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Pinetree #1
Finding Sunshine
Ex-con, Aaron Masters, is searching for redemption.
Young aspiring photographer, Nina King, is searching for a place to belong.
It’s time for the Valentine’s Day Date Auction at the exclusive Boston nightclub St. Andrews, and Aaron would rather be anywhere else. That all changes when he catches a glimpse of Nina, the woman he hasn’t been able to stop thinking about since their recent chance encounter. When they met her smile—for a precious moment—warmed the darkness inside. Now he’ll stop at nothing to make her his woman, keep her, and protect her from the truth of his rough past.
Nina hasn’t been able to get a certain handsome man, with long hair and gorgeous blue eyes, out of her thoughts—or her dreams. The goddess is smiling down on her when she sees him again at a charity date auction. As her professional internship has recently ended, she’s now out of work and trying to find herself while struggling to build a viable career.
Aaron and Nina’s relationship soon heats up, but not everyone in their lives are excited about this new development. Under the guise of friendship, some attempt to destroy what the two have built together.
Can these two lost souls find a future together?
Young aspiring photographer, Nina King, is searching for a place to belong.
It’s time for the Valentine’s Day Date Auction at the exclusive Boston nightclub St. Andrews, and Aaron would rather be anywhere else. That all changes when he catches a glimpse of Nina, the woman he hasn’t been able to stop thinking about since their recent chance encounter. When they met her smile—for a precious moment—warmed the darkness inside. Now he’ll stop at nothing to make her his woman, keep her, and protect her from the truth of his rough past.
Nina hasn’t been able to get a certain handsome man, with long hair and gorgeous blue eyes, out of her thoughts—or her dreams. The goddess is smiling down on her when she sees him again at a charity date auction. As her professional internship has recently ended, she’s now out of work and trying to find herself while struggling to build a viable career.
Aaron and Nina’s relationship soon heats up, but not everyone in their lives are excited about this new development. Under the guise of friendship, some attempt to destroy what the two have built together.
Can these two lost souls find a future together?
376 pages, ebook
First published July 14, 2015
219 people are currently reading
1048 people want to read
About the author
Rene Webb
30 books689 followersRene Webb, a former Catholic schoolgirl and child of the ‘80’s, is a recovering soap opera addict who grew up watching General Hospital. She became weary with the relentless drama and sought out stories with happy endings that lasted. Now, Rene is an erotic romance author, where there is always a happily-ever-after!
Authors such as Jane Austen, Kristen Ashley, Cherise Sinclair, Sierra Cartwright, Donna Fletcher, and Laura Kaye have inspired her. They all create strong female characters, swoon-worthy men, and stories that leave their readers with the hope that you, too, will find your own H.E.A.!
Rene’s novels include UNCOVERING LILY a sexy romance with a dash of suspense, FINDING SUNSHINE a sweet and sexy contemporary romance, and A WHITE HOT CHRISTMAS a steamy holiday romance.
A graduate of The George Washington University in Washington DC, ’05, with a BA in History. Rene went on to get her Masters in Film Studies, ’09, from Chapman University, Orange, CA.
When Rene’s characters aren’t talking to her, she enjoys reading, seeing movies, going to museums, playing tabletop games and spending time with her friends and family.
Rene lives in Northern Virginia.
Authors such as Jane Austen, Kristen Ashley, Cherise Sinclair, Sierra Cartwright, Donna Fletcher, and Laura Kaye have inspired her. They all create strong female characters, swoon-worthy men, and stories that leave their readers with the hope that you, too, will find your own H.E.A.!
Rene’s novels include UNCOVERING LILY a sexy romance with a dash of suspense, FINDING SUNSHINE a sweet and sexy contemporary romance, and A WHITE HOT CHRISTMAS a steamy holiday romance.
A graduate of The George Washington University in Washington DC, ’05, with a BA in History. Rene went on to get her Masters in Film Studies, ’09, from Chapman University, Orange, CA.
When Rene’s characters aren’t talking to her, she enjoys reading, seeing movies, going to museums, playing tabletop games and spending time with her friends and family.
Rene lives in Northern Virginia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
January 27, 2018
ARC received for review
Well, it took a long time to get to Pinetree, like the last four chapters. Nina and Aaron were great for each other, and had an amazing friends and family (except for a psycho roommate...I was really expecting more from that story line). I'm not sure who else will be in future books since almost everyone is already married. Plus with how many times they mentioned who her biological father was and who his "boss" was I was expecting a major blow-up... Beautiful epilogue
Well, it took a long time to get to Pinetree, like the last four chapters. Nina and Aaron were great for each other, and had an amazing friends and family (except for a psycho roommate...I was really expecting more from that story line). I'm not sure who else will be in future books since almost everyone is already married. Plus with how many times they mentioned who her biological father was and who his "boss" was I was expecting a major blow-up... Beautiful epilogue
August 10, 2015
**4 stars**
When I first came across the synopsis of Finding Sunshine I knew I had to read it. Aaron looking for a second chance and Nina looking to find herself, how could I pass that up!? Finding Sunshine did not disappoint, I found it to be a quick enjoyable read that had me grinning and swooning from the first chapter!
A playlist was included in the blog tour info provided, majority of the songs I already have on my iTunes but the others I pulled up on YouTube. I felt like this playlist the author created added to the overall book, and the songs matched the flow of the plot. Call me a romantic a guess but Nina and Aaron’s first encounter at the Starbucks was perfect! I went back and reread this part while having Falling In Love At A Coffee Shop by Landon Pigg playing in the background.
I really enjoyed Aaron’s POV. Actually I really just loved Aaron in general! He’s such a sweetheart and majority of the time while reading all I kept thinking was how much I just wanted to hug him!! Although, Nina’s POV on the other hand was difficult for me to read and connect with. It might have been the amount of times she said “golly” or “goodness”, which seriously was a lot but I just couldn’t really connect with her character as much as I wanted to. Nina and Aaron are the perfect couple and I feel like each brought something to the relationship. I really enjoyed to the build up, it wasn’t rushed and I feel like we really got to know the characters.
Overall, I found Finding Sunshine to be an enjoyable read. The romance is swoon worthy, the sex scenes are steamy, the characters have great development, and the story is well written from beginning to end. I will definitely be continuing with this series. I look forward to the next book!
When I first came across the synopsis of Finding Sunshine I knew I had to read it. Aaron looking for a second chance and Nina looking to find herself, how could I pass that up!? Finding Sunshine did not disappoint, I found it to be a quick enjoyable read that had me grinning and swooning from the first chapter!
A playlist was included in the blog tour info provided, majority of the songs I already have on my iTunes but the others I pulled up on YouTube. I felt like this playlist the author created added to the overall book, and the songs matched the flow of the plot. Call me a romantic a guess but Nina and Aaron’s first encounter at the Starbucks was perfect! I went back and reread this part while having Falling In Love At A Coffee Shop by Landon Pigg playing in the background.
I really enjoyed Aaron’s POV. Actually I really just loved Aaron in general! He’s such a sweetheart and majority of the time while reading all I kept thinking was how much I just wanted to hug him!! Although, Nina’s POV on the other hand was difficult for me to read and connect with. It might have been the amount of times she said “golly” or “goodness”, which seriously was a lot but I just couldn’t really connect with her character as much as I wanted to. Nina and Aaron are the perfect couple and I feel like each brought something to the relationship. I really enjoyed to the build up, it wasn’t rushed and I feel like we really got to know the characters.
Overall, I found Finding Sunshine to be an enjoyable read. The romance is swoon worthy, the sex scenes are steamy, the characters have great development, and the story is well written from beginning to end. I will definitely be continuing with this series. I look forward to the next book!
July 19, 2015
Insta-love at coffee shop 4
*Received an ARC for an honest review for Wicked Woman Book Blog*
What do you do when your heart’s completely broken and you can’t see the light? You go to jail! Because your heart is dead and life is dark, you couldn’t but help make stupid mistakes. And there was that other thing, you had NO other choice. You HAD to do it. Aaron was such a guy, he knows how stupid he was but now has to live with his mistakes. The story starts when Aaron’s going about his day, you may think it’s like any other day but alas it’s not. It’s the day that will change him forever. He bumps into a girl, and it’s like the blinders have been removed. His life is brighter and more colorful but he will never see her again or will he.
Fate has a way of bringing two people together even when the odds are against them. Aaron and Nina had instant connection, well it felt like that. They were thinking of each other after a chance encounter. Fate had to intervene, they met again and their somewhat roller-coaster journey began. They are both totally into each other, surprisingly their friends and family encourages them, with the exception of a few. I liked how they trust each other. I really liked how they were connected to each other, you will find out more when you read this.
Aaron can have anything he wants only if he can admit his mistake and forgive himself. He can have Nina and his happy ever after. But will he be brave enough to move forward or will his past keep him shackled unable to fight for his future. And will Nina forgive the stupid young, lost kid that he was when he made the mistake that can cost him his future. I also found it sort of cute that she never swore and he was so into her, his protectiveness and putting her up on a pedestal kind of made me go aww. The story had heat, lots of it and it was sweet and at times heart-warming so I give it 3.5 stars, but don’t like point fives, so I’ll round it to a 4. Enjoy reading this sweet and sexy story to find out whether they have a HEA.
*Received an ARC for an honest review for Wicked Woman Book Blog*
What do you do when your heart’s completely broken and you can’t see the light? You go to jail! Because your heart is dead and life is dark, you couldn’t but help make stupid mistakes. And there was that other thing, you had NO other choice. You HAD to do it. Aaron was such a guy, he knows how stupid he was but now has to live with his mistakes. The story starts when Aaron’s going about his day, you may think it’s like any other day but alas it’s not. It’s the day that will change him forever. He bumps into a girl, and it’s like the blinders have been removed. His life is brighter and more colorful but he will never see her again or will he.
Fate has a way of bringing two people together even when the odds are against them. Aaron and Nina had instant connection, well it felt like that. They were thinking of each other after a chance encounter. Fate had to intervene, they met again and their somewhat roller-coaster journey began. They are both totally into each other, surprisingly their friends and family encourages them, with the exception of a few. I liked how they trust each other. I really liked how they were connected to each other, you will find out more when you read this.
Aaron can have anything he wants only if he can admit his mistake and forgive himself. He can have Nina and his happy ever after. But will he be brave enough to move forward or will his past keep him shackled unable to fight for his future. And will Nina forgive the stupid young, lost kid that he was when he made the mistake that can cost him his future. I also found it sort of cute that she never swore and he was so into her, his protectiveness and putting her up on a pedestal kind of made me go aww. The story had heat, lots of it and it was sweet and at times heart-warming so I give it 3.5 stars, but don’t like point fives, so I’ll round it to a 4. Enjoy reading this sweet and sexy story to find out whether they have a HEA.
July 14, 2015
3.5 Stars
“Sunshine came back in my life, if only for a moment, and I saw things clearly for the first time in months.”
A random coffee shop encounter is only the beginning for fledgling photographer Nina King and part-time bartender/dog trainer Aaron Masters.
The opening scenes—their initial meeting—I felt was really well done as it pulled me into the story and the characters. Both Aaron and Nina had a lot of potential, and I was intrigued about Aaron’s criminal past. After that it seemed like their relationship was really rushed with Nina pondering changing her relationship status on Facebook and Aaron wanting to change his whole life before they even had a second date. Don’t get me wrong, Aaron needed and deserved something good in his life; it would have just added so much more to the romance if there had been more build-up so their chemistry could simmer a little. As it was, it felt like a lot of insta love and insta lust.
“Golly, I’ve never felt this full.”
“‛F*ck, Sunshine. You’re so tight.’”
About that! Their love scenes were pretty sexy and definitely frequent but their dialogue was a little mixed matched. Nina’s ‘goodness’ and ‘golly’ drove me nuts! At first it was just a little eye roll worthy but then it become annoying. She was just too sweetsy for me without the background behind it.
Overall, it was an okay read. Generally light-hearted and angst-free which I enjoy but there were places I would have liked to see a little more development, characters/plot points that I felt could have been expanded on for a little more excitement or a richer story.
“Sunshine came back in my life, if only for a moment, and I saw things clearly for the first time in months.”
A random coffee shop encounter is only the beginning for fledgling photographer Nina King and part-time bartender/dog trainer Aaron Masters.
The opening scenes—their initial meeting—I felt was really well done as it pulled me into the story and the characters. Both Aaron and Nina had a lot of potential, and I was intrigued about Aaron’s criminal past. After that it seemed like their relationship was really rushed with Nina pondering changing her relationship status on Facebook and Aaron wanting to change his whole life before they even had a second date. Don’t get me wrong, Aaron needed and deserved something good in his life; it would have just added so much more to the romance if there had been more build-up so their chemistry could simmer a little. As it was, it felt like a lot of insta love and insta lust.
“Golly, I’ve never felt this full.”
“‛F*ck, Sunshine. You’re so tight.’”
About that! Their love scenes were pretty sexy and definitely frequent but their dialogue was a little mixed matched. Nina’s ‘goodness’ and ‘golly’ drove me nuts! At first it was just a little eye roll worthy but then it become annoying. She was just too sweetsy for me without the background behind it.
Overall, it was an okay read. Generally light-hearted and angst-free which I enjoy but there were places I would have liked to see a little more development, characters/plot points that I felt could have been expanded on for a little more excitement or a richer story.
January 18, 2018
I requested this book from Netgalley because the thought of an ex-con wanting/needing redemption just seemed too good to pass up. And the ideas of life stalling, that people need to move on as they find cracks in their lives that are difficult to smooth over—are seductive ones and so close to reality that I thought this story would actually be right up my alley.
But ‘Finding Sunshine’ just wasn’t what I expected, as it all read like a New Adult book populated with characters that just didn’t feel like they’ve grown up yet.
I couldn’t get into the them at all in fact: the instant love (or lust) which just seemed to be baseless and inexplicable to me which then led to a long period of feel-good lull of sunshine, sex and roses, the startling (and childish?) outbursts of temper that made me wonder at times about the characters’ maturity and the fight about who hooked up with whom in their friends’ group simply put me off.
I also had some difficulty separating the voices of Aaron and Nina, except for odd terms like ‘Golly’ and ‘Oh My Goddess’ which just didn’t seem to fit the entire storytelling; offhand, I do know they’re meant to be character quirks that make them distinct and maybe even adorable. Yet it threw me off and I struggled through the whole book with my reservations never quite dissipating at all towards the end.
Clearly, this is not the book for me at all.
But ‘Finding Sunshine’ just wasn’t what I expected, as it all read like a New Adult book populated with characters that just didn’t feel like they’ve grown up yet.
I couldn’t get into the them at all in fact: the instant love (or lust) which just seemed to be baseless and inexplicable to me which then led to a long period of feel-good lull of sunshine, sex and roses, the startling (and childish?) outbursts of temper that made me wonder at times about the characters’ maturity and the fight about who hooked up with whom in their friends’ group simply put me off.
I also had some difficulty separating the voices of Aaron and Nina, except for odd terms like ‘Golly’ and ‘Oh My Goddess’ which just didn’t seem to fit the entire storytelling; offhand, I do know they’re meant to be character quirks that make them distinct and maybe even adorable. Yet it threw me off and I struggled through the whole book with my reservations never quite dissipating at all towards the end.
Clearly, this is not the book for me at all.
November 2, 2015
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review*
"I was always waiting for my sunshine"
I have to say... after the first two pages I knew I would love it to no end! I was right! I devoured this book in a day, I just couldn't tear my eyes away! It's full of humor and kept me grinning so much. I love these two together so much, one of my favorite couples for sure. I honestly felt like they were perfect for each other. They each brought something different to the relationship and I enjoyed where they ended up. The character developments were nicely portrayed and nobody rushed to throw L bombs at each other! My heart goes to the authors that build a relationship on the character's hearts not their bodies. And Rene stole my breath away by reading my mind. Of course the sexy scenes were more than enjoyable. I am so stalking Rene from now on. Although I loved the ending... I am not ready to let this story go just yet!
"I was always waiting for my sunshine"
I have to say... after the first two pages I knew I would love it to no end! I was right! I devoured this book in a day, I just couldn't tear my eyes away! It's full of humor and kept me grinning so much. I love these two together so much, one of my favorite couples for sure. I honestly felt like they were perfect for each other. They each brought something different to the relationship and I enjoyed where they ended up. The character developments were nicely portrayed and nobody rushed to throw L bombs at each other! My heart goes to the authors that build a relationship on the character's hearts not their bodies. And Rene stole my breath away by reading my mind. Of course the sexy scenes were more than enjoyable. I am so stalking Rene from now on. Although I loved the ending... I am not ready to let this story go just yet!
January 23, 2018
I received a copy of this story from NetGalley for a honest review.
Finding Sunshine, was a sweet insta love story with very little drama, this story centers around Aaron and Nina (his Sunshine) getting to know each other and having lots of sex. Although Aaron does hold back from telling her his one secret, it all gets sorted out pretty fast. If your looking for a sweet love story, with dual pov and little to no drama this story was cute.
Finding Sunshine, was a sweet insta love story with very little drama, this story centers around Aaron and Nina (his Sunshine) getting to know each other and having lots of sex. Although Aaron does hold back from telling her his one secret, it all gets sorted out pretty fast. If your looking for a sweet love story, with dual pov and little to no drama this story was cute.
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September 1, 2015**MEGAN'S REVIEW**
I know there was a story here.
Somewhere.
But I never got it or didn't get far enough for it to come through.
I had to stop at 37%.
This is when reviews are really the hardest to write. I never want to come off as mean or un-kind but this one was overtly NOT working for me.
The biggest offender was the "golly". You thought I'd say my normal rush at connection huh? Well it had it here as well; the super quick connection in a coffee shop, but I might of gotten past it if there weren't so many other issues that just made me want to be DONE.
"Golly! He might just be perfection, wrapped up in a dream."
"Only we'll start with dessert first."
"Golly! I like the sound of that."
"Golly! I cannot wait for our date tonight."
I also did NOT care for Aaron. Not because of his alpha says, I love a good ole alpha in my reads. And not because of his backstory but the vibe he put off. I really thought he tried to hard. Be natural. Be normal. When he spoke was Aaron but sometimes in his head was a different Aaron that didn't match.
"Did my phone just buzz?"
"I swear I just felt it vibrating in my pocket."
"Maybe it's a text from my Nina!"
I know there was a story here.
Somewhere.
But I never got it or didn't get far enough for it to come through.
I had to stop at 37%.
This is when reviews are really the hardest to write. I never want to come off as mean or un-kind but this one was overtly NOT working for me.
The biggest offender was the "golly". You thought I'd say my normal rush at connection huh? Well it had it here as well; the super quick connection in a coffee shop, but I might of gotten past it if there weren't so many other issues that just made me want to be DONE.
"Golly! He might just be perfection, wrapped up in a dream."
"Only we'll start with dessert first."
"Golly! I like the sound of that."
"Golly! I cannot wait for our date tonight."
I also did NOT care for Aaron. Not because of his alpha says, I love a good ole alpha in my reads. And not because of his backstory but the vibe he put off. I really thought he tried to hard. Be natural. Be normal. When he spoke was Aaron but sometimes in his head was a different Aaron that didn't match.
"Did my phone just buzz?"
"I swear I just felt it vibrating in my pocket."
"Maybe it's a text from my Nina!"
July 8, 2015
B- rating
There are good and bad things to this book. Overall, I enjoyed it. So, here is what I liked:
1. Aaron is great! He is an alpha for sure, but it wasn't an alpha a-hole. Loved getting his POV (I actually liked his POV more than Nina's)
2. Interesting story line with why Aaron was in prison and who Nina's real dad is.
3. Its a pretty fast paced book
What I didn't like:
1. The over use of the words Golly and Goddess. Seriously, it was distracting and I was rolling my eyes every time it happened after chapter 3...I gave myself a headache.
2. They jump into sex (and sort of kinky sex) pretty quickly. I love insta-love but for Aaron and Nina, it was like insta-love and insta sex and I think it actually diminished my belief in their love (it felt more like insta-lust that wouldn't last!)
So, overall, worth the read. Especially if you can ignore Golly and Goddess over and over. I actually considered skipping the chapters from Nina's POV because it bothered me so much. #notkidding
There are good and bad things to this book. Overall, I enjoyed it. So, here is what I liked:
1. Aaron is great! He is an alpha for sure, but it wasn't an alpha a-hole. Loved getting his POV (I actually liked his POV more than Nina's)
2. Interesting story line with why Aaron was in prison and who Nina's real dad is.
3. Its a pretty fast paced book
What I didn't like:
1. The over use of the words Golly and Goddess. Seriously, it was distracting and I was rolling my eyes every time it happened after chapter 3...I gave myself a headache.
2. They jump into sex (and sort of kinky sex) pretty quickly. I love insta-love but for Aaron and Nina, it was like insta-love and insta sex and I think it actually diminished my belief in their love (it felt more like insta-lust that wouldn't last!)
So, overall, worth the read. Especially if you can ignore Golly and Goddess over and over. I actually considered skipping the chapters from Nina's POV because it bothered me so much. #notkidding
August 22, 2015
I received this for an honest review... I have to say that this was a pretty enjoyable read.. I love it when you get both POV's. I really enjoyed Nina and Aaron's story. This book has a nice pace to it which is really nice.. I felt like I really connected with the characters.. I really enjoyed Aaron and his Alpha ways but he wasn't to over the top which is always nice..
Definitely a book to read I cant wait to see what the author comes out with next!!!
Definitely a book to read I cant wait to see what the author comes out with next!!!
Want to read
February 25, 2024🎁 FREE on Amazon & on iBooks today (3/20/2020)! 🎁
April 27, 2024
I'm an avid 🔥 book reader. I like them all. So, just know the 🌟🌟 rating isn't because I'm prudish. It's because the book was THAT bad. I can't say I dnf'd but I skipped to 85% after 60% because I always have to know how it ends. I only generously gave it 🌟🌟 because there is a dog and the MMC works at an animal shelter part time. I'm not a monster!
The dialogue, especially the inner dialogue, was so cringe. I get she's a "sweet girl", how could I not with it being stated by the MMC every other sentence, but I think I knew I was done when the MMC was giving explicit details of the 🌶 things he was going to do to the FMC, who is 'too sweet' to cuss, and she legit said "Golly, I can't wait for him to 👅 my 😸." Future authors, never, NEVER put golly with that. 🤢. The ick is real. I'm not s3xist. I've got complaints about the MMC as well. The absolute massive amount of time he said, "my woman" was astronomical. I love possessive MMCs and the whole "mine" thing is one of my favorite tropes. I'm just saying that if I had a nickel for every time I got bored with the words "my woman" I'd have 2 nickels, which isn't a lot, but it's still weird it happened twice. (Thanks, Dr. Doofenshmirtz). And it was at the weirdest times. Inner monologue "My woman is eating chips," "my woman is washing dishes," "my woman is biting a hang nail," 🙄🙄.
But, If you're determined to read this, I'll give the deets, but I can only assume you have read every other romance in existence and are just completely bored.
Stand alone
HEA
No cheating
Story: 🌟
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶 1/2 (But, again, so much ick.)
Cute Dog: 🐕🐕🐕🐕
The dialogue, especially the inner dialogue, was so cringe. I get she's a "sweet girl", how could I not with it being stated by the MMC every other sentence, but I think I knew I was done when the MMC was giving explicit details of the 🌶 things he was going to do to the FMC, who is 'too sweet' to cuss, and she legit said "Golly, I can't wait for him to 👅 my 😸." Future authors, never, NEVER put golly with that. 🤢. The ick is real. I'm not s3xist. I've got complaints about the MMC as well. The absolute massive amount of time he said, "my woman" was astronomical. I love possessive MMCs and the whole "mine" thing is one of my favorite tropes. I'm just saying that if I had a nickel for every time I got bored with the words "my woman" I'd have 2 nickels, which isn't a lot, but it's still weird it happened twice. (Thanks, Dr. Doofenshmirtz). And it was at the weirdest times. Inner monologue "My woman is eating chips," "my woman is washing dishes," "my woman is biting a hang nail," 🙄🙄.
But, If you're determined to read this, I'll give the deets, but I can only assume you have read every other romance in existence and are just completely bored.
Stand alone
HEA
No cheating
Story: 🌟
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶 1/2 (But, again, so much ick.)
Cute Dog: 🐕🐕🐕🐕
October 13, 2024
Finding Sunshine is truly a story of lightness and darkness, good versus evil, taking chances on yourself and believing in how other people see you. The storyline is truly sweet and addicting and the reader will stay enticed from first page to last. The strong characters are really what makes this book so hard to put down. Aaron and Nina are truly meant for each other in all ways. She needs his unwavering support and he needs her light happy personality. As they learn to trust each other and how important communication is they find their HEA ending. Add in an adorable dog and this book will fill your heart.
March 24, 2016
Finding Sunshine was truly a pleasant surprise….refreshingly different and full of feels.
Aaron was a man with a past. He had spent time in prison and although he had been out for the past four years he had never quiet moved on from the stigma of being there. He worked in a sleazy bar where he bar tended and whatever needed to be done as well as lived in a small apartment above it. More than anything he is stuck in this cycle and not able to move on.
On the other side of the coin: Aaron is good looking with utterly mesmerizing blue eyes, well educated with a degree in Business Management from BC. He’s also a stand up good guy, totally smitten with his nephew, loves his family, not to mention loves working with dogs. We all know that anyone who loves dogs is a keeper, right?
Standing in line at Starbucks one morning he hears Nina. She is like a breath of fresh air to Aaron. As they are waiting in line to pick up their coffee they start to talk. While talking someone tries to hijack Nina’s coffee. Aaron, in total Alpha mien, steps up to rescue Nina’s coffee from this stranger. Coffee rescued they part ways. This brief meeting has sparked a glimpse of light for Aaron. Will this light give him the desire to want more? How does he find that more with Nina?
Nina is a young girl who’s just finished a photography internship. She is out of work, looking for a job but until then her parents are helping her out. Now she is not only seeking employment but she is also quiet enamored with Mr. Starbucks, Aaron and just can’t get him out of the thoughts!
Since they both seem to be stuck on each other, what are the chances of them meeting again? As luck and best friends would have it very good. Imagine the surprise when Aaron found that Nina was part of the Valentine’s Day Auction? He knew the moment he saw her that he would win the date no matter the cost. Doubly cool was when Nina found out that Aaron was the winner of the date! The biggest surprise of all was finding their mutual good friends had been trying to play matchmaker with them!! It was like a match made in heaven and they were soon inseparable.
Now that Aaron had found his Sunshine what would life bring for them? Can he begin to let go of his past or would it come crashing down around him? Would Aaron and Nina find an HEA?
Aaron was a man with a past. He had spent time in prison and although he had been out for the past four years he had never quiet moved on from the stigma of being there. He worked in a sleazy bar where he bar tended and whatever needed to be done as well as lived in a small apartment above it. More than anything he is stuck in this cycle and not able to move on.
On the other side of the coin: Aaron is good looking with utterly mesmerizing blue eyes, well educated with a degree in Business Management from BC. He’s also a stand up good guy, totally smitten with his nephew, loves his family, not to mention loves working with dogs. We all know that anyone who loves dogs is a keeper, right?
Standing in line at Starbucks one morning he hears Nina. She is like a breath of fresh air to Aaron. As they are waiting in line to pick up their coffee they start to talk. While talking someone tries to hijack Nina’s coffee. Aaron, in total Alpha mien, steps up to rescue Nina’s coffee from this stranger. Coffee rescued they part ways. This brief meeting has sparked a glimpse of light for Aaron. Will this light give him the desire to want more? How does he find that more with Nina?
Nina is a young girl who’s just finished a photography internship. She is out of work, looking for a job but until then her parents are helping her out. Now she is not only seeking employment but she is also quiet enamored with Mr. Starbucks, Aaron and just can’t get him out of the thoughts!
Since they both seem to be stuck on each other, what are the chances of them meeting again? As luck and best friends would have it very good. Imagine the surprise when Aaron found that Nina was part of the Valentine’s Day Auction? He knew the moment he saw her that he would win the date no matter the cost. Doubly cool was when Nina found out that Aaron was the winner of the date! The biggest surprise of all was finding their mutual good friends had been trying to play matchmaker with them!! It was like a match made in heaven and they were soon inseparable.
Now that Aaron had found his Sunshine what would life bring for them? Can he begin to let go of his past or would it come crashing down around him? Would Aaron and Nina find an HEA?
July 29, 2015
I haven't read much in this genre, so I may not be the best person to ask, but I did really enjoy it, despite fantasy and YA being my genres. While the story is very well written, it wasn't without it's flaws, but I'd still recommend it to anyone wants a sweet love story with a happy ending. My first fault with the book were that despite the hero being an ex-con, and his past as an ex-con flavoring both his character and his experiences, I didn't think it caused a big enough conflict with the heroine. My second problem was the fact that the hero and heroine fell in love almost immediately, and I found it a bit unrealistic how quickly their romance blossomed. And yet, the way the book is written makes these two problems insignificant because the author addresses them and is such a good writer that she manages to make them believable. This is a sweet love story about two characters who are feeling lost coming together. It's cute, and the characters are well realized. They are likable enough that you fall in love with them despite how little conflict there is. The sex scenes are frequent and well written, so the people who like that thing will be satisfied. The setting and side characters within it have history and feel like they've been around for a while, and aren't just there as window dressing. It's a quick read and a fun one and it takes place in a world you want to be a part of, and learn more about. Overall it's a quick, fun read and leaves little to the imagination, but that's a good thing. If you like sex (and a lot of it) and happy endings, you'll like this, but if that kind of thing isn't for you, this isn't a book for you.
August 28, 2015
Aaron and Nina are great. This is the story of a young man who once made a bad decision to help his family keep something and paid the price. Instead of letting go after he paid his penance he held onto the guilt and blackness and fell into a hole of working in a dangerous place. It takes a woman who is light to help bring him around. Nina is the woman who shows Aaron that there is sunshine and goodness all around him. She makes him want to fight for life. For a better life.
