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Fireflies #1
Love Built to Last: Fireflies ~ Book 1
She can’t let go of her dead husband…
Maddie Kincaid believes her late husband Jack gives her advice on everything from ordering a pizza to hiring a carpenter, so when she finds Caleb Walker’s business card on Jack’s desk, she’s convinced that he’s the guy to remodel her kitchen.
He can’t decide if she’s worth the risk…
Caleb is a single father and protecting his young son means avoiding romantic entanglements. But there’s heat in every kitchen, and sparks ignite between Caleb and Maddie—until disaster strikes.
When Jack goes silent, Maddie’s guilt consumes her, and it looks as if she and Caleb will never find their happily-ever-after—at least, not without a little help from Jack…
Maddie Kincaid believes her late husband Jack gives her advice on everything from ordering a pizza to hiring a carpenter, so when she finds Caleb Walker’s business card on Jack’s desk, she’s convinced that he’s the guy to remodel her kitchen.
He can’t decide if she’s worth the risk…
Caleb is a single father and protecting his young son means avoiding romantic entanglements. But there’s heat in every kitchen, and sparks ignite between Caleb and Maddie—until disaster strikes.
When Jack goes silent, Maddie’s guilt consumes her, and it looks as if she and Caleb will never find their happily-ever-after—at least, not without a little help from Jack…
- GenresRomance
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 20, 2015
6 people are currently reading
456 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Ricard Claro
24 books29 followersLisa Ricard Claro is an award-winning author and Pushcart Prize nominee whose work is published across multiple media to include articles, essays, short stories, children’s educational books, and her hands-down favorite: melt-your-heart Romance novels featuring unforgettable characters who tangle their lives and their hearts on the road to a life-changing love.
After years of spinning her stories from a landlocked Southern town, Lisa heeded the call of her inner mermaid and moved to the beach with her husband, cat, and two dogs, because nothing soothes her spirit and sparks her creativity like saltwater and sand. Margaritas are also a plus, because mermaids love that salty stuff!
Lisa also has a heart for rescues, and you’ll find a rescued pet companion in every one of her books. After all, even if messy and covered in fur, love is what life is all about.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
June 9, 2015
I was never much of a romance reader, although I did follow several of Janet Dailey’s titles. Nothing against romance, I was just busy with other genres. But when I saw that Lisa Richard Claro’s new book Love Built to Last was hot off the presses, I remembered her winning short story published in a national magazine’s romance contest a couple of years ago. That story grabbed me and kept me reading to the very end. I thought I’d give her romance, first in an upcoming series, a chance. I was not disappointed.
Claro’s characters aren’t stereotypes, but instead are sincere and very human folk. Caleb is a handsome man for sure, but his good looks are overpowered by his loving attention to his small son and his interaction with his amiable family. Caleb, himself a widower who lost his young wife to cancer, builds cabinets, furniture and remodels houses. Maddy, who also lost her husband to death, spends a good deal of time pushing her glasses up on her nose like the school teacher she is. She also believes that husband Jack speaks to her from the grave by letting her find a certain card, ad, note, or flyer on his cluttered desk. When she wants an answer she goes to the desk to “draw a card” so to speak from the deck of pages he left behind. Their relationship begins when Caleb starts the job of modernizing her old country house’s kitchen left from the 1970s.
The idea that the dead could talk to the living might be clichéd or overused in a lesser author’s hands, but Claro’s writing is tight and authentic making the reader a believer from the very beginning. Her rapid fire dialogue sprinkled with Southern snap keeps the story sharp. Believable and razor sharp imagery such as “one kiss, and she backpedaled like a politician talking taxes” displays Claro’s Southern background and clever wit.
While there are definitely a few sensual scenes, tasteful ones, they don’t overpower the story nor are they the main focus of the tale. This book is tightly woven with family relationships, active children, and lots of animals that make the story comfortable and as homey feeling as a breakfast with hot grits. Lisa Claro is a writer to watch and new readers will become instant fans waiting for the next book in the Fireflies series.
Claro’s characters aren’t stereotypes, but instead are sincere and very human folk. Caleb is a handsome man for sure, but his good looks are overpowered by his loving attention to his small son and his interaction with his amiable family. Caleb, himself a widower who lost his young wife to cancer, builds cabinets, furniture and remodels houses. Maddy, who also lost her husband to death, spends a good deal of time pushing her glasses up on her nose like the school teacher she is. She also believes that husband Jack speaks to her from the grave by letting her find a certain card, ad, note, or flyer on his cluttered desk. When she wants an answer she goes to the desk to “draw a card” so to speak from the deck of pages he left behind. Their relationship begins when Caleb starts the job of modernizing her old country house’s kitchen left from the 1970s.
The idea that the dead could talk to the living might be clichéd or overused in a lesser author’s hands, but Claro’s writing is tight and authentic making the reader a believer from the very beginning. Her rapid fire dialogue sprinkled with Southern snap keeps the story sharp. Believable and razor sharp imagery such as “one kiss, and she backpedaled like a politician talking taxes” displays Claro’s Southern background and clever wit.
While there are definitely a few sensual scenes, tasteful ones, they don’t overpower the story nor are they the main focus of the tale. This book is tightly woven with family relationships, active children, and lots of animals that make the story comfortable and as homey feeling as a breakfast with hot grits. Lisa Claro is a writer to watch and new readers will become instant fans waiting for the next book in the Fireflies series.
June 11, 2015
Another man might be put off to find that a pretty, young widow believes her dead husband still communicates with her. But not Caleb Walker, the handsome and hunky carpenter that Maddie Kinkaid hires to renovate her kitchen. He’s a widow, too, and though he’s protective of his son, he’s not quite able to protect his heart from Maddie’s charms. But Maddie’s torn between the new feelings stirred up by Caleb and the comfortable feelings she carries still for Jack, the man she lost. And just when Maddie thinks this new romance might work out, catastrophe strikes. Is Maddie’s dead husband, Jack, keeping them apart?
Or is it Maddie?
