the next its a fabulous choice this summer! If you are wondering if there will be a happily ever after then you MUST download this book now and find out.
I received this book from the author for a fair and honest review.
April 26, 2015
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads
I first read books 1&2 and then due to a scheduling clash read books 4 and 5, so these came out of order, but did not affect my enjoyment of them at all. After all William Montgomery - the 'matchmaker' in the series does such a good job, that it is hard to fault his picks!
In Stay with Me, it is difficult (read impossible for me) to not get emotionally involved in Gina's plight with her father. Mac is the anchor that she needs - even if he was assuming she was still the girl he knew all those years ago. Once again, a lovely story that combines family, awakening of suppressed passion and admission of love. I liked that the previous couples contributed and supported the developing romance, especially the wives. What is not to like about this story?
More of Me
This novella gives William Montgomery a new run at his matchmaking skills -with one of his nephews taking centre stage; single, and in need of help! The story is really the sweetest, least angst ridden, with Ryder being paired to plan Mac's wedding with his one time love, Casey. Perfect introduction to the branch of the family we meet in later stories.
These are hugely enjoyable, relaxing reads, which benefit from good plot lines, and are well written. Give them a go!
I first read books 1&2 and then due to a scheduling clash read books 4 and 5, so these came out of order, but did not affect my enjoyment of them at all. After all William Montgomery - the 'matchmaker' in the series does such a good job, that it is hard to fault his picks!
In Stay with Me, it is difficult (read impossible for me) to not get emotionally involved in Gina's plight with her father. Mac is the anchor that she needs - even if he was assuming she was still the girl he knew all those years ago. Once again, a lovely story that combines family, awakening of suppressed passion and admission of love. I liked that the previous couples contributed and supported the developing romance, especially the wives. What is not to like about this story?
More of Me
This novella gives William Montgomery a new run at his matchmaking skills -with one of his nephews taking centre stage; single, and in need of help! The story is really the sweetest, least angst ridden, with Ryder being paired to plan Mac's wedding with his one time love, Casey. Perfect introduction to the branch of the family we meet in later stories.
These are hugely enjoyable, relaxing reads, which benefit from good plot lines, and are well written. Give them a go!
February 22, 2015
STAY WITH ME:
Gina that girl can tempt a saint at times, "aren't you going to join me?" she asked, grabbing a slice from the box not waiting for him before taking a bite. She moaned in pure ecstasy. "Now that is what I'm talking about." He was in hell. There was no other way to describe it. He was tired, hungry, and now he was horny too." Mac he's territorial and protective of his Gina, "Mac walked in. "What the hell's going on here?" He immediately stepped to Gina's side. "Are you all right?" he asked gently." The naughty bits were kind of blacked out I didn't really like that but other than that aspect I enjoyed the story.
MORE OF ME:
Mac is back in a couple of scenes in this story and he still has the biggest hard-on for his girl, "that's okay," he said with a low growl. "Because I'm about to be a little selfish myself." Kicking the bedroom door closed behind him, Mac lowered his fiancee' to the bed and followed her down. "And I'm not sorry about it, either." The main story is about Casey and Ryder and Ryder is a passionate man and sometimes that passion comes out wrong, "how about because I want to see you dammit," he snapped. "How about because ever since I jogged over to your house the other day, I haven't been able to stop thinking about you?" He's a touchy feely kind of man as well, "Ryder," she said breathlessly as his hand continued to travel up her thighs until her found her panties." This was a cute story.
Gina that girl can tempt a saint at times, "aren't you going to join me?" she asked, grabbing a slice from the box not waiting for him before taking a bite. She moaned in pure ecstasy. "Now that is what I'm talking about." He was in hell. There was no other way to describe it. He was tired, hungry, and now he was horny too." Mac he's territorial and protective of his Gina, "Mac walked in. "What the hell's going on here?" He immediately stepped to Gina's side. "Are you all right?" he asked gently." The naughty bits were kind of blacked out I didn't really like that but other than that aspect I enjoyed the story.
