What do you think?
Rate this book
Pine Mountain #5
All Wrapped Up
Ingredients:
One former firefighter who’s hiding out, managing a small-town bar so he can forget his haunted past
One headstrong reporter—a.k.a. the woman who got away—assigned to break the story when he runs into a burning building to save a little boy
Seven years since they’ve seen each other after their scorching summer fling
Stir in old hurts, brand-new chemistry that burns hotter than ever, and his sister’s Christmas wedding, where his past becomes the story of the century
Fan the flames and feed your holiday spirit with a sweet and sexy happily ever after
One former firefighter who’s hiding out, managing a small-town bar so he can forget his haunted past
One headstrong reporter—a.k.a. the woman who got away—assigned to break the story when he runs into a burning building to save a little boy
Seven years since they’ve seen each other after their scorching summer fling
Stir in old hurts, brand-new chemistry that burns hotter than ever, and his sister’s Christmas wedding, where his past becomes the story of the century
Fan the flames and feed your holiday spirit with a sweet and sexy happily ever after
Kindle Edition
First published September 29, 2015
137 people are currently reading
584 people want to read
About the author
Kimberly Kincaid
61 books2,678 followersUSA Today best-selling author Kimberly Kincaid writes romantic suspense that sizzles and contemporary romance with heart and heat. Equal parts action and emotion, her firefighters and first responders always save the day. When she's not finding adventure with her family and naughty Whippets, Olive, Daisy, and Jack, she can be found practicing obscene amounts of yoga, whipping up anything from enchiladas to éclairs in her kitchen, or curled up with her nose in a book.
Kimberly's series include The Intelligence Unit, Remington Medical, Station Seventeen, and her brand-new Remington Rescue Squad series. All titles stand alone for easy reading.
Kimberly's series include The Intelligence Unit, Remington Medical, Station Seventeen, and her brand-new Remington Rescue Squad series. All titles stand alone for easy reading.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews
![Profile Image for Carol [Goodreads Addict].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1626057011i%2F10717098._UX200_CR0%2C33%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
September 29, 2015
All Wrapped Up is book five in the Pine Mountain series by Kimberly Kincaid. This book was generously provided to me in exchange for an honest review by NetGalley, Kensington Books and by Kimberly Kincaid.
Nick Brennan wants nothing more than to stay under the radar in Pine Mountain. He is on the way to work as bar manager of the Double Shot when he sees the local grocery store on fire. Instinct kicks in when a boy is trapped inside and Nick rescues him. The town wants to see him as a hero but Nick knows better. He has a past he has kept hidden for the last two and a half years. Nick knows that he is anything but a hero.
“His past was coming back to haunt him. Only this time, he could control it. He would control it. There was no alternative.”
Ava Mancuso is a newspaper reporter and is on her way to cover another fluff piece when the fire trucks begin streaking past her. So she decides to follow them hoping for a better story. When she sees a man running from the building carrying a young boy she can’t believe her eyes. It’s Nick.
Seven years ago Nick and Ava had a summer romance right after college. Nick thought it might be the start of something more but at the end of the summer, Ava left with no good-bye. He never got over her. Could this be a second chance? But Nick knows he is no longer capable of being in a relationship. He is not the man Ava knew seven years ago.
Both Nick and Ava have secrets, both are damaged. The more time they spend together, though, hope blooms along with their feelings for one another. Around Ava, Nick feels more peaceful, more whole.
“Ava saw him. She fit into his life, even the crazy and difficult parts, and she got him.
Ava saw him. She got him. And even if he didn’t know it on his own, when she told him he was worthy, he believed it was true.”
Ava has never wanted anything but to be a newspaper journalist. She sees a story here, about the honorable lives of firefighters. But the more she learns of Nick’s story, the more she realizes that this isn’t her story to tell. But her boss will go to any lengths to get the story, ethical or not. And he is putting the pressure on Ava to dig up the dirty details and get the story.
I absolutely loved this book. I loved Nick and Ava. This is the first book I have read in this series but I had no trouble at all jumping right in. It was obvious that Nick and Ava was each other’s perfect match. But can Nick ever come to terms with his own history? I loved watching these two together. The way they each always seemed to know exactly what the other needed. Kimberly Kincaid has a way of feeding us the details slowly throughout the book, always keeping us wondering. This book had me from the beginning and kept me coming back for more until the very end. I fell in love with these characters and I hope you will too.
Nick Brennan wants nothing more than to stay under the radar in Pine Mountain. He is on the way to work as bar manager of the Double Shot when he sees the local grocery store on fire. Instinct kicks in when a boy is trapped inside and Nick rescues him. The town wants to see him as a hero but Nick knows better. He has a past he has kept hidden for the last two and a half years. Nick knows that he is anything but a hero.
“His past was coming back to haunt him. Only this time, he could control it. He would control it. There was no alternative.”
Ava Mancuso is a newspaper reporter and is on her way to cover another fluff piece when the fire trucks begin streaking past her. So she decides to follow them hoping for a better story. When she sees a man running from the building carrying a young boy she can’t believe her eyes. It’s Nick.
Seven years ago Nick and Ava had a summer romance right after college. Nick thought it might be the start of something more but at the end of the summer, Ava left with no good-bye. He never got over her. Could this be a second chance? But Nick knows he is no longer capable of being in a relationship. He is not the man Ava knew seven years ago.
Both Nick and Ava have secrets, both are damaged. The more time they spend together, though, hope blooms along with their feelings for one another. Around Ava, Nick feels more peaceful, more whole.
“Ava saw him. She fit into his life, even the crazy and difficult parts, and she got him.
Ava saw him. She got him. And even if he didn’t know it on his own, when she told him he was worthy, he believed it was true.”
Ava has never wanted anything but to be a newspaper journalist. She sees a story here, about the honorable lives of firefighters. But the more she learns of Nick’s story, the more she realizes that this isn’t her story to tell. But her boss will go to any lengths to get the story, ethical or not. And he is putting the pressure on Ava to dig up the dirty details and get the story.
I absolutely loved this book. I loved Nick and Ava. This is the first book I have read in this series but I had no trouble at all jumping right in. It was obvious that Nick and Ava was each other’s perfect match. But can Nick ever come to terms with his own history? I loved watching these two together. The way they each always seemed to know exactly what the other needed. Kimberly Kincaid has a way of feeding us the details slowly throughout the book, always keeping us wondering. This book had me from the beginning and kept me coming back for more until the very end. I fell in love with these characters and I hope you will too.
October 2, 2015
I still can't believe ALL WRAPPED UP is the final book in the Pine Mountain series. I have come to love all of the towns people and have giggled and swooned along with them all. I had never read Kimberly Kincaid before this series but now I'm excited to find her older books and am really looking forward to a new series. Revisiting Pine Mountain was like going home for me. Everyone knows everyone else and they are all in your business just like any other small town. The sexual tension between Nick and Ava is going to drive you wild and have you unable to put down their story until you reach the very last page.
Received from Netgalley for an honest review.
Received from Netgalley for an honest review.
September 30, 2015
Slick's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
4.5 stars
I enjoy reading new to me authors especially those that have been recommended by other author's whose work I love or by friends and other reviewers whose judgment I trust so when an author friend recommended All Wrapped Up by Kimberly Kincaid, I took a chance and I'm so glad I did. A reluctant hero, a heroine out for a story, a reunion after seven years, secrets, and some delightfully hot sexy scenes all rolled in to one outstanding second chance at love romance!
Two and a half years after Nick Brennan's life was turned upside down he is settled in the small town of Pine Mountain and his job as the manager of the Double Shot bar. He soon finds himself the talk of the town and the focus of the media's attention when he rescues a boy from a burning building. He also finds himself staring into the eyes of the woman that left him seven years ago without so much as a goodbye.
Ava Mancuso will be the first to admit that her career is not going the way that she wants it and while she knows she made a mistake on her first big assignment she feels like she's paid her dues so when she happens upon the scene of a big fire and realizes she knows the man carrying a young boy out of a raging inferno she's determined to get the story even if it means facing the man she knows probably hates her for the way she left him without a trace.