This is their tale. Their sweet at times sad tale. A beautiful tale of a man coming to terms and starting to live again. A man finding love and having it reach the depths of who he is and helping reemerge from the darkness. Of a woman who learns that not everything is sunshine and that you need to fight for what you believe in. She believes in Aaron and who he is. He believes in Nina and who she is and her abilities.
Two nice people that find love. This is a beautiful tale of finding love and finding your way again. You are gripped by the first page and do not put this book down. You will root for Aaron the whole time and hope that he finally sees he isn’t what one action he made in a moment of desperation created. He is what he was before that moment. A sweet kind caring man who wants a future and family. A wonderful tale of love and how it brings someone out of the darkness back to who they really are and two people coming together to bring out the best of who they are.
This is their tale. Their sweet at times sad tale. A beautiful tale of a man coming to terms and starting to live again. A man finding love and having it reach the depths of who he is and helping reemerge from the darkness. Of a woman who learns that not everything is sunshine and that you need to fight for what you believe in. She believes in Aaron and who he is. He believes in Nina and who she is and her abilities.
Two nice people that find love. This is a beautiful tale of finding love and finding your way again. You are gripped by the first page and do not put this book down. You will root for Aaron the whole time and hope that he finally sees he isn’t what one action he made in a moment of desperation created. He is what he was before that moment. A sweet kind caring man who wants a future and family. A wonderful tale of love and how it brings someone out of the darkness back to who they really are and two people coming together to bring out the best of who they are.
August 13, 2015
As soon as I started this book I was hooked. I fell in love with Aaron and Nina.
Aaron's past isn't pretty. He got out of Prison 4 years before after serving 2 years but has yet to move on with his life. Hes been in limbo but hes finally wanting to do something about it. Besides serving time Aaron is all around an amazing guy. When you hear the story of how he came to serve time you will fall more in love with him. He may have a dirty mouth but he is a gentleman, loves his family, is loyal to those closest to him, and someone you can depend on.
Nina is a sweetheart who doesnt swear ever. She just finished a photography internship and can't seem to find a job. While on the hunt for a job she cant seem to get Aaron (Mr. Starbucks) out of her head.
After meeting in a starbucks and going their seperate ways they meet again one night at a charity event their friends are hosting. Aaron wins Nina for the night as a date to get to know one another. Things progress from there. But when Aarons past is brought to the front will they be able to make it through or will his past be too much for her?
I read this in a few hours I honestly could not put it down. I was that into it and engrossed by the story and to see where these two would end up. I will most definitely be reading more books by Rene Webb
Aaron's past isn't pretty. He got out of Prison 4 years before after serving 2 years but has yet to move on with his life. Hes been in limbo but hes finally wanting to do something about it. Besides serving time Aaron is all around an amazing guy. When you hear the story of how he came to serve time you will fall more in love with him. He may have a dirty mouth but he is a gentleman, loves his family, is loyal to those closest to him, and someone you can depend on.
Nina is a sweetheart who doesnt swear ever. She just finished a photography internship and can't seem to find a job. While on the hunt for a job she cant seem to get Aaron (Mr. Starbucks) out of her head.
After meeting in a starbucks and going their seperate ways they meet again one night at a charity event their friends are hosting. Aaron wins Nina for the night as a date to get to know one another. Things progress from there. But when Aarons past is brought to the front will they be able to make it through or will his past be too much for her?
I read this in a few hours I honestly could not put it down. I was that into it and engrossed by the story and to see where these two would end up. I will most definitely be reading more books by Rene Webb
August 13, 2015
This is a solid 4 star book for me,almost almost 5 star! I really enjoyed this book. I started and finished in one day, I really didn't want it to end. It also gives you perspective from both main characters which I love. This book shows how some people can make wrong choices and mistakes for right reasons. And how you really shouldn't judge unless you know the entire story. Also it shows that just because you have made some bad decisions and you think you don't deserve things that everyone deserves a second chance.
It was a chance meeting for Aaron Masters in a Starbucks when he finally saw the light. An ex-con searching for redemption. Nina who is an aspiring photographer is just looking for a place to belong and a job doing what she loves. But after she meets Mr. Starbucks she can't stop thinking about him. But fate is determined for them to meet and they do at the annual valentine's day auction. They have a whirlwind romance that happens pretty quickly. But Aaron is keeping a secret and the are some who don't want them together. Will some "friends" be successful in there attempt to break them or can they overcome it all for there HEA. Find out in Finding Sunshine. I would definitely recommend this book.
It was a chance meeting for Aaron Masters in a Starbucks when he finally saw the light. An ex-con searching for redemption. Nina who is an aspiring photographer is just looking for a place to belong and a job doing what she loves. But after she meets Mr. Starbucks she can't stop thinking about him. But fate is determined for them to meet and they do at the annual valentine's day auction. They have a whirlwind romance that happens pretty quickly. But Aaron is keeping a secret and the are some who don't want them together. Will some "friends" be successful in there attempt to break them or can they overcome it all for there HEA. Find out in Finding Sunshine. I would definitely recommend this book.
July 14, 2015
Renee Webb this is first book I have read from her to me it was slow at first but the more I read I started to fall in love with Aron who has had a tough start in life but trying to get his life straight. He meets a girl in a coffee shop and has an instant attraction to her. Will he see her again or will fate find different things for him. Then you have Nina she sees him and thinks he will not see him again either. There friends are putting a Valentine’s Day auction and Aron sees his Sunshine on stage whatever it cost will he win her or someone else. They hit it off and grow close. This is an awesome book. You will not want to miss what else comes out of this book. Hurry and one click and watch the magic between these two.
August 18, 2015
This was my first Rene Webb book, and I loved it! Aaron and Nina have a chance encounter at a local coffee shop. Both of them are instantly attracted to each other, but they know they are never going to see each other again. That is until a couple days later, they both attend a Valentine's Day Charity Auction. Aaron was very sure he was not bidding on any of the girls, until Nina came on the stage. After their date, there is no denying their feelings for each other. Aaron has a jaded past that he trying to move forward from, but will that come back to haunt him when he is finally happy with his Sunshine?
July 21, 2015
I love this new author! I read A White Hot Christmas and throughly enjoyed it. Finding Sunshine totally lived up to my expectations. Her characters are real, her dialog so natural and witty with a bit of humor. Not to mention the steamy sex scenes. Can't wait to see what she has to offer in the rest of the Pinetree Series. I have a feeling she will fast become my new favorite author!
July 14, 2015
This was such an AMAZING story! Both attending a Valentines Day auction to support their friends, what Aaron and Nina didn't know was there was more up for bid than a date. Going once, going twice, Love!
I loved how this story was different than anything I have read lately. The story was new and fresh with very likable characters.
I loved how this story was different than anything I have read lately. The story was new and fresh with very likable characters.
August 11, 2015
This story is fresh and full of that joy of second chance meetings. As well as a healthy does of romance. I love the contradiction of Nina and Aaron and how they are total opposites but need each other to continue forward after meeting each other. First read of this author and her work but i like her style of writing it was refreshingly different as was this story to what i usually read.
January 27, 2025
Finding Sunshine was not it for me. I did not enjoy this book, there was a lot of smut but it just wasn't hitting the right mark.
Maybe if I read this book when it came out, I would feel a different type of way but unfortunately, I would not recommend this book.
Maybe if I read this book when it came out, I would feel a different type of way but unfortunately, I would not recommend this book.
August 6, 2015
Review to follow
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August 4, 2015Golly...DNF @ 37%
August 3, 2024
This story felt really believable in how the characters behaved and how the overall story progressed. Aaron has been feeling lost in the few years since he was released from prison and he feels like his world is dull and he is just confused about the direction he should try and take his life. He works in a really grimy bar that attracts the really unsavory types which he really dislikes, and his other job which he really loves, he works as a dog trainer.
One morning, he deicdes to head to Starbucks for his morning coffee because he wants to see what all the fuss is about and it is there that he sees a woman who is really beautiful on the inside and out and since he does not know her name, he calls her Sunshine, awh. Nina AKA Sunshine, definitely notices Aaron in the coffee shop and the two talk for a few moments before parting ways without exchanging any contact information.
In the following week, neither have stopped thinking about the other but doubt that they will ever see the other again. The two are surprised to meet at a charity date auction at the St James club where Aaron winds up bidding on and winning a date with his dream girl Nina. The chemistry between these two was really intense and the progression of the relationship felt real. It took them months to get to the point of espressing their love and Aaron's internal struggle about when to bring up his past about being an ex con was so relatable. Who wants to admit to something in their past that they believe will end their chance to be with their soulmate, of course he was afraid and kept putting it off.
Unlucky for him, Nina's absolute c^nt of a roommate dug up Aaron's past and ratted him out to purposefully try and break them up. Nina was obviously really hurt but the two were able to talk and be honest with each other and figure out how to move forward, it was awesome. The book should have been an easy five stars for me but there were two very irritating reason for putting it down to three. The first being the COMPLETE addiction to Nina's use of the words Goddess (35 times) and Golly (32 times) We get it, your are in innocent goodgirl, SO annoying, I was rolling my eyes so badly. The second reason was for the interconnectedness of the past sexual relationships of all the main and secondary characters, it was gross and added nothing but useless angst to the story, it felt very soap opera.
Nina - Arthur
Nina - Aaron
Nina - Various other men from the St James Club.
Aaron - Nina
Aaron - Becca
Aaron - Various other women mentioned.
Becca - Aaron
Becca - Richard
All these people are best friends and still hang out together often. That's just weird and awkward to me personally, I would find it hard to be best friends with someone who had been fucking my man and or woman, especially when there are comments like "Damn, she wasn't like that in bed for me." Eww, just no.
However, if that kind of thing does not bug you then I absolutely recommend this book because besides that, it was a wonderful read and I really enjoyed. it.
One morning, he deicdes to head to Starbucks for his morning coffee because he wants to see what all the fuss is about and it is there that he sees a woman who is really beautiful on the inside and out and since he does not know her name, he calls her Sunshine, awh. Nina AKA Sunshine, definitely notices Aaron in the coffee shop and the two talk for a few moments before parting ways without exchanging any contact information.
In the following week, neither have stopped thinking about the other but doubt that they will ever see the other again. The two are surprised to meet at a charity date auction at the St James club where Aaron winds up bidding on and winning a date with his dream girl Nina. The chemistry between these two was really intense and the progression of the relationship felt real. It took them months to get to the point of espressing their love and Aaron's internal struggle about when to bring up his past about being an ex con was so relatable. Who wants to admit to something in their past that they believe will end their chance to be with their soulmate, of course he was afraid and kept putting it off.
Unlucky for him, Nina's absolute c^nt of a roommate dug up Aaron's past and ratted him out to purposefully try and break them up. Nina was obviously really hurt but the two were able to talk and be honest with each other and figure out how to move forward, it was awesome. The book should have been an easy five stars for me but there were two very irritating reason for putting it down to three. The first being the COMPLETE addiction to Nina's use of the words Goddess (35 times) and Golly (32 times) We get it, your are in innocent goodgirl, SO annoying, I was rolling my eyes so badly. The second reason was for the interconnectedness of the past sexual relationships of all the main and secondary characters, it was gross and added nothing but useless angst to the story, it felt very soap opera.
Nina - Arthur
Nina - Aaron
Nina - Various other men from the St James Club.
Aaron - Nina
Aaron - Becca
Aaron - Various other women mentioned.
Becca - Aaron
Becca - Richard
All these people are best friends and still hang out together often. That's just weird and awkward to me personally, I would find it hard to be best friends with someone who had been fucking my man and or woman, especially when there are comments like "Damn, she wasn't like that in bed for me." Eww, just no.
However, if that kind of thing does not bug you then I absolutely recommend this book because besides that, it was a wonderful read and I really enjoyed. it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 13, 2024
This is the first book in a LONG time that I did not finish. I usually power through because I want to believe it’s going to get better but I just couldn’t with this book.
I immediately lost interest in Nina after the line about how she thinks her roommate is a lesbian because she’s ‘obsessed’ with her. Like ok Regina George, calm down. To me, it felt more like Nina spent all her time with the roommate until she dropped her to hang out with her new bestie.
The instalove was too much. Aaron and Nina ‘meet’ but not really in line at Starbucks. They stand next to each other, say about 10 words and then Aaron inserts himself into a situation he has no business in because he’s ‘alpha’. So, they barely meet but both are instantly obsessed with the other.
I made it 6 chapters in & I tried 3 times to keep reading but I just literally had no desire to read another word.
Aaron also has long hair which is not attractive for me.
And the one sex scene I read was so cringe.
Lines in the book that gave me the ick (sex scene excluded because, just all of it):
"Sometimes I wonder if Jordan's a closet lesbian who's secretly in love with me, because really, there's no other explanation" - Nina talking about her roommate that she's known since college.
"In that way, she's just like our mother was. Smart, creative, organized, and thoughtful. Just like my dream girl." - Aason's describing HIS SISTER then thinks how she's JUST LIKE HIS DREAM GIRL.
"...and a tight little body. God, the way she moves." - Aaron describing Nina TO HIS SISTER. If my brother EVER said that to me about his gf, I would actually throw up.
"Be a good boy for your master while he's gone" - Aaron talking to his dog.
I immediately lost interest in Nina after the line about how she thinks her roommate is a lesbian because she’s ‘obsessed’ with her. Like ok Regina George, calm down. To me, it felt more like Nina spent all her time with the roommate until she dropped her to hang out with her new bestie.
The instalove was too much. Aaron and Nina ‘meet’ but not really in line at Starbucks. They stand next to each other, say about 10 words and then Aaron inserts himself into a situation he has no business in because he’s ‘alpha’. So, they barely meet but both are instantly obsessed with the other.
I made it 6 chapters in & I tried 3 times to keep reading but I just literally had no desire to read another word.
Aaron also has long hair which is not attractive for me.
And the one sex scene I read was so cringe.
Lines in the book that gave me the ick (sex scene excluded because, just all of it):
"Sometimes I wonder if Jordan's a closet lesbian who's secretly in love with me, because really, there's no other explanation" - Nina talking about her roommate that she's known since college.
"In that way, she's just like our mother was. Smart, creative, organized, and thoughtful. Just like my dream girl." - Aason's describing HIS SISTER then thinks how she's JUST LIKE HIS DREAM GIRL.
"...and a tight little body. God, the way she moves." - Aaron describing Nina TO HIS SISTER. If my brother EVER said that to me about his gf, I would actually throw up.
"Be a good boy for your master while he's gone" - Aaron talking to his dog.
January 24, 2023
I enjoyed this book. I felt Aaron and Nina were great for each other. Love that aaron is an alpha male, who can’t help but take care of Nina inside and outside of bed, and was a sweetheart at the same time. He was lost in life after being released from prison and Nina came into his life at the right time. She helped him want to be better, and move on.
Nina was also lost in life, not being able to find a job for a long time and Aaron was her supporter in her photography and urged her to not settle for something less than perfect.
I liked seeing both of them just encouraging one another to move forward, and to see them grow as a couple. They had great chemistry.
The sex was steamy and there was a lot of scenes. They were having sex every few chapters. I love reading sex scenes but in this case, I felt it was too much. It was always repeating, and by the last few chapters, I found myself skimming the sex scenes. Would be nice if it was more toned down, and more effort was put into the plot.
Another thing is I was a tad bit annoyed with Nina, because she was always repeating “golly” and giggling. It made me think that she was younger than her 24 years of age. It made her seem silly.
Nina was also lost in life, not being able to find a job for a long time and Aaron was her supporter in her photography and urged her to not settle for something less than perfect.
I liked seeing both of them just encouraging one another to move forward, and to see them grow as a couple. They had great chemistry.
The sex was steamy and there was a lot of scenes. They were having sex every few chapters. I love reading sex scenes but in this case, I felt it was too much. It was always repeating, and by the last few chapters, I found myself skimming the sex scenes. Would be nice if it was more toned down, and more effort was put into the plot.
Another thing is I was a tad bit annoyed with Nina, because she was always repeating “golly” and giggling. It made me think that she was younger than her 24 years of age. It made her seem silly.
July 28, 2024
Rating: ⭐️
Spice: 🌶️-ish
Tropes: insta love, friend of friends, rom-com, ex con, date auction
Quote: “I'm sorry Katy Perry, but I kissed a girl and I didn't like it.”
The quote might be my favorite part of the whole book because it was just too funny in the context.
I wanted to SO badly DNF this book, it was just too much ick for me.
A random coffee shop encounter is only the beginning for fledgling photographer Nina King and part-time bartender/dog trainer Aaron Masters.
Both Aaron and Nina had a lot of potential, and I was intrigued about Aaron's criminal past. After that it seemed like their relationship was really rushed with Nina pondering changing her relationship status on Facebook and Aaron wanting to change his whole life before they even had a second date. Don't get me wrong, Aaron needed and deserved something good in his life; it would have just added so much more to the romance if there had been more build-up so their chemistry could simmer a little.
The insta love was too much. Aaron and Nina 'meet' but not really in line at Starbucks. They stand next to each other, say about 10 words to each other. So, they barely meet but both are instantly obsessed with the other. Ick.
Nina's ‘goodness' and 'golly' drove me nuts!
Spice: 🌶️-ish
Tropes: insta love, friend of friends, rom-com, ex con, date auction
Quote: “I'm sorry Katy Perry, but I kissed a girl and I didn't like it.”
The quote might be my favorite part of the whole book because it was just too funny in the context.
I wanted to SO badly DNF this book, it was just too much ick for me.
A random coffee shop encounter is only the beginning for fledgling photographer Nina King and part-time bartender/dog trainer Aaron Masters.
Both Aaron and Nina had a lot of potential, and I was intrigued about Aaron's criminal past. After that it seemed like their relationship was really rushed with Nina pondering changing her relationship status on Facebook and Aaron wanting to change his whole life before they even had a second date. Don't get me wrong, Aaron needed and deserved something good in his life; it would have just added so much more to the romance if there had been more build-up so their chemistry could simmer a little.
The insta love was too much. Aaron and Nina 'meet' but not really in line at Starbucks. They stand next to each other, say about 10 words to each other. So, they barely meet but both are instantly obsessed with the other. Ick.
Nina's ‘goodness' and 'golly' drove me nuts!
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