Surrender My Love

The Bradens at Peaceful Harbor, MD #2

by Melissa Foster

SURRENDER MY LOVE is a USA TODAY BESTSELLER

Fall in love with Cole Braden in the Bradens of Peaceful Harbor. Hot, sexy, & wickedly naughty second cousins to the Weston, Colorado Bradens we know and love.

Annalise “Leesa” Avalon never realized that one sentence could change her life until one of her students revealed his crush—and within twenty-four hours she finds herself under fire. After a grueling investigation that turns her life upside down, she steals away to Peaceful Harbor, Maryland, with a new identity to try to pull herself back together and figure out her next step.

From the outside, Cole Braden lives a charmed life. He’s a top orthopedic surgeon with a thriving practice, strong family ties, and friends he adores. But there’s a lonely spot inside Cole that no one can see. He has an enormous heart—and a painful past—but the desire to love and be loved is too strong to ignore.

A chance encounter brings Leesa and Cole together, and the attraction is immediate and intense. But a relationship is the last thing Leesa needs—and the only thing Cole wants. Long talks, heated moments, and deep connections are hard to resist, but the harder Cole tries, the more Leesa pulls away. Cole might truly be the right man for Leesa, but is Leesa the right woman for him?

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Doctors, Family, Ebooks

294 pages, Unknown Binding

First published January 13, 2016

About the author

NEW YORK TIMES, WALL STREET JOURNAL, and USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR

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Melissa Foster is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of more than 100 novels. She writes sexy and heartwarming contemporary romance and women’s fiction with emotionally compelling characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page. Melissa’s emotional journeys are lovingly erotic, always family oriented, and feature fiercely loyal heroes, smart, sassy heroines, and complex relatable issues.

Melissa also writes sweet romance under the pen name, Addison Cole here: https://addisoncole.com

Melissa loves to hear from readers! Feel free to send her an email or chat with her on social media.

Melissa welcomes the opportunity to chat with book clubs and other reading groups.

"What sets Melissa Foster apart are her compelling characters who you care about... desperately...I dare you to read the first chapter and not be hooked." International bestseller, M.J. Rose

"Melissa Foster is a wonderful connector of readers and books, a friend of authors, and a tireless advocate for women. She is the real deal"--Author Jennie Shortridge

Reviews

[Njkinny (Njkinny's Blog) · Rating 4 out of 5]

http://www.njkinnysblog.com/2016/01/a...
Rating: 4.5/5
Surrender My Love is the second book in The Bradens of Peaceful Harbor series but the first that I have read. Despite being part of a series, it can be read as a standalone.

As is the case with majority of books by Melissa Foster, this one too had me stopping because of the catchy title, an eye catching cover and a blurb that instantly caught my attention.

I enjoyed meeting the Bradens of Peaceful Harbor who are a boisterous lot and fell in love with Cole Braden. He is a smooth talker and seems a flirt initially but then his character is developed and brought out fully to be that of a serious, family oriented and one-woman man who is a workaholic, a book lover (this point definitely earned him extra brownie points from me) and still waiting for "The One". This book narrates Cole's story and had me excitedly cheering for him all through.

Annalise's history had me empathizing with her and then seriously giving thought to the ramifications of one careless accusation made by someone in one's life. Annalise or Leesa is a strong character and her struggle to get back her life and find closure had me admiring her. The romance buildup between Leesa and Cole is brought out beautifully and feels true and heartfelt.

The plot execution is expertly done as can be expected from Melissa and I thoroughly enjoyed reading the book and meeting such lovely characters that stay with you long after you have completed the book. I am eager to meet these lovely characters again soon!

All in all, Surrender My Love is a lovely and heartfelt romance that had me entertained all through. I give it 4.5 out of 5 and recommend it to all romance lovers above the age of eighteen. Now that I have finished this book, I am eager to start on the first book in this series, Healed by Love and look forward to reading the subsequent books in the series.

I received an ARC from the author and the tour organizers and I am very thankful to them. The above review is my honest and unbiased opinion and in no way influenced.

[Brooklyn JoJo · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book started out with a lot of potential but unfortunately, like a delicious steak that’s left on the grill too long, it was way too overdone... First off, thee was much much too much inner dialogue. It’s amazing how someone can write so many words yet say nothing. Some serious editing would really have worked wonders here. Secondly, the melodrama was unnecessarily excessive and a tad on the ridiculous side. People only act and talk like that in bad soap operas, not in real life... Lastly, there were too many characters from the other books in the series thrown in here. I get how fans like to see updates of their favorite characters, but there has to be a point to them being in the story, and there were just too many included. It made it really hard to remember who was who and added nothing to the story except to make it more tedious to read. On a good note I will say the sexy scenes were super hot and Cole the hero definitely had some swoon worthy moments, but sadly it couldn’t rescue the book from all the other issues, so it’s a 3 Star read at best for me and I’ll definitely be skipping the other books in the series.

[Isha Coleman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I fell irrevocably in love with Cole Braden just as quickly as he fell for Leesa. My heart melted at how compassionate he was toward her. Even when she repeated pushed him away, he remained persistent and sincere in his pursuit of her. When Leesa informed him of what she had faced before seeking shelter in Peaceful Harbor, his trust in her was unwavering. Leesa's painful experiences made her determined to stay a loner. The people she had trusted in the past turned their backs on her, she'd lost her home, career, her reputation. All the things she considered important disappeared rapidly and painfully. Peaceful Harbor proved to be her wake up call. There she found people willing to take a chance on a down on their luck woman. The Bradens showed her the beauty of family, love and trust. This opened her heart and mind to all types of possibilities. I have read a number of Ms. Foster's novels and they all have stirred emotions but I have to say Surrender My Love is the one I like the best. Through this novel Melissa Foster conveys the harm in jumping to conclusions and the benefit of keeping an open mind. Those qualities are important ones to remember. I received an ARC of Surrender My Love in exchange for an honest review. Any reader who doesn't read it is missing out.


Audio Review: Surrender My Love (The Bradens at Peaceful Harbor, MD #2)
by Melissa Foster (Author), B.J. Harrison (Narrator)

Surrender My Love still has the power to break my heart. I fell irrevocably in love with Cole Braden just as quickly as he fell for Leesa. My heart melted at how compassionate he was toward her. Betrayal points one courageous woman toward a second chance at a happy ending. I first set eyes on Lessa and Cole's emotional yet inspiring journey of love, five years ago. Yet it seems like no time has passed at all. Foster continues to make an impact with heartaching emotion, inspirational stories and unforgettable characters. Narrator B.J. Harrison seamlessly immerses himself in each and every word he relays and it shows in the mastery of the characters he portrays.

[Lynn Mullan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again Melissa Foster knocks the ball right out of the park with her fantastic writing.
Teacher Annalise 'Leesa' Avalon has had her life turned upside down, by a student with a crush, and then an investigation. She moves to Peaceful Harbor, MD to start a new life, with a new identity.
Dr Cole Braden is a top orthopaedic surgeon, who just happens to be tall, dark and handsome. He has a busy life, but is lonely, and his big heart is made for loving.
When Cole and Leesa meet by chance, their attraction is immediate and sizzling hot. Leesa is wary of starting a new relationship with her past troubles still hanging over her, but Cole wants more.
With one wanting to move forward, and the other pulling back, will they ever get their HEA?
You will just have to read the book to find out.
This is the 2nd book in the Peaceful Harbor Bradens, and they are just as deliciously sweet, sexy, and naughty as their cousins in Weston, and Trusty, CO.
Bring on the next hunk! ;0 <3

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cole and Leesa's story really hit home for me. I have a friend who when through the same thing as Leesa. It has a forever effect on your life and those around you. With the love of those around you, you can see what really matters in life and turn things around.

Once I started reading I could not put the book down. Leesa loves what she does and does what she loves. Lies cause her to loose what she loves doing and leaving town to think things over and decide what to do next. She goes to Peaceful Harbor and stays with her friend Tegan. It turns out that staying with Tegan is the best decision she has made. While out getting coffee she bumps into the very hot Dr. Cole Braden.

Cole Braden is a well respected Dr. who is liked and loved by all who know him. He bumps into Leesa at the coffee shop while she takes the last of his favorite coffee and muffin. There is an immediate attraction between the two. Cole is busy with his medical practice but would like to fall in love. Due to things going on in Leesa's life, she wants to stay under the radar but Cole wants her and is not worried about what is going on in her life.

Cole is willing to take a chance on Leesa but is she willing to take a chance on him and finding her happily ever after? Read the book to find out. Melissa Foster never disappoints. This is the 2nd book in the Peaceful Harbor series of the Love in Bloom series. BJ Harrison does a great job narrating once again. I felt like I was right there and wanted to listen again when it was done.

[Donna Morrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

~~~~~5 AMAZING STARS~~~~~
IF YOU HAVE NOT FALLEN IN LOVE WITH THE BRADEN'S YET YOU WILL AFTER YOU READ COLE'S STORY.
Cole is the oldest of his siblings and he is an accomplished doctor. Everything is looking good in his life except for one thing. Someone to love and love him back. He had always been a one woman type of man unlike two of his brothers Sam and Ty. He is so focused on his work that it makes it hard to hold a relationship.
Leesa is starting over. She was a teacher and one of her students that she was tutoring revealed he had a crush on her and when she politely told him that she was his teacher and too old for him he turned her life upside down by saying that she touched him inappropriately. She was put on administrative leave and her boyfriend of two years broke up with her because he was afraid of what it would do to his career. after she was cleared of the charges, she escaped the town she was born and raised to go and visit with her friend in Peaceful Harbor. She needed to get away to decided what she wanted to do with her life now.
The problem was that everywhere she looked she thought someone might come to her and say hey weren't you that teacher.... But, it was mostly in her head, but it was something that kept her using a version of her real name. She didn't want anyone in Peaceful Harbor to know what happened in her past. She wanted a fresh start.
One day while she was out running she stopped by to pick up her best friend a coffee and muffin that she loved. She ran into Cole and they had a spark right off the bat. Neither of them could get each other off of their minds.
They met again when she went with her friend to get her cast off of her foot and Cole was the hot doctor her friend was talking about. It took all he had to be the doctor instead of a love struck fool.
One evening he is sitting on the beach in front of his house thinking about Leesa when he looks up and there she is. They get to talking and he finds out she works at his parents bar. She doesn't want to get involved because she doesn't know what she is going to do with her life but forces that be keep pushing them together. He asks her out to dinner but she turns him down.
The night of the bachelor auction his brother adds Cole's name to the list. He is pissed off but he goes to the ATM and gives the money to Leesa and begs her to big for him. He doesn't want to go out with anyone but her. When it is his turn someone starts bidding and it is the last person he wants to be around. His EX. Leesa finds out who she is so she starts bidding against her. His ex is pissed but that does not stop Leesa from winning the bid.
Cole is so happy that she won and she feels pretty good about it as well. They spend some time with his family that night and she starts getting to know them pretty well. The girls ask her to have lunch with them the next day so they could get to know her better. The decided to come back to the bar so they could watch the guys work on the boat.
After they leave the bar things heat up with Leesa and Cole. She knows that before they go out on their date she has to tell him about her past, because she is afraid of what would happened to him and his career if someone there found out about her. He was fine with it and told her that her ex was a dirt bag and if he would of been there he would of stood by her.
The next day she ends up telling the girls about her past and they were in agreement with Cole. She could not believe these amazing people that she now has in her life. But aside from them being amazing and her growing feelings toward Cole she was still undecided on what she was going to do with her life. Even though it was getting harder and harder not to fall for Cole.
They went out on their date and ran into his ex. She put on quite a show. (Which you will have to read to find out what she done). It pisses Cole off real bad and then him and Leesa go for a walk for him to cool down. Things get heated.
They continue to get closer and closer. Having amazing sex and just being with each other is amazing. She is falling hard for him but she needs to figure out what she is going to do and she feels like she needs to go back and face her past in order to move forward. This hurts Cole's heart because he wants to be there with her to support her but she says she needs to do this on her own.
Now, like always I don't like to reveal all of the book. So here is some questions you can ask yourself and see how it ends up.
What happens when Leesa goes back home?
Does Cole's ex make an appearance?
Does Leesa's ex make an appearance?
What happens when Lisa confronts her past?
Does she ever get closure and what becomes of her and Cole?
Well, I beg of you to read the book because you will fall in love with this family.
Until next time: Happy Reading.!!!!

[Nadene (Totally Addicted to Reading) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
 
Melissa Foster is one of the top authors of contemporary romance. She never fails to deliver the type of stories that are filled with sexy characters that will make your heart go pitter patter.  Her stories are guaranteed to warm your heart. Surrender My Love was no different.  

 
This story is about Cole Braden and Annalise "Leesa" Avalon. Cole is an orthopedic surgeon. His practice is located in Peaceful Harbor. He had his heart broken in the past. However, this did not stop him from desiring to find that special woman, with whom he would spend the rest of his life with.  He wanted a meaningful and lasting relationship. He was not sure he would find what he was looking for in Peaceful Harbor. Then one fateful day he met a woman who awakened desires in him that he never knew existed.  Was this the woman he had been searching for all his life?
 
Annalise is a teacher, who was accused by one of her students of a heinous act.  This accusation proved to be the death of her career. Although she had the support of her colleagues, the one person she was counting on decided to distance himself from the situation. Tired of the stress stemming from the investigation, she came to Peaceful Harbor at the behest of her friend.  Little did she know that being in Peaceful Harbor would further change her life in a way she never expected.
 
It was easy to fall in love with Cole. I understand why Leesa was drawn to him. He is a family man. He is loyal, caring, protective and supportive of those he loved.  Leesa was strong and selfless.  In spite of what she had endured, she rose above it and took charge of her life. Being embraced by Cole's family helped with her healing process.  I liked that she was willing to forgive her accuser. In doing this, it made it easy for her to move on with her life. I loved her attitude. She was not the type to wallow in self-pity.  The fact that she did not blame her accuser for destroying her life speaks to her selflessness. 
 
The romance between Cole and Leesa moved quickly. It was evident that they were in love with each other. However, Leesa's past was proving to be a hindrance. She believed that the issues from her past would hurt Cole and his family.  I thought they were perfect for each other. They both deserved to have their happily ever after.
 
I understood Leesa's fears. Despite her innocence being proven, she still lived with the fear that someone may find out about her past. Some people may find her behaviour irrational.  However, society as a way of condemning persons, even after their innocence has been proven.
 
The story is well written. Which was no less that what I have come to expect from Ms. Foster. It was engaging and heart warming. 
 
This story demonstrates how  devastating lies are.  Lies may seem harmless,  but they have the power to destroy lives.  Surrender My Love is a story about forgiveness, healing, and love.  It shows that at times life will throw us curveballs, which forces us to make changes in our lives. Our willingness to make these changes will determine how successful we will be in dealing with these new challenges.
 
If you’re looking for a beautiful, heartwarming romance, then you have to try this book! 

[Nadene (Totally Addicted to Reading) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Melissa Foster is one of the top authors of contemporary romance. She never fails to deliver the type of stories that are filled with sexy characters that will make your heart go pitter patter. Her stories are guaranteed to warm your heart. Surrender My Love was no different.

This story is about Cole Braden and Annalise "Leesa" Avalon. Cole is an orthopedic surgeon. His practice is located in Peaceful Harbor. He had his heart broken in the past. However, this did not stop him from desiring to find that special woman, with whom he would spend the rest of his life with. He wanted a meaningful and lasting relationship. He was not sure he would find what he was looking for in Peaceful Harbor. Then one fateful day he met a woman who awakened desires in him that he never knew existed. Was this the woman he had been searching for all his life?

Annalise is a teacher, who was accused by one of her students of a heinous act. This accusation proved to be the death of her career. Although she had the support of her colleagues, the one person she was counting on decided to distance himself from the situation. Tired of the stress stemming from the investigation, she came to Peaceful Harbor at the behest of her friend. Little did she know that being in Peaceful Harbor would further change her life in a way she never expected.

It was easy to fall in love with Cole. I understand why Leesa was drawn to him. He is a family man. He is loyal, caring, protective and supportive of those he loved. Leesa was strong and selfless. In spite of what she had endured, she rose above it and took charge of her life. Being embraced by Cole's family helped with her healing process. I liked that she was willing to forgive her accuser. In doing this, it made it easy for her to move on with her life. I loved her attitude. She was not the type to wallow in self-pity. The fact that she did not blame her accuser for destroying her life speaks to her selflessness.

The romance between Cole and Leesa moved quickly. It was evident that they were in love with each other. However, Leesa's past was proving to be a hindrance. She believed that the issues from her past would hurt Cole and his family. I thought they were perfect for each other. They both deserved to have their happily ever after.

I understood Leesa's fears. Despite her innocence being proven, she still lived with the fear that someone may find out about her past. Some people may find her behaviour irrational. However, society as a way of condemning persons, even after their innocence has been proven.

The story is well written. Which was no less that what I have come to expect from Ms. Foster. It was engaging and heart warming.

This story demonstrates how devastating lies are. Lies may seem harmless, but they have the power to destroy lives. Surrender My Love is a story about forgiveness, healing, and love. It shows that at times life will throw us curveballs, which forces us to make changes in our lives. Our willingness to make these changes will determine how successful we will be in dealing with these new challenges.

If you’re looking for a beautiful, heartwarming romance, then you have to try this book!

I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Melissa Foster has done it once again!! Cole Braden is a hot doctor that is also an Alpha male. I fell in love with the Braden's from the first time we meet them. Melissa has a way to draw you in with her characters making you feel like they are a part of your own family!! You love the characters and can relate to them like your own brothers and sisters.

Annalise, Lessa, is a young lady that is visiting her best friend while trying to let a situation calm down in her hometown with her job. Lessa is not running from her problems, but more or less just trying to space her own image. When her boyfriend ended up breaking up with her because if the situation, her whole world seems like it is crumbling in on her. That is why Leesa decides to visit her friend.

When Leesa decides to do a favor for her friend one day and stop to get her a coffee and muffin, she never dreamed that she would meet a man that would be willing to give up anything and everything for a woman he doesn't even know. Cole Braden ends up giving Leesa the last muffin of his favorite type and his coffee for her friend. He also ends up paying for it because Leesa forgot her money. Cole has a hard time believing Leesa that the muffin and coffee are for her friend, but he uses it as a joke with Leesa.

When Leesa goes to a doctors appointment with her friend, she did not expect the man that was occupying her mind to be her friends doctor. Leesa saw Cole and was lost for words. She knew that there was something there between them when she was speechless. Leesa has no idea when she will see Cole again but there would never be a too soon for her.

When Leesa ends up working a bachelors auction, she had no clue that Cole and all his single brothers were going to be on the auction block. When Cole begs Leesa to buy him so that he will not have to go with his ex that has shown up, Leesa thought he was crazy. Leesa had already turned Cole down for a date so how was she going to buy him for a date in front of the whole town?? Leesa was trying to stay out of the spotlight and now Cole was putting her in it!!

I love how Cole and Leesa fell into an easy relationship and felt so comfortable with each other from the very beginning. Cole treated Leesa with such care and concern that he makes you melt. Will these two find a way to be with each other and find their HEA?? You need to read this one so that Cole Braden can make you swoon and fall for him!! Such a great read!! I can't wait to see what the other Braden brothers have in store for us!!

[Mave · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have recently discovered this author but I like so much her stories that she is becoming one of my favorite authors of contemporary novels. Her romances are sweet, romantic, flowing, easy to read. A real treat.
I have always had a soft spot for large families, how could I not love Bradens. I would really like to be part of this family and can not wait to know all of them more thoroughly. I'm in love with Cole from the first page. He's so charming, sexy, sweet, funny, very attached to his family. He is completely devoted to work and to help members of his family, is happy but feel that there is something missing, an intelligent and sensitive woman with whom to share his life. When he meets Leesa in a coffee, is immediately fascinated by her, she is so different from the others. She's intelligent, quiet, sensitive. She's the woman who he wants by his side. But she will not be easy to conquer. Leesa had a wonderful job as a teacher, a guy who loved her and many friends. When she was found unjustly involved in a scandal all of them turned their backs on her. She has left her hometown to stay with a friend in Peaceful Harbor and try to put her life in order. She can't afford to have a relationship even if she is tremendously attracted to Cole.
It 's an extraordinary romance with charming, engaging and believable characters, they are people I would like to know.
Although it is part of a larger series you can easily read as standalone but once you read one you will want to read them all.
If you enjoy reading sweet romance, then definitely pick this up!

[Nancy Stopper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Surrender My Love is a relatable story that really resonates with the reader. The author, as always, develops compelling characters and interesting storylines.

I loved Cole from the minute he walked onto the page. He is extremely sexy - it just oozes out of the pages as you read about him. He's a strong, confident man who knows what he wants and isn't afraid to go after it. But, he's also sensitive to Leesa and her struggles.

I struggled with Leesa a bit at the beginning. After understanding the challenges she faced, it felt as though she was blowing her reaction a bit out of proportion, despite the fact she'd been exonerated. Having never been in the situation she faced, I don't know how I would have reacted but I felt her reaction was assuming a level of guilt and hysteria that was a bit disproportional.

As with all typical romance novels, Leesa and Cole find their happily ever after. But, the story wasn't all wrapped up in a nice little package with a bow on top, and I was happy to see that. In real life, everything doesn't always work out as you'd like. In this case, I felt the reactions of the parties involved were realistic and I really enjoyed how the author handled the interactions between the boy and his father.

I'm loving the Braden's of Peaceful Harbor and the mentions to previous Bradens. Can't wait for the next story in the series.

Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Mignon Mykel · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 / 5 stars

I've said it once, I've said it twice, I've probably said it in every Melissa Foster review I've written -- she's done it again. Her stories are always enjoyable and her style is one that I've come to know and respect as sweet contemporary. Not so sweet in the sense that it's all candy and roses, but a true-type love story.

In this latest LOVE IN BLOOM spin-off story, we have Dr. Cole Braden and Leesa (with two 'e's) Avalon. Leesa was a teacher and after a disastrous year with accusations, she's now found herself in Peaceful Harbor helping out her 'broken' friend (broken in the sense she has a bone on the mend). Leesa met Cole at the coffee shop, and a few hours later learned he was her friend's doctor. These two... Their conversations were extremely fun from the get-go. They had sweet banter and the flirting just fell off the page, even when he was supposed to be professional with her friend, he couldn't help but flirt with Leesa. So right away, I found this couple to be cute.

I rather enjoyed watching work-aholic Cole Braden find time in his life to put aside the charts he scoured over, to spend time with Leesa, especially when his caring, protective instincts took hold.

Whenever Melissa comes across my radar, I know the book is going to be a good one. I can't wait to see what she puts out next.

*received a copy of the title in exchange for an honest review.

[Becca · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to say I'm addicted to Melissa Foster and her sweet romance novels. Not to say that these books don't have some steam factor to them, because they surely do. Melissa just has a way of taking you on a journey that leaves your heart happy... even after a small bumpy road.

Leesa is new to town and she doesn't know how long she will be in Peaceful Harbor. She's trying to start over from a scandal that left her questioning everything around her.

Cole is the one most eligible bachelors in town. He's sick of the dating game and ready to settle down. So when he meet Leesa and feels a connection with the mysterious woman, he thinks he may have found his forever.

The chemistry between these two is combustible! Cole is kind, patient and compassionate. Leesa is sweet yet vulnerable and even though her head is telling her she's not ready for a relationship - her heart is on fire for the handsome doctor.

I love each and every one of Melissa's books and ending one, just puts me on pins and needles for her next release.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 - 4 Stars

Surrender My Love (Love in Bloom Book #23) by Melissa Foster.
The Love in Bloom series proved to be a heartwarming journey through love, family, and personal growth. Spanning multiple interconnected series/stories, it offers a wonderful blend of romance, humor, and emotional depth that kept me reading the whole way through.
Ms. Foster crafted fully developed, relatable, and multidimensional characters who added an extra element of emotion and interest to my overall reading experience. The heroes are fiercely loyal and endearing, while the heroines are smart, empowered, and refreshingly ‘real’. Each character feels like someone you could know in real life, making their struggles and triumphs, high and lows, all the more impactful.
The stories have a perfect balance of steamy romance mixed with heartfelt moments. But that doesn’t mean that Ms. Foster shies away from exploring deeper themes like forgiveness, self-discovery, and the complexities of relationships – adding dynamic layers to the storyline/s. But, despite the emotional depth, the series still maintains more of a lighthearted charm, sprinkled with humor and tender family connections.
While each novel can be read as a standalone, there is an interconnectedness with the recurring characters and overlapping storylines - which help create a sense of community that feels warm and inviting. It’s like being welcomed into a big, loving family where everyone has a worthwhile story to tell.
‘Within the Love in Bloom big-family romance collection you'll find fiercely loyal heroes and smart, empowered women on their search for true love. They're flawed, funny, and easy to relate to. Characters from each series appear in future Love in Bloom books…’
If you are a fan of contemporary romance or simply looking for a feel-good series to escape into, this series is a worthwhile binge read…
Love in Bloom is made up of the following series:
- Snow Sisters
- The Bradens (Weston, CO)
- The Remingtons
- The Bradens (Trusty, CO)
- The Bradens Novellas Collection
- The Bradens (Peaceful Harbor, MD)
- Seaside Summers
- Bayside Summers
- The Ryders
- The Steeles at Silver Island
- The Silvers at Silver Island
- Wild Boys After Dark
- Bad Boys After Dark
- The Whiskeys: Dark Knights at Peaceful Harbor
- The Bradens & Montgomerys, Pleasant Hill – Oak Falls
- The Bradens at Ridgeport
- The Wickeds: Dark Knights at Bayside
- The Whiskeys: Dark Knights at Redemption Ranch
- Romantic Comedy Series Collection
- Sugar Lake
- Harmony Pointe
- Harborside Nights
- Nice Girls After Dark
- The Steeles
- The Stones
- Blazing Summer
- The Brays

Happy Reading…

[Radd Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Leesa Avalon’s story in Surrender My Love is one of resilience, growth, and learning to reclaim life after profound betrayal. Once a passionate teacher, she faced a devastating accusation that threatened her career and reputation. The experience left deep emotional scars, compounded by the end of her romantic relationship and a sense of displacement in her personal life. Enter Cole Braden, a compassionate and steady doctor whose quiet strength allows Leesa the space to heal. Their connection grows organically, grounded in trust and understanding rather than drama or grand gestures.

What I appreciated was the emotional journey of Leesa. Her path to healing involves recognizing her worth beyond others’ judgments and learning to love and trust again. She initially longed for her accuser to admit wrongdoing and apologize, but when that didn’t happen, she discovered she could still move forward with life. That perspective shift felt incredibly realistic and powerful. Cole’s presence and support amplify her growth, providing moments of warmth, tenderness, and stability that make her journey toward peace all the more compelling.

Another element that really stood out to me was the way the story handled different perspectives. There isn’t a clear villain here, only people making choices from their own experiences and biases. Even the exes, who were initially painted as selfish or cruel, were later given more dimension. By the end, you could see their perspectives too, which shifted the way I viewed them. Instead of a simple right/wrong, good/bad dynamic, the book offered a fuller picture of complex, flawed people navigating their own paths. That layering of perspectives was, to me, one of the strongest aspects of the story.

Overall, Surrender My Love is a thoughtful, emotionally rich romance. Leesa’s growth, Cole’s steady support, the supporting characters and the story’s emphasis on perspective and self-healing create a satisfying and resonant read. The romance is steamy in places, and it’s the characters’ journeys toward understanding, letting go, and opening their hearts that truly carry the story. I’m giving this book 4 stars for its depth, warmth, and the meaningful takeaways it leaves about trust, resilience, and human complexity.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cole and Annalise are one smoking couple but it takes some time for them to get there.

Cole is a workaholic and is constantly looking over medical books, patient charts and just work in general. Annalise or Leesa is a middle school teacher whom was accused of some bad things and was acquitted, however her life was never the same and she needed a change.

Cole and Annalise have a great first meeting over a muffin and coffee and then again in the doctor's office. The sparks fly hot and high with these two.

Leese has to deal with the aftermath of the ordeal she went through and is always worried someone will recognize her. She needs closure and doesn't know how to get it, unless she talks to the person that accused her of malicious intents.

Cole has never felt this way before and wants to spend all of his spare time with Leesa and help her with her issue, but she pushes him away and does it on her own. Or does she?

The Braden's know how to love with all of their heart and can't be pushed away once they find their one true love. Leesa just has to accept it and realize she can depend on Cole and his family. They will always be there for her.

Cole and Leesa know how to communicate, even if sometimes it sounds a bit whiny from Leesa's way, but I understand with what she went through and having to deal with her whole life changing.

Great story and love match!

[Kay Pflueger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great story by Melissa Foster….This book continues with the Braden family from Pleasant Hill but can certainly be read as a stand alone. I have read the book as well as listened to the audio version and enjoyed both equally. BJ Harrison is an accomplished narrator who does a great job and is very easy to listen to.

Annalise (who chooses to use the name Leesa) has lived through a traumatic experience and has moved to Peaceful Harbor to regroup and to spend time with a friend. She is a middle school teacher who loves her job and the impact she knows she can make on their lives.

Cole is the oldest of the Braden siblings and he is a handsome, determined and focused orthopedic surgeon. He and Leesa meet in a chance encounter at the local coffee shop and sparks fly! They cannot forget that meeting and when their paths seem to cross on several occasions, they begin to realize that maybe “fate” has brought them together.

I like Melissa’s style of writing. She has chosen a sensitive subject and has done a great job of sharing the emotions and the uncertainty of the situation. The plot was well developed and the characters were believable. I would recommend the book in either version… print or audio.

[Angie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cole Braden is a hardworking, driven doctor in Peaceful Harbor. Leesa comes to Peaceful Harbor to stay with a friend and to escape from the aftermath of false accusations in her home town. Cole and Leesa meet at a coffee shop and are attracted to each other but they don't act on it until after seeing each other again at her friend's appointment, because as it turns out, Cole is her doctor.

Leesa has some decisions to make. She won't be at peace until she can put her past behind her. Should she go home? Take a new job in Baltimore? Or stay in Peaceful Harbor? As Cole and Leesa grow closer, that question becomes more and more of an issue.

I loved listening to this book after reading it when it was first released to the print version. There was something about B.J.'s narration of this that made me love Cole even more. I've recently learned that listening to the audio version of these books allows my brain to better visualize and really feel the emotions from the book. I'm addicted to listening to all audio versions of Melissa's books.

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Leesa and Cole’s story so much.

Cole Braden has been a bit of a workaholic. He loves his family and his job, and that’s enough for him. He’s the oldest of six so he’s got plenty of people to take care of. He’s been just a bit lonely after seeing Nate finally admit his feelings for Jewel. That’s when he meets a beautiful woman in a coffee shop. He ends up giving up his favorite breakfast for her. It’s just a good deed and he doesn’t expect to see her again. Fate has other ideas though.

Leesa had a job she loved teaching in a middle school. When one of her students lies about her , her entire life is turned upside down. Even after the investigation clears her of any wrongdoing, she decides to leave town. She even changes her name to Leesa just to make sure no one recognizes her. She’s staying with her best friend when she meets a handsome man in a coffee shop. She doesn’t expect to see him again until she goes with her friend to the doctor’s office and guess whose there? Cole.

These two had such an attraction to each other, but Leesa tries to fight it in the beginning. Even if it’s false, she doesn’t want to hurt Cole’s reputation with being associated with her. She’s had experience with guys bailing on her before when things get tough. Cole spends a lot of this book trying to convince her that wouldn’t happen. Such a good moment when she finally accepted Cole was different from the guy who will not be named.

Rather than opposites attract, this is definitely more about how similar these two are. Both Cole and Leesa care a lot about the people around them. Cole would do basically anything to help his patients heal. He struggles a lot with the fact that there are times where it’s just out of his hands. Leesa tries to help anyone around her. I loved the conversations she has with Ace, Cole’s father.

That brings me to another thing I liked in the first book and even more in this one, the Bradens. They’re a huge wealthy family, but all genuinely good people. They’re also all very different from each other. It’s been really nice to get to know them more and more with each book.

Sam’s book is up next, and I’m excited to get to it. :D

[Jo · Rating 3 out of 5]

“I don’t want someone else. I feel like I’ve waited my whole life to meet you. When you’re ready, I’ll be here, whether it takes a day, a week, or a year.”

Cole Braden is my kind of book boyfriend. He’s serious, sturdy, he loves his family and his work. He has such a great heart but he’s also so very lonely. I loved that he didn’t have commitment issues, that he wanted so badly to have someone special in his life, someone he could build a relationship with. I loved his reaction to Leesa the first time he saw her, and how he couldn’t stop thinking about her. He was so understanding about her past, and he tried so hard to get her to give them a chance, to stay in Peaceful Harbor.

I liked Annalise “Leesa” Avalon. I felt so sorry for the awful things she had to endure because of something hurtful one of her students did. I could understand her reluctance in giving Cole a chance, but I did feel that it took her too long to realise that being with Cole was all that mattered.

Their romance was sweet just like I’ve come to expect from this author, and I love how hard Cole fought for her. There was of course quite a bit of angst near the end, but as always Melissa Foster balances it well with the sweetness of the romance.

I enjoy the way this author writes, how romantic her heroes usually are, her tough and vulnerable heroines, and her very sweet romance.

[Amy Meyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leesa Avalon, a teacher falsely accused of inappropriate behavior with a student, decides to spend some time in Peaceful Harbor with her best friend Teagan. Cole Braden is an orthopedic doctor and his main priority is his practice, until he meets Leesa at Jazzy Joe's café when she mistakenly takes his breakfast. He is instantly smitten and when they meet again at his practice, he is determined to get to know her better.

Leesa is paranoid the people of Peaceful Harbor will learn of her past. During a charity event at the Braden's bar where Leesa works, his brother signs him up for the Bachelor Date auction. Not happy about being put on the auction block, he begs Leesa to bid on him. Little did she know winning him in the auction would be the best thing that ever happened to both of them.

Will Leesa be able to forgive her accuser and move forward or will her past keep her from her HEA with Cole?

[Judy Barmore · Rating 4 out of 5]

Surrender My Love #2 04/19/2023

Cole just needs a pick me up before work so he stops in at his favorite coffee shop and that where he runs into Leesa when she wants the same coffee but he got the last cup. But being a nice guy he insists she take it but then when he goes to get his muffin again it’s what she wants. This is all for her friend Teagan who she is staying with. That afternoon Teagan needs to get the cast off her ankle and guess what Teagan’s doctor is Cole the guy Leesa meet at the coffee shop. Now Cole keeps thing about Leesa. And then he thinks he has conjured her because she is walking down the beach by his house. They talk and he finds out she is going to work at his family’s brewery. And now things are going to get interesting. So enjoy another good read and see if there is a HEA for them!!

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like the other books in this series, I loved this book just as much. The characters, Cole and Leesa were well written characters with chemistry and relatable real life issues that the pair needed to work through. The plot moved along keeping me interested from the start. I enjoyed watching the characters fall in love as they worked through their issues and despite not looking for love. I also enjoyed the return even in reference to some of the characters from her previous books and all of the characters strong sense of family. I just could not get enough of their story. The narration from Mr. Harrison was smooth and interesting, keeping me interested from the start. I would recommend this book to others.

[Virginia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Melissa has put her heart and soul in the telling of this story. B. J. Harrison's narration of the audiobook will give you thrills.
Cole Brayden had a big heart toward everyone and was an orthopedic doctor. He met Leesa when she went into a coffee shop to get her friend a coffee and muffin. He was immediately intrigued by her. Leesa had lost everything when a twelve year old boy accused her of fondling him. She was his teacher. Even though the charges had been dropped, it still ruined her life because of his lie. Her boyfriend even dropped her. She had been in Peaceful Harbor for two weeks helping her friend and she took her to the doctor's office to get her cast off. In walks Dr. Cole Brayden. Then things get hot! Will they get untangled from her mess? A WOW story!

[Diane (Books and Tequila Blog) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Surrender My Love is a standalone story that is part of the Bradens at Peaceful Harbor Series.
Annalise (Leesa) Avalon comes to Peaceful Harbor trying to escape the mess that she finds her life in. She is quickly embraced by the community and she jumps pretty quickly into a relationship with sexy doctor Cole Braden. But Leesa soon realizes that she needs to deal with her past before she can find happiness in her future.

“I feel like I’ve waited my whole life to meet you. When you’re ready I’ll be here, whether it takes a day, a week or a year.”

I love Peaceful Harbor and getting to know more Bradens and their neighbors. This author really delivers with small town romance feel.
I listened to this story on audiobook and enjoyed the very enjoyable narration.
-4 Stars-

[KimberlyDawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Surrender My Love is the second book in The Bradens at Peaceful Harbor series. Cole is a hot and sexy, smooth-talking flirt when the story starts. As it develops, he shows that he is family-oriented, a one-woman man seeking his one. Annalise has been hurt by people she thought she could trust when she lost her home, career, and reputation. Turning to Peaceful Harbor, it becomes her safe haven. A chance encounter with Cole turns Annalise's world upside down. Can she ever trust him? What will come of Cole and Annalise? Will they be able to learn to lean on each other and find what they need together? I enjoyed this story and listening to this narrator, and I definitely recommend this book.

[Michelle Graves · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wish I had a real man like Cole!! He is everything rolled into one, protector, lover, friend, (dr.) A man who helps people 2 the best of his abilities. 1 thing people don't realize is that certain actions has consequences whether it's good or bad. Even though a kid did sum thing very wrong without thinking of the consequences, the parents need 2 help them and make them understand and do what's right. In this case, it is hard 2 protect even though it was wrong cause of him being in a medical condition and afraid of being bullied from others. But it worked out 4 all of them and it was awesome!! I can't wait 2 read more asap!!

[Linda Ketter · Rating 4 out of 5]

I cannot imagine what Leesa thought when she was accused of doing something she didn't do. Then to have her privacy and entire life upended and dissected. How devastating. Like many people, she chose to leave her home and life to get away from everything. But she never planned on meeting the man of her dreams. But she has fears. What if her situation reflects badly on Cole. She would never forgive herself if she caused him any bad press or adversely affected his business.

Cole has finally found THE ONE. But she just wants to be friends. So he chooses to be friends instead of never seeing her again. Will his desire for more win over Leesa's fear?

These two are such a great couple. He is her strength and he makes her strong enough to go back and face her accuser and the accusation and what people thought. She is his softer side. She makes him want to take care of her. He would do anything for her. But can he give her the one thing she needs: Time to deal with what happened on her own?

This is yet another BJ Harrison narration. I've come to expect his voice in my ears when I listen to the Braden's and Montgomery's that if someone else were to narrate, i wouldn't know what I was listening to. He is all of the alpha men of the Braden's and Montgomery's and I look forward to listening to more.

[dawn hampton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Smooth as silk! That describes the voice of BJ Harrison as he narrates Melissa Foster's Surrender My Love. In this wonderful Braden book Cole and Leesa find their happily ever after at the end of Leesa's journey through a terrible situation. Leesa is falsely accused of something that even though it is false it effectively brings an end to her career and hometown life. I found BJ Harrison's voice to be quite calming, supportive and soothing as he was saying Cole's words. In true Melissa Foster fashion, another 5 star romance.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved it. This book really hits home, because Leesa used to be a teacher, and I was a teacher for 30 years. Leesa had had a student that had accused her of being inappropriate with him. Even though the investigators cleared her of all charges, Melissa Foster did a great job showing how this still affects her. She comes to Peaceful Harbor, where she meets hot and sexy Cole Braden, an orthopedic surgeon. Instant Chemistry! It is a wonderful story of love and forgiveness. Also, by listening to it, B.J. Harrison did such a good job narrating this book. He is one of the best.