I very much enjoyed the difficult start to this couple's reunion and the fact that there wasn't an easy fix to the trust that had been broken. I liked both these characters immensely and the author did a fantastic job of developing their characters. Throughout this story we learn so much about them and their lives and we get a feel for the things that have shaped their lives, what makes them tick and the regrets they both have. These are very complex characters and both some with a monogrammed set of baggage but somehow in each other they find calmness and a sense of peace that makes them less stressed and very, very happy.
It was hard watching Brennan work through his issues and with each layer that was peeled back it became obvious that he was hurting not only physically but emotionally as well. Ava was in a pretty good place in her life with the exception of a boss who bordered on unethical. The both made some mistakes in their relationship but it was easy to see neither one did so to intentionally hurt the other one. They were both simply trying to do what they thought was the right thing even when it didn't seem that way to the other.
All Wrapped Up with its dynamic characters is set against the small town backdrop smack dab in the middle of the holiday craziness and yet the author managed to keep the romance front and center making this one compelling and simply stunning love story.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
4.5 stars
I enjoy reading new to me authors especially those that have been recommended by other author's whose work I love or by friends and other reviewers whose judgment I trust so when an author friend recommended All Wrapped Up by Kimberly Kincaid, I took a chance and I'm so glad I did. A reluctant hero, a heroine out for a story, a reunion after seven years, secrets, and some delightfully hot sexy scenes all rolled in to one outstanding second chance at love romance!
Two and a half years after Nick Brennan's life was turned upside down he is settled in the small town of Pine Mountain and his job as the manager of the Double Shot bar. He soon finds himself the talk of the town and the focus of the media's attention when he rescues a boy from a burning building. He also finds himself staring into the eyes of the woman that left him seven years ago without so much as a goodbye.
Ava Mancuso will be the first to admit that her career is not going the way that she wants it and while she knows she made a mistake on her first big assignment she feels like she's paid her dues so when she happens upon the scene of a big fire and realizes she knows the man carrying a young boy out of a raging inferno she's determined to get the story even if it means facing the man she knows probably hates her for the way she left him without a trace.
I very much enjoyed the difficult start to this couple's reunion and the fact that there wasn't an easy fix to the trust that had been broken. I liked both these characters immensely and the author did a fantastic job of developing their characters. Throughout this story we learn so much about them and their lives and we get a feel for the things that have shaped their lives, what makes them tick and the regrets they both have. These are very complex characters and both some with a monogrammed set of baggage but somehow in each other they find calmness and a sense of peace that makes them less stressed and very, very happy.
It was hard watching Brennan work through his issues and with each layer that was peeled back it became obvious that he was hurting not only physically but emotionally as well. Ava was in a pretty good place in her life with the exception of a boss who bordered on unethical. The both made some mistakes in their relationship but it was easy to see neither one did so to intentionally hurt the other one. They were both simply trying to do what they thought was the right thing even when it didn't seem that way to the other.
All Wrapped Up with its dynamic characters is set against the small town backdrop smack dab in the middle of the holiday craziness and yet the author managed to keep the romance front and center making this one compelling and simply stunning love story.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
October 6, 2015
Holy, Freaking, Smoke!!!!!
Kimberly's books keep getting better and better and just when you think you can't have another "HERO", along comes Nick Brennan. He grabbed my attention in the last book and then he grabbed it right at the beginning of All Wrapped Up and never let go.
2 1/2 years ago something happened at a fire, Brennan lost his career and his best friend. Ava walked away from the Nick she knew because she was afraid and now here she is again, face-to-face with him. She's a reporter and is wanting a story that Brennan doesn't want to give up. Ultimately Ava is thrown into a situation where her career is on this line and Brennan discovers what she has been keeping from him.
This is a MUST READ book BUT then again the entire Pine Mountain series is a must read. That being said - All Wrapped Up is the last book in the series and is definitely my favorite. It will be a keeper in paperback and will be a definite re-read.
Kimberly's books keep getting better and better and just when you think you can't have another "HERO", along comes Nick Brennan. He grabbed my attention in the last book and then he grabbed it right at the beginning of All Wrapped Up and never let go.
2 1/2 years ago something happened at a fire, Brennan lost his career and his best friend. Ava walked away from the Nick she knew because she was afraid and now here she is again, face-to-face with him. She's a reporter and is wanting a story that Brennan doesn't want to give up. Ultimately Ava is thrown into a situation where her career is on this line and Brennan discovers what she has been keeping from him.
This is a MUST READ book BUT then again the entire Pine Mountain series is a must read. That being said - All Wrapped Up is the last book in the series and is definitely my favorite. It will be a keeper in paperback and will be a definite re-read.
August 21, 2015
Kincaid is truly one of my favorite authors and this book was bittersweet. I am sad this series is ending but Kincaid ended it with a bang! Ava and Nick were an outstanding couple. Although they had a past they made the future brighter once they got passed everything that happened. The writing was great, the storyline interesting and the characters are swoon worthy especially Nick. I can't wait for new series because I already know it's going to be fan freaking tastic!
October 4, 2023
I think this is a fine book and probably an entertaining series (although this is the only one I've read so far). The spice was good and well written but I feel like some of the other parts of the book were overly flowery and unnecessary (like the descriptions of walking - stabbing his boots into the linoleum). I thought the connection between characters and their relationships were good and natural. I'd recommend this series to anyone wanting a quick, entertaining read. Thank you to Kimberly Kincaid and Netgalley for this eARC!
October 13, 2023
It’s time to say a goodbye to our friends in Pine Mountain with the last book in the series and after reading it (okay devouring it) I can say with surety that Kimberly Kincaid has given us a book that not only fits perfectly with the others, but just may be my favourite of them all.
Cue the sobs as I pack my imaginary bag in preparation of leaving Pine Mountain. I have threatened after every book to move there if it was real and it’s no different this time. Though it’s sad to see a series finish, there is nothing better than see it go out on a high and that’s exactly what has happened with All Wrapped Up. I loved this book, plain and simple.
I loved seeing the gruff hard, working Brennan get his HEA. The fact it was with Ava….icing on the cake. I have been patiently for Ava’s story to roll around since we first met her in the first book. Put her together with Brennan and perfection. Add in that these two have a past and I was hooked from page one.
Nick Brennan, former fireman now bar manager lives every day in both physical and emotional pain. Physical from the career ending injury he suffered while fighting a fire and emotional caused by losing his best friend in that same fire. When he saves a little boy from a fire without hesitation, the notoriously guarded Brennan’s life becomes a circus. But in that circus a spitfire appears. One he hasn’t seen in seven years. Ava.
“Do you want to know why I still have this?” He captured the photograph from between Ava’s fingers, placing it face up on the countertop before letting his hand coast over the warm cashmere on her shoulder. “So you wouldn’t forget that night?” “Because, Ava. After seven years, I still couldn’t quite let you go.”
Ava Mancusso was on her way to one story when another falls right in her lap. This is just what the bored reporter needs to get herself out of the dog house with her editor. Sheesh, one mistake years ago and it’s held over her head forever. What she didn’t expect was that the hero would be her summer fling from years ago Brennan or that seeing him would stir memories packed away. Or that he would shut her out like the rest of the reporters.
Seven years may have passed, but the spark is still strong between Brennan and Ava. When Brennan agrees to an interview, things go from hostile to hot as they soon find themselves remembering how good it was between them and that they were so good together. When a little relaxation lets the past flow and they start to share things they never share, Brennan and Ava slowly slide towards the inevitable and start to fall all over again.
“Look, I’m not very good at this, so I’m just going to say it. For seven years, I wondered what we could’ve had. Now that I have the chance to find out, I don’t want to screw it up by not being honest. I can’t make any promises about what will happen down the line, but right now I miss you. I want you to come over, and I want you to stay. Be with me, Ava. Tonight. Right now. Be with me.”
But when the past rears its head in the form of Brennan’s former squad members and harsh words are spoken and he finally lets the truth out of what’s been eating him for years. But instead of driving Ava and Brennan apart it only brings them closer. That is of course till Ava’s job and a story ultimatum comes between them. Can the uber private and still hurting Brennan forgive Ava for being backed into a corner work wise and win back the perfect woman for him or are they done for good this time? No third chance?
The author introduces us to the Rescue Squad heroes who are going to be the focus of her next series and if the little taste we got is anything to go by, well I’m glad I’ve already one clicked the first book and have my finger read for the next.
This is a series that I have absolutely loved and always will. It sits proudly on my keeper shelf and I may sneak back to it every now and then for a re-read when I want a comfort read. I have said I before and I will say it again now, Kimberly Kincaid is one to watch out for. She is going places and series like this prove why she will have a home on many a bookshelf for a long time to come.
Thank you Kimberly Kincaid for this series. While I’m sad to leave Pine Mountain I’m already plotting my journey to Rescue Squad 8. See you there.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley for review.
Cue the sobs as I pack my imaginary bag in preparation of leaving Pine Mountain. I have threatened after every book to move there if it was real and it’s no different this time. Though it’s sad to see a series finish, there is nothing better than see it go out on a high and that’s exactly what has happened with All Wrapped Up. I loved this book, plain and simple.
I loved seeing the gruff hard, working Brennan get his HEA. The fact it was with Ava….icing on the cake. I have been patiently for Ava’s story to roll around since we first met her in the first book. Put her together with Brennan and perfection. Add in that these two have a past and I was hooked from page one.
Nick Brennan, former fireman now bar manager lives every day in both physical and emotional pain. Physical from the career ending injury he suffered while fighting a fire and emotional caused by losing his best friend in that same fire. When he saves a little boy from a fire without hesitation, the notoriously guarded Brennan’s life becomes a circus. But in that circus a spitfire appears. One he hasn’t seen in seven years. Ava.
“Do you want to know why I still have this?” He captured the photograph from between Ava’s fingers, placing it face up on the countertop before letting his hand coast over the warm cashmere on her shoulder. “So you wouldn’t forget that night?” “Because, Ava. After seven years, I still couldn’t quite let you go.”
Ava Mancusso was on her way to one story when another falls right in her lap. This is just what the bored reporter needs to get herself out of the dog house with her editor. Sheesh, one mistake years ago and it’s held over her head forever. What she didn’t expect was that the hero would be her summer fling from years ago Brennan or that seeing him would stir memories packed away. Or that he would shut her out like the rest of the reporters.
Seven years may have passed, but the spark is still strong between Brennan and Ava. When Brennan agrees to an interview, things go from hostile to hot as they soon find themselves remembering how good it was between them and that they were so good together. When a little relaxation lets the past flow and they start to share things they never share, Brennan and Ava slowly slide towards the inevitable and start to fall all over again.
“Look, I’m not very good at this, so I’m just going to say it. For seven years, I wondered what we could’ve had. Now that I have the chance to find out, I don’t want to screw it up by not being honest. I can’t make any promises about what will happen down the line, but right now I miss you. I want you to come over, and I want you to stay. Be with me, Ava. Tonight. Right now. Be with me.”
But when the past rears its head in the form of Brennan’s former squad members and harsh words are spoken and he finally lets the truth out of what’s been eating him for years. But instead of driving Ava and Brennan apart it only brings them closer. That is of course till Ava’s job and a story ultimatum comes between them. Can the uber private and still hurting Brennan forgive Ava for being backed into a corner work wise and win back the perfect woman for him or are they done for good this time? No third chance?
The author introduces us to the Rescue Squad heroes who are going to be the focus of her next series and if the little taste we got is anything to go by, well I’m glad I’ve already one clicked the first book and have my finger read for the next.
This is a series that I have absolutely loved and always will. It sits proudly on my keeper shelf and I may sneak back to it every now and then for a re-read when I want a comfort read. I have said I before and I will say it again now, Kimberly Kincaid is one to watch out for. She is going places and series like this prove why she will have a home on many a bookshelf for a long time to come.
Thank you Kimberly Kincaid for this series. While I’m sad to leave Pine Mountain I’m already plotting my journey to Rescue Squad 8. See you there.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley for review.
September 29, 2015
Nick Brennan has moved away from everything he knows in hopes of trying to escape the loss of his career and best friend. The harsh memories from his past still haunt him from time to time but he has found a way to cope with them and try his best to go on with his life, That is until there is a fire at a local store and his instincts kick in and have him racing into the burning building to find a child trapped inside. After rescuing the child he is berated with reporters wanting to tell his story, and he of course would rather not speak of it at all. But when one particular reporter waltzes through the door he is hesitant about turning her away...
Ava walked out of Nicks life seven years ago, and didn't leave him with so much as a kiss good bye. She wasn't quite ready for things to become as serious as they did, so soon between them, so she did what she thought was right for both of them at the time...flee! She is here to see if she can land a career launching story about the hometown hero, and save her job. Question is, is that all she's after...
I have to say this was my favorite addition to the series, and was the perfect story to end the series. Hearing that this was the last installment in the Pine Mountain series was a sad moment for me, because I have loved meeting all of these wonderful characters created by Ms. Kincaid. However, learning that she will be branching out from this series to revisit the town of Fairview and introduce us to the firefighters of the Fairview Firehouse definitely makes up for it. I look forward to this upcoming series, and getting a up close view of these new characters.
I highly recommend you add the Pine Mountain series to your reading list, each story is well crafted, highly entertaining and filled with some very memorable characters that will leave you with a warm heart and smile on your face!
Ava walked out of Nicks life seven years ago, and didn't leave him with so much as a kiss good bye. She wasn't quite ready for things to become as serious as they did, so soon between them, so she did what she thought was right for both of them at the time...flee! She is here to see if she can land a career launching story about the hometown hero, and save her job. Question is, is that all she's after...
I have to say this was my favorite addition to the series, and was the perfect story to end the series. Hearing that this was the last installment in the Pine Mountain series was a sad moment for me, because I have loved meeting all of these wonderful characters created by Ms. Kincaid. However, learning that she will be branching out from this series to revisit the town of Fairview and introduce us to the firefighters of the Fairview Firehouse definitely makes up for it. I look forward to this upcoming series, and getting a up close view of these new characters.
I highly recommend you add the Pine Mountain series to your reading list, each story is well crafted, highly entertaining and filled with some very memorable characters that will leave you with a warm heart and smile on your face!
September 30, 2015
✦Review: ALL WRAPPED UP: A Pine Mountain Novel by Kimberly Kincaid http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-35Y
Publication Date: September 29, 2015
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated: 5 Stars
REVIEW:
I always enjoy Pine Mountain and I am excited about the new turn it is taking. I didn’t quite warm up to Ava at first but I learned to trust her right along with Nick and that made it all part of the story… in more ways than one. The book revolved around Brennan’s journey to resolve major issues from his past with the help of Ava and his friends. Ava also has some issues she is struggling with but it all comes down to their basic character and how that trait helps them heal not just themselves but each other. A true heartwarming and sexy romance with the ‘happily ever after’ Ms. Kincaid is known for.
*Review copy provided by Kensington in exchange for an honest review.
Publication Date: September 29, 2015
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated: 5 Stars
REVIEW:
I always enjoy Pine Mountain and I am excited about the new turn it is taking. I didn’t quite warm up to Ava at first but I learned to trust her right along with Nick and that made it all part of the story… in more ways than one. The book revolved around Brennan’s journey to resolve major issues from his past with the help of Ava and his friends. Ava also has some issues she is struggling with but it all comes down to their basic character and how that trait helps them heal not just themselves but each other. A true heartwarming and sexy romance with the ‘happily ever after’ Ms. Kincaid is known for.
*Review copy provided by Kensington in exchange for an honest review.
September 12, 2015
In classic Kimberly Kincaid style, with this story she has made me fall completely head over heels in love with Nick Brennan! Throughout the series, we've known that Nick had a past he kept to himself, and now in this book we get to know the real man and the events in his life that have formed him. When a town event throws him into the spotlight as a hero, the last person he expects to show up looking for the story is Ava Mancuso. The only woman he's ever really loved but who simply disappeared on him years ago. He doesn't plan to give a story to anyone, to Ava - absolutely not!! But neither history or time seem to have changed the chemistry between them. Can he keep resisting her or will being around her again cause his heart to come back to life???
You definitely want to find out! I highly recommend this book!
You definitely want to find out! I highly recommend this book!
October 8, 2015
4.5 stars
All Wrapped Up was such a good read.
The storyline was entertaining, the characters very likable and relatable.
I liked both Ava and Nick, their story touched my heart and I enjoyed watching them come together and learn to put past differences behind them to love each other unconditionally.
This was an emotional and heartfelt romance with a well written storyline that will pull at your heartstrings.
I highly recommend this book.
Thank you Kensington Books via NetGalley for the advance copy.
All Wrapped Up was such a good read.
The storyline was entertaining, the characters very likable and relatable.
I liked both Ava and Nick, their story touched my heart and I enjoyed watching them come together and learn to put past differences behind them to love each other unconditionally.
This was an emotional and heartfelt romance with a well written storyline that will pull at your heartstrings.
I highly recommend this book.
Thank you Kensington Books via NetGalley for the advance copy.
October 9, 2023
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, given to me by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A deeply tortured, wounded hero features in “All Wrapped Up”, by Kimberly Kincaid, getting involved with a feisty, driven journalist in a beautiful romantic relationship.
Nick/Brennan is the epitome of the stoic wounded hero: living with constant pain, carrying the weight of grief, guilt and remorse. All wrapped up in a cloak of handsomeness and sexiness.
The author really highlights constantly the permanent pain the hero lives with making his physical and mental tribulations an important dimension of the story.
It’s a very enjoyable and realistic approach to the wounded hero hero, often becoming a celebration of the trope.
I liked the romance between Ñick and Ava, both sweet and sexy (although I could live with fewer sex scenes), and its backstory. I felt their love was beautiful.
I appreciated Ava’s dedication to her career, and the honesty about her feelings and emotions.
I found the elements about the leads’ careers also interesting, as well as the dilemmas and tension between private/public, family and romance/job.
Overall I liked the depiction of Ava’s work, but the secrecy about the fire was a bit incongruent.
The tendency for a hyperbolic style sometimes was a bit frustrating but all in all this is a very pleasurable read.
A deeply tortured, wounded hero features in “All Wrapped Up”, by Kimberly Kincaid, getting involved with a feisty, driven journalist in a beautiful romantic relationship.
Nick/Brennan is the epitome of the stoic wounded hero: living with constant pain, carrying the weight of grief, guilt and remorse. All wrapped up in a cloak of handsomeness and sexiness.
The author really highlights constantly the permanent pain the hero lives with making his physical and mental tribulations an important dimension of the story.
It’s a very enjoyable and realistic approach to the wounded hero hero, often becoming a celebration of the trope.
I liked the romance between Ñick and Ava, both sweet and sexy (although I could live with fewer sex scenes), and its backstory. I felt their love was beautiful.
I appreciated Ava’s dedication to her career, and the honesty about her feelings and emotions.
I found the elements about the leads’ careers also interesting, as well as the dilemmas and tension between private/public, family and romance/job.
Overall I liked the depiction of Ava’s work, but the secrecy about the fire was a bit incongruent.
The tendency for a hyperbolic style sometimes was a bit frustrating but all in all this is a very pleasurable read.
November 2, 2023
Thank you to Netgalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book is a re-release, but it was one I had not had the chance to read before now. All Wrapped Up follows Nick Brennan and Ava Mancuso. The story starts off with a bang as Nick rescues a kid from a burning grocery store. And Ava, a reporter, decides to snuff off her fluff piece and be one of the first to report on the fire and the heroics of none other than her old college fling: Nick Brennan.
While the book was well written, I didn't really connect with the story or either character. The author has a good writing voice but there were also some points where the commentary seemed completely out of left field for me and it just came off as weird and strange, especially in the middle of a story like this.
This book is a re-release, but it was one I had not had the chance to read before now. All Wrapped Up follows Nick Brennan and Ava Mancuso. The story starts off with a bang as Nick rescues a kid from a burning grocery store. And Ava, a reporter, decides to snuff off her fluff piece and be one of the first to report on the fire and the heroics of none other than her old college fling: Nick Brennan.
While the book was well written, I didn't really connect with the story or either character. The author has a good writing voice but there were also some points where the commentary seemed completely out of left field for me and it just came off as weird and strange, especially in the middle of a story like this.
September 27, 2015
In All Wrapped Up by Kimberly Kincaid, two lonely people running from their past reluctantly find heat with each other...but will it last?
Nick has a past that haunts him, one he keeps hidden and doesn't talk about to anyone. He is physically and emotionally scarred. Pine Mountain is where he's escaped to, and the last place he expects to run into Ava...a love from his past, one he's never forgotten. Ava has her own past that haunts her present, her own secrets she holds close. Working as a reporter in Pine Mountain, the thing she expects to find out is that Nick is the hero of the story she's trying to write. A reluctant hero. The reappearance of Ava in Nick's life after 7 years opens up old wounds, but at the same time starts to heal some of them... There is something about Ava that draws him in and makes him feel again. Slowly they rekindle a romance that never really died out. Trust is a fragile thing though...and when it's broken can their relationship survive it?
Ava and Nick really grew on me through out All Wrapped Up. I liked how Kimberly drew out their stories long enough to keep me intrigued, but not too long to feel frustrated. I felt like the backgrounds of Ava and Nick were given at the right times to further the plot. I wasn't too sure about Ava and what she was doing...I felt like she could have been a lot more open with Nick. I did like how Kimberly dealt with this issue though and how it was written, the meaning behind it. She really made me think about underlying meanings and looking deeper than the surface. Nick is such a tortured hero, I didn't know if he could ever move on. Ava was good for him though, even if it took them both a while to figure this out. As the story progressed I really found myself hoping they could find their happily ever after together, but I did also have my doubts. I liked the growth of these two characters. It was slow and steady all through all Wrapped Up, and I never really knew how things would end.
Kimberly introduces some great secondary characters who are on the periphery but add so much depth and feeling to the main plot. All Wrapped Up is part of the Pine Mountain series, a place I enjoyed returning to, but it is a strong stand alone.
I found All Wrapped Up to be so much more than a second chance romance...it was about healing from the past, trusting, moving on, and looking outside of your own perspective to a hopeful future.
I'd recommend All Wrapped Up to any contemporary romance reader.
Nick has a past that haunts him, one he keeps hidden and doesn't talk about to anyone. He is physically and emotionally scarred. Pine Mountain is where he's escaped to, and the last place he expects to run into Ava...a love from his past, one he's never forgotten. Ava has her own past that haunts her present, her own secrets she holds close. Working as a reporter in Pine Mountain, the thing she expects to find out is that Nick is the hero of the story she's trying to write. A reluctant hero. The reappearance of Ava in Nick's life after 7 years opens up old wounds, but at the same time starts to heal some of them... There is something about Ava that draws him in and makes him feel again. Slowly they rekindle a romance that never really died out. Trust is a fragile thing though...and when it's broken can their relationship survive it?
Ava and Nick really grew on me through out All Wrapped Up. I liked how Kimberly drew out their stories long enough to keep me intrigued, but not too long to feel frustrated. I felt like the backgrounds of Ava and Nick were given at the right times to further the plot. I wasn't too sure about Ava and what she was doing...I felt like she could have been a lot more open with Nick. I did like how Kimberly dealt with this issue though and how it was written, the meaning behind it. She really made me think about underlying meanings and looking deeper than the surface. Nick is such a tortured hero, I didn't know if he could ever move on. Ava was good for him though, even if it took them both a while to figure this out. As the story progressed I really found myself hoping they could find their happily ever after together, but I did also have my doubts. I liked the growth of these two characters. It was slow and steady all through all Wrapped Up, and I never really knew how things would end.
Kimberly introduces some great secondary characters who are on the periphery but add so much depth and feeling to the main plot. All Wrapped Up is part of the Pine Mountain series, a place I enjoyed returning to, but it is a strong stand alone.