MORE OF ME:
Mac is back in a couple of scenes in this story and he still has the biggest hard-on for his girl, "that's okay," he said with a low growl. "Because I'm about to be a little selfish myself." Kicking the bedroom door closed behind him, Mac lowered his fiancee' to the bed and followed her down. "And I'm not sorry about it, either." The main story is about Casey and Ryder and Ryder is a passionate man and sometimes that passion comes out wrong, "how about because I want to see you dammit," he snapped. "How about because ever since I jogged over to your house the other day, I haven't been able to stop thinking about you?" He's a touchy feely kind of man as well, "Ryder," she said breathlessly as his hand continued to travel up her thighs until her found her panties." This was a cute story.
May 26, 2016
Stay with Me - You could call this a second chance romance. Mac is a workaholic & totally self centered. Gina grew up next door until her parents divorced & she moved with her mother. She's come back to town because her father is dying and she wants to come to grips with her anger for the way he let her go after the divorce & didn't fight for her. Gina used to follow Mac around when she was little because she had such a crush on him. In this book, I felt like Gina's emotional growth & journey regarding her dad, the divorce and Mac were more of the focus than Mac himself. He did have to go on a personal journey to see the way he was treating not only Gina but others and come to terms with it. Neither one of them was ready for a relationship.
More of Me - Great second chance romance story! Casey & Ryder were a couple in high school until he left her behind for college, totally breaking her heart. Now, his cousin Mac and her best friend Gina are getting married. Casey is the wedding planner & Ryder is taking time off work and is able to help out since Gina & Mac are swamped with work and unable to attend to all of the details. Circumstance (or Mac & Gina) are forcing them together. Will they find romance this time?
I loved these two characters & the premise of the novella. We were given enough backstory so that we knew what was going on and the plot had enough twists to keep us interested. My only complaint was that it was too short!
More of Me - Great second chance romance story! Casey & Ryder were a couple in high school until he left her behind for college, totally breaking her heart. Now, his cousin Mac and her best friend Gina are getting married. Casey is the wedding planner & Ryder is taking time off work and is able to help out since Gina & Mac are swamped with work and unable to attend to all of the details. Circumstance (or Mac & Gina) are forcing them together. Will they find romance this time?
I loved these two characters & the premise of the novella. We were given enough backstory so that we knew what was going on and the plot had enough twists to keep us interested. My only complaint was that it was too short!
March 30, 2015
I received a complimentary book from Net Galley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I love Samantha Chases' Montgomery Brothers series. This book contains two stories: MacKenzie Montgomery and Ryder Montgomery who is MacKenzie's cousin.
I have read three other books in this series, and these two novels are just as awesome as the other ones. Each Montgomery boy is differnt, but hey do have some commonalities. They are sexy and rich. In spite of that, they are romantic and gentle to their women. And once they fall in love, they give completely of themselves and stay in love forever.
The women, in this instance Gina (Mac's love) and Casey (Ryder's love) are smart, independent and could care less about the Montgomery money. These books are not just about love but also about the closeness of families and how everyone works together and help each other.
These books all have interesting stories with well-developed plots and characters. The plots are not simple and there are definitely some obstacles in the road, but it is fun to watch them as they fall in love and work hard to get their happily-ever-after endings. There is no graphic sex in this although the characters are sexy as well as romantic.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes romance and happy endings without much sex.
I love Samantha Chases' Montgomery Brothers series. This book contains two stories: MacKenzie Montgomery and Ryder Montgomery who is MacKenzie's cousin.
I have read three other books in this series, and these two novels are just as awesome as the other ones. Each Montgomery boy is differnt, but hey do have some commonalities. They are sexy and rich. In spite of that, they are romantic and gentle to their women. And once they fall in love, they give completely of themselves and stay in love forever.
The women, in this instance Gina (Mac's love) and Casey (Ryder's love) are smart, independent and could care less about the Montgomery money. These books are not just about love but also about the closeness of families and how everyone works together and help each other.
These books all have interesting stories with well-developed plots and characters. The plots are not simple and there are definitely some obstacles in the road, but it is fun to watch them as they fall in love and work hard to get their happily-ever-after endings. There is no graphic sex in this although the characters are sexy as well as romantic.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes romance and happy endings without much sex.