In Lisa Ricard Claro’s debut romance, LOVE BUILT TO LAST, the author deftly crafts a sweetly Southern story of holding on and letting go. And you’ll want to hold on to Maddie and Caleb, plus the whole cast of characters, including the charming rescue pooch, Pirate, long after the last page. (Good thing it’s the first in the Fireflies series!)
Or is it Maddie?
In Lisa Ricard Claro’s debut romance, LOVE BUILT TO LAST, the author deftly crafts a sweetly Southern story of holding on and letting go. And you’ll want to hold on to Maddie and Caleb, plus the whole cast of characters, including the charming rescue pooch, Pirate, long after the last page. (Good thing it’s the first in the Fireflies series!)
May 18, 2015
Loved it! The characters are beautifully drawn. Cal and Maddie's journey to find love is sweet and touching. I couldn't put it down!
January 3, 2017
OMG—I totally LOVED this book. It is a romance, but so much more. It is a realistic portrayal of human emotions and psychology. There is TJ, an adorable, precocious 5 -year-old boy who stole my heart. A full cast of supportive and loving families and friends, and two people who have lost the first loves of their lives and are having a hard time moving on.
Maddie Kinkaid’s husband, Frank, died in a car accident—they’d had a fight that morning before he left for work and she had got her “stubborn on” and hadn’t been willing to make up. He was killed so she never got to make up and she never got to say goodbye. She is riddled with guilt and has never been able to let him go. Maddie has no relationship with her parents, but Frank’s family have become her family and they love her unconditionally.
Caleb Walker had watched his wife die with cancer, and now he was raising his 5-year-old son TJ by himself. He is a dedicated father, who is determined to put the best interests of his son first. Caleb has a strong connection with his family.
When these two meet, the unexpected attraction is undeniable, but how do they get over their past?
Lisa Ricard Claro writes with emotion, sensitivity and humor. Maddie and Caleb and TJ slammed into my heart from the get go, but the secondary characters were just as delightful. I smiled—even laughed out loud; I felt sad, anxious and delighted. The description and dialogue was so authentic, I felt like I was there, sharing their lives.
There were only two things that I didn’t like about the book—#1- I couldn’t read it fast enough, because I became so involved and wanted to know what would happen next. I even broke my cardinal rule and read it during the day, which indicates that it is a great book because I usually only read when I go to bed at night. #2—I didn’t want it to end; but of course, it had to.
I read many books that I really enjoy, but few that grab my heart like this one did. I love this author’s style and will definitely be reading more of her books.
Maddie Kinkaid’s husband, Frank, died in a car accident—they’d had a fight that morning before he left for work and she had got her “stubborn on” and hadn’t been willing to make up. He was killed so she never got to make up and she never got to say goodbye. She is riddled with guilt and has never been able to let him go. Maddie has no relationship with her parents, but Frank’s family have become her family and they love her unconditionally.
Caleb Walker had watched his wife die with cancer, and now he was raising his 5-year-old son TJ by himself. He is a dedicated father, who is determined to put the best interests of his son first. Caleb has a strong connection with his family.
When these two meet, the unexpected attraction is undeniable, but how do they get over their past?
Lisa Ricard Claro writes with emotion, sensitivity and humor. Maddie and Caleb and TJ slammed into my heart from the get go, but the secondary characters were just as delightful. I smiled—even laughed out loud; I felt sad, anxious and delighted. The description and dialogue was so authentic, I felt like I was there, sharing their lives.
There were only two things that I didn’t like about the book—#1- I couldn’t read it fast enough, because I became so involved and wanted to know what would happen next. I even broke my cardinal rule and read it during the day, which indicates that it is a great book because I usually only read when I go to bed at night. #2—I didn’t want it to end; but of course, it had to.
I read many books that I really enjoy, but few that grab my heart like this one did. I love this author’s style and will definitely be reading more of her books.
December 19, 2015
Love Built to Last is Lisa Ricard Claro’s first published novel, however she has had many other works published. It is the first book in the Fireflies series but it is a standalone; there is no cliffhanger – yay for that!
I read all kinds of romance, from sweet to erotic, and I like them all for different reasons. I would call Love Built to Last women’s fiction with heavy emphasis on romance. If you are looking for a wonderful story to read, with lots of heat but no explicit sex scenes, I highly recommend this book. This is a book where the anticipation and tension between Maddie and Caleb made the story that much more compelling for me.
This book touched on all of my emotions. I cried and I laughed and I felt frustrated at times when Maddie and Caleb let things keep them apart. A book is a winner for me when it makes me feel all of these things so deeply.
The blurb for the book is very accurate so I won’t restate the story. I’ll just say that I love the way it unfolds and the depth of Maddie and Caleb’s characters. Lisa’s writing is so deliciously descriptive that I could easily see in my mind what the characters were seeing, doing and feeling.
There is an excellent and entertaining cast of secondary characters, including meddling, matchmaking families. Given that this is the first of three books in the Fireflies series, I expect we will be seeing more of them.
I feel privileged to be the first ARC reader of this book but that did not influence my feelings or review. In fact, because I have met Lisa, I was afraid of what I would do if I didn’t like Love Built to Last. I should not have worried; it’s a heartwarming story and I loved it.
I read all kinds of romance, from sweet to erotic, and I like them all for different reasons. I would call Love Built to Last women’s fiction with heavy emphasis on romance. If you are looking for a wonderful story to read, with lots of heat but no explicit sex scenes, I highly recommend this book. This is a book where the anticipation and tension between Maddie and Caleb made the story that much more compelling for me.
This book touched on all of my emotions. I cried and I laughed and I felt frustrated at times when Maddie and Caleb let things keep them apart. A book is a winner for me when it makes me feel all of these things so deeply.
The blurb for the book is very accurate so I won’t restate the story. I’ll just say that I love the way it unfolds and the depth of Maddie and Caleb’s characters. Lisa’s writing is so deliciously descriptive that I could easily see in my mind what the characters were seeing, doing and feeling.
There is an excellent and entertaining cast of secondary characters, including meddling, matchmaking families. Given that this is the first of three books in the Fireflies series, I expect we will be seeing more of them.
I feel privileged to be the first ARC reader of this book but that did not influence my feelings or review. In fact, because I have met Lisa, I was afraid of what I would do if I didn’t like Love Built to Last. I should not have worried; it’s a heartwarming story and I loved it.
September 20, 2016
Maddie lost her husband 4 years ago and can't let go of him. Any time that she has a decision to make she asks her husband, Jack, what she should do. She gets his answer by reaching into the pile of papers still on his desk and pulling out a sheet. She believes that his answer is on the page she pulls out. She meets Caleb when she hires him to renovate her kitchen. Jack told her he was the best man for the job so that's who she used. They are both surprised by the attraction they feel for each other.
When I started reading this book I thought Maddie was off her rocker but I soon saw that she was having a hard time letting go of her husband after he died. I felt very sorry for her and her loss but can't say I actually liked her. Caleb, on the other hand, was a very good and caring man. I liked the way he understood Maddie's problem of wanting to hang on to her husband. He was also a great father to his young son, CJ. I loved the secondary characters and how they helped move the story along. CJ was the cutest little boy who was so attached to Maddie's dog, Pirate, that I liked every scene with them together. Maddie's in-laws were great in pushing her to move forward with her life. Her mother-in-law and mother were a hoot as matchmakers.
This book covers the sensitive subject of how hard it is to survive after losing a loved-one. But if we let it happen, we can find love again.
Please note I received this book in exchange for my honest review.
When I started reading this book I thought Maddie was off her rocker but I soon saw that she was having a hard time letting go of her husband after he died. I felt very sorry for her and her loss but can't say I actually liked her. Caleb, on the other hand, was a very good and caring man. I liked the way he understood Maddie's problem of wanting to hang on to her husband. He was also a great father to his young son, CJ. I loved the secondary characters and how they helped move the story along. CJ was the cutest little boy who was so attached to Maddie's dog, Pirate, that I liked every scene with them together. Maddie's in-laws were great in pushing her to move forward with her life. Her mother-in-law and mother were a hoot as matchmakers.
This book covers the sensitive subject of how hard it is to survive after losing a loved-one. But if we let it happen, we can find love again.
Please note I received this book in exchange for my honest review.
May 18, 2023
I listened to this on audiobook, and originally picked it up because Pam Dougherty was the narrator and she can read the phone book for me and I'd enjoy it!
This was a lovely romance about two people, Cal and Maddie, who had both lost their previous wife/husband, from illness/accident. They both have great support from families, her husband's family in Maddie's case. They were all so funny and full of character. And of course we also have TJ, Cal's cute 5 year old son, and a 3-legged dog called Pirate that Maddie & TJ rescue.
Maddie is still talking to her ex-husband, and even years after his death hasn't really moved on, but when Cal arrives to renovate her kitchen and they start getting closer she starts to move on with her life, albeit with a bit of a struggle.
I just loved all the characters in this book, great family and friends, with lots of emotion and very funny in places.
So whilst I picked up this book because of Pam Dougherty's narration, as I'd never read a Lisa Ricard Claro book before, I really enjoyed the whole small town story and will definitely be listening to the other two books in this series now.
This was a lovely romance about two people, Cal and Maddie, who had both lost their previous wife/husband, from illness/accident. They both have great support from families, her husband's family in Maddie's case. They were all so funny and full of character. And of course we also have TJ, Cal's cute 5 year old son, and a 3-legged dog called Pirate that Maddie & TJ rescue.
Maddie is still talking to her ex-husband, and even years after his death hasn't really moved on, but when Cal arrives to renovate her kitchen and they start getting closer she starts to move on with her life, albeit with a bit of a struggle.
I just loved all the characters in this book, great family and friends, with lots of emotion and very funny in places.
So whilst I picked up this book because of Pam Dougherty's narration, as I'd never read a Lisa Ricard Claro book before, I really enjoyed the whole small town story and will definitely be listening to the other two books in this series now.
July 18, 2015
Cannot tell you how much I enjoyed this book enough. I like to read all kinds of book, many of which tend to lead to a darker genre, however this book is a lovely departure from that. It is a beautiful love story involving two people who have lost the ones they love tragically. Neither is ready for love, neither see it coming. The author filled this book with amazing characters that were delightfully funny and real. I could see myself saying some of the things they said, and it made it so realatable. The cast of characters include a darling little boy with all the boyish charm you could want, a loveable stray dog that will make you laugh and best friends that were funny and ones I would want as my own. You will not want to miss this adorable story. This is a series of books that all relate to one another, as other friends and family members get their own stories.
August 22, 2016
I'm not much of a romance reader, as I tend to prefer historical fiction, but I really enjoyed this story. Lisa Ricard Claro combines just the right amount of sweet and spicy tension to this love story. I really don't like books that drag things out between two characters that you know are going to end up together in the end anyway. Lisa does a great job of what I like to think of as "satisfying tension". There are plenty of emotional bumps in the road for Caleb and Maddie, but they weather each one as it comes, together. Only at the very end are they at odds, but Claro doesn't draw it out unnecessarily long before she allows Caleb and Maddie to find each other again. Probably the best indication that I loved this story was how fast I dove into Book 2 of the Fireflies series, Love to Believe!
October 11, 2016
Have you ever read a book that hit home at a certain time in your life? Well, LOVE BUILT TO LAST was a homeroom read for me.
When the reader finds themselves immersed in the story it's the sign of a fantastic author. Lisa Ricard Claro has penned a sweet, full of life and sorrows of death in this well rounded romance.
I was immediately enamored with the main character, Maddie. And the strongly built carpenter, Caleb Walker took my breath away in more ways than one. Caleb's fatherly love for his young son was the cherry on top of this novel.
The sensuous passages were nicely written, just enough to boil your blood. I liked that this particular romance did not get into the nitty-gritty of explicit sex, their lovemaking was behind closed doors.
If you're looking for an excellent, sweet read, may I suggest
LOVE BUILT TO LAST!!
When the reader finds themselves immersed in the story it's the sign of a fantastic author. Lisa Ricard Claro has penned a sweet, full of life and sorrows of death in this well rounded romance.
I was immediately enamored with the main character, Maddie. And the strongly built carpenter, Caleb Walker took my breath away in more ways than one. Caleb's fatherly love for his young son was the cherry on top of this novel.
The sensuous passages were nicely written, just enough to boil your blood. I liked that this particular romance did not get into the nitty-gritty of explicit sex, their lovemaking was behind closed doors.
If you're looking for an excellent, sweet read, may I suggest
LOVE BUILT TO LAST!!
July 10, 2015
A very sweet love story, which is rare these days! No over the top sex scenes, which usually gross me out anyway.
The story if two people, both widowed, but instead of the exact same love story, with a misunderstanding halfway through, that every other author uses, this one relies on characters that are interesting, and good, instead. What a novel idea!
I can't wait for the second one.
There is s rescued animal in each book of the series as well, a tiny touch of believable woo woo stuff but not so much it's childish.
There's a Maddie AND a Brenna in it, how could I not love it?
The story if two people, both widowed, but instead of the exact same love story, with a misunderstanding halfway through, that every other author uses, this one relies on characters that are interesting, and good, instead. What a novel idea!
I can't wait for the second one.
There is s rescued animal in each book of the series as well, a tiny touch of believable woo woo stuff but not so much it's childish.
There's a Maddie AND a Brenna in it, how could I not love it?
August 5, 2015
There are good things to say about this work.Let me begin by saying this is outside my normal purview,so I dont really have much to compare it to.It is the first romance novel I read.The story is driven by the characters,which is the type of writing I enjoy no matter the genre.This author does it well.By the end,I felt as if I knew these people,and cared about what happened to them.Like they were real.Good story,well written,bravo.
October 4, 2018
After reading the blurb for Love Built to Last, I was captivated by the plot of two widowed souls getting a second chance at love. I’m a sucker for small-town, feel good romances, and Love Built to Last fits the bill.
I was immediately drawn into the story by Ms. Dougherty’s narration. She has a calm, steady voice, reminiscent of Holly Hunter, whom I’ve always loved. And with the similarities between Love Built to Last and the movie, Always featuring Ms. Hunter as a widow whose deceased husband helps in mysterious ways, I found myself in a comfortable spot listening to this enjoyable tale. I like how the narrator just shares the story from multiple points-of-view. She changes the voices just a bit with dialogue, but she doesn’t create overwhelming different character voices, and it works. Ms. Dougherty’s southern charm brings the story to life, infusing the characters with both a sweetness and sturdiness I’ve come to associate with a fine southern tale. But she’s more than a familiar voice, the narrator also fills her characters with powerful emotion when the scene calls for it. At one point, nearing the climax of the book when best friend Brenna confronts main character Maddie, the emotion is overwhelming.
While the narration of the book is what initially drew me in, the story itself kept me listening. Ms. Claro brings her world to life with wonderful descriptions of the scenes and everyday moments. I felt like I was sitting on Maddie’s porch, drinking sweet tea and watching the fireflies. Every detail is vividly brought to life without bogging down the storyline. And she gives the same attention to her main characters, Maddie and Cal. We learn about their lives as they go about their everyday routines and when they interact with one another. We feel their fears over connecting with another soul after losing so much in the deaths of their first loves.
The story unfolds slowly, but it never drags. It is sweet and careful, yet filled with passion. While the heat rating is minimal, it suits the romance and feel of the book. The added piece of Jack’s “spirit” communicating with Maddie isn’t so much paranormal as it is a way for Maddie to deal with grief and losing love so suddenly. Jack’s part in the book evolves as Maddie’s outlook on life and feelings for Cal evolve, and when we learn about the day Jack dies, the behavior suits the situation perfectly.
In the end, I thoroughly enjoyed listening to Love Built to Last. It is a wonderfully sweet romance that tugged at my heart. Two widowed souls getting a second chance at forever love; it isn’t always easy, but they work through it. The added “magical touch” of Jack’s messages worked well in the story and fit with Maddie - helping her say goodbye.
My Ratings: Story: B+
Narration: A-
Review copy provided by the author.
I was immediately drawn into the story by Ms. Dougherty’s narration. She has a calm, steady voice, reminiscent of Holly Hunter, whom I’ve always loved. And with the similarities between Love Built to Last and the movie, Always featuring Ms. Hunter as a widow whose deceased husband helps in mysterious ways, I found myself in a comfortable spot listening to this enjoyable tale. I like how the narrator just shares the story from multiple points-of-view. She changes the voices just a bit with dialogue, but she doesn’t create overwhelming different character voices, and it works. Ms. Dougherty’s southern charm brings the story to life, infusing the characters with both a sweetness and sturdiness I’ve come to associate with a fine southern tale. But she’s more than a familiar voice, the narrator also fills her characters with powerful emotion when the scene calls for it. At one point, nearing the climax of the book when best friend Brenna confronts main character Maddie, the emotion is overwhelming.
While the narration of the book is what initially drew me in, the story itself kept me listening. Ms. Claro brings her world to life with wonderful descriptions of the scenes and everyday moments. I felt like I was sitting on Maddie’s porch, drinking sweet tea and watching the fireflies. Every detail is vividly brought to life without bogging down the storyline. And she gives the same attention to her main characters, Maddie and Cal. We learn about their lives as they go about their everyday routines and when they interact with one another. We feel their fears over connecting with another soul after losing so much in the deaths of their first loves.
The story unfolds slowly, but it never drags. It is sweet and careful, yet filled with passion. While the heat rating is minimal, it suits the romance and feel of the book. The added piece of Jack’s “spirit” communicating with Maddie isn’t so much paranormal as it is a way for Maddie to deal with grief and losing love so suddenly. Jack’s part in the book evolves as Maddie’s outlook on life and feelings for Cal evolve, and when we learn about the day Jack dies, the behavior suits the situation perfectly.
In the end, I thoroughly enjoyed listening to Love Built to Last. It is a wonderfully sweet romance that tugged at my heart. Two widowed souls getting a second chance at forever love; it isn’t always easy, but they work through it. The added “magical touch” of Jack’s messages worked well in the story and fit with Maddie - helping her say goodbye.
My Ratings: Story: B+
Narration: A-
Review copy provided by the author.
July 1, 2018
Have it in audio
This is my first listen to this author and narrator. Both the author and narrator were amazing. Love how the author wrote about true love . It’s what life is all about. There is many layers to this story . It’s about learning to let go so something new can come in
Hero is Caleb. Heroine is Maddie.
Maddie is a widow that sees signs or supposedly sees signs of her deceased husband Jack telling her what to do next for her life . Maddie needs the kitchen remodeled. Maddie finds a card on Jacks Desk and she thinks Jack spirit is telling her to pick that company
Caleb is a single father that just doesn’t trust women . He was burned and he said never again. He gets a call for a do over kitchen job and he accepts it. There is instant attraction between Caleb and Maddie.
Does Maddie convince Caleb to take a chance.
The narrator was great. Pam voice was clear and she did the parts fantastic
This is my first listen to this author and narrator. Both the author and narrator were amazing. Love how the author wrote about true love . It’s what life is all about. There is many layers to this story . It’s about learning to let go so something new can come in
Hero is Caleb. Heroine is Maddie.
Maddie is a widow that sees signs or supposedly sees signs of her deceased husband Jack telling her what to do next for her life . Maddie needs the kitchen remodeled. Maddie finds a card on Jacks Desk and she thinks Jack spirit is telling her to pick that company
Caleb is a single father that just doesn’t trust women . He was burned and he said never again. He gets a call for a do over kitchen job and he accepts it. There is instant attraction between Caleb and Maddie.
Does Maddie convince Caleb to take a chance.
The narrator was great. Pam voice was clear and she did the parts fantastic
April 25, 2020
Oh my goodness...this was so filled with love and forgiveness and remembering and then survival. When you lose the love of your life you don't think you can survive but Maddie has found a way to survive by talking with her deceased husband, Jack. She finally decides he has told her it is time to go on with the kitchen rehab and even showed her who to call. Caleb Walker is the perfect one for her, not only as a carpenter but with his little boy they soon find their way. This was such a beautiful story that had me shedding some tears which was not unexpected as I lost my husband a few months ago and also 2 sons in the past few months. It has been an emotional year but I recommend this one! I am writing this review after completing the series and really recommend all three!!!!!!
July 26, 2017
Lisa Ricard Clara is a master at giving us spunky heroines and hunky heroes. I devoured her debut novel, the first book of the Fireflies Series, and went on to read books 2 and 3. I recommend you do the same.
(Note: I understand this book will soon be coming out on audio, if that's your preference)
(Note: I understand this book will soon be coming out on audio, if that's your preference)
March 8, 2019
4 1/2 - Sweet story about finding love after being widowed.
October 9, 2022
Cute romance, east read.
September 25, 2023
Loved it.
March 18, 2017
So, I started reading the first book, Love Built To Last and I could not put it down. I have a niece who lost her husband at a young age and was raising her 10 year old daughter alone so this book struck home. The main character, Maddie, lost her husband and is trying to move forward in her life and finds love again. Of course, I love a good romance too and seeing the main character find love again gives me hope for my niece. The challenges the couple face are so true to life that it was hard for me to remember that I was reading fiction.
April 25, 2016
In Love Built to Last by Lisa Ricard Claro, 4 years after the death of her husband Maddie is still struggling to move forward and to let go of guilt. She takes comfort in talking to him and the messages she receives from him. When she meets Caleb, who she is sure Jack wants her to use to remodel her kitchen, it's either fate or coincidence...but the unexpected attraction for both of them is real. Both of them are conflicted and both have issues to work through, but slowly they come to trust their feelings and one another. When a major setback pushes them apart, both of them will need to decide if love is worth the risk.
Love Built to Last is a powerful second chance at love story with two strong memorable main characters. They've both suffered loss, and they are both carrying on in their own individual ways. I liked the dual POV Lisa wrote in, and I felt like I got to know both Maddie and Caleb well. They were believable and their feelings and actions were relatable. I liked Maddie. Her struggles were more pronounced, but as the plot moved forward I felt hope for her as she became more empowered. Her journey to move on definitely pulled at my heart. Caleb struggles too, but his are more subtle and I felt like it was only because he had his son to raise, he was able to see the future a bit more clearly. I liked Caleb and Maddie together. Their relationship is slow to evolve and that's what works in this story. I could feel the connection between them as much as I could feel the inner conflicts they faced.
I loved all of the secondary characters! Maddie's in-laws especially. They were supportive and protective of her, but at the same time were prodding her forward. I liked how this family was, how strong they are, and how they don't pussy foot around when it counts! Caleb's son is a big part of Love Built to Last, as is Jack, Maddie's deceased husband. Jack's role is a very unique and interesting one, and I enjoyed how this was done right up to the conclusion.
Love Built to Last gives a hopeful feeling and gives a lot of insight into the guilt and sadness surviving family members feel, the difficulties faced, and how they cope. Relationships of past, present, and the future are all neatly woven into Love Built to Last. My heart laughed, melted and teared up while reading this well paced book.
I'd recommend Love Built to Last to any romance reader!
Love Built to Last is a powerful second chance at love story with two strong memorable main characters. They've both suffered loss, and they are both carrying on in their own individual ways. I liked the dual POV Lisa wrote in, and I felt like I got to know both Maddie and Caleb well. They were believable and their feelings and actions were relatable. I liked Maddie. Her struggles were more pronounced, but as the plot moved forward I felt hope for her as she became more empowered. Her journey to move on definitely pulled at my heart. Caleb struggles too, but his are more subtle and I felt like it was only because he had his son to raise, he was able to see the future a bit more clearly. I liked Caleb and Maddie together. Their relationship is slow to evolve and that's what works in this story. I could feel the connection between them as much as I could feel the inner conflicts they faced.
I loved all of the secondary characters! Maddie's in-laws especially. They were supportive and protective of her, but at the same time were prodding her forward. I liked how this family was, how strong they are, and how they don't pussy foot around when it counts! Caleb's son is a big part of Love Built to Last, as is Jack, Maddie's deceased husband. Jack's role is a very unique and interesting one, and I enjoyed how this was done right up to the conclusion.
Love Built to Last gives a hopeful feeling and gives a lot of insight into the guilt and sadness surviving family members feel, the difficulties faced, and how they cope. Relationships of past, present, and the future are all neatly woven into Love Built to Last. My heart laughed, melted and teared up while reading this well paced book.
I'd recommend Love Built to Last to any romance reader!
February 6, 2016
4.5 / 5 stars
When Lisa contacted me to read these two titles, I was excited. I absolutely love working with authors directly. Are there books I receive that don't quite jive with what I'm looking for, and therefore leave me upset because I can't leave an entirely favorable review? Most definitely. However, I'm glad to say that wasn't the case with these first two Fireflies titles. While I don't tend to pick up many Susan Wiggs or Debbie Macomber titles any longer, I feel that Ms. Claro's writing style is one that fans of those authors, as well as fans of Jill Shalvis and Susan Mallery, will enjoy. The storytelling and characters have a feel of a mix of those four authors.
In this first book in Ms. Claro's Fireflies series, we meet Maddie and Caleb, two individuals who lost their other half entirely too early. Caleb has a son and therefore a reason to push through, but Maddie keeps holding on to things of Jack's -- namely his office.
But it's in his office where she feels him, and where he guides her.
You may or may not believe in the powers of those who have left us. If you don't, this is simply a sweet story. But if you've experienced the eerily coincidental occurences, this is a story that you will definitely connect with. When Maddie has questions, she sits at Jack's untouched desk, closes her eyes, and moves her hands among his disorganized things. When it feels right, she takes hold of whatever item she pauses over -- and twice, she's paused over Caleb's business card, thus beginning the journey these two embark upon.
This was a very cute story. I loved watching Maddie allow herself to move on, but equally, loved the understanding Caleb had for her. Caleb and T.J. were great to watch together; I really enjoyed the moments these two have, especially when Maddie comes into the mix. And moreover, I truly loved that the Kinkaids kept Maddie in their circle of family, rooting for her to move on from Jack (because it would be what he wanted) but still welcoming her 'home'.
Definitely a cute story and I was so glad to get the chance to read it. The epilogue was cute and fun in it's elementary ways (gosh, that T.J.).
*received a copy of the title in exchange for an honest review.
When Lisa contacted me to read these two titles, I was excited. I absolutely love working with authors directly. Are there books I receive that don't quite jive with what I'm looking for, and therefore leave me upset because I can't leave an entirely favorable review? Most definitely. However, I'm glad to say that wasn't the case with these first two Fireflies titles. While I don't tend to pick up many Susan Wiggs or Debbie Macomber titles any longer, I feel that Ms. Claro's writing style is one that fans of those authors, as well as fans of Jill Shalvis and Susan Mallery, will enjoy. The storytelling and characters have a feel of a mix of those four authors.
In this first book in Ms. Claro's Fireflies series, we meet Maddie and Caleb, two individuals who lost their other half entirely too early. Caleb has a son and therefore a reason to push through, but Maddie keeps holding on to things of Jack's -- namely his office.
But it's in his office where she feels him, and where he guides her.
You may or may not believe in the powers of those who have left us. If you don't, this is simply a sweet story. But if you've experienced the eerily coincidental occurences, this is a story that you will definitely connect with. When Maddie has questions, she sits at Jack's untouched desk, closes her eyes, and moves her hands among his disorganized things. When it feels right, she takes hold of whatever item she pauses over -- and twice, she's paused over Caleb's business card, thus beginning the journey these two embark upon.
This was a very cute story. I loved watching Maddie allow herself to move on, but equally, loved the understanding Caleb had for her. Caleb and T.J. were great to watch together; I really enjoyed the moments these two have, especially when Maddie comes into the mix. And moreover, I truly loved that the Kinkaids kept Maddie in their circle of family, rooting for her to move on from Jack (because it would be what he wanted) but still welcoming her 'home'.
Definitely a cute story and I was so glad to get the chance to read it. The epilogue was cute and fun in it's elementary ways (gosh, that T.J.).
*received a copy of the title in exchange for an honest review.
January 2, 2017
http://bookishdevices.com/2016/05/09/...
I don’t like it when book blurbs or reviews compare books to others. You know, fans of blah, blah will like this. It tends to have the opposite effect on me. But … that’s exactly what I’m going to do now. Forgive me?!
Love Built to Last reminded me of Robyn Carr’s Virgin River series and Emily March’s Eternity Springs series. For some friends reading this review, that will be saying a lot. I really, really love those series by Carr and March. Small town settings, boy meets girl and love follows. Sweet, sweet romances. Claro’s book easily ranks right up there next to Carr and March in my opinion.
Love Built to Last is the story of Maddie and Caleb. Maddie Kinkaid can’t let go of her late husband, Jack. She believes he gives her advice on everything. When she finds Caleb Walker’s business card on Jack’s desk, she’s convinced that he’s the guy to remodel her kitchen. Caleb can’t decide if Maggie is worth the risk. He’s a single father trying to protect his 5-year-old son. But sparks ignite between Maggie and Caleb. When Jack goes silent, Maggie is consumed with guilt. Will Maggie and Caleb find their happily-ever-after? The only way you’ll find out is to read this book because I’m not giving anything away.
What made me like this new (to me) series a bit more is the build-up of the relationship between Maddie and Caleb. I got to know each character individually and then together. It wasn’t rushed. I prefer a slow and steady build up rather than the characters running straight to bed together. I even feel like I got to know each supporting character as well.
I highly recommend you go and grab your copy of this book immediately. I hope you’ll read it and be as eager as me to dive into the next book. That’s right, there’s more! Book 2, Love to Believe is available now. I can’t wait to see what’s next in this series. If you’re not a fan of reading a series, you can read this book as a stand-alone. But I don’t think you’re going to want to stop. I think you’ll be as eager as me to see who could fall in love next.
I was provided a copy of this book by the author in exchange for my honest review.
I don’t like it when book blurbs or reviews compare books to others. You know, fans of blah, blah will like this. It tends to have the opposite effect on me. But … that’s exactly what I’m going to do now. Forgive me?!
Love Built to Last reminded me of Robyn Carr’s Virgin River series and Emily March’s Eternity Springs series. For some friends reading this review, that will be saying a lot. I really, really love those series by Carr and March. Small town settings, boy meets girl and love follows. Sweet, sweet romances. Claro’s book easily ranks right up there next to Carr and March in my opinion.
Love Built to Last is the story of Maddie and Caleb. Maddie Kinkaid can’t let go of her late husband, Jack. She believes he gives her advice on everything. When she finds Caleb Walker’s business card on Jack’s desk, she’s convinced that he’s the guy to remodel her kitchen. Caleb can’t decide if Maggie is worth the risk. He’s a single father trying to protect his 5-year-old son. But sparks ignite between Maggie and Caleb. When Jack goes silent, Maggie is consumed with guilt. Will Maggie and Caleb find their happily-ever-after? The only way you’ll find out is to read this book because I’m not giving anything away.
What made me like this new (to me) series a bit more is the build-up of the relationship between Maddie and Caleb. I got to know each character individually and then together. It wasn’t rushed. I prefer a slow and steady build up rather than the characters running straight to bed together. I even feel like I got to know each supporting character as well.
I highly recommend you go and grab your copy of this book immediately. I hope you’ll read it and be as eager as me to dive into the next book. That’s right, there’s more! Book 2, Love to Believe is available now. I can’t wait to see what’s next in this series. If you’re not a fan of reading a series, you can read this book as a stand-alone. But I don’t think you’re going to want to stop. I think you’ll be as eager as me to see who could fall in love next.
I was provided a copy of this book by the author in exchange for my honest review.
September 19, 2015
* I received a copy in exchange for a honest review*
I have to say this is a completely different romance than most that I read. I myself prefer a lot of steam but this is a romance that curtails the steam and goes straight to the heart. Caleb and Maddie have muddled through years of a compelling lost love and find a second chance of love with each other. This is a sweet romance that at times tickles your funny bone. Caleb's little boy T.J. kept me laughing with a smile plastered on my face. This story will tug on your heart strings and leave you wondering about the other books to come in the series.
Caleb is a ruggedly handsome carpenter who was widowed and is a single father. He has been walking through life in a daze for the last 3 years still talking to his dead wife Gwen and trying to be the best father that he can be. He hasn't found a woman who lit a spark inside of him until he met Madelyn Rose, who is still very much in love with her dead husband Jack. He feels drawn to her both physically and emotionally but is unsure if not only his heart but also his son's heart would be safe in Maddie's hands.
Maddie is a kindergarten teacher who has been dependent on a weird connection that she has had with Jack since he died in a tragic accident four years ago. While everyone, including her in laws feel that she should move on, Maddie's heart has stagnated and she is not sure if she can open her heart to anyone else ever again. When Maddie decides on a crazy idea to honor her dead husband's wish to remodel their kitchen, she finds herself holding Caleb's business card in her hands. Once she sees this sexy Carpenter, she is confused by feelings of wanting him in her bed as well as building cabinets in her kitchen. Can she let Caleb fix her broken heart as well as her outdated kitchen?
I highly recommend for readers who love romances that mend broken hearts, include funny moments, and include outstanding larger than life characters. Maddie and Caleb are the perfect couple for anyone looking for a sweet, heart melting, love story.
I have to say this is a completely different romance than most that I read. I myself prefer a lot of steam but this is a romance that curtails the steam and goes straight to the heart. Caleb and Maddie have muddled through years of a compelling lost love and find a second chance of love with each other. This is a sweet romance that at times tickles your funny bone. Caleb's little boy T.J. kept me laughing with a smile plastered on my face. This story will tug on your heart strings and leave you wondering about the other books to come in the series.
Caleb is a ruggedly handsome carpenter who was widowed and is a single father. He has been walking through life in a daze for the last 3 years still talking to his dead wife Gwen and trying to be the best father that he can be. He hasn't found a woman who lit a spark inside of him until he met Madelyn Rose, who is still very much in love with her dead husband Jack. He feels drawn to her both physically and emotionally but is unsure if not only his heart but also his son's heart would be safe in Maddie's hands.
Maddie is a kindergarten teacher who has been dependent on a weird connection that she has had with Jack since he died in a tragic accident four years ago. While everyone, including her in laws feel that she should move on, Maddie's heart has stagnated and she is not sure if she can open her heart to anyone else ever again. When Maddie decides on a crazy idea to honor her dead husband's wish to remodel their kitchen, she finds herself holding Caleb's business card in her hands. Once she sees this sexy Carpenter, she is confused by feelings of wanting him in her bed as well as building cabinets in her kitchen. Can she let Caleb fix her broken heart as well as her outdated kitchen?
I highly recommend for readers who love romances that mend broken hearts, include funny moments, and include outstanding larger than life characters. Maddie and Caleb are the perfect couple for anyone looking for a sweet, heart melting, love story.
November 1, 2016
I must admit I am not a big fan of pure romance books. I love the suspense and darkness that certain drama can provide for me as a reader and this book was missing that. Even with that said, I have to give it a four star because of the writing style and the amount of emotion that the author was able to provide me as a reader.
I have never experienced the loss of a husband so I needed the extra detail and description that was provided so I could connect past the normal sympathy with Maddie. After 4 years of Jack, her husband’s death, she was still holding on to him by believing he sent her messages as to how to continue to move forward. When some work needed to be done around the house, she found Caleb by way of what she felt was her husband.
Caleb could identify with Maddie as he was left raising his child after he lost his wife. Both are fearful to give their broken hearts to another person but Caleb has the extra weight of trying to balance this new life for than just himself. When the two find that a future might be in sight for them, something happens to destroy their trust and shake their worlds.
Is a second chance at love worth the risk, even if it means having to let go of the past that has been your safety net for years? Is being along with the ghost of your loved one, the best this world has to offer you as a future? You won’t find hot sex scenes or a lot of drama in this book. The author did a fabulous job at using reality to allow the characters to tell their stories.
This was a love story in the truest sense of the words. Love, loss, regret and hope all reigns supreme in Maddie and Caleb and I am glad I was able to take a break from the more intense books I normally search for. Love Built to Last was worth the read because it brings us back to real life and the pain of those around us that we’d rather ignore.
received in exchange for an honest review for Crystal's Many Reviewers
I have never experienced the loss of a husband so I needed the extra detail and description that was provided so I could connect past the normal sympathy with Maddie. After 4 years of Jack, her husband’s death, she was still holding on to him by believing he sent her messages as to how to continue to move forward. When some work needed to be done around the house, she found Caleb by way of what she felt was her husband.
Caleb could identify with Maddie as he was left raising his child after he lost his wife. Both are fearful to give their broken hearts to another person but Caleb has the extra weight of trying to balance this new life for than just himself. When the two find that a future might be in sight for them, something happens to destroy their trust and shake their worlds.
Is a second chance at love worth the risk, even if it means having to let go of the past that has been your safety net for years? Is being along with the ghost of your loved one, the best this world has to offer you as a future? You won’t find hot sex scenes or a lot of drama in this book. The author did a fabulous job at using reality to allow the characters to tell their stories.
This was a love story in the truest sense of the words. Love, loss, regret and hope all reigns supreme in Maddie and Caleb and I am glad I was able to take a break from the more intense books I normally search for. Love Built to Last was worth the read because it brings us back to real life and the pain of those around us that we’d rather ignore.
received in exchange for an honest review for Crystal's Many Reviewers
October 11, 2016
This is a very sweet romance between a widow and a widower. Now I've read romance novels where either the hero or heroine was widowed but never both, so this was definitely an intriguing idea and I was really curious to find out how the author would handle this relatively delicate situation.
I think Lisa Ricard Claro managed that quite well, so in spite of both having lost a spouse (this was common ground), they had different grieving experiences and family situations.
Maddie has a complicated relationship with her dead husband, Jack, and I enjoyed her conversations with him, her easy interaction with his family and the strength of her decision to move on.
Caleb also has a complicated relationship with his dead wife, although his conversations with her are a little more realistic (for want of a better word). His life and possibility of pursuing love is complicated further by the fact that he has an impressionable preschooler and doesn't want to get involved with someone who'd just break their hearts and go on her merry way.
I enjoyed the author's humour as she delivered hot stares and touches and kisses... I was a little disappointed by the closed door sex scenes, but I also thought they were appropriate for the story and the characters involved.
In all, this is definitely one of the most enjoyable books this year, and I'm definitely planning on reading the rest of the series!
I think Lisa Ricard Claro managed that quite well, so in spite of both having lost a spouse (this was common ground), they had different grieving experiences and family situations.
Maddie has a complicated relationship with her dead husband, Jack, and I enjoyed her conversations with him, her easy interaction with his family and the strength of her decision to move on.
Caleb also has a complicated relationship with his dead wife, although his conversations with her are a little more realistic (for want of a better word). His life and possibility of pursuing love is complicated further by the fact that he has an impressionable preschooler and doesn't want to get involved with someone who'd just break their hearts and go on her merry way.
I enjoyed the author's humour as she delivered hot stares and touches and kisses... I was a little disappointed by the closed door sex scenes, but I also thought they were appropriate for the story and the characters involved.
In all, this is definitely one of the most enjoyable books this year, and I'm definitely planning on reading the rest of the series!
October 10, 2016
From beginning to end this was a sweet story. Two people who had lost someone they loved deeply finding love in with each other. A second chance at true love is a miraculous thing.
Ms. Claro did a fantastic job at balancing the sadness if death with the joys found in life. When you put a kid and a dog in a story it is bound to be funny. Add a hot construction guy and a stubborn, spunky woman into the mix and you have the makings of a great romance.
The one thing I didn't appreciate was how hung up the heroine was on her late husband after four years had passed and how much she depended on his messages for so long. But when the reason behind it was revealed, I understood her better.
Ms. Claro did a fantastic job at balancing the sadness if death with the joys found in life. When you put a kid and a dog in a story it is bound to be funny. Add a hot construction guy and a stubborn, spunky woman into the mix and you have the makings of a great romance.
The one thing I didn't appreciate was how hung up the heroine was on her late husband after four years had passed and how much she depended on his messages for so long. But when the reason behind it was revealed, I understood her better.
July 20, 2015
I've never been a romance reader but I am a big fan of movies - romantic comedies in particular - and that's exactly how Lisa's book reads. If you enjoyed Claire Cook's "Must Love Dogs" (the book OR the movie), you will absolutely love the well-drawn characters, the small southern town setting, the in-you-business family, and the faithful rescue pup, Pirate. Lisa's writing perfectly captures the heart-wrenching emotional complications of love and loss and love again. I am now a fan of Lisa Claro's and cannot wait for Book 2!
February 4, 2016
This was a good stand alone book. There were well developed characters, and a story that really made me want to see what happened next. No blood and gore, but a touch of supernatural in a well developed love story.
March 10, 2016
Love Built to Last was a pleasure to read. It is a heart warming story of finding love after grief that kept me engaged, with characters that are authentic and easy to relate to. I look forward to reading the next book in the Fireflies series, Love to Believe.
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