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Thistle Bend #2
Just Say Maybe
Award-winning author Tracy March follows up Should’ve Said No (“Wonderfully quirky . . . a pleasure to read!”—Laura Drewry) with this enchanting novel set in Thistle Bend, Colorado, a magical place where old wrongs are righted, and adventure leads to true love.
Real estate lawyer Holly Birdsong’s hike in the Rockies takes an unexpected turn when a smokin’-hot stranger tumbles off his bike and into her path. Turns out he’s purchasing the abandoned Lodge at Wild Rose Ridge, and Holly agrees to take him on as a client—despite her family’s traumatic history with the previous owner, who shamelessly abused the town’s goodwill at every turn. But when their professional relationship turns personal, Holly must reconcile the past with her hopes for the future.
Adding the rustic lodge to his portfolio of adventure properties isn’t just a business decision for Bryce Bennett. The rugged mountains also offer a killer setting for his extreme-sports camps for at-risk teens. What’s not in the blueprints is finding a kindred spirit in his irresistible lawyer, even if she seems apprehensive about getting involved in the deal. Bryce’s plan to ease her mind just might work, as long as no one discovers his secret. Yet he can’t stand hiding the truth from the woman who makes him want to build something permanent: a happily ever after.
Real estate lawyer Holly Birdsong’s hike in the Rockies takes an unexpected turn when a smokin’-hot stranger tumbles off his bike and into her path. Turns out he’s purchasing the abandoned Lodge at Wild Rose Ridge, and Holly agrees to take him on as a client—despite her family’s traumatic history with the previous owner, who shamelessly abused the town’s goodwill at every turn. But when their professional relationship turns personal, Holly must reconcile the past with her hopes for the future.
Adding the rustic lodge to his portfolio of adventure properties isn’t just a business decision for Bryce Bennett. The rugged mountains also offer a killer setting for his extreme-sports camps for at-risk teens. What’s not in the blueprints is finding a kindred spirit in his irresistible lawyer, even if she seems apprehensive about getting involved in the deal. Bryce’s plan to ease her mind just might work, as long as no one discovers his secret. Yet he can’t stand hiding the truth from the woman who makes him want to build something permanent: a happily ever after.
217 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 3, 2016
7 people are currently reading
142 people want to read
About the author
Tracy March
11 books392 followersAward-winning author Tracy March writes romantic thrillers and lighthearted romances inspired by her real-life happily ever after.
Always up for travel and adventure, Tracy has flown in a stunt plane, snowmobiled on the Continental Divide, ziplined in the Swiss Alps, and been chased by a bull in the mountains of St. Lucia. She loves Nationals baseball, Saturday date nights, and Dairy Queen Blizzards—and rarely goes a day without craving pizza.
Tracy lives in Yorktown, Virginia, with her superhero husband who works for NASA.
Always up for travel and adventure, Tracy has flown in a stunt plane, snowmobiled on the Continental Divide, ziplined in the Swiss Alps, and been chased by a bull in the mountains of St. Lucia. She loves Nationals baseball, Saturday date nights, and Dairy Queen Blizzards—and rarely goes a day without craving pizza.
Tracy lives in Yorktown, Virginia, with her superhero husband who works for NASA.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
May 3, 2016
4 - "Every secret has it's time..." Stars!
The Thistle Bend series is definitely becoming one of my favourites, I really enjoyed the first book Should’ve Said No and Just Say Maybe followed in that tradition. Tracy March has built the town of Thistle Bend around some really great characters and locations, and I really enjoyed Bryce and Holly’s story.
We met Holly Birdsong in the last book, being the towns property lawyer, she is a pretty big fixture in Thistle Bend, add to that her family history is intrinsically linked to the town, as you would expect memories are long and gossip carries quickly. So when Bryce Bennett rolls up, with more than a few secrets of his own and looking to buy the abandoned lodge that is situated on Wild Rose Ridge, everything in Holly’s head tells her to keep her distance, the lodge bought nothing but bad luck and grief to her family when it was originally built and she is unsure whether if resurrected those memories will do anything but more harm.
"You’ve got a thing for numbers, don’t you?"
Problem is after their initial and unusual first meeting they are both pretty much smitten with each other, and denying that attraction as well as everything they have in common with each other is almost impossible.
"There’s definitely a lot of potential here…"
Once again, Tracy managed to interject a little suspense into the plot of this one, and as before the quirky and just a little bit magical Montgomery Sisters are the source of the clues that enable Bryce and Holly to work out the answers to the questions that an unknown, hidden room pose when they find it during an inspection of the lodge.
Always love.
Easy to read, entertaining, lots of tension, sexual and otherwise, and again with a great set of characters to keep it all moving along, Bryce and Holly’s book was an absolute pleasure to immerse myself in. The arrival of Ellie London back in town, and the little glimpses into her past also added a little more curiosity, and the next book in the series; Couldn’ve Said Yes due for release in October gives us the rest of her story.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was a pleasure to provide the above honest review.
The Thistle Bend series is definitely becoming one of my favourites, I really enjoyed the first book Should’ve Said No and Just Say Maybe followed in that tradition. Tracy March has built the town of Thistle Bend around some really great characters and locations, and I really enjoyed Bryce and Holly’s story.
We met Holly Birdsong in the last book, being the towns property lawyer, she is a pretty big fixture in Thistle Bend, add to that her family history is intrinsically linked to the town, as you would expect memories are long and gossip carries quickly. So when Bryce Bennett rolls up, with more than a few secrets of his own and looking to buy the abandoned lodge that is situated on Wild Rose Ridge, everything in Holly’s head tells her to keep her distance, the lodge bought nothing but bad luck and grief to her family when it was originally built and she is unsure whether if resurrected those memories will do anything but more harm.
"You’ve got a thing for numbers, don’t you?"
Problem is after their initial and unusual first meeting they are both pretty much smitten with each other, and denying that attraction as well as everything they have in common with each other is almost impossible.
"There’s definitely a lot of potential here…"
Once again, Tracy managed to interject a little suspense into the plot of this one, and as before the quirky and just a little bit magical Montgomery Sisters are the source of the clues that enable Bryce and Holly to work out the answers to the questions that an unknown, hidden room pose when they find it during an inspection of the lodge.
Always love.
Easy to read, entertaining, lots of tension, sexual and otherwise, and again with a great set of characters to keep it all moving along, Bryce and Holly’s book was an absolute pleasure to immerse myself in. The arrival of Ellie London back in town, and the little glimpses into her past also added a little more curiosity, and the next book in the series; Couldn’ve Said Yes due for release in October gives us the rest of her story.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was a pleasure to provide the above honest review.
May 19, 2016
Rosalie's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
Holly Birdsong is one of the town's lawyers in Thistle Bend and has lived there her whole life. Her parents and her grandparents had roots in the town, and after a tragic accident caused her to lose her mother. it only made sense that she move back to continue her life here. Bryce Bennett rolls (literally, on his back at the first encounter) into town looking as sweet as sugar. The perfect hunk that any woman would fall for. But what he doesn't want Holly to find out about is his past. Some things are better left there, and he will do anything to achieve this.
Working together to buy/sell the Wild Rose Lodge, the two have a great working relationship. But working together also put the two TOGETHER. Anytime they were around each other, fireworks fly! The chemistry between these two was through the roof! I loved the give and take from both characters, the shyness from Holly, the boldness from Bryce. The two complemented each other wonderfully in this read. I was on the edge of my seat, always wondering what would happen next, and couldn't wait to find out what did.
This was my first dabble in Thistle Bend, and although I would have liked to have read the others in the series before this one, it definitely is able to be read as a stand alone. Can't wait to go back and catch up on the rest of the series!
Review copy provided for an honest review.
Holly Birdsong is one of the town's lawyers in Thistle Bend and has lived there her whole life. Her parents and her grandparents had roots in the town, and after a tragic accident caused her to lose her mother. it only made sense that she move back to continue her life here. Bryce Bennett rolls (literally, on his back at the first encounter) into town looking as sweet as sugar. The perfect hunk that any woman would fall for. But what he doesn't want Holly to find out about is his past. Some things are better left there, and he will do anything to achieve this.
Working together to buy/sell the Wild Rose Lodge, the two have a great working relationship. But working together also put the two TOGETHER. Anytime they were around each other, fireworks fly! The chemistry between these two was through the roof! I loved the give and take from both characters, the shyness from Holly, the boldness from Bryce. The two complemented each other wonderfully in this read. I was on the edge of my seat, always wondering what would happen next, and couldn't wait to find out what did.
This was my first dabble in Thistle Bend, and although I would have liked to have read the others in the series before this one, it definitely is able to be read as a stand alone. Can't wait to go back and catch up on the rest of the series!
Review copy provided for an honest review.
November 13, 2016
Favorite Quotes:
And back to you not calling this an official date... Do we need a notarized certificate to make it official?
Hopefully we'll be doing this forever, but we'll only have one first time.
I can't get enough of you. Not now. Not ever.
My Review:
This was my first Tracy March experience and it was one I will happily repeat again and again. Written from a third person POV, the story was part sweet and slow burn romance and part mystery. Thistle Bend was an interesting setting with beautifully detailed vistas, an interesting history, and a delightfully nosy and peculiar small town populous. Ms. March provided an intriguing mystery with endearing and fun characters and a relatable story. Holly and Bryce were an adorable couple, each with their own secrets and backstory. I enjoyed the secondary characters as much as I did the primary ones, and although this installment was the second in the series and a strong stand alone, I liked it well enough to go backward for the first in the series, as well as all the subsequent books to follow.
And back to you not calling this an official date... Do we need a notarized certificate to make it official?
Hopefully we'll be doing this forever, but we'll only have one first time.
I can't get enough of you. Not now. Not ever.
My Review:
This was my first Tracy March experience and it was one I will happily repeat again and again. Written from a third person POV, the story was part sweet and slow burn romance and part mystery. Thistle Bend was an interesting setting with beautifully detailed vistas, an interesting history, and a delightfully nosy and peculiar small town populous. Ms. March provided an intriguing mystery with endearing and fun characters and a relatable story. Holly and Bryce were an adorable couple, each with their own secrets and backstory. I enjoyed the secondary characters as much as I did the primary ones, and although this installment was the second in the series and a strong stand alone, I liked it well enough to go backward for the first in the series, as well as all the subsequent books to follow.
May 5, 2016
3.5 stars
Just Say Maybe was a good read.
I'm enjoying the Thistle Bend series, the writing is well done, the storyline is entertaining and the characters are fun, likable and relatable.
Tracy March has given us readers another great read, highly recommend this book and series.
Thank you Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via NetGalley for the advance copy.
Just Say Maybe was a good read.
I'm enjoying the Thistle Bend series, the writing is well done, the storyline is entertaining and the characters are fun, likable and relatable.
Tracy March has given us readers another great read, highly recommend this book and series.
Thank you Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via NetGalley for the advance copy.
May 28, 2017
ARC requested through Netgalley, and kindly provided by Random House Publishing Group in exchange for an honest review.
Once again, I was reminded why I fell in love with the small community of Thistle Bend. Full of mystery at every turn, there was so much opportunity for misunderstanding and great characters to get to know.
Holly, a native to Thistle Blend met newcomer Bryce when he literally stumbled into her path while hiking. I felt a spark between them immediately and enjoyed how surprised Holly was by her forwardness in showing her interest to him. Trust was hard to give, knowing the hurtful history behind the lodge Bryce was in town to buy. And Bryce had a secret… one that could mean the end of any future he might want with Holly.
Like the first book in this series, I really enjoyed the well written and brought to life Thistle Bend. I really got a sense of the beauty of the place and what being a part of the community would feel like. The Montgomery Sisters were a great backdrop to Holly and Bryce’s story.
Both Holly and Bryce, despite both having recent and painful romantic histories, stayed pretty open minded while getting to know one another and develop feelings. Bryce was so incredibly sweet. I loved the way he treated Holly.
As the story progressed, I kept chanting in my head “tell her your secret Bryce! Haven’t you read any romance novels before? If you don’t, your secret is going to come out in the worst possible way!” Of course, Bryce didn’t hear my warnings and my anxiousness was rewarded with a powerful misunderstanding.
Really enjoyable follow-up in this series!
Once again, I was reminded why I fell in love with the small community of Thistle Bend. Full of mystery at every turn, there was so much opportunity for misunderstanding and great characters to get to know.
Holly, a native to Thistle Blend met newcomer Bryce when he literally stumbled into her path while hiking. I felt a spark between them immediately and enjoyed how surprised Holly was by her forwardness in showing her interest to him. Trust was hard to give, knowing the hurtful history behind the lodge Bryce was in town to buy. And Bryce had a secret… one that could mean the end of any future he might want with Holly.
Like the first book in this series, I really enjoyed the well written and brought to life Thistle Bend. I really got a sense of the beauty of the place and what being a part of the community would feel like. The Montgomery Sisters were a great backdrop to Holly and Bryce’s story.
Both Holly and Bryce, despite both having recent and painful romantic histories, stayed pretty open minded while getting to know one another and develop feelings. Bryce was so incredibly sweet. I loved the way he treated Holly.
“Hopefully we’ll be doing this forever, but we’ll only have one first time.”
As the story progressed, I kept chanting in my head “tell her your secret Bryce! Haven’t you read any romance novels before? If you don’t, your secret is going to come out in the worst possible way!” Of course, Bryce didn’t hear my warnings and my anxiousness was rewarded with a powerful misunderstanding.
Really enjoyable follow-up in this series!
May 3, 2016
I just love the eccentric people of Thistle Bend so I was thrilled to visit them again with Just Say Maybe by Tracy March. This small town series brings us real estate lawyer Holly as the main character. Generally, I liked her but it was Bryce that gave this story so much heart. Here is a business man as concerned about the area and the people as much as he is the lodge. His gentle honest way simply added to his hotness. Both of them are wary of romance for good reasons, but I was pulling for them even when evens looked impossible for them to overcome.
I thought the pacing of this story along with the romance proceeded in such a normal way. I really have trouble with books that go from instant lust to instant love. Bryce and Holly are attracted to each other but work through this while dealing with the lodge business first. I liked that. Then the mystery and events with the lodge keep things interesting.
Small town romance fans needed to put this series on their TBR list. Just Say Maybe can be read as a stand-alone, though updates on the couple of the first book are included. Honestly, both are great reads worth the time and cost.
Copy provided by the publisher through Net Galley for an honest review.
I thought the pacing of this story along with the romance proceeded in such a normal way. I really have trouble with books that go from instant lust to instant love. Bryce and Holly are attracted to each other but work through this while dealing with the lodge business first. I liked that. Then the mystery and events with the lodge keep things interesting.
Small town romance fans needed to put this series on their TBR list. Just Say Maybe can be read as a stand-alone, though updates on the couple of the first book are included. Honestly, both are great reads worth the time and cost.
Copy provided by the publisher through Net Galley for an honest review.
May 12, 2016
Last September I had the privilege of reading Should’ve Said No, book 1 in Tracy March’s Thistle Bend series. I was impressed with a romance novel full of likable characters and a mystery to boot!
I was excited when Just Say Maybe appeared on NetGalley because why wouldn’t I want to follow up that fabulous 4-star book 1 with the sequel?
Well, I think I liked book 1 so much that I was let down by book 2. While book 1 featured the mystery as the center plot, this one is very much romance centric. Sure, Holly says she doesn’t want to be with Bryce if he’s not going to stay, but it was barely an obstacle. There was a misunderstanding and jumping to conclusions that had me rolling my eyes as well.
I did like the characters, they were interesting and believable. The hotel storyline was somewhat interesting, but I would have liked this book more if that was the central story, and not the romance.
I guess what I’m trying to say is that I like the romances to be built around the plot. If that makes sense. And this book felt like the plot was built around the romance.
I think those who like traditional contemporary romances will enjoy this book. I’ll probably read book 3 as well, but I doubt it will live up to book 1.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was excited when Just Say Maybe appeared on NetGalley because why wouldn’t I want to follow up that fabulous 4-star book 1 with the sequel?
Well, I think I liked book 1 so much that I was let down by book 2. While book 1 featured the mystery as the center plot, this one is very much romance centric. Sure, Holly says she doesn’t want to be with Bryce if he’s not going to stay, but it was barely an obstacle. There was a misunderstanding and jumping to conclusions that had me rolling my eyes as well.
I did like the characters, they were interesting and believable. The hotel storyline was somewhat interesting, but I would have liked this book more if that was the central story, and not the romance.
I guess what I’m trying to say is that I like the romances to be built around the plot. If that makes sense. And this book felt like the plot was built around the romance.
I think those who like traditional contemporary romances will enjoy this book. I’ll probably read book 3 as well, but I doubt it will live up to book 1.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 14, 2016
LOVED IT! Tracy March has done it again. Just Say Maybe is a fun mix of romance with a little mystery, and just enough heat. Happy to read more about the little old Montgomery sisters, too. I was rooting for Holly and Bryce from the beginning. If you like books that make you smile, then this one's definitely for you!
May 29, 2016
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Bryce and Holly have a great meet cute. He is out mountain bike riding and ends up ass over tea kettle. He finds himself sprawled out on the ground and all of a sudden Holly is there to ask if he is okay. The two share a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and some light banter (I love banter) and they both walk away from his encounter thinking about the other person.
