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It Had to Be #2
It Had to Be Love
Tara Carter isn’t looking for romance. She’s content seeing patients at her new practice by day, then going home and cuddling with her puppy at night. Her new life in the tiny town of Anderson Butte, Colorado—known by celebrities as the place to lie low—is the perfect respite for a woman with a whopper of a secret. There’s just one the town’s sexy sheriff knows she’s hiding something.
Sheriff Ryan Anderson, weary of small-town drama, has sworn off dating locals and thinks a fresh start in a bigger city is in order. However, the more he gets to know Tara, the more his heart tells him that she could be the woman of his dreams. But he wants to get to the bottom of whatever she’s trying so hard to keep under wraps. Can he uncover her secret before it drives them apart forever?
Sheriff Ryan Anderson, weary of small-town drama, has sworn off dating locals and thinks a fresh start in a bigger city is in order. However, the more he gets to know Tara, the more his heart tells him that she could be the woman of his dreams. But he wants to get to the bottom of whatever she’s trying so hard to keep under wraps. Can he uncover her secret before it drives them apart forever?
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 8, 2015
598 people are currently reading
975 people want to read
About the author
Tamra Baumann
14 books517 followersTamra Baumann is an award-winning author of light-hearted contemporary romance and cozy mystery. A reality-show junkie, she justifies her addiction by telling others she’s scouting for potential character material. She adamantly denies she’s actually living vicariously in their closets. Tamra resides with her real-life characters—her husband, kids, and their adorable golden doodle in the sunny Southwest. Visit her online at: www.tamrabaumann.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 158 reviews
August 31, 2015
3.5 Trusting Your Heart Stars * * * 1/2
This had a lot of things going for it. It had a young professional woman starting over in a new town with a new name and a desire to just live freely. After living a life like the movie Sleeping with the Enemy only on steroids and surviving what most would not.... The New Tara Carter is someone to admire.
We also have Sheriff Ryan Anderson, the town hunky lawman. He is many things...he is an excellent brother to his siblings. He loves them and they all have this bicker/ banter thing they do. Each is in each others' business but only out of love. Ryan is at a crossroads and while there, his path becomes tied with Tara's.
Because Ryan is sensing there is something not quite right with Tara... she deflects all his questions and sometimes looks very uncomfortable when he is talking with her...
And about that talking with her...Ryan is not a talker at all- the description of strong silent type would have his picture as the poster boy. So, when Tara and him start to be connected together because of innocent circumstances, he is really confused and a bit shocked that he loves how easy it is to talk with her.
There are events... a family wedding, that psycho ex husband and a bonus of a buried whiskey recipe and prohibition treasure stash which families have been fighting over for generations.
We were able to enjoy these two characters learn about each other, develop feels even though they were scared and then payoff worked. They were drawn to each other and when they decided to experience all their feelings it was spicy.
It had secondary characters to enrich the story line and also intrigue us for future books. Over all a very enjoyable read.
A gifted copy was provided by Montlake Romance via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
This had a lot of things going for it. It had a young professional woman starting over in a new town with a new name and a desire to just live freely. After living a life like the movie Sleeping with the Enemy only on steroids and surviving what most would not.... The New Tara Carter is someone to admire.
We also have Sheriff Ryan Anderson, the town hunky lawman. He is many things...he is an excellent brother to his siblings. He loves them and they all have this bicker/ banter thing they do. Each is in each others' business but only out of love. Ryan is at a crossroads and while there, his path becomes tied with Tara's.
Because Ryan is sensing there is something not quite right with Tara... she deflects all his questions and sometimes looks very uncomfortable when he is talking with her...
And about that talking with her...Ryan is not a talker at all- the description of strong silent type would have his picture as the poster boy. So, when Tara and him start to be connected together because of innocent circumstances, he is really confused and a bit shocked that he loves how easy it is to talk with her.
There are events... a family wedding, that psycho ex husband and a bonus of a buried whiskey recipe and prohibition treasure stash which families have been fighting over for generations.
We were able to enjoy these two characters learn about each other, develop feels even though they were scared and then payoff worked. They were drawn to each other and when they decided to experience all their feelings it was spicy.
It had secondary characters to enrich the story line and also intrigue us for future books. Over all a very enjoyable read.
A gifted copy was provided by Montlake Romance via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
August 17, 2015
Ryan was adorable, I know that's not a manly trait but he was so sweet and the boy just doesn't know how to go about dating, it was funny to see him try, "silence filled the air, until finally he said, “Want to have phone sex?” I liked this book both Ryan and Tara were likable characters with great chemistry.
February 3, 2017
Another good story in this series. Great Narration by Kate Rudd (audible review).
This was another fun listen. I enjoyed it as much as the first one. I did like Tara and Ryan together a lot. She brought out the conversationalist in him LOL. They had some good chemistry together.
Her back story was a bit sad and brutal but she was a survivor. There was a lot of dialogue throughout this story. Very easy story to follow along. It flowed very nicely.
As for the narration, again Kate Rudd did a fantastic job! All the men sound like men, the kids sound like kids and she has a great reading voice.
I will move on to the next book for sure.
Also, it was a free read free listen with my KU subscription. Total bonus!
This was another fun listen. I enjoyed it as much as the first one. I did like Tara and Ryan together a lot. She brought out the conversationalist in him LOL. They had some good chemistry together.
Her back story was a bit sad and brutal but she was a survivor. There was a lot of dialogue throughout this story. Very easy story to follow along. It flowed very nicely.
As for the narration, again Kate Rudd did a fantastic job! All the men sound like men, the kids sound like kids and she has a great reading voice.
I will move on to the next book for sure.
Also, it was a free read free listen with my KU subscription. Total bonus!
August 11, 2015
It Had to be Love by Tamra Baumann
Purchased: Gifted via NetGalley
My Rating: 5 of 5 Stars
Release Date: September 8th
Spoilers!
What's it all about:
With the small town of Anderson Butte and their lead Sherif, Ryan Anderson, nothing seems to fall through the crack, just like the new resident Tara Carter can’t. Tara has a past, and the one thing she thought would help her stay hidden was a small town, but with how nosy everyone seems to be her secrets start to creep back into her life with ever day that she is there, and no one would like to uncover them more than Ryan. As the two grow closer together Tara will do anything in her power to keep Ryan safe, but all he wants to do is keep her safe. Who’s stubbornness with will out in the end, and who will be the true hero of this story? Read and find out ;]
The Best Parts:
So truthfully I don’t know where to start. I loved this book. It got my blood pumping and my heart racing. I finished it in one day.
I loved the story and the characters involved because for once it wasn’t the shy girl having to come out of her shell, but the man who didn’t know how to date. It made for an interesting aspect when it came to certain thing, but the dynamic between Tara and Ryan worked so well. Her sass and his stubbornness melded so well that even when she broke his heart he still was there for her. One thing I loved about this book more than the first was the formation of a back story and a real plot. Granted the first book had some action, but most of it was winning the girl back. This book there was romance, but also an underlying story happening at the same time, and it wasn’t just the main character not knowing it was happening like the first book, but us getting to see all that was happening. I think that helped with a lot of the confusion Tara had with her feeling since they were laid out with the situation at hand, otherwise I would have been confused and as curious as Ryan was. Of course the best for last though was the sex. Their frustration with each other just prolonged the inevitable, but made it so much better, and I was happy about their first sexual encounter as it wasn’t tamed, but wild. Something they both needed, but even after that it wasn’t something I was looking to happen again, and when it did I was happy, but this story wasn’t about their sexual relationship, but a physical and trusting one and I think the author did a great job with giving us that satisfaction.
