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Riverbend Romance #2
Pinky Promise
Kelly Bryant's young daughter wants a daddy and sets her sights on her new best friend's single father. The man may be charming, sweet, and a believer, but Kelly is embarrassed. She extracts a pinky promise from her six-year-old to stop proposing to men on her behalf.
Ian Tomlinson isn't looking for a wife but does need care for his daughter during spring break the week after his move to Riverbend. He hates to ask Kelly — and plant ideas in the girls' minds — but he's rather low on options.
How can two single parents fall in love for real with a pair of mini-matchmakers pushing from both sides — pinky promises or not?
Ian Tomlinson isn't looking for a wife but does need care for his daughter during spring break the week after his move to Riverbend. He hates to ask Kelly — and plant ideas in the girls' minds — but he's rather low on options.
How can two single parents fall in love for real with a pair of mini-matchmakers pushing from both sides — pinky promises or not?
119 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 7, 2015
81 people are currently reading
94 people want to read
About the author
Valerie Comer
87 books225 followersValerie Comer is constantly amazed that living, talking, dreaming characters appear in her mind and flow from her fingertips and, from there, to her delighted readers. She only hopes her creations enjoy their happily-ever-afters as much as she does hers, sharing rural life in western Canada with her husband, adult children, and adorable grandkids.
Valerie is a two-time USA Today bestselling author and a two-time Word Award winner. She is known for writing engaging characters, strong communities, and deep faith into her green clean romances.
CONTACTING VALERIE
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valerie@valeriecomer.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
March 28, 2015
I always enjoy Valerie Comer's books and this one was no exception. The plot is cute and the little girls are adorable. I thought the author did a really good job making the girls precocious without making them annoyingly naughty; I appreciated that they were obedient even while trying to figure out how to get their parents together. I did find myself wishing that it were a full-length novel rather than a novella because there was a lot more I wanted to know about the two main characters. I wanted more backstory on both of them, more communication between them, and more growth as their relationship progressed. I guess it's good to be left wanting more, and this is definitely a fun escape type of read.
March 9, 2019
This one is my favorite by this author so far. Very cute story, despite a quick case of insta-love. The two little girls were so precious and charming! I liked seeing the parental guidance too, rather than the kids running the show. That bicycle analogy! Oh, that was lovely. It was fresh and a great segue in the scene. It gave me the good chills.
Other than the insta-love, which sort of worked in this one, the thing that bothered me the most was that the author tooted her own horn about a different series of hers: "She was still in the midst of that great Farm Fresh Romance series." That was a bit of poor taste, there.
Setting that one line aside, this book's a charmer and made me want to check out the next one in the series.
Other than the insta-love, which sort of worked in this one, the thing that bothered me the most was that the author tooted her own horn about a different series of hers: "She was still in the midst of that great Farm Fresh Romance series." That was a bit of poor taste, there.
Setting that one line aside, this book's a charmer and made me want to check out the next one in the series.
July 30, 2024
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️& 3/4 (3.75 stars) rounded up to 4
Read: July 2024
Format: Kindle e-Book
Challenge Prompt: CNL’s #1 of 50 - “a title starting with the letter P”
Book #72 of 2024: I loved the sweet little girls in this story as well as the single parents. It was a bit corny at times and it all happened too fast without really having any dates or time alone. But sometimes a little corn is good and it suited me just fine on a day that I just needed lighthearted and a big ol’ HEA!!!
Read: July 2024
Format: Kindle e-Book
Challenge Prompt: CNL’s #1 of 50 - “a title starting with the letter P”
Book #72 of 2024: I loved the sweet little girls in this story as well as the single parents. It was a bit corny at times and it all happened too fast without really having any dates or time alone. But sometimes a little corn is good and it suited me just fine on a day that I just needed lighthearted and a big ol’ HEA!!!
April 18, 2018
I so enjoyed this story of two little girls who immediately become best friends and decide their single parents need to marry each other to make their world just right!