I found All Wrapped Up to be so much more than a second chance romance...it was about healing from the past, trusting, moving on, and looking outside of your own perspective to a hopeful future.
I'd recommend All Wrapped Up to any contemporary romance reader.
December 30, 2015
Review Copy Provided via Netgalley
It’s always bittersweet when a favorite series comes to an end and often times it feels like you are saying goodbye to family, and that is how the Pine Mountain series has felt to me. Since the very beginning with her entry in the The Sugar Cookie Sweetheart Swap Anthology (along with Donna Kauffman and Kate Angell), I have felt like I was a member of the resort town of Pine Mountain, through their trials and tribulations, finding love and lust with friends, co-workers, enemies and neighbours. Alas, all good things must come to an end and All Wrapped Up did just that, it wrapped the series up in a slightly angsty, but none the less enjoyable romance, that also gave us a sneak peek into Ms. Kincaid’s new series that will be out in the near future (and yes, I have the first book pre-ordered already!).
One of the things I love about Kimberly’s writing is how she takes a minor character from a previous book and gives them their HEA in a later book, case in point, Nick from All Wrapped Up – we had previously met him in Fire Me Up, where he was the surly bar manager in the pub that Teagan (the main character) was running and even then, you knew, that he had a secret of some kind – there was this brooding essence about him…I didn’t put two and two together on who Ava was, however, until I read AWU – she is the sister of Pete Mancuso, who was the hero in the anthology that kicked this series off, so it really was a case of bringing the series around in a full circle and wrapping it up.
I loved the fact that Kimberly was able to meld the romance in such a way that it brought the former lovers element into it, along with a secret that could potentially keep our lovers apart and giving us a glance into the lives of all of favorite pine mountain couples who have gone before. As I reader, I don’t know if I could have asked for a better book to finish up this series (and introduce me to the characters in her new one – although, I will say, one of them is going to have some serious grovelling to do before I’ll forgive him and see that he is indeed hero worthy)…4 stars for All Wrapped Up – I’m sad to see the series end (which I’ve said several times now), but wasn’t let down at all through-out it. While I’m not a huge re-reader, I could easily see these books being added to my comfort read pile in the future.
It’s always bittersweet when a favorite series comes to an end and often times it feels like you are saying goodbye to family, and that is how the Pine Mountain series has felt to me. Since the very beginning with her entry in the The Sugar Cookie Sweetheart Swap Anthology (along with Donna Kauffman and Kate Angell), I have felt like I was a member of the resort town of Pine Mountain, through their trials and tribulations, finding love and lust with friends, co-workers, enemies and neighbours. Alas, all good things must come to an end and All Wrapped Up did just that, it wrapped the series up in a slightly angsty, but none the less enjoyable romance, that also gave us a sneak peek into Ms. Kincaid’s new series that will be out in the near future (and yes, I have the first book pre-ordered already!).
One of the things I love about Kimberly’s writing is how she takes a minor character from a previous book and gives them their HEA in a later book, case in point, Nick from All Wrapped Up – we had previously met him in Fire Me Up, where he was the surly bar manager in the pub that Teagan (the main character) was running and even then, you knew, that he had a secret of some kind – there was this brooding essence about him…I didn’t put two and two together on who Ava was, however, until I read AWU – she is the sister of Pete Mancuso, who was the hero in the anthology that kicked this series off, so it really was a case of bringing the series around in a full circle and wrapping it up.
I loved the fact that Kimberly was able to meld the romance in such a way that it brought the former lovers element into it, along with a secret that could potentially keep our lovers apart and giving us a glance into the lives of all of favorite pine mountain couples who have gone before. As I reader, I don’t know if I could have asked for a better book to finish up this series (and introduce me to the characters in her new one – although, I will say, one of them is going to have some serious grovelling to do before I’ll forgive him and see that he is indeed hero worthy)…4 stars for All Wrapped Up – I’m sad to see the series end (which I’ve said several times now), but wasn’t let down at all through-out it. While I’m not a huge re-reader, I could easily see these books being added to my comfort read pile in the future.
September 30, 2015
I cannot tell you how bitter sweet it is to write this review for All Wrapped Up (Pine Mountain #5) by Kimberly Kincaid. I have loved this series since book one, loved each and every character, have counted down the days until Brennan's book was releases, and was crying by the end of it all. As with each of the books in this series they can be read as a stand alone no worries about being lost. This is the final book in the Pine Mountain Series. This is Nick and Ava's book.
Nick Brennan is the manager at the Bar and Grill in Pine Mountain. Running away from his past, hiding secrets and trying to make a fresh start for himself. When a fire at the grocery store and a heroic rescue of a little boy push Nicks past to the present, the demons of his past might just catch up with him. This includes the one woman that ran from him 7 years earlier without a word, the woman that he loved, the woman he lost, the woman that he still can't forget, Ava Mancuso.
Ava ran from Nick 7 years ago so that he would not find out about her abusive parents and her past. Thinking that she was unworthy of his love, knowing that she loved him with all her heart, she broke her heart in order to save Nick. Ava is now a reporter, trying to make her way and prove her worth. When she unexpectedly finds herself in the middle of the grocery store fire, she is able to get an exclusive with the man that has held her heart for 7 years. Knowing that there is more to Nicks story, Ava will dig to uncover the past.
But when Nicks past comes back full circle and the truth is known, it will take everything that Ava has in her to prove to Nick that he is worthy, that his is strong, that his past was not his fault.
I loved the story of Nick and Ava. Nick was so supportive when he found out about Ava's parents. Deciding to give it another go, Ava gave Nick strength and support when he needed it most. She would do anything for Nick, including destroy her own career dreams to protect the man she loved. When Nick came to Ava's defense, it was sweet and sexy and so down right beautiful. I am truly sad to see this series come to an end, but knowing that Nick and Ava's story is the beginning of a new series from Kimberly Kincaid has me on the edge of my seat. I would highly recommend this series to anyone that loves a second chance love story, who loves romance set in a small, sleepy mountain town.
Nick Brennan is the manager at the Bar and Grill in Pine Mountain. Running away from his past, hiding secrets and trying to make a fresh start for himself. When a fire at the grocery store and a heroic rescue of a little boy push Nicks past to the present, the demons of his past might just catch up with him. This includes the one woman that ran from him 7 years earlier without a word, the woman that he loved, the woman he lost, the woman that he still can't forget, Ava Mancuso.
Ava ran from Nick 7 years ago so that he would not find out about her abusive parents and her past. Thinking that she was unworthy of his love, knowing that she loved him with all her heart, she broke her heart in order to save Nick. Ava is now a reporter, trying to make her way and prove her worth. When she unexpectedly finds herself in the middle of the grocery store fire, she is able to get an exclusive with the man that has held her heart for 7 years. Knowing that there is more to Nicks story, Ava will dig to uncover the past.
But when Nicks past comes back full circle and the truth is known, it will take everything that Ava has in her to prove to Nick that he is worthy, that his is strong, that his past was not his fault.
I loved the story of Nick and Ava. Nick was so supportive when he found out about Ava's parents. Deciding to give it another go, Ava gave Nick strength and support when he needed it most. She would do anything for Nick, including destroy her own career dreams to protect the man she loved. When Nick came to Ava's defense, it was sweet and sexy and so down right beautiful. I am truly sad to see this series come to an end, but knowing that Nick and Ava's story is the beginning of a new series from Kimberly Kincaid has me on the edge of my seat. I would highly recommend this series to anyone that loves a second chance love story, who loves romance set in a small, sleepy mountain town.
August 5, 2015
This review is quite bittersweet for me to write as I've loved this series since the first book was published and have completely fallen for Pine Mountain and the people who live and love there and All Wrapped Up is precisely that, the wrapping up of a much loved series but also the start of what will hopefully be a new one I'll love just as much.
This story centres around the vaguely mysterious Nick Brennan who we met in Fire Me Up and is the manager of the local bar. He also has a past that he refuses to talk about and a more than passing knowledge of fire safety regulations. His love interest is Ava Mancuso, a reporter from a local paper and a woman from his past. Every time I pick up one of Kincaid's novels she astounds me with the depth and sensitivity that she gives to each story. Here we learn that Nick was a former firefighter who career came to an abrupt end and he is now mired in grief and regret. Ava also has a troubled past which led to her running from her feelings for Nick when they were involved seven years earlier. They meet again after Nick rescues a young boy from a fire and Ava comes looking for a story. Events conspire to force both of them to confront their pasts and decide whether to play it safe alone or gamble on a future together.
It was a lovely story, very well written and I absolutely loved Nick and Ava's dialogue. He's very charming when he wants to be and she is very witty. The true heart of the story though was in Nick's past. This shone a spotlight on the bravery of those men and women who risk their lives every day and shows the sometimes horrific consequences of that bravery. It examines survivors guilt, physical injury, addiction and a gamut of other issues that I'd honestly never really given much thought to before. I was desperately hoping that they could find their HEA, but I won't spoil it by giving the game away ;)
All in all it was a lovely send off, and it also introduced us to the firefighters of Station 8 who will be the main characters of Kincaid's new series, Rescue Squad, the first of which, Reckless is due out next February. I certainly can't wait!
* ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher in return for an honest review *
This story centres around the vaguely mysterious Nick Brennan who we met in Fire Me Up and is the manager of the local bar. He also has a past that he refuses to talk about and a more than passing knowledge of fire safety regulations. His love interest is Ava Mancuso, a reporter from a local paper and a woman from his past. Every time I pick up one of Kincaid's novels she astounds me with the depth and sensitivity that she gives to each story. Here we learn that Nick was a former firefighter who career came to an abrupt end and he is now mired in grief and regret. Ava also has a troubled past which led to her running from her feelings for Nick when they were involved seven years earlier. They meet again after Nick rescues a young boy from a fire and Ava comes looking for a story. Events conspire to force both of them to confront their pasts and decide whether to play it safe alone or gamble on a future together.
It was a lovely story, very well written and I absolutely loved Nick and Ava's dialogue. He's very charming when he wants to be and she is very witty. The true heart of the story though was in Nick's past. This shone a spotlight on the bravery of those men and women who risk their lives every day and shows the sometimes horrific consequences of that bravery. It examines survivors guilt, physical injury, addiction and a gamut of other issues that I'd honestly never really given much thought to before. I was desperately hoping that they could find their HEA, but I won't spoil it by giving the game away ;)
All in all it was a lovely send off, and it also introduced us to the firefighters of Station 8 who will be the main characters of Kincaid's new series, Rescue Squad, the first of which, Reckless is due out next February. I certainly can't wait!
* ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher in return for an honest review *
August 23, 2015
All Wrapped Up by Kimberly Kincaid is the final book in her Pine Mountain series. For me reading this book was bittersweet. I loved the book but I hated knowing that I wouldn't be going back to Pine Mountain unless I re-read the entire series.
Nick Brennan and Ava Mancuso are so well developed characters that I felt like I knew them by the end of the book. I've said in previous reviews that I would love to move to Pine Mountain because I have loved each one of the characters in this series. I think I would feel right at home.
Ava is so sweet and determined to be the best reporter that she can be. She doesn't sensationalize her stories but she does make them the best stories that they can be no matter what the subject matter of the story that's been assigned to her. Nick Brennan is strong, silent about his past and in physical pain most of the time. He's carrying a lot of guilt around from his past but won't let anyone, family or friends, help him. He's very, very stubborn and all about responsibility. It takes Ava and Adrian to finally make him realize that there is always more to a story.
The plot starts off hot (no pun intended) and moves quickly as Nick and Ava meet again and get this second chance at love. Together they are better than they might be apart. To watch them and this relationship grow into something real and deep was a perfect ending for the Pine Mountain series. It was good to see Adrian, Tegan and Jesse once again. I loved meeting Ava's brother, Pete. He provided a lot of insight into Ava throughout the story.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Nick Brennan and Ava Mancuso are so well developed characters that I felt like I knew them by the end of the book. I've said in previous reviews that I would love to move to Pine Mountain because I have loved each one of the characters in this series. I think I would feel right at home.
Ava is so sweet and determined to be the best reporter that she can be. She doesn't sensationalize her stories but she does make them the best stories that they can be no matter what the subject matter of the story that's been assigned to her. Nick Brennan is strong, silent about his past and in physical pain most of the time. He's carrying a lot of guilt around from his past but won't let anyone, family or friends, help him. He's very, very stubborn and all about responsibility. It takes Ava and Adrian to finally make him realize that there is always more to a story.
The plot starts off hot (no pun intended) and moves quickly as Nick and Ava meet again and get this second chance at love. Together they are better than they might be apart. To watch them and this relationship grow into something real and deep was a perfect ending for the Pine Mountain series. It was good to see Adrian, Tegan and Jesse once again. I loved meeting Ava's brother, Pete. He provided a lot of insight into Ava throughout the story.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 11, 2015
Love Pine Mountain and you will too...Sweet, Touching...
I was given an ARC for an honest review...
When Nick Brennnan sees Ava Mancuso after 7 years at the bar he now manages its a shock to his system to say the least..
So much he is feeling at that moment...The minute he finds out why she really is there nothing shocks him more...he puts the brakes on having anything to do with her, because he gets the reason for why she really is there..what she did to him it was not to be forgotten.
He had enough of everything going on right now in Pine Mountain...all the hype. He's was sick of it, because he only did what was necessary.
Ava is one women who ran away from a past which wasn't pretty, running away from the one man who meant so much...she couldn't tell him about her..so she ran.
A summer fling was all it could ever be..now she walked in after all the hype she heard about Nick Brennan.. A big story "The Town Hero" she needed to make Nick tell her everything...it wouldn't be easy, but she wasn't going to try. If she could write this, just maybe her boss will see her as a good reporter.
As Ava repeatedly went to the Double Shot where Nick mangaged he finally bent..Brennan decided to give her some of the story., but he was fighting demons of his past..thing was Ava broke down a wall within him.
So as they spend time together things happened, but what will transpire between them? Will Ava put her whole heart out there?
But when her job is on the line she has a tough decision to make. Which way will she go? Find out and buy the book...
I was given an ARC for an honest review...
When Nick Brennnan sees Ava Mancuso after 7 years at the bar he now manages its a shock to his system to say the least..
So much he is feeling at that moment...The minute he finds out why she really is there nothing shocks him more...he puts the brakes on having anything to do with her, because he gets the reason for why she really is there..what she did to him it was not to be forgotten.
He had enough of everything going on right now in Pine Mountain...all the hype. He's was sick of it, because he only did what was necessary.
Ava is one women who ran away from a past which wasn't pretty, running away from the one man who meant so much...she couldn't tell him about her..so she ran.
A summer fling was all it could ever be..now she walked in after all the hype she heard about Nick Brennan.. A big story "The Town Hero" she needed to make Nick tell her everything...it wouldn't be easy, but she wasn't going to try. If she could write this, just maybe her boss will see her as a good reporter.
As Ava repeatedly went to the Double Shot where Nick mangaged he finally bent..Brennan decided to give her some of the story., but he was fighting demons of his past..thing was Ava broke down a wall within him.
So as they spend time together things happened, but what will transpire between them? Will Ava put her whole heart out there?
But when her job is on the line she has a tough decision to make. Which way will she go? Find out and buy the book...
August 12, 2015
It's not long until Christmas and reporter Ava Mancuso needs a big story to save her job at the local paper. She never dreamed she'd stumble across such an exciting one -- hunky civilian makes daring rescue of a small boy from a burning building! When she finally tracks down said hunk, she can hardly believe it's Nick Brennan, her long ago and far away summer fling. Since she left him seven years ago without any explanation, she's pretty sure he's not going to be thrilled to see her, but she tracks him down at a local bar that he manages to beg for an exclusive story.
Nick, or Brennan as he now wants to be called, had acted on pure instincts from his past firefighting experience to save the boy, a past that holds a lot of bad memories for him and a past that he has no desire to share with anyone in his new job and town. And even though he never understood why Ava left and tried to put that relationship behind him, he still carries a battered picture of her in his wallet. On a whim, he invites her to go with him to his sister's Christmas wedding in his hometown.
So should he tell Ava about his past and let her write his story? And should Ava share her secrets with Nick and try to explain why she left him so long ago?
Poignant romance about the love that almost got away. Even though this is the fifth and last in the Pine Mountain series, it works well as a stand alone book.
This was an ARC I received from NetGalley.
Nick, or Brennan as he now wants to be called, had acted on pure instincts from his past firefighting experience to save the boy, a past that holds a lot of bad memories for him and a past that he has no desire to share with anyone in his new job and town. And even though he never understood why Ava left and tried to put that relationship behind him, he still carries a battered picture of her in his wallet. On a whim, he invites her to go with him to his sister's Christmas wedding in his hometown.
So should he tell Ava about his past and let her write his story? And should Ava share her secrets with Nick and try to explain why she left him so long ago?
Poignant romance about the love that almost got away. Even though this is the fifth and last in the Pine Mountain series, it works well as a stand alone book.
This was an ARC I received from NetGalley.
September 25, 2015
2.5 - 3 stars
While I enjoyed the story, there are a couple of things that prevented me from rating this higher than a 2.5 stars. Mainly the problem is I can't really connect to the characters. Both Ava and Brennan have pretty solid chemistry between them, and I love how they support each other through their issues, but I'm not really jumping up and down the couch in love with them as a couple.
Besides that, Ava kind of annoyed me with the way she kept omitting little things from Brennan, and it frustrated me that she kept taking shit from her superior at work instead of, I don't know, reporting him or something.
Also, miscommunication between the H/h is my least favourite thing to read in novels ever. "Why won't you just talk with each other?" I asked for the umpteenth time, fists raised in the air.
Other than that, I like how the story flowed. I've always loved stories revolving people who live in a small town like Jill Shalvis' Lucky Harbor series and Kristan Higgins' Blue Heron, which is what moved me to request this off NG in the first place.
This is my second book by Kimberly Kincaid (I thought it was my first, but I realized a little while later after I finished this book that I've actually read a novella in this series), and I'm definitely looking forward to checking out the other books. Maybe Teagan's book next?
E-ARC is received thanks to Kensington Books and Netgalley.
While I enjoyed the story, there are a couple of things that prevented me from rating this higher than a 2.5 stars. Mainly the problem is I can't really connect to the characters. Both Ava and Brennan have pretty solid chemistry between them, and I love how they support each other through their issues, but I'm not really jumping up and down the couch in love with them as a couple.
Besides that, Ava kind of annoyed me with the way she kept omitting little things from Brennan, and it frustrated me that she kept taking shit from her superior at work instead of, I don't know, reporting him or something.
Also, miscommunication between the H/h is my least favourite thing to read in novels ever. "Why won't you just talk with each other?" I asked for the umpteenth time, fists raised in the air.
Other than that, I like how the story flowed. I've always loved stories revolving people who live in a small town like Jill Shalvis' Lucky Harbor series and Kristan Higgins' Blue Heron, which is what moved me to request this off NG in the first place.
This is my second book by Kimberly Kincaid (I thought it was my first, but I realized a little while later after I finished this book that I've actually read a novella in this series), and I'm definitely looking forward to checking out the other books. Maybe Teagan's book next?
E-ARC is received thanks to Kensington Books and Netgalley.
August 23, 2015
Review will be posted at www.books-n-kisses.com .
NUMBER OF HEARTS: 3 3/4
As with all Ms. Kincaid’s stories we get a sweet second chance at life romance. In All Wrapped Up we finally get to learn more about the secretive Brennan. Are local bartender has a lot of demons in his past and they are all about to come roaring back into his life. First in the form of his old flame Ava, then in the form of reality and what lead him to Pine Mountain to begin with.
This was a sweet quick read. Nick “aka” Brennan is the hero that you want to slap silly and then hug the tar out of. He is both heroic and a pain in the buttock all at the same time. But it was so good to read his story and learn more about him. And his lady love Ava. She is such a great match for him. She is strong, determined and always respects the story that is in front of her.
While it looks like this may be the end of the Pine Mountain series, never fear there is a new series on the horizon and you will get to meet a few of the guys in this story. I do hope that Ms. Kincaid will revisit Pine Mountain from time to time. I want to know what is happening with the locals. If you have not picked up the Pine Mountain series now is a good time to do so!!!
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley & Kensington Books in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
NUMBER OF HEARTS: 3 3/4
As with all Ms. Kincaid’s stories we get a sweet second chance at life romance. In All Wrapped Up we finally get to learn more about the secretive Brennan. Are local bartender has a lot of demons in his past and they are all about to come roaring back into his life. First in the form of his old flame Ava, then in the form of reality and what lead him to Pine Mountain to begin with.
This was a sweet quick read. Nick “aka” Brennan is the hero that you want to slap silly and then hug the tar out of. He is both heroic and a pain in the buttock all at the same time. But it was so good to read his story and learn more about him. And his lady love Ava. She is such a great match for him. She is strong, determined and always respects the story that is in front of her.
While it looks like this may be the end of the Pine Mountain series, never fear there is a new series on the horizon and you will get to meet a few of the guys in this story. I do hope that Ms. Kincaid will revisit Pine Mountain from time to time. I want to know what is happening with the locals. If you have not picked up the Pine Mountain series now is a good time to do so!!!
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley & Kensington Books in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
October 13, 2023
I received an ARC of All Wrapped Up as a member of Kimberly Kincaid's Taste Tester group.....
Honestly, I'm kind of stingy with 5 star reviews, a book really has to grab me and keep me from start to finish. Nick and Ava really did that. The story grabbed me from the first page and many nights I didn't want to put it down - but waged a war with reading and sleeping; then I couldn't wait to get home from work to finish a few more chapters before family life took over. I also kind of hated when the book did end...... So, I went back and re-read it to make sure I didn't miss anything on those nights when I was trying to complete a chapter before sleep claimed me.
Nick Brennan is a very deep character and Kimberly did a great job developing the hero and his back story. Lots of romance writers skim over the details of the hero and focus on the heroine, but not this book. Both characters are fully developed and I definitely like the way Kimberly weaved previous Pine Mountain characters into the story along the way. I can't wait to read about Alex and Cole, from Nick's previous firehouse, in the future.
I HIGHLY recommend this romance.
Honestly, I'm kind of stingy with 5 star reviews, a book really has to grab me and keep me from start to finish. Nick and Ava really did that. The story grabbed me from the first page and many nights I didn't want to put it down - but waged a war with reading and sleeping; then I couldn't wait to get home from work to finish a few more chapters before family life took over. I also kind of hated when the book did end...... So, I went back and re-read it to make sure I didn't miss anything on those nights when I was trying to complete a chapter before sleep claimed me.
Nick Brennan is a very deep character and Kimberly did a great job developing the hero and his back story. Lots of romance writers skim over the details of the hero and focus on the heroine, but not this book. Both characters are fully developed and I definitely like the way Kimberly weaved previous Pine Mountain characters into the story along the way. I can't wait to read about Alex and Cole, from Nick's previous firehouse, in the future.
I HIGHLY recommend this romance.
September 1, 2015
So much love for this book! I've loved all of Kincaid's Pine Mountain titles so far, but this one by far the most. Troubled, wounded hero meets (again) troubled, similarly wounded heroine. Lots of healing of all sorts takes place, including ...sexual healing, of course--it is a romance, after all. But it also handles emotional and physical pain and recovery, as well as drug addiction and childhood abuse--and for that matter, though it may not have been an intentional parallel, there's no denying that a difficult work environment can be an abusive relationship as well.
The trials that they faced felt very authentic, as did their ways of dealing with them. Yes, the main conflict could have been avoided if they'd sat down and talked about it, but sometimes that just doesn't happen. They did do an excellent job communicating otherwise, so I don't count it against the story overall.
All in all, I totally loved it and would recommend it all over the place. While it involves couples from previous books, it stands alone very nicely--the backstory of the couples is nice, but not necessary to follow the story, and the plot is self contained within the pages of this book.
The trials that they faced felt very authentic, as did their ways of dealing with them. Yes, the main conflict could have been avoided if they'd sat down and talked about it, but sometimes that just doesn't happen. They did do an excellent job communicating otherwise, so I don't count it against the story overall.
All in all, I totally loved it and would recommend it all over the place. While it involves couples from previous books, it stands alone very nicely--the backstory of the couples is nice, but not necessary to follow the story, and the plot is self contained within the pages of this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 16, 2015
Review featured at www.books-n-kisses.com
This is the 5th and last in the series. Pine Mountain has been a great place to visit and I am sad to see the series end but I am hoping that the end leads to the next series (hint hint).
Now on to the review of this particular book. I enjoyed it. I thought the characters were interesting and they kept me wanting to know more about them and to watch their story unfold. The story was a bit obvious. It has been done a time or two and left no surprise as to what would happen in the end. But it was still an ending I wanted to get to and enjoy. Some parts of the book made me roll my eyes. I mean if your boss is being a jerk to you over everything that happens wouldn’t you go to HR? But yet Ava just takes it and it got on my nerves some. Nick was sweet and I felt for him regarding what he has been through but he hides behind his past.
I know it sounds like I didn’t enjoy it but I really did like this story. While set in winter with a Christmas wedding (sort of) it has little about the holiday but it really is a sit by a fire and enjoy story.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
This is the 5th and last in the series. Pine Mountain has been a great place to visit and I am sad to see the series end but I am hoping that the end leads to the next series (hint hint).
Now on to the review of this particular book. I enjoyed it. I thought the characters were interesting and they kept me wanting to know more about them and to watch their story unfold. The story was a bit obvious. It has been done a time or two and left no surprise as to what would happen in the end. But it was still an ending I wanted to get to and enjoy. Some parts of the book made me roll my eyes. I mean if your boss is being a jerk to you over everything that happens wouldn’t you go to HR? But yet Ava just takes it and it got on my nerves some. Nick was sweet and I felt for him regarding what he has been through but he hides behind his past.
I know it sounds like I didn’t enjoy it but I really did like this story. While set in winter with a Christmas wedding (sort of) it has little about the holiday but it really is a sit by a fire and enjoy story.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
October 1, 2015
I am so sorry to see this finale to the beloved characters of Pine Mountain. But what better way to wrap up the series than with Nick Brennan and Ava Mancuso. Ava's brother Pete started my love of Kimberly Kincaid with his appearance in the Sugar Cookie Sweetheart Swap, which gave us a brief introduction to the wonderful location of Pine Mountain. I was so happy to see his reappearance in this book, along with his wonderful wife Lily. Ava and Nick shared a romantic young love one summer seven years ago, until she was forced to flee. Imagine how surprised Ava is one day when her and a friend decide to chase a story, and fire, and discover Nick (now known just as Brennan) as the unlikely hero. I've spent quite a bit of time around real firemen and Ms. Kincaid is spot on with so many of the details. I was very curious as to how these two would find their way back together, and the story did not disappoint. I would highly recommend this book to anyone.
I was gifted an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I was gifted an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 5, 2015
Kimberly Kincaid does it again! All Wrapped Up is another must read from this author.
Nick saves a little boy from a fire and the town makes him out to be a hero. Nick wants nothing to do with that title. He’s hiding something and doesn’t want to call any more attention to himself. Ava is a news reporter who needs to dig up a story and Hero Nick, just might be her chance. Only…these two have a history together, and judging by their attraction to one another, this is one history that needs to be repeated. Both Ava and Nick have secrets, but will they be able to move on and find love with each other before the holiday is over?
All Wrapped Up was a great read and having the story revolve around the Christmas holiday is a perk. The characters were intriguing, the story itself was well-written, and the sexual attention will keep readers glued to the pages.
I’m sad to see this series end, but I know this author will have more stories for me to fall in love with!
Nick saves a little boy from a fire and the town makes him out to be a hero. Nick wants nothing to do with that title. He’s hiding something and doesn’t want to call any more attention to himself. Ava is a news reporter who needs to dig up a story and Hero Nick, just might be her chance. Only…these two have a history together, and judging by their attraction to one another, this is one history that needs to be repeated. Both Ava and Nick have secrets, but will they be able to move on and find love with each other before the holiday is over?
All Wrapped Up was a great read and having the story revolve around the Christmas holiday is a perk. The characters were intriguing, the story itself was well-written, and the sexual attention will keep readers glued to the pages.
I’m sad to see this series end, but I know this author will have more stories for me to fall in love with!
October 22, 2015
"All Wrapped Up" by Kimberly Kincaid is book 5 in the Pine Mountain series. The book is a read alone, or can be read as part of the series. The whole series is excellent so I recommend reading them all.
In this story we have Nick Brennan aka "Brennan" and Ava Mancuso. They dated briefly in the past and she left him without saying goodbye. Brennan is now Manager of the Double shot bar, and Ava is a local newspaper reporter. They come in contact when she comes across, quite by accident, a scene of a fire at the local grocery. Brennan runs in because there is a little boy in still in the burning building. He runs out and Ava recognizes him...she also realizes that the way he hold the little boy is similar to a firefighters hold. It is here where their story begins again. Want to find out what happens? You've got to read it. Not a quick read, you'll need to pay attention to what is going on all around these two characters, but great read.
In this story we have Nick Brennan aka "Brennan" and Ava Mancuso. They dated briefly in the past and she left him without saying goodbye. Brennan is now Manager of the Double shot bar, and Ava is a local newspaper reporter. They come in contact when she comes across, quite by accident, a scene of a fire at the local grocery. Brennan runs in because there is a little boy in still in the burning building. He runs out and Ava recognizes him...she also realizes that the way he hold the little boy is similar to a firefighters hold. It is here where their story begins again. Want to find out what happens? You've got to read it. Not a quick read, you'll need to pay attention to what is going on all around these two characters, but great read.
October 19, 2023
One event changed the course of Nick’s life and he is still dealing with the physical and emotional aftermath. An act of heroism has not only thrust him in the spotlight but it also brings the woman he has never forgotten back into his life where he finds himself trying to protect both his secrets and his heart.
Ava has a difficult past and she knows that she owes Nick an explanation for the way their relationship ended. Her career depends on her writing a story about Nick but exposing his past could also destroy any possibility of them having a future together as well.
When Nick and Ava reunite it is as if the seven years they have been apart didn’t happen. This is a heartwarming story about love, forgiveness and second chances as Nick and Ava must realize what truly matters.
Ava has a difficult past and she knows that she owes Nick an explanation for the way their relationship ended. Her career depends on her writing a story about Nick but exposing his past could also destroy any possibility of them having a future together as well.
When Nick and Ava reunite it is as if the seven years they have been apart didn’t happen. This is a heartwarming story about love, forgiveness and second chances as Nick and Ava must realize what truly matters.
December 10, 2015
I won an All Wrapped Up ARC prior to the release date.
In All Wrapped Up the finale of the Pine Mountain Novels, Kimberly Kincaid capture's us in a white flame of passion that burns hot and steady for Nick Brennan and Ava Mancuso. Reunited by fate, their pasts and present hold them together, but both converging could tear them apart.
Kimberly Kincaid writes a compelling story of passion that is layered in a complex underbelly of pain, both physical and mental caused by Nick's past and Ava's present. All Wrapped Up left me laughing, crying and completely absorbed until the last word. I've enjoyed all the Pine Mountain books and this is no exception. Kimberly Kincaid's work is not to be missed.
In All Wrapped Up the finale of the Pine Mountain Novels, Kimberly Kincaid capture's us in a white flame of passion that burns hot and steady for Nick Brennan and Ava Mancuso. Reunited by fate, their pasts and present hold them together, but both converging could tear them apart.
Kimberly Kincaid writes a compelling story of passion that is layered in a complex underbelly of pain, both physical and mental caused by Nick's past and Ava's present. All Wrapped Up left me laughing, crying and completely absorbed until the last word. I've enjoyed all the Pine Mountain books and this is no exception. Kimberly Kincaid's work is not to be missed.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews