Small Town Summer

by Terri Osburn, Heatherly Bell, Jamie Farrell

From warm sunny days to long sultry nights, spend your summer falling in love in a small town! These nine contemporary romances featuring sassy heroines, sexy heroes, and lots of heartwarming romance make the perfect beach read. Whether your pleasure is sweet small town romance or smolderingly sexy love stories, there's something in the Small Town Summer box set for everyone!

Small Town Summer includes novellas from nine BESTSELLING, AWARD WINNING, and RISING STAR authors:

AWAKENING ANNA, by Wall Street Journal Bestselling author Terri Osburn
ANYWHERE WITH YOU, by Heatherly Bell
MOONSHINE & MAGNOLIAS, by National Bestselling author Jamie Farrell
SUMMER IN STRINGTOWN PROPER, by Liz Flaherty
SUMMER STOCK, by Regina Kyle
SERENA’S SOLDIER, by Amy Lamont
A KISS IN KITE HARBOR, by Stefanie London
HER LAST SHOT, by Megan Ryder
SWEET HOME ALASKA, by Rebecca Thomas


AWAKENING ANNA (Terri Osburn) – Librarian Anna Robinson is fascinated by Max Marshall, the hot young writer occupying the bestseller lists, and the apartment above hers. In one night, Max awakens Anna to true sexual pleasure, but the new lovers quickly learn that one night is never enough.

Anywhere With You (Heatherly Bell) – Welcome to Starlight Hill, California, where the wine flows freely and so does the gossip.
Celebrity stylist Kailey Robbins wants a second chance with ex-military pilot Joe Hannigan, but can she convince him that this time she’ll settle down into small town life?

Moonshine & Magnolias (Jamie Farrell) – Shelby’s a newly single mother learning how to be herself again. Zack’s the hot military man next door who loves a good adventure. And a chance encounter at a steamy summer softball game will challenge what they both thought they knew about their hearts, their lives, and their forevers.

Summer in Stringtown Proper (Liz Flaherty) – Banker Molly Linden never expected to be alone and unemployed at fifty. Buying hunky carpenter Joe Rahilly’s saloon takes care of the employment situation, but she’s still alone. Or is she?

SUMMMER STOCK (Regina Kyle) – Jax Donovan left his hometown—and high school sweetheart Georgi Petersen—for the bright lights of Broadway. Now he’s back, but can he convince the lovely librarian that their romance is worth rekindling, on stage and off?

SERENA’S SOLDIER (Amy Lamont) – Young nurse Serena Adessi can't wait to be reunited with the soldier she's loved for as long as she can remember. But when Mace Palmer sustains a career-ending injury while deployed, can she convince him he still has a future worth fighting for?

A Kiss in Kite Harbor (Stefanie London) – When plus size model, Shelby Jenkins, returns to her hometown she must face up to the bullies from her past, but the only person who can help her is the one who broke her heart. Small town advocate Nate Ritter is ready for redemption, but will he lose the woman of his dreams to the big city again?

Her Last Shot (Megan Ryder) – Girl next door Rachel Darling has been in love with local baseball hero, Bastien LeBeau, for her whole life. Now that he's back in town, can she convince him that she’s the right woman for him or will he lose the best thing that might ever happen to him?

Sweet Home Alaska (Rebecca Thomas) – When Lauren Kinkade abandons her Hollywood dreams to run the family business back in Alaska, she reaches out to a former schoolmate to help get things off the ground. Trey Briggs has his reasons for turning her down, but can he really resist the girl he’s always wanted?

Genres: Contemporary Romance, Anthologies, Romance, Contemporary

Unknown Binding

First published July 1, 2015

About the author

Bestselling and award winning author Terri Osburn writes contemporary romance with heart, hope, and lots of humor. She fell in love with the written word at a young age and the genre of romance beckoned during her teen years. Since her debut in 2013, her work has been translated into five languages, and sold more than 1.5 million copies worldwide. Terri resides in Pittsburgh, PA, with a menagerie of high-maintenance pets. You can learn more about this international bestselling author by visiting her website at www.terriosburn.com.

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Reviews

[Carol [Goodreads Addict] · Rating 5 out of 5]

Small Town Summer is an anthology of nine short stories. These are short descriptions of my thoughts of each of the nine stories in this anthology but for a more in depth review, I have also posted a detailed review to the books if the authors have listed their book individually. This book was generously provided in exchange for an honest review by the author.

Every one of these stories moved me in one way or another. Some made me laugh, some made me sigh, and some may have made me swoon. If you love romance as I do, this book is perfect. The stories are all short, sweet, and completely entertaining. I loved them all as I hope you will.

Awakening Anna by Terri Osburn
5 STARS
Anna hasn’t had much luck in the romance department. Or the sexual experience department. She is a librarian and considers herself awkward and silent. There has been a well known author living upstairs from her in her building for the past couple of months and she has spent many a night dreaming of him. So no one was more surprised than she when he showed up at the library and asked her to dinner. Max Marshall could never be interested in someone like her, could he? But with a little prodding from her sister, Anna decides to let her inhibitions go and see what happens. Librarians were supposed to do research, right? I loved this story. The title is perfect. Anna’s life completely changed, all in one night, all due to the swoony author living upstairs. But would one night ever be enough?

Anywhere With You (Starlight Hill #4) by Heatherly Bell
4 STARS
Kailey Robbins and Joe Hannigan started a relationship when they were on the road and wanted to make a go of it so Kailey followed Joe back to his home town of Starlight Hill. But Kailey is not a small town girl and she would rather run before someone asks her to leave, so she left. Now, a month later, Joe has been in a plane crash while piloting his Cessna. Nothing like the man you love almost getting killed to make you realize you need him in your life. So Kailey goes back to Starlight Hill to help Joe during his recuperation, and to convince him that this time, she will stay. This was such a sweet story and I loved watching Kailey finally decide that she deserves happiness and admitting that the happiness she wanted included Joe.

Moonshine and Magnolias (Officers’ Ex-Wives Club #2) by Jamie Farrell
5 STARS
Shelby is a new member of the Officers’ Ex-Wives Club. She has just moved home to Georgia to make a new life for her and her two children. And that new life does not include the oh so sexy neighbor Zack. Zack has his future all planned out, seven more years in the Air Force, retire, and travel the world. So there is no room in that plan for the beautiful single mom next door and her two cute kids. But one softball game and one broken arm later, and all that changes. This is a hilarious, laugh out loud story about two people who are absolutely not looking for love, but fate has a funny way of changing your mind when you least expect it. I absolutely loved this story as I have all of Jamie’s books.

Summer in Stringtown Proper is by Liz Flaherty
4 STARS
Molly Linden never thought to question her happiness in all the twenty five years of her marriage or her career as a bank executive. Until her husband left her for a younger woman. So Molly went back to Stringtown Proper, Kentucky, the town that held the warmest memories from her childhood. Joe Rahilly has been widowed for two years. He misses his wife, but he is lonely. When he first met Molly, he never thought she’d stay in Stringtown Proper. He thought she’d go back to New York and her fancy apartment and life. But Molly took up quilting and learned to make sweet tea, and she stayed. But what is she going to do now with her life. As soon as she saw the bar Joe’s family owned, she knew she wanted to buy it. She knew she was home. This was such a cute story of finding happiness later in life. The relationship grew slowly between Joe and Molly. For Molly, this was her first true happiness. For Joe, he had been happy before, but with Molly it was different and special. I really enjoyed getting to know Molly and Joe. For some reason, when I woke up the morning after I read this, Moly and Joe were still on my mind so that’s saying something with all the book characters running around in my head.

Summer Stock by Regina Kyle
4 STARS
Georgi Petersen still lives in the same small town of Spring Grove where she grew up. She works at the library but her passion is acting in the local fine arts theater. The theater is old, though and needs a lot of money for the required renovations. They are working on their current play when their director collapses. So they bring in a temporary replacement, but why did it have to be THAT temporary replacement. Twelve years ago she was in love and thought her future was secure with the man who supposedly loved her back. Until he left for New York to fulfill his dreams with nothing but a note on the windshield of the car saying good-bye. Now Jax Donovan is back to fill in as director and try to save the theater. He says he made a huge mistake, and that he wants Georgi back. But can she trust him? His life is in New York and hers is here. He said Georgi is his “forever” girl. But will he still feel that way once the play is over? This was a cute story of getting a second chance at love.

Serena’s Soldier by Amy Lamont
5 STARS
I loved this story of Serena and Mace. They met as teens, eight years ago, and fell in love on the beach in the small, southern California town of Kismet Beach. But when that magical summer was over, they went their own ways, but kept in touch over the years almost daily with email, texts, phone. They both went to college and then Mace enlisted. Serena hasn’t heard from Mace for nine long months until she heard he was back in Kismet Beach. But this isn’t the Mace she remembered. And he just told her he didn’t want her. That he no longer felt anything for her. Mace is doing his best to hide his secret from Serena. He was in an explosion of a road side bomb while he was deployed. While he was daydreaming of how he would propose to Serena. He still has his legs but he’s not the same. He’s out of the army and has nothing to offer her. So it’s best he cut his ties to her. But Serena isn’t taking no for an answer. Operation Endless Frustration is born later to be changed to Operation Out of Options. Can Serena convince Mace that he still has a life worth living? That she loves him whether he is in the army or out? This was a beautiful story of tough love and persevering love.

A Kiss in Kite Harbor (Kite Harbor #0.5) by Stefanie London
4 STARS
Nate Ritter was Shelby Jenkins first love and first kiss when they were teenagers. But then Nate betrayed Shelby by saying something hurtful to save face with his friends. So Shelby left Kite Harbor, Maine for New York and became a very successful plus size model. Now, years later, she is forced back home for a couple of weeks to help her dad after he had an accident. Nate wants to set things right, apologize and hopefully spend some time with Shelby. As their romance is rekindled and Nate breaks down the walls Shelby has built up, something happens that almost makes her run again. This is such an important story of how powerful our words are and of what kind of beauty makes a woman beautiful. Nate and Shelby didn’t get their chance all those years ago. So now that they are older and stronger, will they get their happily ever after this time?

Her Last Shot is by Megan Ryder
4 STARS
Rachel Darling has lived in the small coastal community of Swan’s Creek, Maine all her life and for just as long she has loved Bastien LeBeau. But Bas sees her as the friend of his little sister, that is until Rachel sets her mind to making him finally notice her as a woman. Bastien’s life long dream is to play professional baseball. He played in the minor leagues for a couple of years until an injury sidelined him. Now he coaches high school baseball and little league. He loves coaching but still is constantly waiting for that call from his agent, the call that would make his dreams come true. Rachel finally gives up on Bas, telling herself that she needs to move on. But at the same time, Bas is finally seeing her as the woman she is. He feels different around her, he feels like home. This was such a sweet story of someone who spent his life waiting for his dreams to come true when maybe happiness was here the whole time. He just hadn’t opened his eyes and noticed it yet.

Sweet Home Alaska by Rebecca Thomas
4 STARS
Lauren Kinkade left Alaska for Hollywood to be an actress. That didn’t work out but she did gain experience as a caterer and discovered a new love. After her Grandmother’s passing, she goes home to Alaska feeling like a failure but determined to make a success of her Grandmother’s bakery by adding a catering business. Trey Briggs had a huge crush on Lauren in high school. He was an awkward nerd so never had the nerve to let her know. Now he is a successful business man, about to open a hotel, and Lauren wants to cater the grand opening. Neither of these two feel like they deserve one another but a tentative romance develops. Can it survive after the opening? Can Lauren ever really be happy in Alaska or are her dreams still in Hollywood? This was a sweet story of two people that found a happiness and confidence with each other when they least expected it.

[Terry Hammoutene · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an Advanced Reader copy in exchange for my unbiased review

Small Town Summer is an anthology of nine novellas. I enjoyed this book immensely.

Awakening Anna by Terri Osbourne, left me wanting more. This is about a librarian who lives a boring life and experiences an awakening when the local author moves into her life.

Anywhere With You by Heatherly Bell is the story of Joe and Kailey former couple, however when Kailey hears about Joe's plane crashing she comes back to help him unbeknownst to him. This is a cute story about past love working their way back together.

Moonshine and Magnolias by Jamie Farrell is about Shelby a divorced mother who hates men after her husband divorces her. She has her friends and her kids and she needs no one else. This story had me cracking up especially watching Zack trying to weasel his way into her life.

Summer in Stringtown by Liz Flaherty brings us to Molly Linden who moved back to a small town after a divorce. The neighbor Joe tries to get her to go out she politely declines. He becomes the person who shows her how to live again and she ends up opening a bar and bringing his family together again.

Summer Stock by Regina Kyle is about Georgi and Jay lost lovers brought back together by Emil, Georgi's mentor and first director. When Emil gets sick the show must go on but how will it effect all the feelings that come between Georgi and Jay.

Serenas Soldier by Amy Lamont. Serena moved to Kismet because of the childhood memories it gave her including Mace her high school crush. She becomes a wounded soldier nurse and lives her life than she finds out Mace is back. This takes you through the emotions of an injured soldier and PTSD.

A Kiss in Kite Harbor by Stefanie London Nate Ritter is a school teacher who is helping Pete the principal after he had collarbone surgery. He wasn't expecting Shelby to come back in town and his feelings to come back to him from high school. Shelby is a plus sized model who has many issues pertaining to her childhood and mentors other girls so they don't go through what she did. Can she overlook the past to start fresh or will the past keep her down?

Her Last Shot by Megan Ryder is set in Swans Creek Maine. It is about Rachel Darling she feels this is her last chance to win over Bastien Lebeau. Rachel has her work cut out for her as her best friend is Bastien's sister. Against all odds they have to make it in order for them to be happy reading about them getting there is the best part.


Sweet Home Alaska by Rebecca Thomas is about Lauren who comes back to Alaska after realizing how much she missed with the death of her Grandmother. She feels the only way to fix it is to reopen her grandmothers bakery and do catering jobs. She applies for a job with a local Trey who is opening a lodge. Will Trey believe in her enough to give her a job and to let her in his life? It is a sweet story about a blossoming romance.

This is a great summer read I do not want to give away or put spoilers in this review so I hope if you are reading this you will buy the book and enjoy it as much as I did.

[Dana Busenbark · Rating 5 out of 5]

This nine pack of novellas certainly is a wonderful read. From books that make you giggle, to books that make you just feel gushy and mushy inside with an, "Awwwww." at the end. Then there are those books that require the loud laugh, where you laugh so much that your sides hurt. Each of the nine authors that have added a book into this collection know what they are doing.

Terri Osburn - Awakening Anna - Anna is a librarian who has had a famous author move into the apartment upstairs in the house she lives in. Watch and enjoy as Anna and the writer figure things out. Erotic, sensual, love, sadness, and whole host of emotional conflict is in this book. This is one of those books that is HOT and leaves you giggling at the shenannigans that happen.

Heatherly Bell - Anywhere WIth You - Kailey is a hairdresser who had a rough childhood. She falls for and leaves Joe. Read and enjoy this book that is filled with hope as she figures things out and comes to some conclusions. This is one of those 'Awwww.' books that make the world go around.

Jamie Farrell - Moonshine and Magnolias - This book is a riot from beginning to end. Spunky southern charm from the ladies of the Officers Ex-Wives Club makes this a really enjoyable book. Gotta love a great baseball reference to start off the book. A definite must read! Watch as Shelby negotiates a new time in her life. Mama's got PURE SOUTHERN charm written on her and oh, can she whip out those "Bless Your Heart" insults like nobody's business. Watch that darn Yankee Zack figure out how to dish them back and turn the tables on Shelby.

Liz Flaherty - Summer in Springtown Proper - This is a book about a woman and a mid-life crisis. We always hear about how men do such and such and act like this or that when they're going through their mid-life crisis. Molly goes to visit and aunt for a wedding and see what happens once that wedding is done and with all the other issues going on in her life. There are some 'Aww.' moments as well as some giggles and a whole lot of hope.

Regina Kyle - Summer Stock - Sink your feet into some good old-fashioned acting with this one. Transport yourself to that small town lifestyle and watch as they work to save the theater. Definitely another 'Awww.' book. Full of hope, promises, and dreams. Full of spitfire with regards to Georgi and the hot stud turned NYC Director Jax, this book is sure to leave you with a smile on your face.

Amy Lamont - Serena's Soldier - This is a romance that is very realistic in nature. You see the harsh truth about our service men and women that go to combat and come back injured and how they deal or don't deal with things, and the loved ones that support them. This is one of those books that will make you cheer at the end and yell at the soldier for not following his heart. Read about how Serena works to make Mace realize what they've had for years.

Megan Ryder - Her Last Shot - A touching little romance novella about a baseball player, a kindergarten teacher, and life in a small town. His dream has always been to go to the Majors. Does he get there? Does she go with him? Does he stay in the small town? Watch the family drama and the relationship drama unfold in this story that will once again make you cheer and go 'Awww.'

Rebecca Thomas - Sweet Home Alaska - The hot high school girl, the nerd with a nickname of "Crash" in a sea of bodies their Senior. year. She leaves, he stays, death in the family, return to home, Small town boy becomes local hero. What happens to them from there? Does she stay, does she leave again like he thinks she will? If she stays, what happens? If she leaves, does she return and prove him wrong? You really must read this romance novella filled with hope, and suspense. His dreams, her dreams, can they make them work together?

RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin With M.Brennan.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awakening Anna by Terri Osburn

Anna worked in the town library and secretly fantasized about her neighbor. It didn't hurt that he was sexy writer Max Marshall. But she knows she doesn't have a chance with him. After all she is nothing like those sex kitten women she reads about. Or so she thought.

Max has wanted Anna since he first saw her. But knowing he was only in town for a few months he didn't want to start anything with her. But he can't leave without a taste of her.

I love the dynamic between them and between the town and Anna. They love her and it shows. There is humor and sexy and I loved every word!


Moonshine and Magnolias by Jamie Farrell

I just loved this story. I was laughing so hard at her sassy, southern sayings. And their funny flirting reminded me of my hubby and I. Thoroughly enjoyed it!!

Shelby is a southern, sassy woman who is learning to be her own woman after six years of marriage and losing herself in the process.

Zach is Shelby's too hot to handle neighbor awaiting his military orders to ship out again. But when flirting and sexy banter are no longer enough, can they agree to a sexy weekend and nothing more? Zach never thought about dating a woman with kids but he can't get Shelby or her kids out of his mind or heart. Will she be able to see around his military lifestyle and trust him or will she give up the only man who has ever made her truly feel like a woman.
Can Zach truly give up his bachelor mentality and free roaming ways and make Shelby see that Moonshine and Magnolias are all he will ever need.

[Amber Tinsley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC for the purpose of leaving an honest review.
Simply put, I devoured these 9 novellas. It was a great mix of new to me authors and some of my favorites for must have reads. They all bring something a little sexy and a little steamy to the table. Mixed in is everyday problems that we can all relate to one way or another. We get taken for a ride from the hot and humid South all the way up to Alaska, who knew that the cold state could offer something so freaking hot? I loved catching up with Jamie's outspoken Officers Ex-Wives Club, those ladies can always leave my side in stiches, while their men leave me drooling.
All these fantastic stories left me searching for more to read from these super talented authors.

[Misty (Reds Romance Reviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this collection of stories, each one of them were introductions to new authors for me, and I am pleased to say they all made a very good first impressions. They were all very well written and highly entertaining reads, that captivated my attention right from the start. I got so involved in them that I ended up having myself a little personal late night read-fest, and polished them off in one sitting!

This series of stories will have you laughing, smiling, swooning, blushing, shedding a few happy tears, and grinning from ear to ear! Highly recommend you add this collection to your Summer Reading List, they are sure to satisfy all of your reading needs. . . and then some!

[Nicola Mckenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance copy of Small Town Summer for the purpose of leaving an honest review. Not hard to give this boxset a hearty 5-stars, it was... phenomenal.

Packed with strong stories, each novella brought me right into the characters' hearts (and sometimes bodies, WOW!). I loved the different voices of each author, and I can honestly say that each of these novellas delivers richness and satisfaction in spades.

The emotion and action were straight off the bat, and gave me what I love - a fast-paced read. I delighted in the strong characters and super-real love scenes. What struck me was the snap-bang openings to each story, but what really stood out was that each story went deeper, stronger, and more real. These are novellas but you'll see that the story lengths are generous and loyal to the needs of the story being told. To boot, this box set is totally worth ten times the small cover price.

Small Town Summer truly is a gem and it's already on my keeper shelf. A fabulous intro to some authors whose backcatalog I now need to add to my reading list.

Thank you Heatherly Bell for the opportunity to read another of your amazing stories, and congratulations to all the hardworking writers of Small Town Summer.

[Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have totally loved this box-set that have some wonderful stories in them. Some I would give a 4 others a 5 but at a whole it is a 5 star read. I highly recommend you pick up this box-set there is something here for everyone.

Moonshine & Magnolias
by Jamie Farrell

Ms. Farrell puts the sass back in sassy and the gentlemen back in the south with the sassy Shelby who can cut a man down if not from a look than with her sassy southern ways. This spunky little lady is about to set Zack’s world upside down.

I love the baiting back and forward between these two bullhead characters, neither wanting to give an inch as both take a mile. There is nothing like a good old southern lady putting you in your place with her southern charm or a Yankee taking it as he dishes it back. I loved the names Shelby made up for Zack each one was better than the last. She is a lady with a lot of sparks that she lets them fly as she puts him in his place. The only problem is Zack doesn’t know his place as he turns the tables and let’s some sparks fly of his own. The author gives you such a natural story with wonderful characters you can relate to as they keep you in stitches. I have to admit there was one place I just said the heck with it and set my coffee down before it went all over my kindle.



Awakening Anna by Terri Osburn
This story is about growth from within, learning to love yourself and seeing yourself as others do, along with finding your confidents and believing in yourself. Anna has never enjoyed sexual pleasure she thought she was the one lacking what she found is those before Max didn’t have a clue. It was a pleasure watching Anna grow and be what other knew she could be. I really liked this character she is a sweet heart that doesn’t have a clue how sexy she really is. Max is as alpha as they come and he takes great pleasure on showing Anna just how truly sexy she is. I adore Max he is such a sweet sexy man who at heart really is a family man who loves his mother and her story.

The author gives one very HOT READ that will have your kindle on fire. These two characters don’t even know how the other is affected by the other. The sexual power is over whelming. I loved the supporting characters they were truly funny. The author tales a wonderful story of overcoming and finding the pleasure deep in side you.



Anywhere With You by Heatherly Bell
I really enjoyed this book it is about second chances, facing your fears, learning to trust, it is ok to be different just be yourself, facing your past and your future in this delightful romance. Two people fall in love have a friends with benefits until things got a little serious for Kailey she does what she does best when she is scared or afraid someone will make her leave…she RUNS as fast as she can. Neither can forget the other…. The author puts a little thrill and excitement in the start of the story my first thought would have f**** sh** dam* followed by eject. Joe’s first thought was of Kailey and than f*** what goes through my mind is this man is nuts stay with the plane are you crazy….guess so.

The author gives a wonderful story of not only forgivingness to each other but to our friends as well. This really is a heartwarming story with wonderful characters and supporting characters with a little bit of humor. This is the first I have read of this authors but it will not be the last. I picked this wonderful story up in “Small Town Summer” box-set for 0.99 what a wonderful way to find new authors.




Summer in Stringtown by Liz Flaherty
I thought this was a cute read about older people which show life is not always great. Even when you do not know where your place is you can always find a place to call home and a person who you can love. The author gives a wonderful story of mistakes, letting the past go so you can find your future. I found this story to be believable with normal characters with normal issues. It doesn’t matter how old you are there is someone out there for everyone sometimes it just takes a little time to find the right one. Yes you love and were loved but when you are left alone it doesn’t mean your life stops you go on live, learn and become who you are.

I enjoyed the characters each have some growing to do from the mother to the daughter. Even children need to grow, love and let go. Molly took on a job and married a man she really didn’t want just because her mother said so. I think both Molly and her mother might have learned you need to be yourself and learn to live your life not depending on a man. If you make yourself happy than those around you will be happy. Joe found it was ok to love and say goodbye to his dead wife there is life after love. His children have a few things to learn as well.

This was just an all around lovely short story reminding us of what is important. We must be true to ourselves first. Sometimes normal is just the opposite of what we have been doing. This box-set is filled with wonderful heartwarming short stories.




A Kiss in Kite Harbor by Stefanie London
Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me is untrue as Shelby and so many others find out words can cut you as deep as a knife. This is a very emotional read that really touches you with most people having to deal with their self image today this was soul touching reads. This isn’t a typical romance where you have a sexy thin hot lady here you have a plus size sexy lady who has been hurt at a young age by people making fun of her. One hot kiss by her crush and his unkind words after it was enough to drive Shelby away to live with her aunt. This is a story of taking back your life, moving forward as you grow built yourself image and do something wonderful with your life.

I loved these characters they are ones you can relate to that are strong yet weak. Both have demons hunting them and feelings for the other one pushed by peer pressure and the other by mean things said and done to her. Another wonderful short story that the author moves at a fast pace but leave nothing out all the information you need is in there. I have never read anything by this author she sure got my attention with this wonderful outstanding read. She writes a compelling story that touches your heart and goes all the way to your soul. I can’t wait to read more from her series Kite Harbor.





Summer Stock by Regina Kyle
A wonderful heartwarming second chance story which will reach in touch your heart and make you smile. Young love taken away with one mistake that will hurt for a lifetime. It is always easier to walk away than fight for what you really want. You know what you and who you want but feel if you take the first you can’t have the last. Love will not last if it is from a distance. Right or wrong you make your choice and find it was the worst mistake of your life. Now you are back trying to get back what you lost is it to late or will love find a way?

This was a very short story with the author giving you all the information you need to make this a wonderful compete read. The characters and supporting characters are outstanding. The author gives you a little humor and lots of heartbreak. I totally loved both Georgi and Jax my heart went out to both of them. You can feel the sparks come off them each time they are near. Jax comes back to his home town for one thing and one thing only to get his childhood sweetheart back. Sometimes even with everything feels right, the sparks fly and it looks like love might be in the air things still fall apart. It might be to late for Jax you can’t leave the way he did and expect the girl to be waiting for you to walk back in. The girl in question has a few things to say and they are not good…..


Serenas Soldier by Amy Lamont
I totally loved this story about a solider getting hurt thinking he isn’t good enough and those that tried to show him he was. The author puts a lot into this short story never leaving anything out filling in all the blanks to make this an outstanding read. This was one book I could really relate to with outstanding characters that you are going to love.

This is a story about a high school crush and her wounded soldier. They had always planned to be together forever neither seeing each other for 8 long years. Serena moved to where they first met, he comes home and then he shoots all her dreams down with just a few words. Can she bring back the man she loves or will this be the end of their dreams, their future together?

I loved the plot, characters and this authors writing. I just want to know when Mandy’s Marine is going to be out I so want to read it. Come get lost in a wonderful story as this author takes you through the love, lost and pain of being in love.


Her Last Shot by Megan Ryder
This was a cute little read Rachel has been in love with Bas for years with him returning to town she feels this is the last chance she will get to win him over. Bas takes one look and is hook but he knows he is no good for her. He does the right thing and walks away. This was a cute funny read that I enjoyed from Rachel always putting the wrong foot forward so to speak to Bas walking in an hearing things he should. They have to overcome a few issues before they can think about finding happiness.

I do have to say the author lost me a few times I though some parts were slow but it was a nice read. I enjoyed it and even smiled a few times.




Sweet Home Alaska by Rebecca Thoma
Lauren couldn’t get out of Alaska when she was young. Now with her grandmother dying and leaving her the business she comes home to see one hot little nerd that she nicknamed crash. It seem whenever she was around him he either ran into things or dropped them. She needs his business so she can start over but more than that she finds she needs this sturdily nerd in her bed…now how to get what she wants and have the best of both worlds.

Trey takes on look at Lauren can’t forget her sexy body or how he was always a fool in front of her. No way is he going to go back to that. He just won’t see her maybe she will go away. Some plan just go astray when she follows him and confronts him he has to take notice. He finds he is right back where he started wanting something he can’t have.

The author gives a wonderful story of the past becoming the future. Things are still not easy for these who as they go through issues of what they both want which might take the love of his life away from him.

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great way to find new authors by reading these nine short stories. They are all really good stories but my favorite was Moonshine and Magnolias by Jamie Farrell.Such a fun filled romance and so hard to put down. Shelby a newly divorced mom with two little kids and a member of the ex-wives club. Zach who is still in the military and waiting to ship out to Alaska moves in next door to Shelby. He is renovating the house so he can rent it out when he gets shipped out. Shelby and Zack keep fighting the attraction between them. Will true love prevail? Read it today to find out.

[Suzie Jo Glass · Rating 5 out of 5]

All nine of these Novellas were very good. Just long enough for a summer night on the porch reading.

--In Awakening Anna I have to admit I was a little embarrassed but maybe it was jealous. It was steamy and sexy. Anna was a librarian and had a book club. she meets the man who lives above her and they enter into a very hot romance.I've decided if I was to have a romance with one of these heroes in this series it would be Max.

--In Anywhere With You You will meet Joe and Kailey they had been broke up until Joe crashes his airplane and Kailey realizes that Joe is more important to her than anything else. This is a sweet love story and has a lot of humor in it.

--In Moonshine and Magnolias we meet Shelby and Zack these two are just funny. Shelby is sassy and as the mother of a 5 year old and from a divorced military wife has formed friendships with other ex-wives and have formed a soft ball team. She meets Zack from an other team when she dives for home plat and plows into him and breaks her arm. Zack feels bad and a romance evolves.

--In Summer in Springtown Proper Molly and Julian come together when Julian's Dad marries Molly's Aunt. Julian thought that Molly was a big city girl and would leave town as soon as she got bored. Molly surprised him by wanting to buy his family owned bar. She fell in love with it the first time she saw it and Julian and her fell in love too.

--In Summer Stock Georgi and Jax are at each others throats at first. The had a history in high school. They had all these plans and Jax left and went to New York by himself. and he makes good and becomes a famous director. Jax came home to direct the play that Georgi was in. Jax wanted to get her back he still loved her, Georgi was wary at first. After Jax gets her to believe him they pick up where they left off

--In Serena's Soldier Serena and Mace met as kids army brats at the age of 16 it would be 8 years before Serena would see Mace again. They had exchanged letters emails and pictures until 9 months ago. Now as Mace came back from deployment and she was standing looking at him behind his Grandma's sofa he was a different person he sent her away. Serena went to his sister to find out what was wrong and there she found out that he had suffered from deep and bad wounds to his leg. Serena and Mace had a long row to hoe but Serena would not let Mace go without a fight.Serena had no intention of giving up on him.

--In A Kiss In Kite Harbor Shelby and Nate know each other from high school.Pete is friends with Shelby's father who has broken is hand and the opposite leg. Shelby was a plus sized model. Nate and most of the rest of their class had teased her to no end. Both of them had crushes on the other and here they were, both grown up and Nate had talked her into lunch, but Morgan her enemy of the past showed up and teased her Nate stood up for her but the old shame rose up and she left quickly. Nate gets her to come over for dinner and they end up in bed but things didn't end well and Shelby left for New York

--In Her Last Shot Bastian and Rachel come together even though Bas didn't think it was a good idea. Rachel loved Bas every since she was a teenager. Bas was older than her,His sister was Rachel's best friend and their families had been mixed up with each other for all those years. Bas was a baseball player trying to make it back into the minors. Rachael was a teacher of Kindergarten Bas was teaching high school math until he could make it into baseball again. What decision does Bas make baseball or Rachel?

--In Sweet home Alaska we find Trey and Lauren who had gone to school together and Lauren had left as soon as she could. She went to California and wanted to become an actress but she worked in catering
to support herself. He aunt died and left her the bakery business that Lauren had grown up in. Lauren happily moved back to do the business. Lauren went to Trey's office hoping to get the catering contract for the hotel he was opening. Trey didn't want to get close to her because he was sure she would leave, then she got her longed for food show and Trey knew she would leave for good.

[Kim Reads (Read Your Writes Book Reviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reviewed for Read Your Writes Book Reviews
by Kim

AWAKENING ANNA (Terri Osburn) ~

I'm a fan of Terri Osburn and have read all of her books. Of course when I found out she was part of an anthology, I was in. I heard Awakening Anna was different from her other stories, but honestly until I started reading I forgot that. Wow, you go girl! Terri definitely stepped out of her comfort zone, writing a brazen book with an alpha hero.

Anna Robinson is a librarian and head of the Happy Hearts book club. The group tends to read romance novels, some steamier than others. Anna is your classic librarian who fantasizes about stepping out of her comfort zone. Unfortunately for her, she’s been told her bedroom skills are lacking. For weeks, Anna has been dreaming of her new upstairs neighbor, YA author Max Marshall.

When a storm hits, knocking out power, the two spend a passionate night together which in turn awakens the inner vixen hidden in Anna. Neither expect their time together to be so good or their time together to end so soon.

Terri has written characters who are likeable from the start. They bring passion to each other. I know this is a short story, but I would have preferred for this the be a full-length novel, with more background on Anna and Max.

Rating: 4

MOONSHINE & MAGNOLIAS (Jamie Farrell) ~

Moonshine & Magnolias marks my first time reading Jaime Farrell. Oh my gosh!!! I have seriously been missing out. I was in a reading funk and I swear Jaime had me laughing with the southern charm zingers her character Shelby Thermokopolos was sending out.

"You're dog's in the magnolia tree."
"That's a real good grip on the obvious you've got there, bless your heart."

Moonshine & Magnolias is part of the Ex-Wives Series, but is a standalone read. Shelby is a single mom with two small children and a pug who loves to climb trees. When Shelby is injured, her next door neighbor, Zack Montgomery steps in to help her out.

Zack never thought about being married or having a family. He simply lives for adventure and wants to travel the world. All that changes when he actually spends a little time with Shelby.

Moonshine & Magnolias had me laughing and smiling from the beginning. I can’t wait to read more from Jaime Farrell.

Rating: 5

SWEET HOME ALASKA (Rebecca Thomas) ~

Sweet Home Alaska marks my first time reading Rebecca Thomas. I found the story sweet and charming. Lauren Kinkade has always longed for the big city. After graduating high school, she moved to Hollywood to fulfill her acting dreams. When things don’t work out and her grandmother passes away, she returns to the small Alaskan town she grew up in.

Trey Briggs has always had a crush on Lauren, but she never really truly noticed him in high school. Now, Trey has Lauren’s future in her hands and doesn’t even know it.

Sweet Home Alaska is a second chance romance, featuring high school classmates. This closed door romance is sweet and doesn’t have the obvious romance storyline behind it. Yes, you know Lauren and Trey are going to get together, but as the story continues, you start to wonder just how that’s going to happen.

I’m looking forward to reading more of Rebecca Thomas’ contemporary romances.

Rating: 4

**Received a copy of the book from the authors for an unbiased opinion.**

[Valerie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Awakening Anna
Teri Osborn

This is a quick sweet romance that is told in a blink. Be prepared of high heat, quick flashes of character but enough with enough detail to have you not floundering looking for foundation or for plot. This is a good opening to the box set.

Anywhere with you
Heatherly Bell

This is a novella that fits into Ms. Bell’s Starlight Hill series of books, but can be read as a stand alone. She gives you enough of the story and the plot theme for the series that you can easily see where the people are supposed to go. This is more of a sweet romance than hot and steamy but if this work is anything like the rest of her work she is an author to pick up.

Moonshine and Magnolia’s
Jamie Farrell

I admit this novella wasn’t my thing. There were a lot of “Southern” tendencies that were just a bit much for a Southern to like. That being said I did enjoy the style in which the novella was written and knowing that it was part of a series makes me want to give another book in the series, as again the style in which it was written was good.

Summer in Springtown Proper
Liz Flaherty

This is a romance full of life in an “older” generation. The writing is fantastic and the plot believable and likable. This should have a high appeal to those who like second chance love and a bit older main characters.

Summer Stock
Regina Kyle

Ms. Kyle has done it again. With this novella in a surprisingly short amount of pages she has gifted her readers with a view into another world, with characters that touch your heart and a story that makes you realize sometimes people are worth a second chance. This is a great taste of her writing if you haven’t experienced her before it will whet your appetite for more.

Serena’s Solider
Amy Lamont

Ms. Lamont has brought a story that is too true in these times. For anyone with a connection to the military this may hit a bit too close to home. To her credit though she doesn’t do a lot of sugar coating and gives her readers some real depth of characters to help them relate to the story. This one is definitely about the relationship, between these two and is a mental read.

A Kiss in Kite Harbor
Stephanie London

This story about a big woman and her first crush was interesting and definitely plays into the small town feel of the box set. Ms. London has taken her readers into the psyche of two people who want to think they are so very different when the truth couldn’t be farther apart. The novella is just a taste though and it leaves this reader wondering what her full writing style is like.

Her Last Shot
Megan Ryder

Small towns, baseball and the kind of love that keeps you involved for years and through different dreams. That is the kind of thing that Ms. Ryder has brought to the short pages of this novella. If this is just a taste of her writing, my advice is to go find everything else she has written and you will be thanking her for taking the time to write.

Sweet Home Alaska
Rebecca Thomas

This is a quick read and unfortunately it reads like it. The bones are there for a fantastic novel though and if I came across another novel by Ms. Thomas I would pick it up because I really think there is a ton of potential and I would be interested to see what a longer work by her is like.

[Winnie Lim · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a delightful boxset. 9 small town contemporary romance stories - a perfect fit for those who love stories set in a small town. I enjoyed all the stories in the boxset but would like to highlight 2 of my most favorite stories.

1) Moonshine & Magnolias by Jamie Farrell
This was an absolute hilarious story. I love the chemistry between Shelby and Zack. 2 people who were absolutely not looking for love but sometimes, you just can't hide when love comes your way. I really love the southern expressions such as "bless your heart" and "did God give a duck nipples?" I really couldn't stop laughing. And Zack's nickname for Shelby - One-Two Shelby was such a great idea. This is definitely my most favorite story in this boxset.

2) Summer in Stringtown Proper by Liz Flaherty
This story features an older couple who are in their fifties. It is great to give older people a chance in love too. I think in some ways, it is even more romantic to read about finding love later in life. I love how the Joe and Molly grew in their relationship. This story is not only about the couple, but also about family and I think it is a wonderful read.

Received an advance copy of this boxset for an honest review.

[Janie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Small Town Summer" is a collection of stories from authors Terri Osburn, Heatherly Bell, Jamie Farrell, Liz Flaherty, Regina Kyle, Amy Lamont, Stefanie London, Megan Ryder, and Rebecca Thomas.

Each story is a small novella that deals with love, friendship, loss, Summer, and so much more. What I liked about this collection is that with the stories not being very long it was easy to read during the busy Summer months. Enjoyable by the pool, at the beach, or just lounging around at home. I've read some other books from some of these authors and I found a couple of new one's along the way. I loved the stories.

[Elaine Swinney · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great collection of stories. I loved that the phrase "Bless her heart" was used as it is supposed to be used. Each of the stories were fantastic. I loved that these authors showed just what living in a small town can be like. I encourage each and everyone to get this collection of stories you will be pleased with them. It is worth you time, effort and money!!!! A wonderful collection of stories. Each of the stories shine in their own right!!!!

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fantastic anthology! I absolutely loved all the stories. There are nine stories. I could not put this collection down. This is a great summer read. After reading this anthology I have several new authors to check out. The stories were very well written.

I highly recommend this collection.

I was given a copy of this anthology for a honest review.

[Marcy · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing set of nine novellas! I enjoyed each one and now have several new-to-me authors to read!

[Sarah G · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love anthologies as you can get so much with them. A lot of short stories that are perfect to read over the lunchtime break. This collection had a lot going for it, some I liked a bit more than others, but as a whole an enjoyable read. You will laugh, fall in love, and sigh throughout each of the journeys that the characters go on. Short but sweet comes to mind when thinking of this collection of entertaining summer reads.

AWAKENING ANNA - 4 out of 5 stars

Well who wouldn’t want a hot young author to teach you a thing of two in the bedroom department? Anna is the local librarian and has had a bit of bad luck in the romance/bedroom department so when a hot young author Max starts to rent the apartment above hers her fantasies start to get away from her. Little does she know that every sexy thought she has had about him he has had about her in return. After accepting a dinner invitation, and a bit of encouragement from her sister to just go for it, she ends up having the best night of her life. But is one night ever going to be enough or can she expect more?

ANYWHERE WITH YOU - 4 out of 5 stars

When feelings get too real and the chance for a HEA gets ever closer what does Kailey do, run every time. She ran from Joe because she felt that didn’t deserve him and that she would never fit in with his little town. When a news report shows that he was involved in a plane crash she does the only thing that makes sense, run right back to him. With Joe needing a helping hand after his accident it’s the perfect opportunity to integrate her back into his life where she wants to stay. All she is wanting is another chance, to not just prove to him she can stay where she is truly happy, but to stay for herself aswell.

MOONSHINE & MAGNOLIAS - 5 out of 5 stars

When a hot military man moves next door to Shelby she all but drools every time she sees him. But she has sworn off men after her disaster of a marriage fell apart, she just wants to focus on her children. Zack is not looking to make this place his permanent home, just renovate the house while waiting for the call for his next line of duty. Another seven years in the army then he can retire early and travel the world. But there is just something about his neighbour that draws him to her and after a chance encounter at a softball game that leads her into the hospital with a broken arm everything changes. He can see that she needs help doing things around the house and is only too glad to help, a bit of guilt about the broken arm that’s what he keeps telling himself. It’s not the fact that he can’t get her out of his head with all the things he wants to do to her. A fun loving story about two people definitely not looking for love but finding that fate has other plans in mind.

SUMMER IN STRINGTOWN PROPER - 3 out of 5 stars

When Molly’s marriage fell apart at the age of fifty she wasn’t expecting to be able to find love again, she was just hoping to find something to do with the rest of her life. She had it all planned out and now she has to start over, but starting over turns out to be the best thing she could have ever done. When she gets to town for her aunts wedding she gets introduced to Joe, a good-looking man who makes her pulse race. Which is surprising for her as it has been so long since that has happened before. When an opportunity to buy out the old saloon of Joes she jumps for it. She just wants to be accepted into the town and just maybe into Joes heart aswell. I like that they found a way to true happiness with each other in a more natural way starting with a true friendship and slowly building to love from there.

SUMMMER STOCK - 5 out of 5 stars

When Georgi’s director for her amateur dramatics play falls ill she fears that this will be the end of the play and more to the point end of the theatre which is in need of funding or it will close. They need to find a director and anyone capable will do, well that is unless the person in question is her high school sweetheart who 12 years ago left her broken hearted when he broke up with her in a note attached to her car window so he could go off to the bright lights of Broadway. Needless to say that when he strolls into the theater she is less than thrilled to see him, especially when he mentions one of his reasons for coming back is to win back his girl. Jax knew he made a mistake in ending things the way he did it the moment he got to New York but by then the damage was done. 12 years on and he wants to do things right this time. He will start by just keeping things professional between them, helping show the leading man how to make the chemistry seem real when kissing his leading lady Georgi is all in a days work. At least it shows him that the chemistry between them is still burning hot. He needs her to believe that he wants her for forever this time and he will stop at nothing to get his girl back. The question is whether Georgi can trust him enough this time for she feels that her heart won’t survive it if he leaves again. A great story about doing things right the second time around.

SERENA’S SOLDIER - 5 out of 5 stars

Serena first met Mace on Kismet beach and ever since has believed that he would be the man she would marry. After a summer romance their families moved away but they kept in touch, letters, texts, emails, spread over eight long years, so even though they were apart they always felt they were together. Serena went to college to be a nurse and Mace enlisted in the army. Both knew that when the time was right they would find their way back to each other, but after eight months of silence from Mace Serena was starting to worry, that is until she finds that he has come home. She all but runs the whole way to get to him but is not prepared for the welcome she gets. Mace tells her that their relationship was nothing more than a silly crush and that he would of thought she would have got the picture by now as he hasn’t contacted her in months. She doesn’t notice until later that when he spoke to her he kept himself behind the sofa and its only after speaking with his sister that she finds out he was involved in a road side bomb explosion damaging his leg. Mace has always wanted two things, to be a soldier and marry his girl Serena, they went hand in hand and now that he can’t be a soldier anymore he feels that he can’t be the man she deserves so pushes her away. He should have remembered her stubborn streak because now she knows his reasons are all rubbish she will do what ever it takes to get her Mace back, not this shell of a man in his place. I loved this story as it had so much feeling in it. You feel for Mace with what he is going through and know that the only way he is going to heal is if he really wants to and that’s the only way he will be able to back to get his girl, which is all he really wants.

A KISS IN KITE HARBOR - 5 out of 5 stars

The moment that Shelby could leave her hometown she never thought she would look back. She moved to New York and became a very successful plus sized model. But the torment she went through as a child just because she was a bit different has never really gone away. After her father has an accident leaving him in a few casts she comes home to help him not expecting to meet any of the people who hurt her feelings, especially not the boy who broke her heart. The boy in question though has grown into one hell of a man and he still has the power to make her go weak at the knees. When Nate moved to a new town he just wanted to fit in with the crowd at school, so when he is caught kissing Shelby (who he had wanted to kiss for weeks) he does the only thing he can think of by saying that she throw herself at him and why would he want to kiss fat Shelby. From then on the friendship was dead but now that she is back all he wants to do is amend his mistakes and start fresh as friends. The friends thing might be difficult though as the first time he sees her again is when he opens the door to the spare room at her fathers house and find her naked bar a pair of pants and none of his thoughts are one friendship but on what he wants to do to her. He is going to have his work cut out for him as Shelby has walls so high around her to protect her from getting hurt again. Now that they are older and hopefully wiser they might be able to have the relationship they should have had all those years ago.

HER LAST SHOT - 5 out of 5 stars

Rachel has had a crush of her best friends older brother, and local baseball player, for years and now that he is back home she can’t wait to try and get him. She just wants him to notice her as a woman and not as his younger sisters best friend. She thinks she might have her chance when he comes up to her at the bar saying she must be new as he doesn’t recongize her, that is until she turns round and he gets a good look and then all but runs away. He feels that he can have anything to do with her because of the fact that she is his sister’s friend. Rachel doesn’t take this well and all but slams his head into the pool table. This leads him to follow her outside where he over hears her telling his sister that she would be happy for just one night with him. He is beyond flattered but lets her down anyway. It seems to be that the moment Rachel decides to step back and focus on finding someone else to be with though that Bastien finally gets his head in the game and realizes that he does like her. He then goes out of his way to spend time with her to see where this could go. But when he gets a call to be a player again he has to think about what’s more important, the game where he is getting too old to play or the future with the girl who has always been waiting for him to open his eyes and truly see her?

SWEET HOME ALASKA - 4 out of 5 stars

Lauren left her hometown of Alaska to move to Hollywood and become a big time movie star. Things don’t always seem to ho to plan though when needing to get a job to cover the bills while waiting for her big shot she gains experience as a caterer. She always knew she loved to cook from her grandmother having her own shop and now she has a new passion. When her grandmother passes away leaving her the shop she goes home to try and make a go of things. She lines herself up with an interview to be the caterer of the opening of a new hotel knowing this would be the best way to get back into the good graces of the town as the person interviewing her is something of a town hero. Trey was always a bit awkward in school and none more so when he crashes into someone after noticing Lauren stretch in the lunch hall. He always had a crush on her and from just seeing her name down as someone he has to interview he starts to feel all his insecurities again. After cancelling her appointment her goes for a run to clear his head, he just doesn’t expect to see Lauren while out running. After convincing him to give her a chance they get to see a lot more of each other. This is good, as both seem to be developing feelings for the other. Trey can’t believe his luck when she comes right out with it that she wants him. With the opening coming up and a job offer that could take her away, will they be able to survive what they have started. A great story about finding the happiness you always deserved.

As a whole though I would give this collection 5 out of 5 stars.

I received this ARC from Give Me Books for my honest review.
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[Phyllis · Rating 5 out of 5]

All nine books were great. Some steamy, some swoon worthy all were about love and romance. All nine game something different and some caught you by surprise. If you love romance, this collection should be the one you want with you this summer no matter where you read it.

Awakening Anna by Terri Osburn is a story about a young woman who is a librarian and very quiet. When she looks in the mirror she sees a plain Jane with no sex appeal, nothing a man could or would want. Max, an author comes into her life, living upstairs from her while he writes his newest book and will show Anna that she is so much more then what she sees in the mirror each day. Max will teach her to own it. But will Max be her happily ever after? Find out. This was a very great story about something we all feel in our own lives from time to time.


Anywhere with You by Heatherly Bell is a story about a woman named Kailey who grew up in the foster care system and always running. She felt the need to due to being in the foster care system and always being sent from home to home or being asked to leave. These feelings carried over into her adult life. She met a pilot named Joe from Starlight Hill, small town living at its best. Their relationship did not last due to her not being able to stay in his small town and she couldn't live in anything but a big city. Joe was in a plane crash and Kailey realized that she couldn't be without Joe in her life, but she had to stop running in order for the relationship to work out. Would she be able to? Would he give her another chance? This was a good story.


Moonshine and Magnolias by Jamie Farrell is a story about a divorced mom of two children. Shelby is feeling down on her luck, underemployed. She breaks her arm in a softball game trying to steal home. Her neighbor Zack is the one who was playing catcher and feels responsible for the arm break. They have a strange relationship over the fence that divides their yards, mostly trading sarcasms, when he tries helping her out because of her broken arm feelings start to change. He almost dares her to take a weekend trip with him since her children are with her ex husband and have some fun. He never believed she would do it. She does. They have a great time and get closer. This was a feel good story about life after divorce and finding a happily ever after. It was an enjoyable book to read, fun story.


Summer in Springtown Proper by Liz Flaherty finds Molly and Joe both learning to get over heartbreak. Molly from divorce and Joe from the death of his wife. Molly has come back to Springtown and lives with her aunt, Joe has always lived there. Both are trying to come back to life from their heartbreak and learn to live again. This one summer will change both their lives and make them stronger. This was a good story about a small town with good people and lots of love to go around. And maybe even finding love again.


Summer Stock by Regina Kyle finds a theater group without a director. Georgie is the leading lady and finds out that the director that is being called in to replace the one that has fallen ill is her long ago lost love, Jax. The man who made all the plans for a future with her. The man she loved. Will she be able to work with Jax, when she sees him how will she feel about him? How will he feel about her? The two will come together for the play and the sparks will fly, but are they the good kind or the bad kind? Find out when you read the story.


Serina's Soldier by Amy Lamont is a story about Serena and Mace, as teenagers fell in love, had to go their separate ways to college, and he went into the army. They kept in touch through most of that time. As adults Serena came home to Kismet Beach to become a nurse in a VA Hospital, Mace came home from the army broken. When she found out he was home she was so happy to finally get to see him and continue on with their relationship since she never stopped loving him. When she finally saw Mace, he wasn't the same person any more. He cam back injured and broken due to those injuries, and pushing her away. Would she be able to help him? Would they find their way back to each other? Would they find their happily ever after? I thought this was a great story depicting what it can be like for our heroes coming home after being at war and trying to find their normal lives again.


A Kiss in Kite Harbor by Stefani London finds Shelby Jenkins coming back to town to help her dad after he has an accident. This is the same town that as a teenager made fun of her and hurt her so bad she couldn't wait to leave it when she finished school. She was a bit overweight back then and the kids could be so very mean. Nate Ritter had the biggest crush on Shelby back in school, and was her friend, but trying to fit in to a new school and new town let his friend down, after his new friends found out he had kissed Shelby they made fun of this and to stay with the in crowd he turned on her and made fun of her as well. He hurt her deeply. Now that she is back in town can he show her he has changed? Will she forgive him? Good story about bullying and the effect it has on people but also about over-coming it and moving forward with your life.



Her Last Shot by Megan Ryder was a cute story about a little town in Maine where family was tops and tourist came in last. Rachel had been in love will Bas forever. He never gave her the time of day. She was a kindergarten teacher and he taught history and coached baseball. His dream was to be in the major leagues. Their story is full of pain and fun, maybe not in equal measures, but I did enjoy it. I think you will too.


Sweet Home Alaska by Rebecca Thomas takes place in Alaska. Lauren and Trey are old school mates. Lauren always made Trey feel odd. He would always get tripped up by her in school, see her and be clumsy, or trip. Not that it was her fault, it wasn't, she was always very nice to him. Lauren had left Alaska for L. A. to be an actress. It didn't work out and she ended up doing catering. When her grandma died and left her the Moose's Tooth bakery she came back to run it. Trey was the owner of a restaurant and looking for a caterer for the grand opening. Lauren applied and against his better judgement Trey gave her the job. Sparks flew and they worked well together as well as started a relationship. But when L.A. Calls will Lauren go back? Or will she stay in Alaska. Find out by reading this cute story.

[Michelle Somers]

A Review about Kiss in Kite Harbour

Many women have battled or do battle with self-image on some level. I know I have at various moments in my life, and still do.
I think this is why Shelby’s story resonated so deeply with me.

Shelby Jenkins isn’t one of your typical sleek, gorgeous heroines. She’s down-to-earth. Relatable. Feisty. Scarred.
After years of taunting and bullying regarding her looks, she fled her home in Kite Harbour. Built her life and confidence away from the claws of Kite Harbour's stifling small-town mentality. Become a plus-sized model; self-confident and successful.

Now her father needs her, she’s returned.
And is thrust face-to-face with Nate Ritter - the boy she loved as a teenager, whom she believed to be a friend until he kissed her then gave in to peer pressure to join the ranks of her tormenters.

Nate lives with the guilt of his betrayal of his best friend every day of his life.
Now Shelby’s back, he has the opportunity to show her he’s changed. To ignite their friendship again. And hopefully more.
But with wounds that cut so deep, will Shelby ever be able to trust Nate again?
And if so, will she be able to give up the freedom and success in New York to stay in the town that holds so many painful memories?

A Kiss in Kite Harbour is written with such insight, such sensitivity, you just know Stefanie London understands how Shelby feels.
I was immediately drawn into Shelby’s internal struggle, and loved the way the author allowed her story to unfold.
This story holds a message for all women struggling with their perception of how they appear to the rest of the world. And any preconceived ideas about beauty and acceptance.
A must read.

[Shari · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful collection of short contemporary romance stories from sweet to spicy. From the south to Alaska, you can always being warmed up. I have only read three of the books so far, but plan on reading more. Many are new authors for me, what a great way to try new authors.

Awakening Anna by Terri Osburn. The story of librarian, Anna and author, Max. Anna has not had much experience in the dating world and has been dreaming of Max. Max is only in town while writing his novel, he even lives above Anna. Max shows up at the library and asks her out on a date. Will one night be enough for these two. This book is a little spicier than what we are use to by Terri, but oh how I loved it!!

Moonshine and Magnolias by Jamie Farrell. Welcome back to the Officer's Ex-Wife Club. Shelby, single mom and new neighbor Zack, collide while playing softball. One broken arm later, Zack and Shelby connect. Zack has his future all planned out and it does not include a single mom with two kids. Love the writing by Jamie, with her southern sass and humor. You will be smiling and laughing through out this story.

Summer in Stringtown Proper by Liz Flaherty. THis is the story of finding love again later in life. Molly is divorced, after her husband left her for a younger woman. She packs up and returns to Stringtown Proper Kentucky. where she found happiness as a child. Joe, is a widower of two years. He misses his wife, but knows he needs to move on with life. This is a wonderful clean romance of finding love again in midlife.

Once again I highly recommend this boxed set, a wonderful way to find new authors. Each story is only takes about an hour to read, perfect for an afternoon sitting at the pool.

[Jennifer Schultheis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Small Town Summer consists of nine quick reads that will entertain you. Each story is short and won’t take very long to read, but the length doesn’t take away from how good the stories are. For this review I will be concentrating on my two favorites from the box set.

Moonshine and Magnolias by Jamie Farrell is a very fun read that had me smiling throughout the whole story. I loved Shelby and Zack together. Shelby is such a fun heroine. She’s southern, sassy, and speaks her mind and Zack is totally smitten with her. I loved them together. Shelby and Zack are definitely hot for each other and you could tell they needed each other. Such a great story!

Summer Stock by Regina Kyle is all about second chances. I enjoyed reading about Georgi and Jax. Jax and Georgi had a relationship until he left a note and called it quits. Eleven years later, he’s back and ready to make Georgi his again, only this time, he has no plans on ever letting her go. These two had great chemistry and I loved how their story played out.

This box set is packed with many great stories and any romance lover will be thrilled to have it!

[Natasha · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a ARC from the author in exchange for a honest review.
4* read.
Small Town Summer is an anthology of nine short stories, so they are all novella length. I have to say I'd only heard of one of the author's in this box set so I was curious and looking forward to sampling and finding some new authors to devour over the next few months.
This was a great mix of different authors that had you travelling from all over and feeling so many different emotions. These are full of laughter and of course once you read them you might need a cool down because you will defiantly feel the heat burning you from the pages. A perfect mixture of sexy and steamy as well as sweet which I loved. Great for these hot summer days and nights lazing in the sunshine with your kindle.
They were all really well wrote strong and addictive little reads, that grabbed my attention right from the start whilst all giving something different to me. I will certainly be looking for more books from these authors after reading these.

[Diane]

This collection is perfect for a lazy summer afternoon of reading delight.

I enjoyed all nine of the contemporary romance novellas in this collection and I read them all in one late night reading session. The stories vary from sweet to spicy, include locations from Alaska to the sweet rhythm of the South and all have the small town connection that is one of my favorite genres in contemporary romance today. They are all well written and caught my attention in the first chapter and the characters were eclectic and varied in age so there is something here for everyone to enjoy. The couples are sweet, funny, heartfelt and hilarious but also have real differences to overcome and I had fun going along for the ride to see how they would work out their differences and find their love. I won't spoil the fun by giving too many details, but let me say that this is a sweet collection of happily-ever-after stories and an enjoyable way to spend a lazy summer afternoon.

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am reviewing Summer Stock by Regina Kyle. I Loved the story. I have not read anything bad from her yet, so this story just followed what I expected. I fell in love with Georgi and Jax. The secondary characters of Emil and Sebastian were fun and gave more depth to the story.

I know it is a novella, and I expected a shorter story, but the story is so great that I wanted the story to be so much more. Their history from high school is explained, and the break-up, but I wanted more of the buildup to their relationship in the present, the dates, the nights and the relearning each other and the climax of their relationship.

It was too good to be a novella, it needs to be a full length!

I highly recommend it. I am simply greedy for more Georgi and Jax!!!!!

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Moonlight & Magnolias by Jamie Farrell was the draw for me in this anthology, but I thoroughly enjoyed each and every story.
Shelby grabbed my attention with her first "bless you heart"! The chemistry between her and Zack lept off the pages. This was definitely my favorite story in the anthology.

Another Shelby, from A Kiss in Kite Harbor, and her first encounter with Kate had me laughing out loud....talk about embarrassing.

Honestly, every story was great! There's usually at least one,story in a box set that just isn't "me". Not in this set, loved them all :)

I received an ARC for a honest review

[Vero Stro · Rating 5 out of 5]

This a great box set. different, fresh, lovely stories, great authors. I really enjoyed it so far!!!

Moonshine and Magnolia from Jamie Farrell. This is a new story from Officer and Ex-Wives
Shelby wants to do it all: she's divorced, has two kids and... a broken arm!!!.And she also tries to beat Zack Montgomery's team in softball, fighting her attraction for him! Great book! I love Jamie Farrell's stories and this one is no exception!

[Deanna Buswell · Rating 5 out of 5]

So far so good!!!!

Five stars for awakening anna by Terri osburn
this was a very good short story. Quiet and awkward anna discovers herself when she is discovered by an author who has moved into the upstairs apartment above anna. While it was a quick read it covered plenty of detail for the fictional time frame!!!

(I will finish my review as I finish each story!)

[Rhonda Ziglar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Box Set for a great price.

Every author in this set is amazing....getting all in one, what more could you ask. I loved every book in this box. Please do yourself a favor and purchase it.

[MK · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent Book...Wonderful Authors...Full review to come...