The Worst Parts:
Um so there wasn’t any part to this book that I didn’t like. I mean there were a few characters I hated, but not because of how they were written, but because their characters were horrible people. The top two on my list? Spencer and the Mayor. I hated them both. Spencer s the ex who is psycho, and really isn’t in the book that much, but the Mayor is just the underlying character that every one else’s action are based off of. We saw this a lot in the first book, and I hated him, but in this one I was so happy when Tara stood up for herself and everyone else in the town. I really want the Mayor to redeem himself in one of the other books for the series, but I just don’t know if that’s possible with the way he is.
Final thoughts:
So I loved this book as you can see. I loved the first one as well. What I can’t wait for now is the third book It Had to be Fate to come out. I fell in love with Tamra’s writing after the first book, and have been in such a rut this last week with reading that I found out this book was coming out in September and just had to have it. It consumed my heart and soul, and that was just what I needed!
Purchased: Gifted via NetGalley
My Rating: 5 of 5 Stars
Release Date: September 8th
Spoilers!
What's it all about:
With the small town of Anderson Butte and their lead Sherif, Ryan Anderson, nothing seems to fall through the crack, just like the new resident Tara Carter can’t. Tara has a past, and the one thing she thought would help her stay hidden was a small town, but with how nosy everyone seems to be her secrets start to creep back into her life with ever day that she is there, and no one would like to uncover them more than Ryan. As the two grow closer together Tara will do anything in her power to keep Ryan safe, but all he wants to do is keep her safe. Who’s stubbornness with will out in the end, and who will be the true hero of this story? Read and find out ;]
The Best Parts:
So truthfully I don’t know where to start. I loved this book. It got my blood pumping and my heart racing. I finished it in one day.
I loved the story and the characters involved because for once it wasn’t the shy girl having to come out of her shell, but the man who didn’t know how to date. It made for an interesting aspect when it came to certain thing, but the dynamic between Tara and Ryan worked so well. Her sass and his stubbornness melded so well that even when she broke his heart he still was there for her. One thing I loved about this book more than the first was the formation of a back story and a real plot. Granted the first book had some action, but most of it was winning the girl back. This book there was romance, but also an underlying story happening at the same time, and it wasn’t just the main character not knowing it was happening like the first book, but us getting to see all that was happening. I think that helped with a lot of the confusion Tara had with her feeling since they were laid out with the situation at hand, otherwise I would have been confused and as curious as Ryan was. Of course the best for last though was the sex. Their frustration with each other just prolonged the inevitable, but made it so much better, and I was happy about their first sexual encounter as it wasn’t tamed, but wild. Something they both needed, but even after that it wasn’t something I was looking to happen again, and when it did I was happy, but this story wasn’t about their sexual relationship, but a physical and trusting one and I think the author did a great job with giving us that satisfaction.
The Worst Parts:
Um so there wasn’t any part to this book that I didn’t like. I mean there were a few characters I hated, but not because of how they were written, but because their characters were horrible people. The top two on my list? Spencer and the Mayor. I hated them both. Spencer s the ex who is psycho, and really isn’t in the book that much, but the Mayor is just the underlying character that every one else’s action are based off of. We saw this a lot in the first book, and I hated him, but in this one I was so happy when Tara stood up for herself and everyone else in the town. I really want the Mayor to redeem himself in one of the other books for the series, but I just don’t know if that’s possible with the way he is.
Final thoughts:
So I loved this book as you can see. I loved the first one as well. What I can’t wait for now is the third book It Had to be Fate to come out. I fell in love with Tamra’s writing after the first book, and have been in such a rut this last week with reading that I found out this book was coming out in September and just had to have it. It consumed my heart and soul, and that was just what I needed!
September 25, 2015
It Had to Be Love by Tamra Baumann is one of those brilliant romances that remind us that no matter what kind f scars we have or are hiding from the world that we are still truly beautiful, loved, and accepted by others in our lives. We may think our family is the only one who will accept us, and then someone incredible comes into our lives and knocks down all our barries. It is then that we battle with letting go of our fears to accept the loving and caring acceptance of those we have come to trust and fall in love with. I highly recommend this beautiful romance story to all. Tamra Baumann's talent is nothing but the capturing of raw and realistic love that only happens if we let it. I definitely, look forward to reading more of her amazing novels.
It Had to Be Love is a must read for all. Readers will instantly feel a tug on their hearts and a hope for more. A beautiful woman who had been abused in the past has come to live in a small town. Here she runs into the sexy yet, amazing man who just so happens to be the sherrif. A sherriff who has stopped dating the locals and thinks that moving to another place will help him find the love he's looking for...until a wonderful yet gorgeous stranger moves into town. Knocking the wind out of his lungs and somehow he knows she's the one. The more they meet the more he has to know her. She battles with her attraction to the sexy sherriff and wonders if losing her heart to him will be a bad thing or not. The sherriff falls head over in love with this new woman. There's something about her that makes talking so easy. Will fate allow these two to find what they are looking for? I have said it before, and I will say it again. Tamra Baumann is a talented writer who brings to life her characters and stories. Her stories will forever stay with readers. After reading this first book of hers, I want to read all the others she was wonderfully spun together as well. Overall, I rate this a five out of five stars.
It Had to Be Love is a must read for all. Readers will instantly feel a tug on their hearts and a hope for more. A beautiful woman who had been abused in the past has come to live in a small town. Here she runs into the sexy yet, amazing man who just so happens to be the sherrif. A sherriff who has stopped dating the locals and thinks that moving to another place will help him find the love he's looking for...until a wonderful yet gorgeous stranger moves into town. Knocking the wind out of his lungs and somehow he knows she's the one. The more they meet the more he has to know her. She battles with her attraction to the sexy sherriff and wonders if losing her heart to him will be a bad thing or not. The sherriff falls head over in love with this new woman. There's something about her that makes talking so easy. Will fate allow these two to find what they are looking for? I have said it before, and I will say it again. Tamra Baumann is a talented writer who brings to life her characters and stories. Her stories will forever stay with readers. After reading this first book of hers, I want to read all the others she was wonderfully spun together as well. Overall, I rate this a five out of five stars.
September 2, 2015
Thank you Netgalley for the free copy in exchange for my honest review!
It Had to Be Love follows the story of Tara and Ryan on their unexpected journey to fall for each other. Tara is the new dentist in town, and Ryan is the town sheriff who has followed in his families footsteps to become such. Ryan knows Tara is hiding something but there's just something about he he finds irresistible. Tara must hide her past, not only to keep herself safe, but to also keep those she cares about safe as well. But when Tara's past begins to resurface, she must decide if she can truly trust Ryan, and she must make a huge decision about her life.
I really loved this book. I thought it was witty and fun and just all around good read. Though a beautiful story, there was still sadness and heartbreak that just makes you have to keep reading on. I loved Tara and Ryan's relationship together and the quirkiness between them. I felt they had such a great connection, in and out of the bedroom. You also can't help but love Ryan when you're an avid book reader like myself. Not very often do you see the main male character be a book lover and that just made him sexier to me. One thing that I really loved about the book was the detail and descriptions. Between the descriptions on the different environments and locations, to the way the people are described, I loved it all. I'm huge on detail when I'm reading. I love to be able to visualize while I'm reading and I felt that I could really do that with this story. I really liked Tara's story and how it unfolded. I also really liked Ryan's story and his families backstory that went back generations. I just truly loved so many things about this book! I would highly recommend!!
It Had to Be Love follows the story of Tara and Ryan on their unexpected journey to fall for each other. Tara is the new dentist in town, and Ryan is the town sheriff who has followed in his families footsteps to become such. Ryan knows Tara is hiding something but there's just something about he he finds irresistible. Tara must hide her past, not only to keep herself safe, but to also keep those she cares about safe as well. But when Tara's past begins to resurface, she must decide if she can truly trust Ryan, and she must make a huge decision about her life.
I really loved this book. I thought it was witty and fun and just all around good read. Though a beautiful story, there was still sadness and heartbreak that just makes you have to keep reading on. I loved Tara and Ryan's relationship together and the quirkiness between them. I felt they had such a great connection, in and out of the bedroom. You also can't help but love Ryan when you're an avid book reader like myself. Not very often do you see the main male character be a book lover and that just made him sexier to me. One thing that I really loved about the book was the detail and descriptions. Between the descriptions on the different environments and locations, to the way the people are described, I loved it all. I'm huge on detail when I'm reading. I love to be able to visualize while I'm reading and I felt that I could really do that with this story. I really liked Tara's story and how it unfolded. I also really liked Ryan's story and his families backstory that went back generations. I just truly loved so many things about this book! I would highly recommend!!
September 8, 2015
This is the 2nd book in the series and it is wonderful. This story is about a wonderful woman who is a dentist who has to move her dentist practice, change her name and protect herself because she is trying to protect herself from her psycho ex husband who had a lot of money and is in a mental hospital on the East Coast, she wouldn't be far from her family and in a town that no one tells anybodies secrets. She is doing really well then meets the town Sheriff who happens to be one of the founding families grandchildren, he knows that she is hiding something but he doesn't know. But she has a new home, office and life and is happy until he and she start to fall in love. She get a new puppy to keep her company. She needs to go home for her little sisters wedding in Denver and takes him with her. The is extra security and he learns everything, but someone still gets the information to her ex and he gets out of the hospital without anyone knowing and he tries to kill the both of them. I can't wait to read in the next book in the series. I have really enjoy them. So if you want a book that you can't but down, this is it.
December 1, 2021
Didn't like this story as much as the first. Like the first book, the beginning was cheesy. What I loved so much in the first book was missing in this book, and characters I was really looking forward to reuniting with made little to no appearance. The whole point of having a series like this, I feel, is being able to revisit old loved characters and build upon a strong world or setting. The plot was over dramatic as usual but kind of interesting. This is similar to the first but I didn't pick up the book for this. Once you power through the cheesy opening, excessive exposition and cliches, it does get easier and more enjoyable to read. However I felt the main characters weren't super lovable or interesting. There is also NO diversity in this series which isn't a deal breaker but would have been a HUGE plus. In total, this book is no more average or better than any other romance with the same reused lines and scenes as any other romance book.
September 8, 2015
It Had to Be Love is book two in the It Had to Be series by Tamra Bauman. I liked the first book in this series so much, I was very excited when I was given the opportunity to read this second book.
Tara Carter is hiding from her past. She moved to Anderson Butte, Colorado to reclaim her life and start over. Sheriff Ryan Anderson knows she's hiding something, and although he doesn't usually date the women in town, he makes an exception for Tara. She learns to trust again and he learns that happiness is sometimes right in front of us and we just fail to see it. There is a suspenseful plot, that you see coming but enjoy all the same. There are some cameo appearances from the characters we came to love in the first book, for me that was the Grandmother. This is a story that delivers well developed characters, an interesting story line, and of course a yummy Hero and a terrific HEA.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Tara Carter is hiding from her past. She moved to Anderson Butte, Colorado to reclaim her life and start over. Sheriff Ryan Anderson knows she's hiding something, and although he doesn't usually date the women in town, he makes an exception for Tara. She learns to trust again and he learns that happiness is sometimes right in front of us and we just fail to see it. There is a suspenseful plot, that you see coming but enjoy all the same. There are some cameo appearances from the characters we came to love in the first book, for me that was the Grandmother. This is a story that delivers well developed characters, an interesting story line, and of course a yummy Hero and a terrific HEA.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 13, 2015
Just finished the author's first book, It Had to be Him, and loved it. Looking forward to reading more about the residents of Anderson Butte , Colorado, in this 2nd book. I may have to buy it! NOTE: I purchased it for $3.99 as a pre-order and will receive it when it is published on 9/8/15. Long time to wait!
I got it and started reading it on my way home from France. I enjoyed it, as I did the first one, but it didn't seem quite so substantive as #1. I like the characters in Anderson Butte, Colorado, and want to stay in touch. The next book, It Had to be Fate, is about Casey, the sister of Meg (#1) and Ryan (#2). With only one sibling remaining, their brother, Ben, I imagine it will then be his turn to fall in love! Looking forward to the next ones.
I got it and started reading it on my way home from France. I enjoyed it, as I did the first one, but it didn't seem quite so substantive as #1. I like the characters in Anderson Butte, Colorado, and want to stay in touch. The next book, It Had to be Fate, is about Casey, the sister of Meg (#1) and Ryan (#2). With only one sibling remaining, their brother, Ben, I imagine it will then be his turn to fall in love! Looking forward to the next ones.
August 25, 2015
Loved this one! It's the second in the series but is completely stand alone! It has great writing, some really lovable characters, and just a touch of suspense that keeps you turning page after page.
To get away from the horrors her ex husband rained down on her, Tara Carter has relocated to the small town of Anderson Butte and is perfectly content seeing her patients during the day and snuggling with her new puppy at night! Town sheriff Ryan Anderson doesn't date anyone from town. Makes the break ups go a whole lot easier. Now that he's done pining over the one that got away, maybe it's time to move to a bigger city. If only the new town dentist didn't spark an interest deep within. Could she be the one for him??
This is one I highly recommend!
To get away from the horrors her ex husband rained down on her, Tara Carter has relocated to the small town of Anderson Butte and is perfectly content seeing her patients during the day and snuggling with her new puppy at night! Town sheriff Ryan Anderson doesn't date anyone from town. Makes the break ups go a whole lot easier. Now that he's done pining over the one that got away, maybe it's time to move to a bigger city. If only the new town dentist didn't spark an interest deep within. Could she be the one for him??
This is one I highly recommend!
June 7, 2017
My Musingz
GeT book! I loved Tara and Ryan, and they are fantastic together, just perfect for each other. I can't wait to read the next one in this series. ☺reading 📚!
GeT book! I loved Tara and Ryan, and they are fantastic together, just perfect for each other. I can't wait to read the next one in this series. ☺reading 📚!
November 25, 2021
Ryan the cop and Tera the dentist new in town and hiding her past.
So well written and heartwretchingly good.
So well written and heartwretchingly good.
September 8, 2017
A little dramatic at the end, but overall a great read. Kate Rudd is her usual amazing self on audio.
September 6, 2015
This was a nice reading but only to a point. Then it was plain boring.
The characters were charming but barely relatable. The two were just a bit too stereotypical and perfect which made it hard to believe they could exist. The two were beautiful and wealthy and to top it off they loved reading. They both had jobs but neither of them cared for what they did, causing me to think even more it was just too fixed by the author. Like, riding a helicopter? Really? They live half in middle class half way too out to be credible. I think I could buy Tara due to her forced change of life but the helicopter belonged to Ryan's family, who also happened to basically own the whole town. I felt like I could never really grasp who their characters were in real life and the only excuse that could save this is the eccentric small town excuse.
With that complaint out of the way but having mentioned the town, I have to say that part was quite entertaining. I laughed at every inside that happened. Raised at a small town myself, I did enjoy the atmosphere the author knew how to set.
I also enjoyed the family scenes despite again not being quite believable that a family with such a history could have siblings who shared such a warm love. It did make me forget about his abusive father and estranged mother not counting a crazy grandmother and a whole pressure to live up to the legacy. Still, the siblings and their offspring were indeed enjoyable.
The happenings used to advance the plot were also a little suspicious with the way information on Tara's past was practically spilled to Ryan despite all.
I also didn't like how intrusive Ryan acted the whole book. I did like both of the main characters—in truth there wasn't much to hate except in the powerful psycho hacker of an ex-husband, who could locate Tara with just a Google search for her name. Still, why couldn't Ryan just give her room? She wasn't even lying anymore, most of the book she just asked time until she could open up to him. I didn't feel the "she could be in danger" excuse for his behavior the author used from time to time.
I find my favorite character to be Ruth, Ryan's grandmother. It's good knowing she'll be present in the others from the series. She's smart and always has the best dialogs.
As for the development, I found it lost a bit of steam. I took forever to reach the ending because I could see what would happen after we passed the middle mark and I didn't really look forward to reading it. I did enjoy the action scenes close to the end but they didn't compensate the effort until I reached them. The super hacker psychopath husband proved to be a silly threat that would only really do anything during the climax while it was Tara's fear what drove us until then. I think with such a potential for a villain the ex-husband could have done more to keep us turning pages instead of waiting and having us skip them.
I do think this book has its value as the author tried to bring interesting elements but it doesn't deliver very well.
This ARC was received from Netgalley n exchange for a honest review.
The characters were charming but barely relatable. The two were just a bit too stereotypical and perfect which made it hard to believe they could exist. The two were beautiful and wealthy and to top it off they loved reading. They both had jobs but neither of them cared for what they did, causing me to think even more it was just too fixed by the author. Like, riding a helicopter? Really? They live half in middle class half way too out to be credible. I think I could buy Tara due to her forced change of life but the helicopter belonged to Ryan's family, who also happened to basically own the whole town. I felt like I could never really grasp who their characters were in real life and the only excuse that could save this is the eccentric small town excuse.
With that complaint out of the way but having mentioned the town, I have to say that part was quite entertaining. I laughed at every inside that happened. Raised at a small town myself, I did enjoy the atmosphere the author knew how to set.
I also enjoyed the family scenes despite again not being quite believable that a family with such a history could have siblings who shared such a warm love. It did make me forget about his abusive father and estranged mother not counting a crazy grandmother and a whole pressure to live up to the legacy. Still, the siblings and their offspring were indeed enjoyable.
The happenings used to advance the plot were also a little suspicious with the way information on Tara's past was practically spilled to Ryan despite all.
I also didn't like how intrusive Ryan acted the whole book. I did like both of the main characters—in truth there wasn't much to hate except in the powerful psycho hacker of an ex-husband, who could locate Tara with just a Google search for her name. Still, why couldn't Ryan just give her room? She wasn't even lying anymore, most of the book she just asked time until she could open up to him. I didn't feel the "she could be in danger" excuse for his behavior the author used from time to time.
I find my favorite character to be Ruth, Ryan's grandmother. It's good knowing she'll be present in the others from the series. She's smart and always has the best dialogs.
As for the development, I found it lost a bit of steam. I took forever to reach the ending because I could see what would happen after we passed the middle mark and I didn't really look forward to reading it. I did enjoy the action scenes close to the end but they didn't compensate the effort until I reached them. The super hacker psychopath husband proved to be a silly threat that would only really do anything during the climax while it was Tara's fear what drove us until then. I think with such a potential for a villain the ex-husband could have done more to keep us turning pages instead of waiting and having us skip them.
I do think this book has its value as the author tried to bring interesting elements but it doesn't deliver very well.
This ARC was received from Netgalley n exchange for a honest review.
September 9, 2015
http://www.njkinnysblog.com/2015/09/a...
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
It Had To Be Love by Tamra Baumann intrigued me by its lovely, feel good cover and the blurb too is very interesting and had me intrigued to pick up the book!
Set is a small fictional town of Anderson Butte, this is the story of Tara, the new dentist in town who is efficient and yet very mysterious and the town Sheriff, Ryan Anderson is sure that she is hiding something. Unable to make her spill her secret, he is also very attracted towards her.
While Tara feels butterflies in her stomach everytime Ryan is nearby, she also knows that nothing can come of this romance because of the horrible secret she is hiding and which makes it uncertain how long she will remain at one place at any given time.
What is this secret and will Tara and Ryan ever get to confess their feelings for each other?
I loved this book right from the start. Despite being part of a series, I didn't feel like I was missing anything. A story that works just as beautifully when read as a standalone or in sequence, I enjoyed the small town dynamics, the lovely and caring town folk who are nosy, gossipy but still caring. The protagonists had me intrigued right from the start and I loved Tara and Ryan. Playing matchmaker even when the author had still not given any clue that they would fall for each other, I was giddy with happiness when sparks flew between them! LOL
The suspense is maintained beautifully and revealed bit by bit. There is a treasure mystery also going on and the map and treasure hunt added further appeal to this already engrossing story.
I enjoyed the heartfelt romance between Tara and Ryan and especially adored Ryan. He is so patient, honourable and a dream lover that every woman wishes for. His maturity and understanding had me admiring his patience in winning Tara over and convincing her to take a chance at life with him.
The other Anderson family members were also interesting and people who soon became adorable. The Anderson family is full of secrets and are intriguing bunch of people. I am eager to read their stories too and will be checking out the first book in this series, It Had To Be Him soon.
All in all, It Had To Be Love is a story that has action, romance, suspense, treasure hunt, heartfelt emotional play and cute family dynamics that had me enjoying this book thoroughly and loving it!
4.5 out of 5 to it and recommended to all lovers of romantic suspense. I enjoyed Tamra's writing style and will be checking out her other books too.
I received an ARC from the publishers via Netgalley and I am very thankful to them. The above review is my honest and unbiased opinion and in no way influenced.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
It Had To Be Love by Tamra Baumann intrigued me by its lovely, feel good cover and the blurb too is very interesting and had me intrigued to pick up the book!
Set is a small fictional town of Anderson Butte, this is the story of Tara, the new dentist in town who is efficient and yet very mysterious and the town Sheriff, Ryan Anderson is sure that she is hiding something. Unable to make her spill her secret, he is also very attracted towards her.
While Tara feels butterflies in her stomach everytime Ryan is nearby, she also knows that nothing can come of this romance because of the horrible secret she is hiding and which makes it uncertain how long she will remain at one place at any given time.
What is this secret and will Tara and Ryan ever get to confess their feelings for each other?
I loved this book right from the start. Despite being part of a series, I didn't feel like I was missing anything. A story that works just as beautifully when read as a standalone or in sequence, I enjoyed the small town dynamics, the lovely and caring town folk who are nosy, gossipy but still caring. The protagonists had me intrigued right from the start and I loved Tara and Ryan. Playing matchmaker even when the author had still not given any clue that they would fall for each other, I was giddy with happiness when sparks flew between them! LOL
The suspense is maintained beautifully and revealed bit by bit. There is a treasure mystery also going on and the map and treasure hunt added further appeal to this already engrossing story.
I enjoyed the heartfelt romance between Tara and Ryan and especially adored Ryan. He is so patient, honourable and a dream lover that every woman wishes for. His maturity and understanding had me admiring his patience in winning Tara over and convincing her to take a chance at life with him.
The other Anderson family members were also interesting and people who soon became adorable. The Anderson family is full of secrets and are intriguing bunch of people. I am eager to read their stories too and will be checking out the first book in this series, It Had To Be Him soon.
All in all, It Had To Be Love is a story that has action, romance, suspense, treasure hunt, heartfelt emotional play and cute family dynamics that had me enjoying this book thoroughly and loving it!
4.5 out of 5 to it and recommended to all lovers of romantic suspense. I enjoyed Tamra's writing style and will be checking out her other books too.
I received an ARC from the publishers via Netgalley and I am very thankful to them. The above review is my honest and unbiased opinion and in no way influenced.
October 10, 2015
Anderson Butte, a small town in Colorado, is exactly the place where Tara needs to be. Being under the protection of the police she needs a quiet little town to start a new life under the radar for as long as she can. She was assaulted by her ex-husband which almost led to her death she still fears the day he will find her again. Tara is the new local dentist and feels very much at home in this warm little town. She keeps mostly to herself. In the evenings she loves to snuggle down on the couch with her puppy and in the mornings she often goes for a run. Tara needs to be healthy and fit for whatever may be coming for her in the future.
Ryan is the town sheriff. He doesn't like going to the dentist and when he finally shows up for his appointment he is struck by Tara's beauty. He isn't planning on staying in Anderson Butte much longer. Because he's lost his high school girlfriend to, a not so friendly, other man he wants to find a job in a bigger city like Boston. He will not date any other girls from his small town. It is not that girls aren't trying because he is a very handsome guy, but he is just not interested. One morning he is trying to catch up on Tara when she is out on her run. He startles her and before he knows it he is on the ground with a broken nose. Tara feels so guilty and brings him to the doctor's office right away. The doctor, who's Ryan's brother, is not helping very much. He is enjoying this way too much. Tara takes care of Ryan when he gets home and so their feelings start to develop...
What I loved about this story is that even though Tara has been assaulted and is still wearing the scars from this attack, she is not a whiny, sad and broken woman. In my book she is a heroine. She has overcome her fears, she's strong and she's funny. I was cheering for her when she finally faced her terror head-on!
Ryan is an Alpha male, because of being the sheriff and all, but he's also very sweet. You feel that whenever he's with his family or friends. Every character in this book got a place in my heart. The treasure hunt that was included in the story made me love it even more. It doesn't get more exciting than a real life treasure hidden somewhere. This book is a absolute must-read for everyone. It is the second story of a series but can also be read as a standalone.
Ryan is the town sheriff. He doesn't like going to the dentist and when he finally shows up for his appointment he is struck by Tara's beauty. He isn't planning on staying in Anderson Butte much longer. Because he's lost his high school girlfriend to, a not so friendly, other man he wants to find a job in a bigger city like Boston. He will not date any other girls from his small town. It is not that girls aren't trying because he is a very handsome guy, but he is just not interested. One morning he is trying to catch up on Tara when she is out on her run. He startles her and before he knows it he is on the ground with a broken nose. Tara feels so guilty and brings him to the doctor's office right away. The doctor, who's Ryan's brother, is not helping very much. He is enjoying this way too much. Tara takes care of Ryan when he gets home and so their feelings start to develop...
What I loved about this story is that even though Tara has been assaulted and is still wearing the scars from this attack, she is not a whiny, sad and broken woman. In my book she is a heroine. She has overcome her fears, she's strong and she's funny. I was cheering for her when she finally faced her terror head-on!
Ryan is an Alpha male, because of being the sheriff and all, but he's also very sweet. You feel that whenever he's with his family or friends. Every character in this book got a place in my heart. The treasure hunt that was included in the story made me love it even more. It doesn't get more exciting than a real life treasure hidden somewhere. This book is a absolute must-read for everyone. It is the second story of a series but can also be read as a standalone.
September 8, 2015
It Had To Be Love is the story of Tara and Ryan set in the wonderful, fictional town of Anderson Butte, where all of the businesses are part of one big corporation, and where everyone gets a 401(k) and health benefits, as long as they follow the rules. It's a fun, interesting concept. There is also an underlying story a la "the Hatfields and the McCoys" between the Andersons and the Grants which is exacerbated in this story by the mystery of a hidden moonshine recipe and barrels of aged whiskey! All of this, though, just serves as the setting for their wonderful, suspenseful love story.
You would expect the two least likely to get together would be a straight-laced sheriff and a woman with a secret she's keeping - but it works. Ryan has a strict "no dating in town" policy and has taken it to the point that he's decided to move in order to find a wife and start a family. But he's intrigued by the new resident of Anderson Butte who he KNOWS is keeping secrets. He can't help himself but trying to solve that mystery. I love how this relationship develops, with Tara letting little bits of her secret be revealed as she and Ryan get closer. Ryan and Tara have a wonderful repartee and the author does a great job of writing Tara's dialogue to deflect Ryan's question, and Ryan's dialogue as a character who clearly doesn't like or need to talk much. I thought his "mid-week" phone call to Tara was fantastic, because she told him that's what a good boyfriend does. It was like he was "checking the box" and it was hilarious!
There are suspenseful undertones throughout the story as Tara's secret is revealed and the suspense both draws Tara and Ryan together and pushes them apart. Add in the wrench of an old girlfriend all of a sudden available, meddling sisters (who are a wonderful addition to the comedic element of the story), and let's not forget Grandma, who is still toting her shotgun but has added night vision goggles to her arsenal. Ryan's mild-mannered personality is the perfect peace maker for all of the crazy personalities in his family and in town. A great addition to the Anderson Butte series.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
You would expect the two least likely to get together would be a straight-laced sheriff and a woman with a secret she's keeping - but it works. Ryan has a strict "no dating in town" policy and has taken it to the point that he's decided to move in order to find a wife and start a family. But he's intrigued by the new resident of Anderson Butte who he KNOWS is keeping secrets. He can't help himself but trying to solve that mystery. I love how this relationship develops, with Tara letting little bits of her secret be revealed as she and Ryan get closer. Ryan and Tara have a wonderful repartee and the author does a great job of writing Tara's dialogue to deflect Ryan's question, and Ryan's dialogue as a character who clearly doesn't like or need to talk much. I thought his "mid-week" phone call to Tara was fantastic, because she told him that's what a good boyfriend does. It was like he was "checking the box" and it was hilarious!
There are suspenseful undertones throughout the story as Tara's secret is revealed and the suspense both draws Tara and Ryan together and pushes them apart. Add in the wrench of an old girlfriend all of a sudden available, meddling sisters (who are a wonderful addition to the comedic element of the story), and let's not forget Grandma, who is still toting her shotgun but has added night vision goggles to her arsenal. Ryan's mild-mannered personality is the perfect peace maker for all of the crazy personalities in his family and in town. A great addition to the Anderson Butte series.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 5, 2015
Very good read for my 1st read by Tamra Baumann. I got this book as an ARC for an honest review through Net Galley & the publisher. I enjoyed the sweet & sad relationship between Tara & Ryan. Tara is the new young dentist in town who's in hiding from a crazy ex-husband who tried to kill her & killed her unborn child. Ryan is the towns very shy sheriff & also a member of the family who founded the town. He's got his hands full with his demanding father the Mayor & the crazy towns people digging up his families property looking for old whiskey recipes & maps t hidden barrels of expensive whiskey. After Ryan's dental apt he leave his sunglasses at her office which she returns to him at the diner where they both eat, having dinner together starts rumours that they're an item now & Ryan has stopped his self imposed ban on dating local women. What happens is that they end up spending time together under the guise of dating classes for Ryan to help him get over his shyness & be able to talk to women normally & also to help Tara get over her fear of men. When they spend a weekend at her families home for her sisters wedding they become even closer but her ex has found his way into her life again causing her to fear for her life & that of Ryan. Now the only option is to leave town again & everyone behind this time, all her family & Ryan as well with no idea as to where she'll be. Before that can happen though she decides to help little Eric(Ryan's soon to be nephew) find the hidden recipe & maps to the whiskey & she also sets Ryan up with the one person she thinks he might love, an old girlfriend that everyone thought he'd marry until she married someone else. When looking for Eric she finds her ex-husband waiting to finish her off & it's going to take everything she has to stay alive until Eric can get help. I loved how the author took us on a roller coaster ride of emotions with Tara & Ryan & I enjoyed the secondary characters in the story as well, especially Ryan's grandmother Ruth she was a hoot with her guns & her night vision goggles. I definitely recommend the book & will be looking for more in this series.
September 16, 2015
It is always fun to discover new-to-me authors to read, so when I came across Tamra Baumann’s book, It Had to Be Love, I downloaded it to my ereader and started in. And I quickly fell in love with Anderson Butte, Colorado and its inhabitants. The town excels at keeping the secrets of the celebrities that flock to its resort to hide from the world, but the good citizens are equally as good at knowing each other’s business too!
Tara Carter is the new dentist in town, and Sheriff Ryan Anderson has the gut feeling that she is hiding “something.” Before long, you find out that Tara is not hiding something, but just plain hiding. As the reader, and Ryan, learn about Tara, Tara finds herself at the same time falling in love with the town and its chief law enforcement officer. But a brutal event in her past colors her life, and threatens her relationship with Ryan.
I loved this book! The writing had a nice flow to it; Tara and Ryan had terrific chemistry that really came across the page. I am not one for spoilers, but Tara’s secret was truly heinous; you could feel the pain she went through and the fear she lives with. However, before it could become too overwhelming, this author presented some lighter moments thanks to Ryan’s straight-shooting (both with her gun and HER mouth) grandmother and meddling siblings. The hunt for the recipe and location of the town’s famous whiskey added an additional element of humor. Most of the town folks were charming as well, with the exception of the town bully, Mayor Anderson. The last name is familiar - he is Ryan’s father and their tense relationship was touched upon in the story enough so you understood some of Ryan’s reactions. However, it was not focused on at length and I found the attention it got was sufficient to the story.
So, after some cooking lessons, a discovered treasure map and some well-placed strokes of drama dabbed here and there, this book delivered a sigh-worthy finale I enjoy. I will definitely check out Ms. Baumann’s first book in this series, It Had to Be Him, featuring Ryan’s sister Meg, as well as any other books released by this author. A definite thumbs up!
Tara Carter is the new dentist in town, and Sheriff Ryan Anderson has the gut feeling that she is hiding “something.” Before long, you find out that Tara is not hiding something, but just plain hiding. As the reader, and Ryan, learn about Tara, Tara finds herself at the same time falling in love with the town and its chief law enforcement officer. But a brutal event in her past colors her life, and threatens her relationship with Ryan.
I loved this book! The writing had a nice flow to it; Tara and Ryan had terrific chemistry that really came across the page. I am not one for spoilers, but Tara’s secret was truly heinous; you could feel the pain she went through and the fear she lives with. However, before it could become too overwhelming, this author presented some lighter moments thanks to Ryan’s straight-shooting (both with her gun and HER mouth) grandmother and meddling siblings. The hunt for the recipe and location of the town’s famous whiskey added an additional element of humor. Most of the town folks were charming as well, with the exception of the town bully, Mayor Anderson. The last name is familiar - he is Ryan’s father and their tense relationship was touched upon in the story enough so you understood some of Ryan’s reactions. However, it was not focused on at length and I found the attention it got was sufficient to the story.
So, after some cooking lessons, a discovered treasure map and some well-placed strokes of drama dabbed here and there, this book delivered a sigh-worthy finale I enjoy. I will definitely check out Ms. Baumann’s first book in this series, It Had to Be Him, featuring Ryan’s sister Meg, as well as any other books released by this author. A definite thumbs up!
October 26, 2015
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley/Amazon Publishing for an honest review. "It Had to Be Love" by Tamra Baumann is book two in the (An It Had to Be Novel). This book can also be read as a standalone. This is Tara Carter and Sheriff Ryan Anderson's story.
The story takes place in the little town of Anderson Butte, Colorado. You will fall in love with this little town. Ryan is the town's sheriff but is thinking about moving away to find that special someone and settle down. Tara moved to Anderson Butte to get away from the horrors of her ex-husband. She is the town's new dentist. Tara doesn't get too close to people and has a difficult time trusting anyone. Ryan feels that she is hiding something, but is determined to figure it out.
Tara and Ryan end up fake dating. Is it really fake dating or do they have real feelings for each other? Fake dating or not there was no denying the chemistry and attraction between them. Tara has secrets that she has to keep to insure her safety. Will she tell Ryan her secrets and give them a chance at love? I genuinely loved their characters and how they interacted with each other. You will love Ryan's grandmother. Tara is a lot like her.
I enjoyed this book, the little town, and all the characters! The author does a great job in where the reader feels part of this little town. You get a steamy romance, suspense, humor, and a town treasure hunt. I couldn't put the book down until I finished! I can't wait for the next book in this series to see who is next to find love and catch up with everyone in Anderson Butte.
I loved how Tamra Baumann was able to incorporate humor, suspense, and a steamy romance in her book! I want to go back and read her other books. Tamra Baumann is now on my list of favorite authors. FYI, contains mature content. Excellent read!
https://booksnuggle.wordpress.com/
The story takes place in the little town of Anderson Butte, Colorado. You will fall in love with this little town. Ryan is the town's sheriff but is thinking about moving away to find that special someone and settle down. Tara moved to Anderson Butte to get away from the horrors of her ex-husband. She is the town's new dentist. Tara doesn't get too close to people and has a difficult time trusting anyone. Ryan feels that she is hiding something, but is determined to figure it out.
Tara and Ryan end up fake dating. Is it really fake dating or do they have real feelings for each other? Fake dating or not there was no denying the chemistry and attraction between them. Tara has secrets that she has to keep to insure her safety. Will she tell Ryan her secrets and give them a chance at love? I genuinely loved their characters and how they interacted with each other. You will love Ryan's grandmother. Tara is a lot like her.
I enjoyed this book, the little town, and all the characters! The author does a great job in where the reader feels part of this little town. You get a steamy romance, suspense, humor, and a town treasure hunt. I couldn't put the book down until I finished! I can't wait for the next book in this series to see who is next to find love and catch up with everyone in Anderson Butte.
I loved how Tamra Baumann was able to incorporate humor, suspense, and a steamy romance in her book! I want to go back and read her other books. Tamra Baumann is now on my list of favorite authors. FYI, contains mature content. Excellent read!
https://booksnuggle.wordpress.com/
March 20, 2016
I was so excited to be back in Anderson Butte. This town is filled with so many colorful characters, there is never a dull moment. This It Had to Be book focuses on Ryan, the town sheriff and Tara, the town dentist. Ryan is struggle to move on from his past, so he can have the future he desires -- wife and family, while Tara is hiding from her past.
What I loved
Tara really grew on me. The more I learned about her and what she had been through and what she was willing to give up in order to protect the people she loved, the more I admired her. She had been through so much, I was able to forgive her reticence when it came to relationships.
Ryan has got to be the sweetest guy ever. He tried so hard to break out of his comfort zone to win Tara's heart. Some of the things he said had me swooning. And his physical description -- that had me drooling.
I adored getting to know Eric and grandma better in this book. Eric already won a piece of my heart in book 1 and he earned a little more real estate there in this book. Such a sweetie! and Ruth, aka Grandma, was just everything I hope to be when I am a more mature woman - a total firecracker. She never failed to bring a smile to my face.
The overall story was good too. The romance made me swoon, the drama kept my biting my nails and all the family/town interactions kept me grinning.
What I didn't love
Not much. The one thing I love, love, loved in book one, was when the Andersons interacted. I wish there had been more of that, but what there was, I liked.
Overall - I really enjoyed this book. It was swoony, cute, funny, and I cannot wait for the next one.
**I received this book from NetGalley
What I loved
Tara really grew on me. The more I learned about her and what she had been through and what she was willing to give up in order to protect the people she loved, the more I admired her. She had been through so much, I was able to forgive her reticence when it came to relationships.
Ryan has got to be the sweetest guy ever. He tried so hard to break out of his comfort zone to win Tara's heart. Some of the things he said had me swooning. And his physical description -- that had me drooling.
I adored getting to know Eric and grandma better in this book. Eric already won a piece of my heart in book 1 and he earned a little more real estate there in this book. Such a sweetie! and Ruth, aka Grandma, was just everything I hope to be when I am a more mature woman - a total firecracker. She never failed to bring a smile to my face.
The overall story was good too. The romance made me swoon, the drama kept my biting my nails and all the family/town interactions kept me grinning.
What I didn't love
Not much. The one thing I love, love, loved in book one, was when the Andersons interacted. I wish there had been more of that, but what there was, I liked.
Overall - I really enjoyed this book. It was swoony, cute, funny, and I cannot wait for the next one.
**I received this book from NetGalley
August 22, 2015
IT HAD TO BE LOVE was certainly love for me as soon as I started this book! As soon as I met the hero, Ryan, I knew he was my kind of hero. The strong, shy and silent type always gets me. I love watching that kind of hero fall in love, and then bumble around a little about how to express himself, love fully, and get his true love to fall in love back. Ryan was all that and more.
He's also one of the Anderson siblings who we met in Book 1 of the series (It Had to Be Him) and -- although you don't need to read the books in order to understand anything -- it was so much fun seeing their interactions again. I love these siblings!
We also get to meet up again with a lot of the fun townspeople we came to love in Book 1, including Gloria, Zeke, and of course Granny.
But the story definitely belongs to Ryan and Tara. Tara brought a whole new level of secret-keeping to the quiet resort town of Anderson Butte. Her story was wonderfully engaging, and the way Ms. Baumann revealed it slowly throughout the book -- just the way secrets normally unravel -- was perfect. Tara was vulnerable enough to make us root for her, but strong enough to save herself (and others) from the demons that plagued her. She was also strong enough to pull Ryan up and into his full potential, too, as a fully connected, loving man. I love watching heroines like that.
Brava to Ms. Baumann for another page-turner and a second hit to her "It Had to Be" series! I can't wait for more about the engaging, fun family and this make-you-smile, quirky town!
He's also one of the Anderson siblings who we met in Book 1 of the series (It Had to Be Him) and -- although you don't need to read the books in order to understand anything -- it was so much fun seeing their interactions again. I love these siblings!
We also get to meet up again with a lot of the fun townspeople we came to love in Book 1, including Gloria, Zeke, and of course Granny.
But the story definitely belongs to Ryan and Tara. Tara brought a whole new level of secret-keeping to the quiet resort town of Anderson Butte. Her story was wonderfully engaging, and the way Ms. Baumann revealed it slowly throughout the book -- just the way secrets normally unravel -- was perfect. Tara was vulnerable enough to make us root for her, but strong enough to save herself (and others) from the demons that plagued her. She was also strong enough to pull Ryan up and into his full potential, too, as a fully connected, loving man. I love watching heroines like that.
Brava to Ms. Baumann for another page-turner and a second hit to her "It Had to Be" series! I can't wait for more about the engaging, fun family and this make-you-smile, quirky town!
December 31, 2015
First reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
Tara had secrets. She was on the run from an abusive past and hoped that finally she had found a place to stop.. and live her life. Ryan wanted to know what those secrets were. His interest in Tara was far from professional. As the town of Anderson Butte’s Sheriff, he wasn’t running her plates for outstanding warrants. But he was attracted and she was keeping secrets. In his opinion secrets were there for a reason, but they had to come out sooner or later when you cared about someone.
I enjoyed It Had To Be You on so many levels. It had a bit of everything that I love about reading – suspense, secrets, mystery, passion, romance and simply two fun main characters that I hoped found their way to each other honestly. I understood Tara’s need for her secrets to be kept… and her fear and terror when the one person she feared most showed up again. Ryan was a man of few words, but the ones he said mattered. His desire for Tara and his need to protect her at all costs made for a strong relationship.
Sometimes a story is simply a very good story. And this is one of those times where I think you should read about their adventure on your own. It’s a tale well worth diving into. I would recommend this story for readers of romance, suspense, mystery and anyone who just enjoys a good story.
*I received an e-ARC of It Had To Be Love from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
Tara had secrets. She was on the run from an abusive past and hoped that finally she had found a place to stop.. and live her life. Ryan wanted to know what those secrets were. His interest in Tara was far from professional. As the town of Anderson Butte’s Sheriff, he wasn’t running her plates for outstanding warrants. But he was attracted and she was keeping secrets. In his opinion secrets were there for a reason, but they had to come out sooner or later when you cared about someone.
I enjoyed It Had To Be You on so many levels. It had a bit of everything that I love about reading – suspense, secrets, mystery, passion, romance and simply two fun main characters that I hoped found their way to each other honestly. I understood Tara’s need for her secrets to be kept… and her fear and terror when the one person she feared most showed up again. Ryan was a man of few words, but the ones he said mattered. His desire for Tara and his need to protect her at all costs made for a strong relationship.
Sometimes a story is simply a very good story. And this is one of those times where I think you should read about their adventure on your own. It’s a tale well worth diving into. I would recommend this story for readers of romance, suspense, mystery and anyone who just enjoys a good story.
*I received an e-ARC of It Had To Be Love from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
May 20, 2016
1.5 stars rounded to 2.
This was a well written book, but the two MCs were too annoying to tolerate. I think if you haven't read a lot of romance, you will really enjoy this. It was a safe read, there wasn't any ow/om drama or cheating. The writing was beautiful at times, and I found the storytelling compelling. Unfortunately, I've read lots of romance and this just didn't have enough in it for me.
We have the h who has a past that's scared her into surviving, not living. And we have the H, who doesn't know if he can love anyone since his Dad never showed love to any of his kids. There was a lot of going back and forth. Should we or shouldn't we have a relationship? Should it or shouldn't it be real? Should I stay detached or should I go all in? Can I trust again or will I be lonely and bitter for the rest of my life? You get the idea. The totally romanced out reader in me found the back and forth really annoying. It's unfortunate, since I really enjoy Tamra's Baumann's writing. Maybe the third book in this series will be the charm? Only time will tell.
What I enjoyed:
1) The writing.
2) The dual povs.
3) The low drama.
4) The town meanness was definitely much less in this second book of the series. Seeing the characters from the last book was nice.
What I didn't enjoy:
1) The back and forth.
2) How weak both MCs were.
3) The resolution came at the very end, I think 98%. The angst dragged on until then and we don't even get an epilogue? :(
This was a well written book, but the two MCs were too annoying to tolerate. I think if you haven't read a lot of romance, you will really enjoy this. It was a safe read, there wasn't any ow/om drama or cheating. The writing was beautiful at times, and I found the storytelling compelling. Unfortunately, I've read lots of romance and this just didn't have enough in it for me.
We have the h who has a past that's scared her into surviving, not living. And we have the H, who doesn't know if he can love anyone since his Dad never showed love to any of his kids. There was a lot of going back and forth. Should we or shouldn't we have a relationship? Should it or shouldn't it be real? Should I stay detached or should I go all in? Can I trust again or will I be lonely and bitter for the rest of my life? You get the idea. The totally romanced out reader in me found the back and forth really annoying. It's unfortunate, since I really enjoy Tamra's Baumann's writing. Maybe the third book in this series will be the charm? Only time will tell.
What I enjoyed:
1) The writing.
2) The dual povs.
3) The low drama.
4) The town meanness was definitely much less in this second book of the series. Seeing the characters from the last book was nice.
What I didn't enjoy:
1) The back and forth.
2) How weak both MCs were.
3) The resolution came at the very end, I think 98%. The angst dragged on until then and we don't even get an epilogue? :(
August 16, 2015
It Had to Be Love by Tamra Baumann is the second book in the series so far. The first book, It Had to Be Him I found to be not as good as this one. Usually the first book is a little better, and the second book almost feels like a repeat of the first with a slightly different plot and different main characters, but not this one!! I liked this one way more than the first. I ended up reading it in one day. It was hard to put down, and I stayed up late, at that point there was only 20 or so minutes left in the book.
Tara is a strong woman who thinks of others, she has been through some horrific things in her past, but she doesn't let that stop her. She went through therapy and self defense training, and while still hiding she is still living.
Ryan is a great guy, but one who knows what he wants and won't really compromise on a lot. He wants a wife and a family, not a one night stand. Living in a small town, he can't help but decide not to date anyone in town. But maybe the new town dentist who draws him out of his shell might make him change his mind.
Tara and Ryan's story is great. Its got all the emotions, I even laughed out loud at some of the come backs that the two had for each other. I liked their senses of humor.
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review.
Tara is a strong woman who thinks of others, she has been through some horrific things in her past, but she doesn't let that stop her. She went through therapy and self defense training, and while still hiding she is still living.
Ryan is a great guy, but one who knows what he wants and won't really compromise on a lot. He wants a wife and a family, not a one night stand. Living in a small town, he can't help but decide not to date anyone in town. But maybe the new town dentist who draws him out of his shell might make him change his mind.
Tara and Ryan's story is great. Its got all the emotions, I even laughed out loud at some of the come backs that the two had for each other. I liked their senses of humor.
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review.
August 23, 2015
If you liked Tamra Baumann’s debut novel, IT HAD TO BE HIM, you will love this story even more. The second installment of Tamra Baumann’s fun and romantic series set in the beautiful rocky mountains will draw you into the secretive world of Anderson Butte and make you fall in love with it’s wonderful band of quirky characters all over again.
Tara is a strong but vulnerable heroine who doesn’t think she can find a way to move past the bad experience of a failed past relationship. Ryan is the strong, silent type that wants exactly what Tara can’t give him – a future and a family together. The journey these two go through to find what they really want from life and from each other is touching, a little nail-biting, and a whole lotta sexy.
The chemistry between the two main characters is both subtle yet electrifying all at the same time, and I found myself rooting for them to get together and stay together from the first moment they step onto the page together.
And if that isn’t enough, the revelation of another Anderson Butte secret that has been long since buried kept me turning the pages and wanting both to find out what happens in the end and NOT wanting the story to end at all!
I’m already looking forward to book 3 in the series!
Tara is a strong but vulnerable heroine who doesn’t think she can find a way to move past the bad experience of a failed past relationship. Ryan is the strong, silent type that wants exactly what Tara can’t give him – a future and a family together. The journey these two go through to find what they really want from life and from each other is touching, a little nail-biting, and a whole lotta sexy.
The chemistry between the two main characters is both subtle yet electrifying all at the same time, and I found myself rooting for them to get together and stay together from the first moment they step onto the page together.
And if that isn’t enough, the revelation of another Anderson Butte secret that has been long since buried kept me turning the pages and wanting both to find out what happens in the end and NOT wanting the story to end at all!
I’m already looking forward to book 3 in the series!
August 13, 2015
So far, except for the gym thing, he sounds like the perfect guy.
Hey, if your dad's the mayor, who could blame you for wanting to leave.
His grandma is cuckoo.
What the heck did her ex do to her?
Wow, she paid attention in that class.
Okay, now I'm really hoping someone kills Spencer. Slowly.
Does he have access to computers in the psych ward?
Geez, shut up Toby.
Yeah this is a stupid plan.
I. Want. That. Library.
Is Mike really that stupid?
This is straight out of "Philadelphia Story".
Best hot tub evah.
Hope the guards don't have voyeuristic tendencies.
Don't forget about the hang-ups, girl.
Ha, that was a funny joke.
Now I want biscuits.
Totally agree, Spencer's parents are just as guilty.
Good luck with that, Tara.
Bailey is setting off my vibes.
You might be wrong about her not having a scary ex, Tara.
His dad is feeling too powerful.
Frame it and hang it up in your bedroom, Tara.
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Hey, if your dad's the mayor, who could blame you for wanting to leave.
His grandma is cuckoo.
What the heck did her ex do to her?
Wow, she paid attention in that class.
Okay, now I'm really hoping someone kills Spencer. Slowly.
Does he have access to computers in the psych ward?
Geez, shut up Toby.
Yeah this is a stupid plan.
I. Want. That. Library.
Is Mike really that stupid?
This is straight out of "Philadelphia Story".
Best hot tub evah.
Hope the guards don't have voyeuristic tendencies.
Don't forget about the hang-ups, girl.
Ha, that was a funny joke.
Now I want biscuits.
Totally agree, Spencer's parents are just as guilty.
Good luck with that, Tara.
Bailey is setting off my vibes.
You might be wrong about her not having a scary ex, Tara.
His dad is feeling too powerful.
Frame it and hang it up in your bedroom, Tara.
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 27, 2015
I was given an ARC of It Had to Be Love from NetGalley for an honest review and this is the review.
This was a pretty good story. It had a pretty good plot and the romance was well written. I found myself laughing out loud at times when some of the characters got themselves into some of the jams the seemed to find themselves in that the sheriff had to deal with.
I also liked Ryan and Tara together. They were a cute couple and it cute how the were "fake" boyfriend and girlfriend. The chemistry between them was also well written. It was also sweet how he wanted to help her with her psycho ex problem as well once he found out what was going on. That part of the book at first I did not like how it was handled because it was to secretive and the author was making the reader play a guessing game but once it was addressed I also enjoyed that part of the book as well. I think if it would have been dealt with earlier to the reader this might have been a better book.
I am going to give this book four out of five stars.
This was a pretty good story. It had a pretty good plot and the romance was well written. I found myself laughing out loud at times when some of the characters got themselves into some of the jams the seemed to find themselves in that the sheriff had to deal with.
I also liked Ryan and Tara together. They were a cute couple and it cute how the were "fake" boyfriend and girlfriend. The chemistry between them was also well written. It was also sweet how he wanted to help her with her psycho ex problem as well once he found out what was going on. That part of the book at first I did not like how it was handled because it was to secretive and the author was making the reader play a guessing game but once it was addressed I also enjoyed that part of the book as well. I think if it would have been dealt with earlier to the reader this might have been a better book.
I am going to give this book four out of five stars.
September 8, 2015
Welcome to Anderson Butte, Colorado where love always finds a way. In the second book of the Anderson series we are faced with a mystery, so cleverly wound throughout the story, that it kept this reader glued until the book was finished. Tamra has indeed done it again with the second book in the Anderson series. In her first book, It had to Be Him, we met the gun toting granny, and a few other great characters. In this, her second book, we meet a one of a kind sheriff, a woman with a terrifying secret and get reacquainted with a special young man who will steal your heart. Tamra’s characters come to life in her books and they leave you wanting more. If you haven’t had the opportunity to read It Had to Be Him, please do yourself and this extremely talented author a favor and do. Hers is a voice that I hope speaks for a very long time.
I was gifted a copy of It Had to Be Love in exchange for an honest review. I, however, have my name on the list to purchase a copy of this book for my e-reader, in support of this wonderful author when it becomes available to the general public.
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