December 18, 2015
Stay with Me
This was the first Samantha Chase book I’ve read. To find love while coming home to visit your dying estranged, father was bittersweet. Gina really needed Mac to help her through this sad time in her life. As their relationship started putting even more stress on Gina, my heart hurt for her and I wanted to punch Mac! No one wants to be a “dirty little secret” especially if you grew up with that family and are still very close to them. I enjoyed ow it ended though
More of Me
Gina and Mac’s wedding planner use to be in love with Mac’s cousin, Ryder. Or is she still? Ryder left Casey heartbroken after they broke up in high school. Ryder is talked into helping plan Gina and Mac’s wedding and works closely with Casey to find the perfect venue. In the end they reconcile. There isn’t much angst or arguments from the break up but it was a very enjoyable book! The sex scenes were definite fade to black scenarios. All in all, this was an enjoyable hometown, family, feel good romance!
This was the first Samantha Chase book I’ve read. To find love while coming home to visit your dying estranged, father was bittersweet. Gina really needed Mac to help her through this sad time in her life. As their relationship started putting even more stress on Gina, my heart hurt for her and I wanted to punch Mac! No one wants to be a “dirty little secret” especially if you grew up with that family and are still very close to them. I enjoyed ow it ended though
More of Me
Gina and Mac’s wedding planner use to be in love with Mac’s cousin, Ryder. Or is she still? Ryder left Casey heartbroken after they broke up in high school. Ryder is talked into helping plan Gina and Mac’s wedding and works closely with Casey to find the perfect venue. In the end they reconcile. There isn’t much angst or arguments from the break up but it was a very enjoyable book! The sex scenes were definite fade to black scenarios. All in all, this was an enjoyable hometown, family, feel good romance!
June 20, 2016
Loved these books. Loving the series. I just love Samantha Chase. Her books are wonderful.
In STAY WITH ME-Book 3 in the Montgomery Brothers. Mackenize(Mac) is faced wih helping out a friend Gina Micelli who is had come home for one reason, and one reason only that's to see her father. It's not a very happy occasion. When he sees her after a very long time he can't believe his eyes. He'll be there for if she needs him, but things change. See what happens. Have tissues on hand.
In MORE OF ME Book 3.5: Ryder Montgomery agrees to help his cousin with some wedding decisions. He's hit with this news when he approached Casey Peterson on the beach. He hadn't seen here in years. As he works with her on all these wedding plans. He knows what he had done, and now wants to fix them. Will she let him? Will she forgive him for what he did?
Both books are a two for one deal on Amazon. So go buy them. Just really loved the characters in the books. You'll laugh, and cry. It was really touching to say the least.
In STAY WITH ME-Book 3 in the Montgomery Brothers. Mackenize(Mac) is faced wih helping out a friend Gina Micelli who is had come home for one reason, and one reason only that's to see her father. It's not a very happy occasion. When he sees her after a very long time he can't believe his eyes. He'll be there for if she needs him, but things change. See what happens. Have tissues on hand.
In MORE OF ME Book 3.5: Ryder Montgomery agrees to help his cousin with some wedding decisions. He's hit with this news when he approached Casey Peterson on the beach. He hadn't seen here in years. As he works with her on all these wedding plans. He knows what he had done, and now wants to fix them. Will she let him? Will she forgive him for what he did?
Both books are a two for one deal on Amazon. So go buy them. Just really loved the characters in the books. You'll laugh, and cry. It was really touching to say the least.
April 6, 2015
Yargh. I just didn't like "Stay with Me" as much as the first two books in the series. Mac was fine, but I just didn't feel like there was a good connection to Gina. There was certainly hot sex, but a true connection? Especially in light of all of the drama with Gina's father dying? I just didn't feel it. Mac felt vaguely bossy, even when he was trying not to and Gina came across as a little bit of a pushover.
The novella introducing the Montgomery cousins was more enjoyabe. Casey and Ryder had dated in college but he had abruptly dumped her thinking it was for the best. He went to the West Coast to run that branch of the family business. But he's been thinking lately that he needs something more. And seeing Casey on the beach reminds him of what he was missing. And learning that he was in line to help her plan his cousin's wedding? A perfect time to recapture something he had lost. Perfect sense of remorse, recrimination, and reuniting between these two.
The novella introducing the Montgomery cousins was more enjoyabe. Casey and Ryder had dated in college but he had abruptly dumped her thinking it was for the best. He went to the West Coast to run that branch of the family business. But he's been thinking lately that he needs something more. And seeing Casey on the beach reminds him of what he was missing. And learning that he was in line to help her plan his cousin's wedding? A perfect time to recapture something he had lost. Perfect sense of remorse, recrimination, and reuniting between these two.
August 24, 2015
It's official! I'm a Montgomery Brothers addict! Every book leaves you breathless for the next Montgomery story! Stay with Me was Ryder Montgomery and Casey story and wow 10 years and it's like the spark only grew and fate had plans for them two! Or William Montgomery lol you gotta love that man! Mr. match maker himself lol I laughed at several of the scenes in this book and I highly enjoyed the push and pull in this love match!! Now More of me is Gina and Mac Montgomery this made me cry for Gina and want to slap Mac for trying to fight against his feelings. Men they don't know what's good for them at all lol but it was a amazing story and makes you appreciate life and family even more after reading it and to remember that you are loved no matter what. Even when it doesn't seem that way. I'm in love with these hard headed Montgomery boys! But Mac dad oh what a fun older man! He wants his kids happy and grandchildren of course! Absolutely love his match making skills!!
March 30, 2015
This is a set of previously published books 3 and 4 in the Montgomery Brothers series. These are shorter format contemporary romances. I liked Stay With Me well enough. It completed nicely the previous two romances of hero Mac's brothers. Book 4, More of Me, the hero Ryder is a cousin of the first three brothers. This is a second chance romance, and very nicely done.
I liked More of Me a lot, and it pulled the rating up to a four. Ryder and Casey meet again after twelve years. Their breakup is not detailed, other that we get that they broke up when he went off to college. Casey "needed to know if it was possible or lightning to strike twice..." And I also liked that the wedding of Mac and Gina (from Stay With Me) was featured in More of Me.
I look forward to the next Montgomery Brothers novel. I received an complementary copy from NetGalley in return for anhonest review.
I liked More of Me a lot, and it pulled the rating up to a four. Ryder and Casey meet again after twelve years. Their breakup is not detailed, other that we get that they broke up when he went off to college. Casey "needed to know if it was possible or lightning to strike twice..." And I also liked that the wedding of Mac and Gina (from Stay With Me) was featured in More of Me.
I look forward to the next Montgomery Brothers novel. I received an complementary copy from NetGalley in return for anhonest review.
April 23, 2015
1st book- I loved Mac and Gina. Although it was very sad that Gina was loosing her dad but she was gaining a family and the love of her life in return. From when Mac first sees Gina he is amazingly attracted to her. Gina wants a distraction but it turns how they both end up needing each other. I loved hearing about he brothers and the way they banter. Very amusing. I am starting to really like this family as the books go on. I can't wait to read about the cousins :-)
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2nd book- this story was very simple. Cut and dry. Here was no real conflict going on other then Ryder going to tie up some loose ends. I really enjoyed Casey and how strong she was. Her and Ryder made an excellent couple and I am glad they got there chance. This was a sweet story. I am excited to read about his silblings in the upcoming books. I hope this series keeps on going :-)
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2nd book- this story was very simple. Cut and dry. Here was no real conflict going on other then Ryder going to tie up some loose ends. I really enjoyed Casey and how strong she was. Her and Ryder made an excellent couple and I am glad they got there chance. This was a sweet story. I am excited to read about his silblings in the upcoming books. I hope this series keeps on going :-)
April 10, 2015
Both of these were sweet love stories. The first one with Gina and Mac was a little emotional but I loved it, I loved they way Gina finally came into her own and while she was she inadvertently helped Mac see what he had been missing from his life. It's awesome to read about true love being found. Now with the second book it is a second chance at love between Casey and Ryder. They were young when they parted ways and now twelve years later they are helping plan Mac and Gina's wedding. All of the old feelings are there now we just have to wait and see if they give it chance. I really enjoyed both of these stories and look forward to reading more from this author.
I was given a copy by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was given a copy by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 6, 2015
I really enjoyed both of these stories. They were a good pace, and while I’m not usually a fan of novella’s, I found it well written and paced without feeling like it was rushed. My only complaint is that the author shifts POV unexpectedly at times and it gets a little confusing.
Either of these stories could easily be read as stand-alone books.
Either of these stories could easily be read as stand-alone books.
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