Bryce is in town looking buy an old lodge that he wants to turn into an extreme sports camp for at risk youth, just like the one he went to when he was a kid. When he goes to the local real estate lawyer, he finds Holly. She agress to help him and the two go up to the lodge and make a discovery that has them playing detective. The lodge itself is seeped in scandal and it turns out that it is holding on to a mystery that has the potential to cause more heartache where there has already been a lot. I liked Holly and Bryce together. I thought they had great chemistry that was there from the moment they met.
From there, they had a lovely conversation, shared that sandwich and started something that neither of them saw coming.
And that was just the first chapter! Throughout the book, their relationship becomes much more than either of them thought possible. They work together to help solve the lodge mystery and learn a lot about each other along the way. Unfortunately, not all of it is good and Holly starts to question everything the two of them shared.
This book is a great edition to the series. Tracy always gives her readers a well thought out story that is not only delightful, but leaves her readers happy. And as always, I am looking forward to the next book!
Bryce and Holly have a great meet cute. He is out mountain bike riding and ends up ass over tea kettle. He finds himself sprawled out on the ground and all of a sudden Holly is there to ask if he is okay. The two share a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and some light banter (I love banter) and they both walk away from his encounter thinking about the other person.
Bryce is in town looking buy an old lodge that he wants to turn into an extreme sports camp for at risk youth, just like the one he went to when he was a kid. When he goes to the local real estate lawyer, he finds Holly. She agress to help him and the two go up to the lodge and make a discovery that has them playing detective. The lodge itself is seeped in scandal and it turns out that it is holding on to a mystery that has the potential to cause more heartache where there has already been a lot. I liked Holly and Bryce together. I thought they had great chemistry that was there from the moment they met.
“I’d just started eating and I heard you coming.” She leaned back on her heels and tipped her head. “I’ll give your dismount a 9.3, considering the way you stuck the landing without breaking anything.” She winked.
A spark fired inside Bryce and a grin stretched across his face. He was a sucker for a girl who took him at his word and didn’t go all Florence Nightingale on him—especially one who looked like her and had clearly spent her Tuesday morning hiking in the Rockies. There were no easy trails to this ridge above the lodge—he’d confirmed that himself. No wonder she was in such fine shape.
“Ah, the elusive perfect ten,” he said. “Guess I need more practice.”
From there, they had a lovely conversation, shared that sandwich and started something that neither of them saw coming.
He glanced at the screen, his eyebrows rising along with his heart rate as he read the contact information she’d typed in.
Holly— The Elusive Perfect 10
A winking smiley-face emoji followed, as did the most exciting combination of ten digits he might’ve ever seen.
Bryce’s heart surged. “Definitely the best fall I’ve ever taken,” he said, shamelessly flirting. He slipped the phone into his pocket and leveled a gaze on her as electric as the bright blue sky. “ Maybe I don’t need any more practice.”
Leaving her smiling, he pedaled off, churning up dust from the trail, and feeling like a badass movie hero.
And that was just the first chapter! Throughout the book, their relationship becomes much more than either of them thought possible. They work together to help solve the lodge mystery and learn a lot about each other along the way. Unfortunately, not all of it is good and Holly starts to question everything the two of them shared.
This book is a great edition to the series. Tracy always gives her readers a well thought out story that is not only delightful, but leaves her readers happy. And as always, I am looking forward to the next book!
May 14, 2016
I have to say that I am just loving Ms March's Thistle Bend series, she has created a town with wonderfull, eclectic , endearing and a little eccentric people that leaves you wanting to come back for more. Thistle Bend is small town America, where everyone knows everyone's business and to spite being an old miners town they have managed to survive. Being a small town opportunities to meet new men are limited, unless of course you are Holly Birdsong and that new man happens to fall off his mountain bike at your feet, not the type of women to usually chase a man Holly can not help but make a play at the very handsome Bryce; and even put her number in his cell.
So Holly is surprised when Bryce walks into her law office a few days later after never calling her but as it turns out Bryce needs a lawyer to represent him with a property purchase and was referred to her by the real estate agent. It is more than clear these two have an attraction for one another but Holly is looking for her forever man; something that Bryce with another business in Costa Rica could never be. Holly is to rooted to Thistle bend to leave, she has family , freinds and a business.
That attraction grows as they begin to work together and get to know each other, a trip to the abandon Wild Rose Ridge lodge and discovering a hidden room and the mysteries within only serves to bring them closer together as they endeavor to solve the mystery of the missing women and the hidden room. The lodge holds no good memories for the Birdsong family or the town, however time spent with Bryce just feels right and Bryce clearly wants to do better by the town in reviving this lodge .
Holly loves her time spent with Bryce so much she is willing to show him her special place A lovely area in the mountains were you can see the lodge and the reflection of the sun off the windows; a truly romantic spot to surrender to ones desire
Bryce is all in “Hopefully we'll be doing this forever, but we'll only have one first time.”
Bryce is keeping his secret , one that he knows would change everyone's thoughts of him, however by keeping it to allow him to set things right and get to know him for him.
But with any romance nothing is ever easy and turmoil must get involved ; and a massive landslide will not only destroy Bryce's dream of a new adventure lodge, but his hopes for he and Holly.
Holly's past experience with the lodge and the last man to come to town makes it hard for her to see the truth when faced with what seems like deceit .
Okay, so you know no good romance would leave you with heartbreak. And neither does Ms March. It just takes a little nudging by some eccentric old ladies to remind Holly of what her late grandmother always said , Always Love .
So never fear you get an Hea in the end .
Arc graciously provided via Netgalley for an honest review.
So Holly is surprised when Bryce walks into her law office a few days later after never calling her but as it turns out Bryce needs a lawyer to represent him with a property purchase and was referred to her by the real estate agent. It is more than clear these two have an attraction for one another but Holly is looking for her forever man; something that Bryce with another business in Costa Rica could never be. Holly is to rooted to Thistle bend to leave, she has family , freinds and a business.
That attraction grows as they begin to work together and get to know each other, a trip to the abandon Wild Rose Ridge lodge and discovering a hidden room and the mysteries within only serves to bring them closer together as they endeavor to solve the mystery of the missing women and the hidden room. The lodge holds no good memories for the Birdsong family or the town, however time spent with Bryce just feels right and Bryce clearly wants to do better by the town in reviving this lodge .
Holly loves her time spent with Bryce so much she is willing to show him her special place A lovely area in the mountains were you can see the lodge and the reflection of the sun off the windows; a truly romantic spot to surrender to ones desire
Bryce is all in “Hopefully we'll be doing this forever, but we'll only have one first time.”
Bryce is keeping his secret , one that he knows would change everyone's thoughts of him, however by keeping it to allow him to set things right and get to know him for him.
But with any romance nothing is ever easy and turmoil must get involved ; and a massive landslide will not only destroy Bryce's dream of a new adventure lodge, but his hopes for he and Holly.
Holly's past experience with the lodge and the last man to come to town makes it hard for her to see the truth when faced with what seems like deceit .
Okay, so you know no good romance would leave you with heartbreak. And neither does Ms March. It just takes a little nudging by some eccentric old ladies to remind Holly of what her late grandmother always said , Always Love .
So never fear you get an Hea in the end .
Arc graciously provided via Netgalley for an honest review.
May 6, 2016
An entertaining romance set against a spectacular mountainous palette!
He held a beautiful bouquet of mixed wildflowers and offered them to her. "They missed you." He brushed a kiss on her lips. "Just like me."
JUST SAY MAYBE by Tracy March is a very enjoyable contemporary small town romance as the author returns readers to picturesque Thistle Bend, Colorado with a heart-warming story that centers around an abandoned lodge located below the Wild Rose Ridge trail.
JUST SAY MAYBE is the story of real estate attorney H. G. 'Holly' Birdsong and property developer Bryce Bennett. Bryce was a sweetheart and I fell hard for him. He had search and rescue experience, was multi-talented, was most definitely swoon-worthy and he loved adventuring outdoors.
Our heroine, Holly, was likeable. Her family had been wronged by the previous owner of the lodge and feelings were still raw regarding the lodge's possible resurgance. Even so, she agrees to represent Bryce in closing on the property. They were each also still reeling from being cheated on fairly recently in previous relationships so both were wary of a new one. I did have a serious issue with Holly at one point - I wanted to shake her - but, thank goodness, she came around, making for a satisfying happy ever after ending.
Even though this is the second book in the author's Thistle Bend series, it can be fully enjoyed as a standalone if that is your preference. That said, fans of the series will be glad to know that previous favorite folks in the friendly town including Lindsay, Carden, and Milly and Merri Montgomery appear in this story.
JUST SAY MAYBE was well-written and solidly plotted. Once I started reading it, I did not want to put it down. I enjoyed this return to Thistle Bend with its spectacular scenery and I'm looking forward to the next installment in this series, COULD'VE SAID YES, which will be Ellie's story. Ellie is an aspiring artist who has returned to Thistle Bend with a broken heart. I highly recommend JUST SAY MAYBE to anyone who enjoys entertaining romances featuring an ultra-sexy hero set against a magnificent mountainous panorama.
My full review is published at Reading Between The Wines Book Club. Please check it out there: http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...
4 Wine Glasses!
He held a beautiful bouquet of mixed wildflowers and offered them to her. "They missed you." He brushed a kiss on her lips. "Just like me."
JUST SAY MAYBE by Tracy March is a very enjoyable contemporary small town romance as the author returns readers to picturesque Thistle Bend, Colorado with a heart-warming story that centers around an abandoned lodge located below the Wild Rose Ridge trail.
JUST SAY MAYBE is the story of real estate attorney H. G. 'Holly' Birdsong and property developer Bryce Bennett. Bryce was a sweetheart and I fell hard for him. He had search and rescue experience, was multi-talented, was most definitely swoon-worthy and he loved adventuring outdoors.
Our heroine, Holly, was likeable. Her family had been wronged by the previous owner of the lodge and feelings were still raw regarding the lodge's possible resurgance. Even so, she agrees to represent Bryce in closing on the property. They were each also still reeling from being cheated on fairly recently in previous relationships so both were wary of a new one. I did have a serious issue with Holly at one point - I wanted to shake her - but, thank goodness, she came around, making for a satisfying happy ever after ending.
Even though this is the second book in the author's Thistle Bend series, it can be fully enjoyed as a standalone if that is your preference. That said, fans of the series will be glad to know that previous favorite folks in the friendly town including Lindsay, Carden, and Milly and Merri Montgomery appear in this story.
JUST SAY MAYBE was well-written and solidly plotted. Once I started reading it, I did not want to put it down. I enjoyed this return to Thistle Bend with its spectacular scenery and I'm looking forward to the next installment in this series, COULD'VE SAID YES, which will be Ellie's story. Ellie is an aspiring artist who has returned to Thistle Bend with a broken heart. I highly recommend JUST SAY MAYBE to anyone who enjoys entertaining romances featuring an ultra-sexy hero set against a magnificent mountainous panorama.
My full review is published at Reading Between The Wines Book Club. Please check it out there: http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...
4 Wine Glasses!
March 31, 2016
2.5 Stars rounded up
Not as charming as Should've Said No, but I give a bonus up point as I like the sympathetic Bryce Bennet and the Montgomery sisters.
About the first one-third of the book was filled with "mysterious" aura from the secrets kept by both lead characters; on top of the mystery of the lodge. I think family connections from previous generations were the link of Thistle Bend stories. The difference was, while I quite understand how said "secret" made it hard for Carden and Lindsey to be together, I didn't have the same feeling this time.
There seemed to be an imbalance of understanding between Holly (plus her nearest and dearest) and Bryce. Holly's side hurled accusation one after another, while Bryce bore the brunt of it and still quick to forgive when later proven he'd not done what accused of him.
I also thought this story was too long and wordy; quite a bit lines were repeated when the characters thought back to previous events. And this happened often on both main character's POVs.
The instant attraction turned love between Bryce and Holly was, to me, rather doubtful. There's a lack of evidence what made their relationship more solid than, say, Holly's previous one. As an act of grovelling, Holly going to see Bryce was commendable. Honestly, I was both amazed and irked when he was quick to forgive and let the matter rest.
Having said all that, I'm still going to follow this series as I liked the general setting, the food (never forget the food!), and the Montgomery sisters! ;-)
ARC is kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the exchange of a fair and honest review.
Not as charming as Should've Said No, but I give a bonus up point as I like the sympathetic Bryce Bennet and the Montgomery sisters.
About the first one-third of the book was filled with "mysterious" aura from the secrets kept by both lead characters; on top of the mystery of the lodge. I think family connections from previous generations were the link of Thistle Bend stories. The difference was, while I quite understand how said "secret" made it hard for Carden and Lindsey to be together, I didn't have the same feeling this time.
There seemed to be an imbalance of understanding between Holly (plus her nearest and dearest) and Bryce. Holly's side hurled accusation one after another, while Bryce bore the brunt of it and still quick to forgive when later proven he'd not done what accused of him.
I also thought this story was too long and wordy; quite a bit lines were repeated when the characters thought back to previous events. And this happened often on both main character's POVs.
The instant attraction turned love between Bryce and Holly was, to me, rather doubtful. There's a lack of evidence what made their relationship more solid than, say, Holly's previous one. As an act of grovelling, Holly going to see Bryce was commendable. Honestly, I was both amazed and irked when he was quick to forgive and let the matter rest.
Having said all that, I'm still going to follow this series as I liked the general setting, the food (never forget the food!), and the Montgomery sisters! ;-)
ARC is kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the exchange of a fair and honest review.
June 6, 2016
ehh..... another book I just did couldn't get into. I didn't really like these characters. I found them rather annoying actually.
September 4, 2019
I received the ARC of this sweet contemporary romance from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review :) and I really enjoyed it :) definitely don't be discouraged by the fact that this is a second book in a series, because it can absolutely be read as a standalone ;) in fact, it was the first book written by this author that I've got my hands on :) but it won't be the last... ;) now let me tell you more about our main couple :)
Both Holly and Bryce are around 30 :) she's a lawyer, living in her hometown, the titular Thistle Bend and he's an entrepreneur :) he's actually there to buy a mountain lodge that comes with a lot of negative history not only with the whole town but especially with Holly and her family... don't worry, I'm not gonna say anything more in case it wasn't mentioned in the previous book and you don't want any spoilers :) they actually met on a mountain trail, where he oh so gracefully fell off his mountain bike ;) don't worry, nothing horrible happened to him :) she offered help and sparks started to fly... ;) I really enjoyed their slow-but-not-exactly building relationship :) and even though there were some secrets between them, I can totally understand the reasons behind that decisions... I know I'm being very vague, but I really can't say anything more without some major spoilers, sooo... you're just gonna have to forgive me ;) they both have some emotional and hard events in their pasts, that influenced them and their ability to open up to others, but their relationship is very sweet :) but that's not all that this book is about... we also have a mystery... dun dun duuuunnnn.... ;) yep, there is a mystery connected to the lodge :) they discover something when they are doing a walkthrough, but again, I won't say any details because... spoilers, duh ;) but it gives this story a little something extra ;)
Now about the secondary characters :) this whole town is full of unique, quirky and absolutely lovely characters, but I have to say that the couple from the first book stole my heart so completely that I'm gonna have to go back and read their story :) Lindsey is pretty new in town :) well, she's been there for about a year now, but you get what I mean :) and Carden is... well, he's definitely something :) I don't want to say more, in case you are brand new to this series like me, but after seeing them as a couple here and there in this book, I need to know more about them and how they got together :) and I am definitely gonna have my eyes open for book #3, because I have my suspicions who might be the heroine of that... *coughs* Ellie *coughs* ;) but that's just my speculations ;)
It was a great and fun read :) the book is not very long, but you definitely don't feel like the story is rushed :) and the whole mystery surrounding that discovery in the lodge that I can't share more about... ;) adds to the book :) Thistle Bend is a lovely town and I'm definitely gonna visit it again :) the writing style was good and absolutely made me curious to check out other books written by Tracy March :) it may have not swept me off my feet completely and kept me up late at night to finish it, but do not be mistaken... it is a lovely book that will cleverly sneak into your heart when you least expect it ;)
XOXO
A
Both Holly and Bryce are around 30 :) she's a lawyer, living in her hometown, the titular Thistle Bend and he's an entrepreneur :) he's actually there to buy a mountain lodge that comes with a lot of negative history not only with the whole town but especially with Holly and her family... don't worry, I'm not gonna say anything more in case it wasn't mentioned in the previous book and you don't want any spoilers :) they actually met on a mountain trail, where he oh so gracefully fell off his mountain bike ;) don't worry, nothing horrible happened to him :) she offered help and sparks started to fly... ;) I really enjoyed their slow-but-not-exactly building relationship :) and even though there were some secrets between them, I can totally understand the reasons behind that decisions... I know I'm being very vague, but I really can't say anything more without some major spoilers, sooo... you're just gonna have to forgive me ;) they both have some emotional and hard events in their pasts, that influenced them and their ability to open up to others, but their relationship is very sweet :) but that's not all that this book is about... we also have a mystery... dun dun duuuunnnn.... ;) yep, there is a mystery connected to the lodge :) they discover something when they are doing a walkthrough, but again, I won't say any details because... spoilers, duh ;) but it gives this story a little something extra ;)
Now about the secondary characters :) this whole town is full of unique, quirky and absolutely lovely characters, but I have to say that the couple from the first book stole my heart so completely that I'm gonna have to go back and read their story :) Lindsey is pretty new in town :) well, she's been there for about a year now, but you get what I mean :) and Carden is... well, he's definitely something :) I don't want to say more, in case you are brand new to this series like me, but after seeing them as a couple here and there in this book, I need to know more about them and how they got together :) and I am definitely gonna have my eyes open for book #3, because I have my suspicions who might be the heroine of that... *coughs* Ellie *coughs* ;) but that's just my speculations ;)
It was a great and fun read :) the book is not very long, but you definitely don't feel like the story is rushed :) and the whole mystery surrounding that discovery in the lodge that I can't share more about... ;) adds to the book :) Thistle Bend is a lovely town and I'm definitely gonna visit it again :) the writing style was good and absolutely made me curious to check out other books written by Tracy March :) it may have not swept me off my feet completely and kept me up late at night to finish it, but do not be mistaken... it is a lovely book that will cleverly sneak into your heart when you least expect it ;)
XOXO
A
June 1, 2016
1 1/2 stars, technically.
Holly Birdsong first encounters Bryce Bennett when he crashes his rented mountain bike after riding too recklessly down a trail. She next encounters him when he walks into her law office seeking a real estate attorney who can help him with purchasing an abandoned lodge that has caused everyone in the small town of Thistle Bend, Colorado, a great deal of heartache, especially Holly's family. Their attraction is instant...and threatened by secrets and emotional baggage from prior relationships.
I so wanted to like this more than I did! I really liked the first book in this series, and Holly was one of my favorite secondary characters in that one, so I was excited to get my hands on the eGalley copy of this one, courtesy of NetGalley (in exchange for my honest review), but...ugh. I couldn't wait for it to end, almost from the first page. That is never a good sign, and if I hadn't been reading an ARC, I'd have quit and moved on to something better. But I felt obligated to keep reading, and I just kept hoping it'd improve. I did enjoy the brief scenes with the Montgomery sisters, so it wasn't all bad.
I know other reviewers have raved over this book, but I read for character (a la Nancy Pearl's Appeal Doorways), and this book had immature, one-dimensional characters, including the protagonists. They came off as shallow and superficial to me, perhaps because Ms. March spent so much time describing how they looked and how hot and sexy they were. One of the many instances where less would have been so much more! I kept thinking, "SHOW them falling in love, don't tell!" Also, I wish all romance authors would stop writing until they have been through all of Alison Armstrong's workshops about understanding men and women. LUST DOES NOT EQUATE NOR NECESSARILY LEAD TO LOVE, people! No amount of flipping your hair or acting like a ninny is going to make a man fall in love with you. Neither is strutting or showing off going to make a woman want to spend her life with you.
There was virtually no character development or real growth. I don't want to include any spoilers, so I'll just say that Holly's lack of faith in Bryce near the end disappointed me--it was childish of her to jump to (illogical) conclusions and not at least listen to what he had to say. That's not how you should treat people you (supposedly) love!
To sum up: this installment of the series felt juvenile, like it was written by maybe a college student, not the same author who wrote Should've Said No. Or perhaps it was just rushed to print without sufficient revisions and editing? *sigh* I think I'll wait until the 3rd book is actually published before reading it so that I can quit if it's as bad as this one. I really hope it turns out to be as good as or better than the first!
For readers' advisors: story doorway is primary, setting secondary. There are several sex scenes and lots of sexual references (see above about confusing lust with love). Some swearing. No violence.
Holly Birdsong first encounters Bryce Bennett when he crashes his rented mountain bike after riding too recklessly down a trail. She next encounters him when he walks into her law office seeking a real estate attorney who can help him with purchasing an abandoned lodge that has caused everyone in the small town of Thistle Bend, Colorado, a great deal of heartache, especially Holly's family. Their attraction is instant...and threatened by secrets and emotional baggage from prior relationships.
I so wanted to like this more than I did! I really liked the first book in this series, and Holly was one of my favorite secondary characters in that one, so I was excited to get my hands on the eGalley copy of this one, courtesy of NetGalley (in exchange for my honest review), but...ugh. I couldn't wait for it to end, almost from the first page. That is never a good sign, and if I hadn't been reading an ARC, I'd have quit and moved on to something better. But I felt obligated to keep reading, and I just kept hoping it'd improve. I did enjoy the brief scenes with the Montgomery sisters, so it wasn't all bad.
I know other reviewers have raved over this book, but I read for character (a la Nancy Pearl's Appeal Doorways), and this book had immature, one-dimensional characters, including the protagonists. They came off as shallow and superficial to me, perhaps because Ms. March spent so much time describing how they looked and how hot and sexy they were. One of the many instances where less would have been so much more! I kept thinking, "SHOW them falling in love, don't tell!" Also, I wish all romance authors would stop writing until they have been through all of Alison Armstrong's workshops about understanding men and women. LUST DOES NOT EQUATE NOR NECESSARILY LEAD TO LOVE, people! No amount of flipping your hair or acting like a ninny is going to make a man fall in love with you. Neither is strutting or showing off going to make a woman want to spend her life with you.
There was virtually no character development or real growth. I don't want to include any spoilers, so I'll just say that Holly's lack of faith in Bryce near the end disappointed me--it was childish of her to jump to (illogical) conclusions and not at least listen to what he had to say. That's not how you should treat people you (supposedly) love!
To sum up: this installment of the series felt juvenile, like it was written by maybe a college student, not the same author who wrote Should've Said No. Or perhaps it was just rushed to print without sufficient revisions and editing? *sigh* I think I'll wait until the 3rd book is actually published before reading it so that I can quit if it's as bad as this one. I really hope it turns out to be as good as or better than the first!
For readers' advisors: story doorway is primary, setting secondary. There are several sex scenes and lots of sexual references (see above about confusing lust with love). Some swearing. No violence.
March 29, 2016
Just Say Maybe by Tracy March is a sweet romance. I love March’s books, whether they are contemporary romance or romantic suspense. I just adore her writing so I was all in on this book before I even read the blurb! If you are looking for a book that will provide you with a solid romantic story, a touch of a mystery and a feeling of homecoming with the town of Thistle Bend, this is the story for you.
Holly is a real estate lawyer in her home town of Thistle Bend and Bryce is an out of towner who wants to purchase a rundown lodge that has done nothing but cause grief for the community. The town was against him from the beginning but Holly was willing to give him a try not only professionally but personally.
I so loved the way Bryce and Holly meet for the first and second time. It was priceless. It sets up their relationship journey nicely. Each of them are characters that you just like from the beginning. They are independent, confident and established in their lives. Their relationship is playful and fun and realistic. Bryce and Holly have both gotten out of bad relationships so there are some doubts, but they are understandable. The romance was slow and steady - one you would picture in real life. They have so much in common I wanted them together from the start. March weaves the romance into the story very well.
Just Say Maybe has a bit of a mystery plot. It isn't one you expect in a contemporary romance but it worked. I love romantic suspense so reading a contemporary romance with a bit of a suspense plot was awesome! It was fun to see how the mystery unraveled and how it involved people we have already met in Thistle Bend in the previous book - Should've Said No. Speaking of characters from previous books, I love a series because we don't have to let characters go. Lindsey was the heroine in Should’ve Said No and it was so much fun to see her in Just Say Maybe.
If there is one complaint I have about this story, it is that I felt the conflict between Bryce and Holly was rather abrupt. After getting to know the characters well, it seemed Holly and her Grandfather jumped the gun on their reactions to Bryce when I expected them to talk it through more on the spot and get the facts. As I continued reading, it worked out and was explained better in Holly’s point of view, but it surprised me a bit and caused me to reread some lines just to make sure I understood everything correctly in that particular scene.
The ending to Just Say Maybe was perfect for the story. March writes great characters and original plots. If you are looking for a solid contemporary romance, give Just Say Maybe a try!
Holly is a real estate lawyer in her home town of Thistle Bend and Bryce is an out of towner who wants to purchase a rundown lodge that has done nothing but cause grief for the community. The town was against him from the beginning but Holly was willing to give him a try not only professionally but personally.
I so loved the way Bryce and Holly meet for the first and second time. It was priceless. It sets up their relationship journey nicely. Each of them are characters that you just like from the beginning. They are independent, confident and established in their lives. Their relationship is playful and fun and realistic. Bryce and Holly have both gotten out of bad relationships so there are some doubts, but they are understandable. The romance was slow and steady - one you would picture in real life. They have so much in common I wanted them together from the start. March weaves the romance into the story very well.
Just Say Maybe has a bit of a mystery plot. It isn't one you expect in a contemporary romance but it worked. I love romantic suspense so reading a contemporary romance with a bit of a suspense plot was awesome! It was fun to see how the mystery unraveled and how it involved people we have already met in Thistle Bend in the previous book - Should've Said No. Speaking of characters from previous books, I love a series because we don't have to let characters go. Lindsey was the heroine in Should’ve Said No and it was so much fun to see her in Just Say Maybe.
If there is one complaint I have about this story, it is that I felt the conflict between Bryce and Holly was rather abrupt. After getting to know the characters well, it seemed Holly and her Grandfather jumped the gun on their reactions to Bryce when I expected them to talk it through more on the spot and get the facts. As I continued reading, it worked out and was explained better in Holly’s point of view, but it surprised me a bit and caused me to reread some lines just to make sure I understood everything correctly in that particular scene.
The ending to Just Say Maybe was perfect for the story. March writes great characters and original plots. If you are looking for a solid contemporary romance, give Just Say Maybe a try!
May 2, 2016
Just Say Maybe, written by Tracy March, is the second book in the Thistle Bend series. This book can be read as a stand-alone, however, I would recommend reading the first book in the series, Should've Said No. Tracy March knows how to tell a story, and she does not disappoint with this newest book in the Thistle Bend series.
Holly Birdsong is a real estate lawyer living in the small town of Thistle Bend, Colorado. One day while she is taking a hike in the Colorado Rockies, a man just happens to fall into her path, literally, after he loses control of his bike. Little does she know, but this accidental meeting will end up changing her future.
Bryce Bennett is in Thistle Bend, looking to purchase an abandoned lodge at Wild Rose Ridge. He plans to open an extreme sports camp for at-risk teens, and the setting couldn't be more perfect. While out biking in the Rockies, he meets Holly, and the two hit it off immediately. Bryce later learns that she is a real estate lawyer, and he talks her into helping him close the deal on the lodge. Bryce has no idea just how much he truly is asking of Holly, especially since her family has painful ties to the lodge.
Tracy March knows how to tell a story, and this one has some mystery surrounding the lodge, as well as a secret Bryce is keeping. As the story unfolds, the connection Holly has to the lodge is also revealed. Both characters have been hurt in the past, and are weary to trust again. Holly, although attracted to Bryce, is unsure about any relationship with him because she doesn't want to leave Thistle Bend, and she has no idea if he would be willing to live there. Their relationship progresses at a slow and steady pace as they learn to trust once again. These are two characters that have a lot in common, in addition to the chemistry. Overall, this is a well written story with great character development. The author also does an awesome job in portraying the small town setting, where everyone in town knows one another. I enjoyed catching up with the people from the first book, and am looking forward to the next book in the series. This was an engaging story, with some unexpected twists and turns added to make it even more interesting. The characters are realistic, as well as the small town setting. I thoroughly enjoyed following the journey of Holly and Bryce, and would recommend reading this book, as well as other books in the series.
I was given an advance digital copy of this book from Random House Publishing Group-Loveswept, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Holly Birdsong is a real estate lawyer living in the small town of Thistle Bend, Colorado. One day while she is taking a hike in the Colorado Rockies, a man just happens to fall into her path, literally, after he loses control of his bike. Little does she know, but this accidental meeting will end up changing her future.
Bryce Bennett is in Thistle Bend, looking to purchase an abandoned lodge at Wild Rose Ridge. He plans to open an extreme sports camp for at-risk teens, and the setting couldn't be more perfect. While out biking in the Rockies, he meets Holly, and the two hit it off immediately. Bryce later learns that she is a real estate lawyer, and he talks her into helping him close the deal on the lodge. Bryce has no idea just how much he truly is asking of Holly, especially since her family has painful ties to the lodge.
Tracy March knows how to tell a story, and this one has some mystery surrounding the lodge, as well as a secret Bryce is keeping. As the story unfolds, the connection Holly has to the lodge is also revealed. Both characters have been hurt in the past, and are weary to trust again. Holly, although attracted to Bryce, is unsure about any relationship with him because she doesn't want to leave Thistle Bend, and she has no idea if he would be willing to live there. Their relationship progresses at a slow and steady pace as they learn to trust once again. These are two characters that have a lot in common, in addition to the chemistry. Overall, this is a well written story with great character development. The author also does an awesome job in portraying the small town setting, where everyone in town knows one another. I enjoyed catching up with the people from the first book, and am looking forward to the next book in the series. This was an engaging story, with some unexpected twists and turns added to make it even more interesting. The characters are realistic, as well as the small town setting. I thoroughly enjoyed following the journey of Holly and Bryce, and would recommend reading this book, as well as other books in the series.
I was given an advance digital copy of this book from Random House Publishing Group-Loveswept, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 5, 2016
The small town of Thistle Bend is consisted of quirky, easygoing, and kind townsfolk but when Bryce Bennett decides to reopen the abandoned Lodge at Wild Rose Ridge, well let's just say that even some of the nicest people can be bitter.
This story had everything you could ask for in a lazy day read. It had some mystery - a secret room is found in the lodge, it had some angst - the secrets Bryce is keeping from Holly, but most of all it had a great characters. Holly and Bryce work well as a couple; even though they both have been hurt in the past they don't hold that back from the attraction and chemistry they have.
This has been a fun series to read, I enjoy all of the townsfolk especially Merri & Millie Montgomery, these two older ladies are a Hoot! They are a cross between Samantha Stephens (Bewitched) and the Halliwell Sisters (Charmed), they know everything about everyone even though you haven't said a word to them. Their bit of good advice this time is "Every secret has it's time."
***I have received this book from Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept. through netgalley in exchange for my honest review*** https://www.netgalley.com/
This story had everything you could ask for in a lazy day read. It had some mystery - a secret room is found in the lodge, it had some angst - the secrets Bryce is keeping from Holly, but most of all it had a great characters. Holly and Bryce work well as a couple; even though they both have been hurt in the past they don't hold that back from the attraction and chemistry they have.
This has been a fun series to read, I enjoy all of the townsfolk especially Merri & Millie Montgomery, these two older ladies are a Hoot! They are a cross between Samantha Stephens (Bewitched) and the Halliwell Sisters (Charmed), they know everything about everyone even though you haven't said a word to them. Their bit of good advice this time is "Every secret has it's time."
***I have received this book from Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept. through netgalley in exchange for my honest review*** https://www.netgalley.com/
June 23, 2016
Review can be read at It's About The Book
The made up town of Thistle Bend sounds heavenly, especially the cinnamon rolls at Calypso Coffee! If only I could get on the online store of the Montgomery ladies and order some. I love when food becomes part of a story, as well as the town, and this story comes complete with surround sound gorgeous scenery and yummy food to boot. So get your appetite settled before you start reading or you’ll be like me, starving for a cinnamon roll at 8:00 at night!
When the Lodge at Wild Rose was first planned, it caused disruption in the town of Thistle Bend, Colorado almost immediately. There were those who wanted it and those who were violently against it…. and were proven right. It was a nightmare from start to finish, with every step either being mismanaged or outright crooked. Unfortunately for Holly Birdsong’s family, the disaster of the Lodge had a more personal cost. Her grandmother’s death stemmed from all the anxiety she was under.
So when Bryce Bennett shows up in town to redo the place, it causes a lot of controversy–especially after he asks Holly to be his real estate attorney. She’s really attracted to him and she wants to help him, but it’s going to cause her grandfather so much pain to have the Lodge be in the news again. Is it possible that rebuilding the place and making it a success could be cathartic?
Bryce Bennet had no idea of the bad juju behind the Lodge. He’d just wanted to make it successful. He’s also got a pretty spectacular secret reason he’s trying to fix it up as well. One that could shatter Holly’s trust in him when she finds out. Could it be possible to get her to like him before he told her so that they’d have a chance? He thinks she might be “the one” for him and he doesn’t want to risk her leaving him in the dust…but how can he continue to keep the secret from her?
Great romance with a lot of drama and a wonderful small hometown feel to it. You’ll enjoy the visceral feel of this great Colorado place! Read it and enjoy this summer!
The made up town of Thistle Bend sounds heavenly, especially the cinnamon rolls at Calypso Coffee! If only I could get on the online store of the Montgomery ladies and order some. I love when food becomes part of a story, as well as the town, and this story comes complete with surround sound gorgeous scenery and yummy food to boot. So get your appetite settled before you start reading or you’ll be like me, starving for a cinnamon roll at 8:00 at night!
When the Lodge at Wild Rose was first planned, it caused disruption in the town of Thistle Bend, Colorado almost immediately. There were those who wanted it and those who were violently against it…. and were proven right. It was a nightmare from start to finish, with every step either being mismanaged or outright crooked. Unfortunately for Holly Birdsong’s family, the disaster of the Lodge had a more personal cost. Her grandmother’s death stemmed from all the anxiety she was under.
So when Bryce Bennett shows up in town to redo the place, it causes a lot of controversy–especially after he asks Holly to be his real estate attorney. She’s really attracted to him and she wants to help him, but it’s going to cause her grandfather so much pain to have the Lodge be in the news again. Is it possible that rebuilding the place and making it a success could be cathartic?
Bryce Bennet had no idea of the bad juju behind the Lodge. He’d just wanted to make it successful. He’s also got a pretty spectacular secret reason he’s trying to fix it up as well. One that could shatter Holly’s trust in him when she finds out. Could it be possible to get her to like him before he told her so that they’d have a chance? He thinks she might be “the one” for him and he doesn’t want to risk her leaving him in the dust…but how can he continue to keep the secret from her?
Great romance with a lot of drama and a wonderful small hometown feel to it. You’ll enjoy the visceral feel of this great Colorado place! Read it and enjoy this summer!
March 20, 2016
The best sign for a book is when the reader wants to read more by that author. I received a free copy of Just Say Maybe from netgalley in exchange for an honest review. After I finished, I immediately went online to order the first book in the series. So that is how much I liked the book.
The setting is a little town, Thistle Bend, in the Colorado Rockies. Bryce Bennett has come to town in order to buy an abandoned lodge to build an adventure resort there. On his first day there, he meets Holly Birdsong when he falls off his mountain bike right in front of her. He immediately thinks that she’s that illusive 10. It turns out that she’s a real estate lawyer and he hires her to help him negotiate his purchase of the lodge.
It turns out that Holly’s family has reason to hate the lodge. It brings back very painful memories for her. She’s also wary of falling for a guy who might not be in town for good since she doesn’t want to leave the charming little town of Thistle Bend. It’s one of those little towns that show up a lot in romance novels where everyone knows everything about everybody, but they’re good-natured and want to help each other out.
There is a mystery about the lodge as Bryce and Holly explore it and find a boarded-up room that has been left just as it was five years ago when the lodge closed. Holly and Bryce chase down the clues. Once we found out the back-story, I was a bit disappointed as the story didn’t explain why nothing about the room had been cleaned up, but that’s a minor point.
I liked the romance and humorous conversation between Bryce and Holly. I like it when an author shows us why a couple like each other instead of just basing it on their sexual attraction to each other.
The setting is a little town, Thistle Bend, in the Colorado Rockies. Bryce Bennett has come to town in order to buy an abandoned lodge to build an adventure resort there. On his first day there, he meets Holly Birdsong when he falls off his mountain bike right in front of her. He immediately thinks that she’s that illusive 10. It turns out that she’s a real estate lawyer and he hires her to help him negotiate his purchase of the lodge.
It turns out that Holly’s family has reason to hate the lodge. It brings back very painful memories for her. She’s also wary of falling for a guy who might not be in town for good since she doesn’t want to leave the charming little town of Thistle Bend. It’s one of those little towns that show up a lot in romance novels where everyone knows everything about everybody, but they’re good-natured and want to help each other out.
There is a mystery about the lodge as Bryce and Holly explore it and find a boarded-up room that has been left just as it was five years ago when the lodge closed. Holly and Bryce chase down the clues. Once we found out the back-story, I was a bit disappointed as the story didn’t explain why nothing about the room had been cleaned up, but that’s a minor point.
I liked the romance and humorous conversation between Bryce and Holly. I like it when an author shows us why a couple like each other instead of just basing it on their sexual attraction to each other.
May 4, 2016
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2 Spicy Stars
Holly Birdsong lives in a vacation town. She has a "don't date tourists rule" for a reason. Only...she lives in a town of 1519 people. Thistle Bend. Beautiful, picturesque-but lacking men. Think man drought of biblical proportions. Holly is clearly suffering during this long, dry, spell and is going to have to break this iron clad rule.
Meet Bryson, he has plans to buy the lodge and make a thriving business of it; unlike its last owner. Does he plan to stay though?
Holly is a real estate lawyer and she handles the purchase for Bryson and a few other things. (Winks)
This is a well matched couple. They are of a similar age, educational level, common outdoor interests and bother have athletic physics and extremely attracted to one another. I appreciated the chemistry. A very realistic modern romance with logical plot turns. This is a great book for readers who like an element of realism in their romance, and relatable characters. There is gentle humor throughout the story. I love the scene at the pizzeria; Holly likes sweet pineapple pizza, Bry likes Spicy Pepperoni and it's a perfect metaphor for their relationship as well. Holly is sweet and a bit whimsical for a lawyer, she does however need Bryson's spicy pepperoni in her life! He really helps loosen her up. On a personal note, I happen to love both pineapple and pepperoni on a pizza. (You needed to know.)
So, like our pizza metaphor, this book also ends perfectly delicious. I love a happily ever after. Even if you have to wait a little for it(like a chapter.) They had a "big misunderstanding." It's still a HEA. Kind of like pizza, even cold it's still delicious.
Reviewed for HeadTripping Books by Jeannie
Holly Birdsong lives in a vacation town. She has a "don't date tourists rule" for a reason. Only...she lives in a town of 1519 people. Thistle Bend. Beautiful, picturesque-but lacking men. Think man drought of biblical proportions. Holly is clearly suffering during this long, dry, spell and is going to have to break this iron clad rule.
Meet Bryson, he has plans to buy the lodge and make a thriving business of it; unlike its last owner. Does he plan to stay though?
Holly is a real estate lawyer and she handles the purchase for Bryson and a few other things. (Winks)
This is a well matched couple. They are of a similar age, educational level, common outdoor interests and bother have athletic physics and extremely attracted to one another. I appreciated the chemistry. A very realistic modern romance with logical plot turns. This is a great book for readers who like an element of realism in their romance, and relatable characters. There is gentle humor throughout the story. I love the scene at the pizzeria; Holly likes sweet pineapple pizza, Bry likes Spicy Pepperoni and it's a perfect metaphor for their relationship as well. Holly is sweet and a bit whimsical for a lawyer, she does however need Bryson's spicy pepperoni in her life! He really helps loosen her up. On a personal note, I happen to love both pineapple and pepperoni on a pizza. (You needed to know.)
So, like our pizza metaphor, this book also ends perfectly delicious. I love a happily ever after. Even if you have to wait a little for it(like a chapter.) They had a "big misunderstanding." It's still a HEA. Kind of like pizza, even cold it's still delicious.
Reviewed for HeadTripping Books by Jeannie
May 7, 2016
I absolutely adore Tracy March's voice and was super excited for the 2nd book in her Thistle Bend book. I was pulled in from the very first page and wanted to read non-stop until I was finished.
I think Holly is one of my very favorite characters from Ms. March. Holly is such a strong character and pretty much has Thistle Bend running in her blood. Holly and her family have always been a part of Thistle Bend and their history with everything about the town is strong. Holly is very up front with her desire to stay in Thistle Bend and until she meets Bryce Bennett, she has no desire to really ever leave Thistle Bend.
I have to say I really liked Bryce and Holly as a couple. They had an instant attraction and it really only got stronger the more time they spent together. I liked that Bryce an Holly worked together to solve the mystery of the lodge and grew closer with each day that past. I loved Bryce talking with Holly's grandfather about all he wished to accomplish with bringing the lodge back to life. I also loved that when he met the Montgomery sisters, he was good with keeping their secret. My only issue was him not being up front with Holly soon enough about who his father was and how she found out. I really expected better of him than this mistake.
I really thought Just Say Maybe was a great addition to the Thistle Bend series. I felt everything from laughter, tears, to gnashing of teeth with anger, so it really did hit on many of my emotions. Tracy March gives her readers a strong romance with a touch of mystery with Just Say Maybe and I highly recommend this story.
Review copy provided by publisher
I think Holly is one of my very favorite characters from Ms. March. Holly is such a strong character and pretty much has Thistle Bend running in her blood. Holly and her family have always been a part of Thistle Bend and their history with everything about the town is strong. Holly is very up front with her desire to stay in Thistle Bend and until she meets Bryce Bennett, she has no desire to really ever leave Thistle Bend.
I have to say I really liked Bryce and Holly as a couple. They had an instant attraction and it really only got stronger the more time they spent together. I liked that Bryce an Holly worked together to solve the mystery of the lodge and grew closer with each day that past. I loved Bryce talking with Holly's grandfather about all he wished to accomplish with bringing the lodge back to life. I also loved that when he met the Montgomery sisters, he was good with keeping their secret. My only issue was him not being up front with Holly soon enough about who his father was and how she found out. I really expected better of him than this mistake.
I really thought Just Say Maybe was a great addition to the Thistle Bend series. I felt everything from laughter, tears, to gnashing of teeth with anger, so it really did hit on many of my emotions. Tracy March gives her readers a strong romance with a touch of mystery with Just Say Maybe and I highly recommend this story.
Review copy provided by publisher
May 9, 2016
When I think of this author, I think of sweetness, small town setting, likable characters, very few if any curse words and tastefully done, not overly descriptive sex scenes. So if that is the kind of book you are looking for then this is probably for you. Bryce is in town to purchase an abandoned lodge. He hopes to rectify the hand his father played in the destruction of it. So of course he has to keep his relationship to the previous owner a secret. Holly, a native to Thistle Bends, is the real estate lawyer who is helping Bryce buy the lodge. But she is torn because of her family’s history with the lodge. Is it wise to help him and does this betray her family? While inspecting the lodge, a mystery is uncovered. One that Bryce and Holly are determined to solve. As they spend more time together their attraction grows. Their relationship grows slowly because both of them are sort of weary because of their previous experiences. The only issue I had was the quickness of how Holly and her grandfather jumped at Bryce when they thought he was going to take some of their land. They never gave him a chance to explain. There wasn’t anything in the book that would give the impression he was a ruthless business man and would do anything to succeed. Overall enjoyable read. Characters are realistic, good dialogue. I liked the fact you meet some of the characters from previous book. But don’t worry, you do not need to have read it to enjoy this one. I have read a number of books by this author and will continue to do so.
October 18, 2016
I just finished the phenomenal book Just Say Maybe in the Thistle Down series by Tracy March. Ok, so I started on the second book! What is wrong with that? Just goes to prove that it is a stand-a-lone book. There was nothing that was in question. No, I am lying, there was one question, why did I have to put it down and go to work? I so much wanted to keep reading and find out what would happen between Holly and Bryce. These two were so meant for each other. You could tell from the beginning. Watching them fall in love…. Sigh.
I have definitely found another author to love. Ms. March wrote so much emotion into this book. My favorite line in the book is: “Hopefully we’ll be doing this forever, but we’ll only have one first time.” I cried. That is the way it should be! Then when Holly remembers Bryce saying this she….. Stop, no spoilers.
I definitely need to go back and read the first book in this series, Should’ve Said No.
Now, I need to thank NetGalley for listing this phenomenal book on their site. I need to thank Random House Publishing Group – Loveswept, for approving my request to read this wonderful book gifting me with a copy. Most importantly, I have to thank Tracy March for writing a book so extraordinary that it took me in so deep that I was almost late for work yesterday. Kudos Ms. March on this exceptional book!
Thank you for reading my review. Yes, you definitely have to exercise that index finger and One-Click this book.
I have definitely found another author to love. Ms. March wrote so much emotion into this book. My favorite line in the book is: “Hopefully we’ll be doing this forever, but we’ll only have one first time.” I cried. That is the way it should be! Then when Holly remembers Bryce saying this she….. Stop, no spoilers.
I definitely need to go back and read the first book in this series, Should’ve Said No.
Now, I need to thank NetGalley for listing this phenomenal book on their site. I need to thank Random House Publishing Group – Loveswept, for approving my request to read this wonderful book gifting me with a copy. Most importantly, I have to thank Tracy March for writing a book so extraordinary that it took me in so deep that I was almost late for work yesterday. Kudos Ms. March on this exceptional book!
Thank you for reading my review. Yes, you definitely have to exercise that index finger and One-Click this book.
May 28, 2016
Read the full review on Bookaholics Not-So-Anonymous.
Note: This ARC was provided by Loveswept in exchange for an honest review.
I quite liked this sequel and the town of Thistle Bend is more than growing on me. Holly and Bryce were the kind of couple that simply clicked from the beginning and you knew that they were meant to be. Of course, it was going to be smooth sailing, not with the history Holly had connected to the property that Bryce was planning to purchase but also Bryce's secret. Now, avid romance readers know that secrets kept for far too long end up wreaking havoc on relationships that are just getting off the ground. Heck, they wreak havoc on established relationships as well! And if the romance aspect isn't enough, there's a dash of mystery suspense thrown into the mix and it fits the story and where it was headed, so a definite bonus there. With two good reads, I'm looking forward to book three in October. Four stars for Just Say Maybe. ♥
Note: This ARC was provided by Loveswept in exchange for an honest review.
I quite liked this sequel and the town of Thistle Bend is more than growing on me. Holly and Bryce were the kind of couple that simply clicked from the beginning and you knew that they were meant to be. Of course, it was going to be smooth sailing, not with the history Holly had connected to the property that Bryce was planning to purchase but also Bryce's secret. Now, avid romance readers know that secrets kept for far too long end up wreaking havoc on relationships that are just getting off the ground. Heck, they wreak havoc on established relationships as well! And if the romance aspect isn't enough, there's a dash of mystery suspense thrown into the mix and it fits the story and where it was headed, so a definite bonus there. With two good reads, I'm looking forward to book three in October. Four stars for Just Say Maybe. ♥
May 2, 2016
Loved it! It's a romance with a bit of mystery and intrigue thrown in, and of course all the zany characters Tracy March has built the small town of Thistle Bend around. I enjoy all these characters and the newcomer to town Bryce Bennett adds just the right amount of spice when he meets town native Holly Birdsong. When these two first meet on the hiking trail there is an immediate attraction. Finding out Bryce is in Thistle Bend to buy and renovate the old lodge is a crushing blow to what could have been between them. In the past the town had put their hopes and dreams in the hands of the developer of the town lodge only to have those dreams crushed by his deceit. No family suffered more than Holly's when the developer abandoned the project and left the town floundering. Now these two are determined to find out exactly what happened at the lodge and see if a future can be saved.
This is really a fun read and one I would recommend highly.
This is really a fun read and one I would recommend highly.
May 3, 2016
We are back in Thistle Bend with this book. But know that even though it’s part of a series, it is a stand alone book.
Holly was born in Thistle Bend and is the town’s real estate lawyer. Bryce is in town to purchase a closed up lodge with a history that left a lot of ill will in the town and it’s residents. The locals see no good in restoring it .
Both Holly and Bryce have history connected to the lodge, none good and each keeps secrets from the other. They are falling for each other but Bryce is concerned that if his secret is revealed Holly will no longer want to have anything to do with him.
A wonderful story filled with secrets , deceptions, how history affects the present not only things but the people left to deal with them. And let’s not forget forgiveness and “love always”.
Be ready to enjoy this book whether you are a first time reader of Ms March, or already enchanted with Thistle Bend , like I am.
Holly was born in Thistle Bend and is the town’s real estate lawyer. Bryce is in town to purchase a closed up lodge with a history that left a lot of ill will in the town and it’s residents. The locals see no good in restoring it .
Both Holly and Bryce have history connected to the lodge, none good and each keeps secrets from the other. They are falling for each other but Bryce is concerned that if his secret is revealed Holly will no longer want to have anything to do with him.
A wonderful story filled with secrets , deceptions, how history affects the present not only things but the people left to deal with them. And let’s not forget forgiveness and “love always”.
Be ready to enjoy this book whether you are a first time reader of Ms March, or already enchanted with Thistle Bend , like I am.
May 4, 2016
This is a great book; this is the second book in the Thistle Bend series by Tracy March. This book can be read as a standalone, but if you read the first book you will get to know the characters before reading this one. Holly Birdsong is a real estate lawyer, while hiking in the Rockies a sexy stranger Bryce, tumbles off his bike into her path. She finds out that he’s purchasing the abandoned lodge at Wild Rose Ridge she agrees to take him on as a client. The more time they spend together, they learn they can’t fight the attraction. If you are looking for a great book, then you need to read this book. I am looking forward to reading the next book by this great author.
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review
May 10, 2016
I was so excited to return to Thistle Bend, with quirky residents and the beautiful scenery. In this story we get to meet newcomer, Bryce, he is here to renovate the abandoned lodge when he meets native Holly, town real estate lawyer. There is an instant attraction between them. Both have been hurt by failed relationships, can their hearts take the leap again.
With a little bit of a mystery, a great romance, and the quirky residents, you too will fall in love with the town of Thistle Bend. I so want to go visit!! Love the Montgomery sisters. My favorite line of the book is, "Hopefully we'll be doing this forever, but we'll only have one first time." Tracy March has written a wonderful story of romance, Thank you!!!
With a little bit of a mystery, a great romance, and the quirky residents, you too will fall in love with the town of Thistle Bend. I so want to go visit!! Love the Montgomery sisters. My favorite line of the book is, "Hopefully we'll be doing this forever, but we'll only have one first time." Tracy March has written a wonderful story of romance, Thank you!!!
March 26, 2016
While I thoroughly enjoyed the first trip to Thistle Bend, I must admit I enjoyed this return visit even more! Holly & Bryce hit it off from the very beginning. I love the adventures they do along with the amateur sleuthing when they stumble along a mystery. Unfortunately, secrets are being kept between them, while it's for a good cause, it may just be something they can't overcome. Be sure to read this exciting book by Tracy March.
**This copy was provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
**This copy was provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
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