What fun these precocious 6 year olds bring to a great, Godly romance!! Single parents, Kelly and Ian have no idea what c couple of young girls can accomplish when they put their minds to it!
What fun these precocious 6 year olds bring to a great, Godly romance!! Single parents, Kelly and Ian have no idea what c couple of young girls can accomplish when they put their minds to it!
June 2, 2021
While both adult main characters are Christians and in the same age group, they are opposites in a few things.
Also because they are adults, they talk and work through misunderstandings, even if it takes them a while. Hey, they're human.
The kids were adorable and seemed to act and speak in an age-appropriate manner.
Also because they are adults, they talk and work through misunderstandings, even if it takes them a while. Hey, they're human.
The kids were adorable and seemed to act and speak in an age-appropriate manner.
February 13, 2018
Match making kids are on the loose! Two single parents are matched up by their young daughters, Sophie and Elena, in this sweet Riverbend novella series. Sophie and Elena are delightful and make this an entertaining story.
May 7, 2022
What every child should have
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The author uses words that encapsulate you. The hope that every child needs when it comes to a family. Promises kept and fulfilled.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The author uses words that encapsulate you. The hope that every child needs when it comes to a family. Promises kept and fulfilled.
July 17, 2017
Cute predictable love novel. Two girls meet in school and hit it off. Their parents are single and the girls match their parents up, cute love story.
March 31, 2020
Sweet read
Single parents find their way to each other through their children A sweet, quick read. The storyline is well written and the characters are inviting.
Single parents find their way to each other through their children A sweet, quick read. The storyline is well written and the characters are inviting.
July 21, 2021
A very enjoyable read!
Pinky Promise has wonderful characters and the ending leaves you with a smile. A very sweet romance story. Highly recommend!
Pinky Promise has wonderful characters and the ending leaves you with a smile. A very sweet romance story. Highly recommend!
May 5, 2025
Sweet story about two single parents, neither looking for a relationship or love, but finding it in spite of themselves
March 11, 2017
Sweet little romance centered around two little girls who intuitively realize their families are out of balance and a pinky promise made to be broken.
January 11, 2016
Originally posted on Tales to Tide You Over
The second Riverbend Romance shares the town with Secretly Yours, but with the exception of an obscure mention of the mission trip can be read separately and therefore in any order. It’s a very different story as well, with the challenges having more to do with parenting and previous failed relationships than any existing bond between Kelly and Ian prior to the story. I’ve had trouble before with reading the books in a series all at once because the patterns start to stand out. This is not the case here at all. There are no patterns beyond the very basic ones of faith and love, allowing me to experience each character as a unique person, which is Valerie Comer’s strength.
This story starts with parenting. Kelly and Ian first meet over their daughters’ heads as the two girls pronounce themselves twins thanks to a teacher’s comment about their shared birthdays. It’s bad enough that this comment forces them together, but then Kelly discovers Ian is her new boss as well, making her own interest, and that of her daughter Elena, even more complicated.
It’s not enough to deal with a workplace romance and pressure from two young girls eager for a complete family, though. As the novella progresses, Ian has to examine his own life and to recognize how his first marriage failed before he’s ready to hear how God is answering his prayers in Kelly for all he prays about the question. Kelly has her own hesitations as well, knowing not just her heart is at risk in this, fears Ian’s behavior plays into all too well.
The character growth within the story is strong and the characters are endearing. Still, while I loved the ending, this one felt a little rushed to me. There is easily enough story for a longer work, but at the same time, I enjoyed the story I got so maybe I just wanted more time with them. The character nuances are strong, the girls are delightful and realistic, and I loved both the inclusion of the extended families and how their parents had very different reactions to the possibility of Kelly and Ian falling in love. I think, of everything, my favorite part was Ian’s realization of his own flaws because it’s a real growth point.
There’s a lot to enjoy in this novella, and I’m eager to read the next one, if only to see what other distinct stories Valerie Comer has to tell about this town.
The second Riverbend Romance shares the town with Secretly Yours, but with the exception of an obscure mention of the mission trip can be read separately and therefore in any order. It’s a very different story as well, with the challenges having more to do with parenting and previous failed relationships than any existing bond between Kelly and Ian prior to the story. I’ve had trouble before with reading the books in a series all at once because the patterns start to stand out. This is not the case here at all. There are no patterns beyond the very basic ones of faith and love, allowing me to experience each character as a unique person, which is Valerie Comer’s strength.
This story starts with parenting. Kelly and Ian first meet over their daughters’ heads as the two girls pronounce themselves twins thanks to a teacher’s comment about their shared birthdays. It’s bad enough that this comment forces them together, but then Kelly discovers Ian is her new boss as well, making her own interest, and that of her daughter Elena, even more complicated.
It’s not enough to deal with a workplace romance and pressure from two young girls eager for a complete family, though. As the novella progresses, Ian has to examine his own life and to recognize how his first marriage failed before he’s ready to hear how God is answering his prayers in Kelly for all he prays about the question. Kelly has her own hesitations as well, knowing not just her heart is at risk in this, fears Ian’s behavior plays into all too well.
The character growth within the story is strong and the characters are endearing. Still, while I loved the ending, this one felt a little rushed to me. There is easily enough story for a longer work, but at the same time, I enjoyed the story I got so maybe I just wanted more time with them. The character nuances are strong, the girls are delightful and realistic, and I loved both the inclusion of the extended families and how their parents had very different reactions to the possibility of Kelly and Ian falling in love. I think, of everything, my favorite part was Ian’s realization of his own flaws because it’s a real growth point.
There’s a lot to enjoy in this novella, and I’m eager to read the next one, if only to see what other distinct stories Valerie Comer has to tell about this town.
April 13, 2015
Title: PINKY PROMISE
Author: Valerie Comer
Publisher: GreenWords Media
April 2015
ASIN: B00UULL89G
Genre: Romance novella
Kelly Bryant's young daughter wants a daddy and sets her sights on her new best friend's single father. The man may be charming, sweet, and a believer, but Kelly is embarrassed. She extracts a pinky promise from her six-year-old to stop proposing to men on her behalf.
Ian Tomlinson isn't looking for a wife but does need care for his daughter during spring break the week after his move to Riverbend. He hates to ask Kelly — and plant ideas in the girls' minds — but he's rather low on options.
How can two single parents fall in love for real with a pair of mini-matchmakers pushing from both sides — pinky promises or not?
PINKY PROMISE is the second book in Ms. Comer’s new series, Riverbend. I enjoyed getting to know Ian and Kelly. Both Ian and Kelly are single parents, and Kelly’s young daughter is desperate for a daddy, proposing to all the men she meets on behalf of her mother. Kelly and her daughter are both free-spirits while Ian is more organized, straight-laced, and single focused. He is afraid he’ll crush Kelly’s personality like he did with his first wife. But that doesn’t stop him from moving fast. Kelly doesn’t even know what’s happened before he is deeply involved in her life.
I would’ve liked it if the romance was slowed down some. It was too much too soon and seemed to go against Ian’s think-things-through personality. Especially considering Ian’s history—he should’ve slowed things down considerably. Also, Kelly’s backstory and the way she responded to Ian seemed as if she was in danger of falling for the same trap twice.
Not a bad story. Well written. I would recommend it with the reservations above.
3.5 stars. Available in ebook. 99 pages.
Author: Valerie Comer
Publisher: GreenWords Media
April 2015
ASIN: B00UULL89G
Genre: Romance novella
Kelly Bryant's young daughter wants a daddy and sets her sights on her new best friend's single father. The man may be charming, sweet, and a believer, but Kelly is embarrassed. She extracts a pinky promise from her six-year-old to stop proposing to men on her behalf.
Ian Tomlinson isn't looking for a wife but does need care for his daughter during spring break the week after his move to Riverbend. He hates to ask Kelly — and plant ideas in the girls' minds — but he's rather low on options.
How can two single parents fall in love for real with a pair of mini-matchmakers pushing from both sides — pinky promises or not?
PINKY PROMISE is the second book in Ms. Comer’s new series, Riverbend. I enjoyed getting to know Ian and Kelly. Both Ian and Kelly are single parents, and Kelly’s young daughter is desperate for a daddy, proposing to all the men she meets on behalf of her mother. Kelly and her daughter are both free-spirits while Ian is more organized, straight-laced, and single focused. He is afraid he’ll crush Kelly’s personality like he did with his first wife. But that doesn’t stop him from moving fast. Kelly doesn’t even know what’s happened before he is deeply involved in her life.
I would’ve liked it if the romance was slowed down some. It was too much too soon and seemed to go against Ian’s think-things-through personality. Especially considering Ian’s history—he should’ve slowed things down considerably. Also, Kelly’s backstory and the way she responded to Ian seemed as if she was in danger of falling for the same trap twice.
Not a bad story. Well written. I would recommend it with the reservations above.
3.5 stars. Available in ebook. 99 pages.
December 27, 2016
Kelly and Ian aren't immune to the machinations of their tiny matchmakers--a cute and sweet story
February 16, 2017
Twins?
What happens when your new boss has a daughter the same exact age as you do, and they share birthdays? Ian and Kelly are being pushed together by their 6 year old daughters. The girls are best friends and want nothing more than a complete family. There is an attraction but neither Ian or Kelly are sure about a relationship at this time in their lives.
What happens when your new boss has a daughter the same exact age as you do, and they share birthdays? Ian and Kelly are being pushed together by their 6 year old daughters. The girls are best friends and want nothing more than a complete family. There is an attraction but neither Ian or Kelly are sure about a relationship at this time in their lives.
April 19, 2016
What a funny, cute story!
Kelly Bryant doesn’t know what to do with her daughter Elena, after the child meets Sophie Tomlinson. Not only does Elena and Sophie share a birthdate, but they want to share even more . . .
When Elena latches onto Sophie — and Sophie’s dad, who happens to be Kelly’s new boss, it puts Kelly in a tough position. When Ian is forced to ask Kelly to care for his daughter during spring break . . . well, let’s just say it’s things are about to get interesting!
Don’t worry; I’m not about to reveal any spoilers. I wouldn’t want to ruin the book for you. You should get a copy and read it. As a matter of fact, you can get this story, along with the first story (reviewed yesterday) absolutely free today! So don’t wait! Get it — and read it.
Valerie Comer writes wonderful romance stories! I enjoy them so much, I have digital–and paper–copies of all of them!
Will Kelly and Ian become a family? Read Pinky Promise — and find out.
Happy Reading!
God bless you!
September 6, 2016
I received this novella as a gift when I subscribed to Valerie Comer’s newsletter, and it turned out to be a sweet treat, just what I needed. I’d already read the first book of this series, Secretly Yours, a while ago, so I expected an enjoyable story. What I didn’t expect was to fall in love with two precocious, unrelated “twins.” Elena and Sophie stole the story, but they’re such adorable scene-stealers, they made my day.
This is a novella, not a full novel, so the timeline is tight, but it didn’t feel rushed. The inevitable romance between Kelly and Ian seemed realistic. Sometimes love blooms quickly, as I know from experience, and I loved the journey from initial attraction, through doubts, to the happy ending.
I had to chuckle at the author’s blatant product placement, a mention of her Farm Fresh series. It fit into the story, so why not?
This lighthearted read took only a few hours to read, but Pinky Promise made those hours enjoyable. This book earns five stars from me.
This is a novella, not a full novel, so the timeline is tight, but it didn’t feel rushed. The inevitable romance between Kelly and Ian seemed realistic. Sometimes love blooms quickly, as I know from experience, and I loved the journey from initial attraction, through doubts, to the happy ending.
I had to chuckle at the author’s blatant product placement, a mention of her Farm Fresh series. It fit into the story, so why not?
