Cloverleaf was Mackenzie Webster's second chance. It was the place where she dreamed of starting over and creating a new life for her and her children. She had a carefully thought-out plan for what this new life would look like, and nowhere in it was their room for a relationship. But the one thing Kenzie never counted on was meeting Brett Halstead. Brett was all about fun and friends. "Long term" wasn't a phrase that fit his lifestyle. That was, until Kenzie walked into town and turned his laid-back world on its head. Now he wants serious. He wants long-term. And he wants it with Kenzie and her kids. But her past refuses to go away, threatening to tear the couple apart. Praying that the damage hasn't already been done, Brett decides to take on the task of breaking through Kenzie's walls to show her that love doesn't always hurt. She's a challenge he's determined to win, because a life with Kenzie is worth the wait. And he'll do whatever it takes to prove that to her.
Born and raised around Houston, Jessica is a self proclaimed caffeine addict, connoisseur of inexpensive wine, and the worst driver in the state of Texas. In addition to being all of these things, she’s first and foremost a wife and mom. Growing up, she shared her mom and grandmother’s love of reading. But where they leaned toward murder mysteries, Jessica was obsessed with all things romance. When she’s not nose deep in her next manuscript, you can usually find her with her kindle in hand.
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I've liked Brett since the first book where he was protective of Emmy when Luke left her. This is now his story, and he's fallen for Kenzie who is new in town and on the run from an abusive ex-boyfriend who is also the baby daddy of her four year old twins.
I didn't give this five stars because the book was a bit on the boring side with not a lot of drama like the previous books. I also didn't care for Brett's nickname of Kenzie. He calls her beauty. Every time he says it I cringe...yuck! I know that in this series the guys ask called the girls, but beauty? Hard pass.
The good thing about not having read the previous books in this series is that I don't know if Brett was a manwhore or an asshole before he was with Kenzie, the bad is that I missed the initial meeting and the build up.....was he celibate since meeting her? Stuff like that but I pretty much got the gist of it
So Brett has been thinking how to get Kenzie's attention while him and his crew complete additions to the salon she works at. He made some hurtful (is it me or does 90% of this author's books have this??) Comments about her which she overheard but they agree to be friends. One night out with friends Brett goes to drive her home and they have sex but while Brett thinks this is the start of something between them Kenzie pushes him away. He acts like a major asshole but they eventually agree to be friends until Kenzie's apartment building has a break in and Brett moves her and her kids into his home.
Kenzie has left her abusive fiance and finally made a good life for herself, she's been in Cloverleaf for almost a year and life's good. While she's attracted to Brett she's afraid to try a relationship again.......until his persistence shows her he's completely different to her ex. When her past rears it's ugly head Kenzie's first instinct is to run until the man she loves and the friend's she's made encourage her to fight for her new life.
********** Ok what I liked 1) Brett's devotion to Kenzie... I don't know his sexual history but all he wanted, all he saw was Kenzie and her kids 2) Brett's relationship with the kids 3) Kenzie both as a person and a mother who genuinely loved her kids and would do anything for them 4)The kids 5)The secondary characters who all evidentally had their own books previously 6) No OM/OW drama or reflections by the H on his sexual past 8) The epilogue
What I didn't like 1) Flashbacks to Kenzie's abuse at the hands of her ex-husband I'm sorry but seeing how bad it had gotten over the years only led to me asking why she'd stayed for so long. It took him turning on the kids to propel her to leave
2) The relationship moved on speed - maybe If the past could've stayed as a prologue rather than different chapters detailing the abuse then more time could've been spent on develop that relationship
3) The ex didn't get his just desserts - he signed away his rights and was threatened with their evidence of his wrongdoing but I needed to see him face some jail time
All in all this was a bit corny but I liked it well enough
What I liked: 1) The dual povs. 2) The sometimes humorous banter and dialogue. 3) How sweet Brett was, however unrealistic. 4) How much Mackenzie loved her kids. I think the fact that she was a mother set the tone for a much more mature story. It wasn't more mature than the other books in this series by that much, but it was definitely less silly. 5) The funny kid antics. 6) No ow/om drama. 7) The epilogue where we find out what happened to all the different couples.
What I didn't like: 1) Brett was only physically attracted to Kenzie in the beginning but he was waxing poetic about how much he wanted her in a deep way. That was silly. How can you want someone in a deep way if you don't even know them? This is so typical of this series. At least the first couple, Emmy and Luke, were childhood friends, as were Savannah and Jeremy (I didn't read their story, though), and Lizzy and Trevor. Brett didn't even know Kenzie. 2) I'm not really a fan of the whole flashback thing. I'll admit that I skimmed those sections. 3) Brett fell in love with Kenzie too fast. It was a bit unrealistic. 4) Brett needed more character development. 5) I don't think that Lance really got what he deserved. What's to stop him from abusing someone else? 6) This book needed another edit.
After 10 years with an abusive ass, Kenzie Webster moves to Cloverleaf with her twins, this move is to escape her poisonous ‘fiancé’ but also a chance to have the life she’s always wanted for her kids, and one where she can live and have friends. In this new life Kenzie has no room for any sort of romantic entanglement – fearful of making the same mistakes as before and being a jinx when it comes to men. What she didn’t plan on or expect was Brett Halstead.
Brett, argh had so much potential to be a fabulous character, he just needed to be teased out more, more character development was needed, and his interest in Kenzie needed layers. Nonetheless, Brett I liked, unlike other so-called heroes of some books I’ve read his desires, do not obscure his concern for Kenzie, he puts her needs first.
The kids in this were cute and I enjoyed the secondary characters. However, Kenzie’s ex, Lance, needed to get his just desserts and it really annoyed me that he didn’t get the punishment he so deserved.
I also think the long-term consequences/legacy of living with domestic abuse when it came to Kenzie weren’t really touched on, when it came to her reactions/behaviour, had they been it could have added a rich and emotional layer to the story.
I enjoyed this enough that I will be giving the other books in the series a go. Oh I should add this book does need some editing, it didn't drive me crazy but where some errors exist you'll notice.
This was a perfect way to end this series. I will start off by saying that every book in this series gave me something different. From angst, to second chance to swoony and sweet romance and I loved every single book in this series. What I will say is that what all these have in comment is the perfect amount of comedy, there wasn't one book where I didn't have giggling fits.
Worth The Wait I would best describe as a swoony and sweet romance. Brett and Kenzie's story was so easy for me to get into. From the get go I was invested in what would happen between these two.
The attraction is definitely there but Kenzie's past is terrible and I don't blame her one bit for not wanting to get involved in a relationship with anyone. At the same time I definitely wanted Kenzie to find that HEA and find someone who would treat her with respect and love.
Enter Brett, I mean you couldn't have picked a better knight in shining armor. Sure he had a few missteps in his pursuit of Kenzie. You know the good ole shove foot in mouth syndrome that men sometimes tend to have. But he was persistent and oh my heart !!!!! How he was with her children especially. OH that did things to my insides let me tell you. A pile of mush over here.
Yes this was a fantastic read. You will swoon, you might cry and your heart will melt into oblivion with their story.
This is one series that I will probably reread. It's absolutely fantastic.
After Brett's callous remark in Pushing the Boundaries I was curious how he was going to bounce back from that one. But he did, oh boy, did he ever. He's an amazing man. He never let prickly Kenzie deter him. He never gave up proving to her he was nothing like her ex.
Kenzie has had a shit life. She went straight from emotionally abusive and neglectful parents to an emotionally and physically abusive partner. But she eventually got her and her kids away from him to start a new life in Cloverleaf.
Becoming friends with Lizzy and the gang was new for Kenzie. She never had so many people love her and that she could count on. Then she and Brett caught each other's eye. She was resistant, of course, but he wasn't having it. Brett proved over and over again that she and the kids could trust him.
I loved the scene with the dishes. It was one of those moments where actions spoke louder than words ever could. Very moving.
The epilogue was great. It made me smile even though this was the end. What a great series!
When Kennzie arrives in Cloverleaf with her twins she’s here to make a fresh start. Having endured ten years of Hell with the man who was supposed to love and protect her she’s finally free.
She’s not expecting Brett. The sexy single man makes her feel things she thought she’d never feel again. But with her past and the constant memories she’s afraid to open up.
Brett is persistent. He sees a future with her and her adorable twins Cameron and Callie. Now he just needs to prove he’s all in. Once he gets past the walls she’s built to protect herself and her kids she’ll see that they have a future.
When her past comes back to haunt her it’s going to take all her strength to not run. She’s made a home here. She has a family.
Another stellar read. One that deals with domestic violence and the effects it has on a person. It was well written and a complete page turner.
Mackenzie Webster knew the man she was with was never going to live up to the promise he once gave her of a good life. He has been a tormentor and even after she had the twin, he continued his abuse. Deciding she has had enough and can't continue to raise her children in that environment so she leaves and hopes to start a new life in Cloverleaf.
Brett Halstead has never planned to settle down but something about Kenzie has Brett's interest peaked. He wants to get to know her, but he can see it is going to be a rough road to getting her to trust him. Brett though is nothing but patient and as Kenzie falls harder for the man she is beginning to love, she hopes her past will stay in the past but will it?
Tearjerker for sure but Kenzie is stronger then she thinks. I liked Brett a lot, he is a force to be reckoned with and extremely protective of Kenzie. Loved every moment of this story.
I was pulled right into this story. The story has abuse, secrets, pain, drama, and heartbreak.
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first: Picking up the Pieces (Cloverleaf, #1) Rising from the Ashes (Cloverleaf #2) Pushing the Boundaries (Cloverleaf #3)
This is Mackenzie and Brett’s story. Mackenzie is fairly new to town and is just really settling in. She moved to town to get away from her abusive ex. She just wants to raise her kids. Brett and her have a few misunderstandings that lead to a one night stand but more misunderstandings follow that up. He is quick to step up when she needs help and a place to stay. He takes in her and her children and they all fall into a routine but when the ex shows up for her will he be able to protect her or will she be forced to go back where she came from?
This series as a whole get five huge stars from me. There is nothing like a story about life long friends who love and support each other through everything life throws at them. The connection between all of these characters was amazing and watching as they bring someone new into their circle and show them the same love and support they show each other just sealed the deal for me.
These books were laugh out loud hilarious, fast paced, pulled at your heart strings, and full of hot headed woman and the men who love them. I loved how each storyline was unpredictable and had little twist that would pop up and catch you off guard. There were moments that made you laugh, cry, scream at the characters stubbornness, and let out that look ohh when something happened you weren't expecting.
This series had amazing character and storyline development that can sometimes be lacking in books these days. Whether it was the main character or a secondary one they always held your full attention without distracting from the storyline itself.
I want to give a little shout out to Worth the Wait, the absolute standout of this series for me. I loved every second of this book. Kenzie and Brett had caught my eye in previous books and I couldn't wait for their stories, I was beyond thrilled when the book was about them together, I may have let out a little squeal. I ADORE the way Jessica Prince writes not only children but, how the adults interact with them. They aren't throwaway characters to give the story a little extra depth or add a complication. They are a huge part of the story from start to finish and just add so much to the storyline.
With these gorgeous new covers and updated stories even if you've read these books before they need to be read again!
Another absolutely amazing book from Jessica Prince! They just keep getting better and better! I am so in love with this series and a little heartbroken that it's over! Like all the other characters of Cloverleaf, Brett and Kenzie are just so loveable. They are so real, so flawed, and so relatable! I love how the Cloverleaf gang so willingly accepted Kenzie and her kids and she fit in so seamlessly with them! I absolutely love seeing the growth of all the other characters in this book as well. I cried while reading the epilogue because watching these characters grow has been an amazing experience and it's like saying goodbye to some pretty amazing people! I'm so sad that the series is complete but all good things must come to and end. The entire series, from the first page of the first book, to the last page of this book, was just absolutely amazing. Heartwarming and heartbreaking. Lots of tears and many laughs! This book was absolutely Jessica's best work yet!
I absolutely loved this series. As sad as I am to see it end, the ending was perfect. adored Brett and the way he loved the twins. My heart just melted. So much fun watching the gang together whether its to support one another or tease them relentlessly. That tight group was a joy to watch as they each had their own adventure to their HEA. The ending of this book did a wonderful job wrapping everyone's story up. This was a fantastic series filled with hopes, tears, tons of laughter and sass, and just good ole' fun times and so glad I was able to read every story. Looking forward to reading more of the author's books :)
I absolutely loved this whole series!! I loved every character and it was hard for me also knowing this is the last book. These books have everything....steamy sex scenes, sexy alpha men, lots of humor, great friendships, and lots of romance. The only issue I have is with the last book. Everything worked out perfectly with lance except the guy who got set up never got off the hook since lance didn't get exposed. That kind of sucks. Still give this whole series 5 stars!!!!!
I loved this entire series and I think this was a great ending to it. Brett is one hell of a guy. And Kenzie is super strong and resilient. I love how he stepped to be everything they needed and more. I want a Brett!
Ok I LOVED this book. Amazingly genuine characters in an exceptionally told tale of redemption and family. And there are TWO epilogues!!! Awesomesauce! Will definitely be looking for more from this author. :)
Love the Cloverleaf gang. Kenzie and Brett stole my heart, they had great chemistry and he was so strong for her and the kiddos. Hope to see all these babies all grown up and falling in love themselves ;)
This book was recommended to me because I love single parent romance books, and this was a pretty quick and enjoyable read.
Kenzie is a single mum to five year old twins. She ran away from an abusive relationship with her ex to a small town, where she has finally found a great group of friends to support her. Kenzie meets Brett, a construction worker, when he is building an extension on the salon where she works. They have a one night stand, but things soon become awkward because they have mutual friends, and Kenzie is unsure if she can handle a relationship with raising her kids, and with her tragic past.
I liked the mix of drama, emotion, romance and humour in this book. It was engaging all the way through and I never got bored. I liked Kenzie, and it was great seeing how strong and independent she was. I had mixed feelings about Brett. Early in the book, he says something really mean about Kenzie and her 'baggage' (which I think he only said to stop his friend from questioning him about her), but he came across as kind of an asshole. Then I thought that he changed super quick from an asshole who didn't want to deal with Kenzie's kids to being the best, most supportive boyfriend/father ever. I just thought the transition was a little abrupt and not that believable. I also think this book could have done with another edit, there were quite a lot of simple grammar mistakes that took away from the experience, imo.
Kenzie is trying to move on alongside her cute kids, she comes from a distressed past and ended up losing confidence in people. When she arrives in Cloverleaf, she soon meets Lizzie, this crazy woman who owns a beauty salon who gives her a job and introduces her friends . Even without being interested in relationships, she is attracted to Brett who slowly gets to the heart of the girl. Alternating past and present gradually we understand Kenzie's reactions and cheering for her besides laughing a lot with her children. Jessica Prince bring to us a story about a girl who is trying to start a new life and a guy who just wanted to enjoy it and starts wanting to change to conquer Kenzie. So so lovely ! Along with the couples from the previous books, Kenzie and Brett will find out what they really worth and how love is worth any sacrifice. The participation of the previous couples are essential to help Kenzie to change her life and it was very nice to accompany this trajectory of struggle and maturity. Not to mention other surprises that the writer has reserved for fans of the series. A delight! 4/5 stars
Such a sweet story. Poor Kenzie has been through so much in her life. The abuse she has endured and the strength she has had to portray to take care of her kids is nothing short of amazing. She finally feels settled in Cloverleaf and has even begun to make friends. This is where Brett comes in. They’re both attracted immediately. Brett hasn’t ever been interested in more that a fling with a woman. He’s never found one that made him want more until Kenzie. Kenzie feels it all...but she’s worn off men after the two in her life previously knocked her down and caused her life to be a living hell. Brett won’t give up though. He slowly works his magic until she’s sees the man he is and how good it could be for them. It’s beautiful and sweet. The epilogue with all the friends just makes you smile. This was a great series!
...we wouldn’t be able to tell where I started and she began- should it read where I ended and she began?
I needed at least an hour alone with my vibrator if I was going to make it through this friendship- an hour a day? Because if an hour can satisfy your downstairs throbbing for the entirety for your friendship, you have a resolve of steel.
I wish this series wasn’t over...maybe their kids need books one day and the series will be revived?!
I have to admit, as much as I loved the rest of this series, I’ve been looking forward to Kenzie and Brett’s story the most! Kenzie has a past that shes keeping a secret, one that she believes has made her damaged goods and doesn’t think she has anything to offer Brett. Luckily Brett thinks otherwise...and he doesn’t disappoint in any department! When Kenzie’s past tears it’s ugly head, I panicked that things weren’t going to work out the way they were supposed to, but never fear because Jessica Prince writes a pretty epic HEA!
This is by far my favorite series to date from amazing Jessica Prince. Still have to read the rest of this amazing authors books so we will see. But loved the couples and the struggles of their making it work. So humorous that I laughed with every page turn. Excited to continue to discover more humor and love as I work my way through the rest of her writing. Thank you, Jessica Prince for sharing your writing with the world. Your work will be one of my favorite rereads and I will enjoy them as much every time I read them as I did this first time. Timeless enjoyment. Again, thank you!
I’ve read a lot of Jessica’s books and this one is by far my favourite one! From Cameron trying to flush himself down the toilet again (potter?) to the date from hell, satans soldiers and the walking dead kinky role play 🤣 I’ve not laughed this much since TL Swans the takeover.
Read it, you won’t regret it. It’s heart warming, it’s cute, their relationship grows and comes relationship goals worthy of Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively. The whole group dynamic makes you wish you had friends like those, even Trevor! And it’s filled with brilliant hilarious moments that make me glad mine are older and no longer trying to see how far my sanity can stretch.
When you've been pushed and pulled, beaten and broken, the only place you can go is up. Kenzie escaped the horror that her life had been to a small little town where family is who you make it to be. She never expected him. Brett knew just by looking at her that she was special, she was beautiful and she would be his. Uphill battles and a few laughs follow throughout the pages. Life is finally perfect. Until her past comes back with a vengeance. Amazing how something so beautiful could crumble in an instant if you let it.