This lighthearted read took only a few hours to read, but Pinky Promise made those hours enjoyable. This book earns five stars from me.
April 7, 2015
This is another delightful read from Valerie. I fell in love with the characters from the first pages, especially the adorable six year old girls who are determined that their parents should be a couple so they can be sisters. Once again, Valerie tells a wonderful story of second chances and people who are learning to trust again, not only each other, but trust in God. I was given an e-book copy of this story in return for an honest review, and this is another one that from this author that I definitely recommend.
April 7, 2015
Pinky Promise by Valerie Comer is the second seasonal novella about Riverbend.that deals with two parents learning to trust again and believe in God's love.
I loved this novella and the antics of two six
year old girls,that decide they want their parents to marry .
It is cute to see them act as matchmakers..
This novella's is well written,flows well and urges you to finish this in one setting.
As usual, Valerie Comer delivers and I await her next book.
A copy was given in exchange for an honest review,
I loved this novella and the antics of two six
year old girls,that decide they want their parents to marry .
It is cute to see them act as matchmakers..
This novella's is well written,flows well and urges you to finish this in one setting.
As usual, Valerie Comer delivers and I await her next book.
A copy was given in exchange for an honest review,
August 3, 2015
Book Two in the Riverbend Romance series. Kelly was on her own to raise her daughter, Elena, since birth. Ian and daughter, Sophie, moved to town. Turns out that the girls are "twins" as they have the same birthday. Ian turns out to be Kelly's new boss. The girls hope that their parents can come together in a romantic way. Kelly pinky promises her daughter to never bring that idea up. Overall a great quick read with a Christian storyline.
March 29, 2015
I had the honor to review this book for the author. When Elena and Sophie meet at school and become best friends their life's will change. The girls bring there parents together in a special way. It's amazing watching these four people become so close. You will feel God working on this relationship. Beautiful story you will finish in one sitting,
November 23, 2015
Double trouble
This sweet story has two cute little girls being raised by single parents who desperately want their parents to get married. It was love at first sight for their parents but of course complications arose and I liked the way the author had the characters work through the conflict. Strong Christian elements but not preachy. Very enjoyable!
This sweet story has two cute little girls being raised by single parents who desperately want their parents to get married. It was love at first sight for their parents but of course complications arose and I liked the way the author had the characters work through the conflict. Strong Christian elements but not preachy. Very enjoyable!
June 20, 2016
Writing was fine. Plot a tad too perfect. Love at first sight, hesitation gone by second meeting, first fight without any dialogue, solved independently, everyone loves everyone and they live happily ever after. It was a good "brain candy" read but left me wanting character development, conflict and realistic resolution. Maybe too high of an order for such a short book.
March 30, 2015
A sweet Christian romance. Two precocious children playing matchmaker. It is a quick read with delightful characters. Another great read by this author. I look forward to reading more of her work. I was given a copy of this book for this honest review.
April 15, 2015
Very sweet
I really enjoyed the sweet premise of the two little girls with single parents. The characters are interesting. Each parent with a heart break in their past. And a little girl full of love and enthusiasm.
I really enjoyed the sweet premise of the two little girls with single parents. The characters are interesting. Each parent with a heart break in their past. And a little girl full of love and enthusiasm.
January 27, 2016
Valerie's stories are so down to earth. I love them! Two little girls became neighbors and "Twins" best friends. One has a dad, one has a mom. Of course, they have to plot to marry their parents to each other. Written with lots of humor, this novella was very charming.
May 20, 2016
Cute kids, sweet story, but the character arcs were lacking at best. First the guy is a perfectionist who is bothered by mess and color and then, out of nowhere, the issues are never acknowledged again. Just because it's a novella doesn't mean the characters can't grow!
October 27, 2016
Bah! I adore the fun characters Comer always creates, and this series is no exception, but I am torn because, though this was meant to only be a novella, another 10-20 pages could have given it some real, firmly planted, legs to stand on. There was so much more potential here.
December 23, 2015
Book 2 of 5
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews