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The Starr Brothers of Montana #1
The Secret Son
A birthday card out of the blue from his estranged father sends successful Seattle marketing man Alex Chernoff on a detour to Cherry Lake in search of answers about his past. A day, maybe two, to tie up loose strings and he’ll be out of there, heading for Mexico, margaritas and blondes in bikinis.
Emma Stanhope is all too familiar with hot, rich, entitled guys like Alex. They never hang around for long, especially not for a Plain Jane like herself. No problem. She’s smart and logical, like any good scientist, and knows better than to lose her heart.
What Emma doesn’t count on is chemistry—of the romantic kind. What Alex doesn’t count on is meeting the girl who’ll make him want to change his ways. But when he learns that he’s a secret from his father’s real family, he can’t stay in Cherry Lake… even if he wants to.
Will love be enough to convince Alex to stay… for good?
Secrets of Cherry Lake series
Prequel: Small Town Secrets by Roxanne Snopek
Book 1: The Secret Son by Joan Kilby
Book 2: Her Secret Love by Paula Altenberg
Book 3: Her Secret Protector by Roxanne Snopek
Book 4: The Secret Bride by Jeannie Watt
Emma Stanhope is all too familiar with hot, rich, entitled guys like Alex. They never hang around for long, especially not for a Plain Jane like herself. No problem. She’s smart and logical, like any good scientist, and knows better than to lose her heart.
What Emma doesn’t count on is chemistry—of the romantic kind. What Alex doesn’t count on is meeting the girl who’ll make him want to change his ways. But when he learns that he’s a secret from his father’s real family, he can’t stay in Cherry Lake… even if he wants to.
Will love be enough to convince Alex to stay… for good?
Secrets of Cherry Lake series
Prequel: Small Town Secrets by Roxanne Snopek
Book 1: The Secret Son by Joan Kilby
Book 2: Her Secret Love by Paula Altenberg
Book 3: Her Secret Protector by Roxanne Snopek
Book 4: The Secret Bride by Jeannie Watt
254 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 25, 2015
984 people are currently reading
612 people want to read
About the author
Joan Kilby
66 books101 followersJoan Kilby is the award-winning author of thirty contemporary romance novels. Originally from Canada, Joan studied to be a marine biologist and worked for many years in the field of environmental biology. In mid-life she returned to her first love--writing--and never looked back. These days Joan lives in Melbourne, Australia with her husband and three children. She loves to cook and grows her own herbs, fruit and vegetables. Other interests include hiking, yoga and travel. She once spent six months sailing the South Pacific on a fifty-five foot sailboat built and skippered by her father. Joan belongs to Toastmasters International and is an accomplished speaker--teaching romance writing and giving talks to community organizations. When she’s not working on her latest book she can often be found in a sidewalk café, sipping a latte and indulging in her favorite occupation--people watching.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
September 4, 2015
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley from Tule Publishing for an honest review. Very conflicted how to rate this between a 3 and 4 so I went with the "liked it" definition. The writing is well done and the storyline was VERY engaging, but I spent 90% of the book being angry. Not at the writing itself, but the "father." I went into this thinking it was going to be a fairly light read with some angst. I think I had a lump in my throat the entire book and my heart bled for Alex. There are two aspects of this book:
Alex and Emma were good. You can't but help to like Emma - she's warm and infectious (and the good kind). I liked their banter and felt they had good chemistry.
(spoilers ahead if you don't want to know about Alex and his father's reunion...)
Alex and his sperm donor. The phrase "too little too late" would be an understatement. Alex didn't deserve the coward that is his father. He (and even Linda) were so sanctimonious to swing the blame slightly in his direction that he showed up unannounced. After leaving him 25 years ago and not contacting him in 15 years... what did Robert want int he first place? Fishing? Because that's his way of saying we'll meet somewhere far away from "my family." Every time Robert said "my family" my heart cracked for Alex. Robert even got mad Nate (Alex's grandfather) recognized him and was talking to him. Robert was all about protecting his family but for selfish reasons. Alex was the one who was actually altruistic because he genuinely didn't want Linda, Will and the others hurt. Alex could have been angry at Will and his half sisters for having the life and family he was denied, but he rose above that and his vulnerability didn't make him hateful or spiteful against them. Only until Emma found out did Alex have anyone in his corner.
It pulled a huge emotional reaction from me, so why am I rating this only a 3? I needed a little more. I needed more of Alex and Emma's relationship as it was really secondary to Alex and his father. I needed Alex and his father to have a real moment together and see their family come together. I REALLY needed Robert to redeem himself. I liked the epilogue for Alex, Emma, Will, and Linda... but Robert would not be welcome in my home based on the way he treated Alex as a shameful secret even when he was in town.
(drop the mic... and get some blood pressure pills!)
Alex and Emma were good. You can't but help to like Emma - she's warm and infectious (and the good kind). I liked their banter and felt they had good chemistry.
(spoilers ahead if you don't want to know about Alex and his father's reunion...)
Alex and his sperm donor. The phrase "too little too late" would be an understatement. Alex didn't deserve the coward that is his father. He (and even Linda) were so sanctimonious to swing the blame slightly in his direction that he showed up unannounced. After leaving him 25 years ago and not contacting him in 15 years... what did Robert want int he first place? Fishing? Because that's his way of saying we'll meet somewhere far away from "my family." Every time Robert said "my family" my heart cracked for Alex. Robert even got mad Nate (Alex's grandfather) recognized him and was talking to him. Robert was all about protecting his family but for selfish reasons. Alex was the one who was actually altruistic because he genuinely didn't want Linda, Will and the others hurt. Alex could have been angry at Will and his half sisters for having the life and family he was denied, but he rose above that and his vulnerability didn't make him hateful or spiteful against them. Only until Emma found out did Alex have anyone in his corner.
It pulled a huge emotional reaction from me, so why am I rating this only a 3? I needed a little more. I needed more of Alex and Emma's relationship as it was really secondary to Alex and his father. I needed Alex and his father to have a real moment together and see their family come together. I REALLY needed Robert to redeem himself. I liked the epilogue for Alex, Emma, Will, and Linda... but Robert would not be welcome in my home based on the way he treated Alex as a shameful secret even when he was in town.
(drop the mic... and get some blood pressure pills!)
October 10, 2015
ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.Review also on Amazon.
For a short lenght novel (around 100 pages), this book truly captivates the reader, you simply have to get emotionally invested in the story of Alex and Emma and hope that they get their HEA because they deserve it.
Who knew, that a simple birthday card can have such life changing effect on so many people...
For a short lenght novel (around 100 pages), this book truly captivates the reader, you simply have to get emotionally invested in the story of Alex and Emma and hope that they get their HEA because they deserve it.
Who knew, that a simple birthday card can have such life changing effect on so many people...
Want to read
July 19, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (7/19/2019)! 🎁
August 28, 2015
This is an emotional story, one that follows the experiences of someone attempting to reconnect with his father but unsure of his welcome and the knowledge of everyone else concerned. It is full of soul searching, potential heartbreak and drama - an excellent read!
Alex Chernoff has celebrated his thirtieth birthday early with friends, then he finds an unexpected birthday card for his father with whom he’s had no real contact since he disappeared from his life when Alex was just twelve years old. Having lost his Mum the previous year and not expecting to have any communication with his Dad, Alex decides to go check that his father is okay and maybe find out more about why he abandoned him all those years ago. Is the card an invitation to reconnect their lives?
When Alex reaches Cherry Lake he is in a hurry and tailgates the driver in front of him, urging her to hurry up. That driver is Emma Stanhope and she has no time for pushy rich city guys - or so she hopes. She doesn’t like his attitude and when they meet this feisty scientist makes him aware of this, or at least she tries to! The chemistry between them is volatile but he’s only here for a short visit and she’s no one-night stand type of girl! Will the city guy and country girl stand any chance of having a HEA together?
When Alex visits his father’s home he discovers he has three other children and is actually away having tests in hospital. Should he reveal his identity to his father’s family, or await his return? He finds that he is a secret to his father’s family in Cherry Lake. What should he do? Who can he turn to? Should he stay or go?
Packed full of emotional interactions this is really the story of a Dad who effectively abandoned his son, never telling his other children or wife about his existence. I certainly didn’t like his attitude initially but Alex was so considerate of the others, heartbreaking. Sorry, no more spoilers. You’ll have to read it yourself to find out what happens!
Well written, with characters good and bad, this is a welcome reading escape into the small, close knit community of Cherry Lake and I look forward to reading further stories based there in future!
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley, too, for letting me read an ARC of this book in exchange for this, an honest review.
Alex Chernoff has celebrated his thirtieth birthday early with friends, then he finds an unexpected birthday card for his father with whom he’s had no real contact since he disappeared from his life when Alex was just twelve years old. Having lost his Mum the previous year and not expecting to have any communication with his Dad, Alex decides to go check that his father is okay and maybe find out more about why he abandoned him all those years ago. Is the card an invitation to reconnect their lives?
When Alex reaches Cherry Lake he is in a hurry and tailgates the driver in front of him, urging her to hurry up. That driver is Emma Stanhope and she has no time for pushy rich city guys - or so she hopes. She doesn’t like his attitude and when they meet this feisty scientist makes him aware of this, or at least she tries to! The chemistry between them is volatile but he’s only here for a short visit and she’s no one-night stand type of girl! Will the city guy and country girl stand any chance of having a HEA together?
When Alex visits his father’s home he discovers he has three other children and is actually away having tests in hospital. Should he reveal his identity to his father’s family, or await his return? He finds that he is a secret to his father’s family in Cherry Lake. What should he do? Who can he turn to? Should he stay or go?
Packed full of emotional interactions this is really the story of a Dad who effectively abandoned his son, never telling his other children or wife about his existence. I certainly didn’t like his attitude initially but Alex was so considerate of the others, heartbreaking. Sorry, no more spoilers. You’ll have to read it yourself to find out what happens!
Well written, with characters good and bad, this is a welcome reading escape into the small, close knit community of Cherry Lake and I look forward to reading further stories based there in future!
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley, too, for letting me read an ARC of this book in exchange for this, an honest review.
September 14, 2015
They're so much honesty and warmth in this story, as well as heartache difficult family situations.
My heart went out to Alex, all he really wanted was to belong, have a family and find love. He was so earnest with his desire, he was willing to compromise. The father he had admired as a young boy, turned out to be a disappointment, and selfish. I really didn't like Robert, the father. I think he was a weak coward. He rather hides and ignore his son, that owns up to his behavior, and take responsibility for his action.
But the rest of the family more than made up for his behavior. I loved, absolutely adored, his sibling's reaction. And the first meeting between Alex and Nate had me in tears.
Alex and Emma had a fun relationship, I thought they were a hoot together! The interaction between these two was so entertaining. The time span is short in the story, and the built up to the relationship is more detailed, than the growth of it, but they have chemistry, passion, attraction between them. They also have understanding, refreshing honesty, and support. There's also an epilogue that ties up the story between Alex and Emma, and gives more credibility to their fast growing feelings.
Lovely small town, filled with interesting, deep characters, families, intriguing destinies, secrets, and love. I am already loving this series, and can't wait to read more about the family
~ Four Spoon with a teaspoon on the side
My heart went out to Alex, all he really wanted was to belong, have a family and find love. He was so earnest with his desire, he was willing to compromise. The father he had admired as a young boy, turned out to be a disappointment, and selfish. I really didn't like Robert, the father. I think he was a weak coward. He rather hides and ignore his son, that owns up to his behavior, and take responsibility for his action.
But the rest of the family more than made up for his behavior. I loved, absolutely adored, his sibling's reaction. And the first meeting between Alex and Nate had me in tears.
Alex and Emma had a fun relationship, I thought they were a hoot together! The interaction between these two was so entertaining. The time span is short in the story, and the built up to the relationship is more detailed, than the growth of it, but they have chemistry, passion, attraction between them. They also have understanding, refreshing honesty, and support. There's also an epilogue that ties up the story between Alex and Emma, and gives more credibility to their fast growing feelings.
Lovely small town, filled with interesting, deep characters, families, intriguing destinies, secrets, and love. I am already loving this series, and can't wait to read more about the family
~ Four Spoon with a teaspoon on the side
June 11, 2025
Sweet
This is such a sweet love story and I enjoyed reading it. Alex is living in Seattle and while on his way to the airport to go on vacation in Mexico, he takes a detour and ends up in Sweetheart, Montana. He has this need to see his dad that he hasn't seen on 23 years. What happens while there is not even close to what he was expecting. He has to deal with feeling hurt, rejected and falling in love. I loved the banter between him and Emma and there is no foul language, which is refreshing.
This is such a sweet love story and I enjoyed reading it. Alex is living in Seattle and while on his way to the airport to go on vacation in Mexico, he takes a detour and ends up in Sweetheart, Montana. He has this need to see his dad that he hasn't seen on 23 years. What happens while there is not even close to what he was expecting. He has to deal with feeling hurt, rejected and falling in love. I loved the banter between him and Emma and there is no foul language, which is refreshing.
Read
July 20, 2019For this genre - good. One of the better ones!
December 31, 2015
First reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
It’s ironic what a birthday card and an old photo can do to a man. Alex was turning thirty, he’d already made partner in the marketing firm, he had the expensive toys of a driven man the apartment, the cars, the toss away relationships, otherwise known as one night stands. Then that damned card from his father, the man who seemingly had abandoned him and his mother without much trouble. Alex tried to toss them away and go on about his life. He was headed for a two week vacation and ancient history was not on the agenda.
On the way to the airport the photo of a young Alex and his father in a cherry orchard kept pace with his fast driving. Cherry Lake was only a few exits away, a few days of his time to look up the heartless man who suddenly decides to acknowledge his son – a chance to find answers that he had shoved into a corner of his mind. A couple days… to finally know why.
Emma was heading home. It was cherry festival time and she never, ever missed that celebration at Cherry Lake. Her work with the Dept. of Agriculture meant that she could do some testing out at the Jackson orchards and be sure that their harvest was free of a recently reported infestation. It was what friends in small towns did – look after each other. It was on her way home that Emma first encountered Alex, and to say that their first views of each other went smoothly would be far from reality. She never expected to see the owner of the high speed car at the Jackson’s, nor believed for one minute that this handsome, obviously wealthy city man really wanted to sign on as a cherry picker. No, there was something going on here and attractive man or not, she’d be keeping an eye on Alex.
The Secret Son, the first story in the Secrets of Cherry Lake series is full of emotions, questions, and second looks at life. It will show the integrity of Alex and of his father, Robert as well. How does a man deal with finding out that he has a half-brother and half-sisters that he never got the chance to know about? When does a man put aside his own need to know based on the harm that knowledge would do to the people he’s come to like and respect? These and more are questions that Alex will have to answer. And there is that attraction to small town girl, Emma. So different from his usual female companions. She’s the real deal and what he wants with her surprises him almost as much as finding his family.
I expected to enjoy The Secret Son, it is afterall published by Tule Publishing, a company that has delivered amazing series for a long time. I was delighted to discover a new small town setting with characters that simply pull you into their world so easily. I’ve loved the stories out of Marietta, Montana – I’ve a feeling with the large family that makes up Alex’s part of Cherry Lake that there are going to be some amazing stories from Cherry Lake as well.
If you enjoy a family based series with believable situations and characters then I would strongly suggest that you pick up The Secret Son and get started on a fun, sexy, intriguing and entertaining series now at the beginning.
*I received an e-ARC of The Secret Son from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
It’s ironic what a birthday card and an old photo can do to a man. Alex was turning thirty, he’d already made partner in the marketing firm, he had the expensive toys of a driven man the apartment, the cars, the toss away relationships, otherwise known as one night stands. Then that damned card from his father, the man who seemingly had abandoned him and his mother without much trouble. Alex tried to toss them away and go on about his life. He was headed for a two week vacation and ancient history was not on the agenda.
On the way to the airport the photo of a young Alex and his father in a cherry orchard kept pace with his fast driving. Cherry Lake was only a few exits away, a few days of his time to look up the heartless man who suddenly decides to acknowledge his son – a chance to find answers that he had shoved into a corner of his mind. A couple days… to finally know why.
Emma was heading home. It was cherry festival time and she never, ever missed that celebration at Cherry Lake. Her work with the Dept. of Agriculture meant that she could do some testing out at the Jackson orchards and be sure that their harvest was free of a recently reported infestation. It was what friends in small towns did – look after each other. It was on her way home that Emma first encountered Alex, and to say that their first views of each other went smoothly would be far from reality. She never expected to see the owner of the high speed car at the Jackson’s, nor believed for one minute that this handsome, obviously wealthy city man really wanted to sign on as a cherry picker. No, there was something going on here and attractive man or not, she’d be keeping an eye on Alex.
The Secret Son, the first story in the Secrets of Cherry Lake series is full of emotions, questions, and second looks at life. It will show the integrity of Alex and of his father, Robert as well. How does a man deal with finding out that he has a half-brother and half-sisters that he never got the chance to know about? When does a man put aside his own need to know based on the harm that knowledge would do to the people he’s come to like and respect? These and more are questions that Alex will have to answer. And there is that attraction to small town girl, Emma. So different from his usual female companions. She’s the real deal and what he wants with her surprises him almost as much as finding his family.
I expected to enjoy The Secret Son, it is afterall published by Tule Publishing, a company that has delivered amazing series for a long time. I was delighted to discover a new small town setting with characters that simply pull you into their world so easily. I’ve loved the stories out of Marietta, Montana – I’ve a feeling with the large family that makes up Alex’s part of Cherry Lake that there are going to be some amazing stories from Cherry Lake as well.
If you enjoy a family based series with believable situations and characters then I would strongly suggest that you pick up The Secret Son and get started on a fun, sexy, intriguing and entertaining series now at the beginning.
*I received an e-ARC of The Secret Son from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
September 22, 2015
Alex is celebrating his thirtieth birthday with big plans to spend time in Mexico with margaritas and pretty blondes. His plans are interrupted by a birthday card from his estranged father that just won't leave his mind. Emma knows men like Alex, they waltz into small towns and shake up everyone's lives. She wants to protect her heart, and the community she calls family, but she didn't expect the feelings she has for the handsome business man. What starts as a drive-by stop in Cherry Lake to see his dad turns into a second chance, a chance at a family who doesn't know about him and maybe even a chance at love.
Alex and Emma are adorable, I could have easily read 500 more pages about their love story, but this was a quick read and tied up quickly with a neat bow. I read it in one sitting, in about two hours. Emma is a sweet girl, the kind of character I really enjoy reading. She doesn't have romanticized notions about life, she's smart, humble, and protective. Her parts of the story were my favorite. I also really felt for Alex, his father made me angry, but he handled it so well. There were times when the book could have grown and expanded, even gotten out of hand, but the family turmoil is believable. The secondary characters are very minor, there is not a lot of description to them, but you can learn a lot from the prequel, Small Town Secrets, if you read it first. This is a great family based series from what I can see so far and if the following books in the series are anything like this one, I will be hooked. The Jackson family has so many secrets and I am intrigued to see where it goes.
The Secrets of Cherry Lake series is a new contemporary romance series from Montana Born books by Tule Publishing Group. There are five books in the series from four wonderful romance authors, including The Secret Son by Joan Kilby. All five books are now out in the series, you can get started for free with the prequel, Small Town Secrets by Roxanne Snopek. I know I am really looking forward to getting starting on the rest of the books after reading these first two. They're wholesome, romantic, emotional, and realistic. I enjoyed that I went into this expecting an easy, flirty read and ended up with a story about second chances and a family I genuinely enjoyed reading about.
Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
See more of my reviews at http://carleneinspired.blogspot.com.
Alex and Emma are adorable, I could have easily read 500 more pages about their love story, but this was a quick read and tied up quickly with a neat bow. I read it in one sitting, in about two hours. Emma is a sweet girl, the kind of character I really enjoy reading. She doesn't have romanticized notions about life, she's smart, humble, and protective. Her parts of the story were my favorite. I also really felt for Alex, his father made me angry, but he handled it so well. There were times when the book could have grown and expanded, even gotten out of hand, but the family turmoil is believable. The secondary characters are very minor, there is not a lot of description to them, but you can learn a lot from the prequel, Small Town Secrets, if you read it first. This is a great family based series from what I can see so far and if the following books in the series are anything like this one, I will be hooked. The Jackson family has so many secrets and I am intrigued to see where it goes.
The Secrets of Cherry Lake series is a new contemporary romance series from Montana Born books by Tule Publishing Group. There are five books in the series from four wonderful romance authors, including The Secret Son by Joan Kilby. All five books are now out in the series, you can get started for free with the prequel, Small Town Secrets by Roxanne Snopek. I know I am really looking forward to getting starting on the rest of the books after reading these first two. They're wholesome, romantic, emotional, and realistic. I enjoyed that I went into this expecting an easy, flirty read and ended up with a story about second chances and a family I genuinely enjoyed reading about.
Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
See more of my reviews at http://carleneinspired.blogspot.com.
September 5, 2015
I loved how Emma and Alex fist lay eyes on each other in The Secret Son by Joan Kilby, and the sassiness Emma exhibits from the start! But underneath that sassiness is a caring, smart, loyal lady. This is well demonstrated as Alex and Emma run into each other again and again in small town Cherry Lake. I loved how their relationship unfolded, and Joan managed to make it seem like a natural thing in short time. Neither of them expect to find romance in Cherry Lake...but romance finds them anyway. It is a difficult one to move forward with, because the future is so uncertain. They just seem so right together that I hoped with everything else happening something positive would come of Alex's time in Cherry Lake!
I really liked both of these characters and how they were together. Emma cares, and she just seems to get Alex. When she figures out the secret Alex is hiding she felt for him just as much as I did. The main plot of Alex finding his father after many years is woven nicely with the romance of Alex and Emma, and I felt that these two things gave the book a lot of strength. I really felt for Alex, he stole a piece of my heart - little boy Alex and grown up Alex. The feelings are whirling in him and he's not sure why what happened happened, or what really happened. I did like how he dealt with meeting his father and his father's family, even though it made his heart ache a little more at times. I found both of the main characters to be mature, fun, and despite some issues, full of love and hope. This is what made me like them, connect to them, and feel with them!
The secondary characters in this book are mostly Alex's father's other family, and they too were amazing! They added a lot of depth and counter balance to some of what Alex was feeling.
An emotional, well paced read that drew me in as quickly as I could turn the pages, I'd recommend The Secret Son to any romance reader. Although part of the Secrets of Cherry Lake series, The Secret Son can be read as a stand alone.
I really liked both of these characters and how they were together. Emma cares, and she just seems to get Alex. When she figures out the secret Alex is hiding she felt for him just as much as I did. The main plot of Alex finding his father after many years is woven nicely with the romance of Alex and Emma, and I felt that these two things gave the book a lot of strength. I really felt for Alex, he stole a piece of my heart - little boy Alex and grown up Alex. The feelings are whirling in him and he's not sure why what happened happened, or what really happened. I did like how he dealt with meeting his father and his father's family, even though it made his heart ache a little more at times. I found both of the main characters to be mature, fun, and despite some issues, full of love and hope. This is what made me like them, connect to them, and feel with them!
The secondary characters in this book are mostly Alex's father's other family, and they too were amazing! They added a lot of depth and counter balance to some of what Alex was feeling.
An emotional, well paced read that drew me in as quickly as I could turn the pages, I'd recommend The Secret Son to any romance reader. Although part of the Secrets of Cherry Lake series, The Secret Son can be read as a stand alone.
August 26, 2015
The Secret Son by Joan Kilby
A birthday card out of the blue from his estranged father sends successful Seattle marketing man Alex Chernoff on a detour to Cherry Lake in search of answers about his past. A day, maybe two, to tie up loose strings and he’ll be out of there, heading for Mexico, margaritas and blondes in bikinis.
Emma Stanhope is all too familiar with hot, rich, entitled guys like Alex. They never hang around for long, especially not for a Plain Jane like herself. No problem. She’s smart and logical, like any good scientist, and knows better than to lose her heart.
What Emma doesn’t count on is chemistry—of the romantic kind. What Alex doesn’t count on is meeting the girl who’ll make him want to change his ways. But when he learns that he’s a secret from his father’s real family, he can’t stay in Cherry Lake… even if he wants to.
Will love be enough to convince Alex to stay for good?
how did Alex and Emma meet ?
why does Alex come to Cherry Lake?
who is your favorite character in this story?
And why?
will Alex and Emma be more than friends?
what is Alex father name?
what person ask Alex this “Why did you come to Cherry Lake? Are you planning to buy an orchard for an investment?”
why can’t Alex stay in Cherry Lake?
how many books in the Secrets of Cherry Lake series?
will Alex stay for good?
do you like the cover for The Secret Son by Joan Kilby?
The Secret Son by Joan Kilby is a 4 stars book.
I got a free advanced reading copy in exchange for an honest review.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Joan Kilby.
also the rest of Secrets of Cherry Lake series.
Secrets of Cherry Lake series
Prequel: Small Town Secrets by Roxanne Snopek
Book 1: The Secret Son by Joan Kilby
Book 2: Her Secret Love by Paula Altenberg
Book 3: Her Secret Protector by Roxanne Snopek
Book 4: The Secret Bride by Jeannie Watt
A birthday card out of the blue from his estranged father sends successful Seattle marketing man Alex Chernoff on a detour to Cherry Lake in search of answers about his past. A day, maybe two, to tie up loose strings and he’ll be out of there, heading for Mexico, margaritas and blondes in bikinis.
Emma Stanhope is all too familiar with hot, rich, entitled guys like Alex. They never hang around for long, especially not for a Plain Jane like herself. No problem. She’s smart and logical, like any good scientist, and knows better than to lose her heart.
What Emma doesn’t count on is chemistry—of the romantic kind. What Alex doesn’t count on is meeting the girl who’ll make him want to change his ways. But when he learns that he’s a secret from his father’s real family, he can’t stay in Cherry Lake… even if he wants to.
Will love be enough to convince Alex to stay for good?
how did Alex and Emma meet ?
why does Alex come to Cherry Lake?
who is your favorite character in this story?
And why?
will Alex and Emma be more than friends?
what is Alex father name?
what person ask Alex this “Why did you come to Cherry Lake? Are you planning to buy an orchard for an investment?”
why can’t Alex stay in Cherry Lake?
how many books in the Secrets of Cherry Lake series?
will Alex stay for good?
do you like the cover for The Secret Son by Joan Kilby?
The Secret Son by Joan Kilby is a 4 stars book.
I got a free advanced reading copy in exchange for an honest review.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Joan Kilby.
also the rest of Secrets of Cherry Lake series.
Secrets of Cherry Lake series
Prequel: Small Town Secrets by Roxanne Snopek
Book 1: The Secret Son by Joan Kilby
Book 2: Her Secret Love by Paula Altenberg
Book 3: Her Secret Protector by Roxanne Snopek
Book 4: The Secret Bride by Jeannie Watt
September 10, 2015
Oh, Alex! For a guy I wasn’t sure I was going to like, given that beginning, wow did I feel for him throughout this book. He might be a successful young professional, but it’s clear he never got over his father’s strange abandonment of him as a boy, so to have his father get back in touch on his thirtieth birthday understandably shook him up. However, it’s the way Richard treats him that got to me. To have been kept a secret all those years was bad enough, but to still try and ignore his existence? Ouch. Poor Alex.
Luckily for Alex, Emma is on hand to distract him from his family troubles. I liked Emma – she’s smart and sassy and has a tomboy streak that resonated with me. Even better, at no point in this story does she change her look or her behaviour for Alex – and nor would he have wanted her to. They’re a fun pair when they’re together, argumentative at times, teasing at others and with plenty of chemistry. The whole story takes place over about a week, so there were elements of their romance that felt a little rushed, but mostly it was sweet and fun with a nice touch of heat.
The strongest part of this book for me, though, was Alex’s confusion over this whole family he never knew he had and who didn’t even know he existed. I really felt for Alex as he tried not to intrude, while being unable to quite keep away either. Considering that he starts off the book as a pretty cold, uncaring kind of guy, the way he changes throughout the story was just lovely. He surprised me by how sweet he turned out to be, if I’m honest.
I really enjoyed this first trip to Cherry Lake and was definitely left wanting more – not least about Alex’s siblings. I look forward to seeing what the other authors will bring to this setting.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
Luckily for Alex, Emma is on hand to distract him from his family troubles. I liked Emma – she’s smart and sassy and has a tomboy streak that resonated with me. Even better, at no point in this story does she change her look or her behaviour for Alex – and nor would he have wanted her to. They’re a fun pair when they’re together, argumentative at times, teasing at others and with plenty of chemistry. The whole story takes place over about a week, so there were elements of their romance that felt a little rushed, but mostly it was sweet and fun with a nice touch of heat.
The strongest part of this book for me, though, was Alex’s confusion over this whole family he never knew he had and who didn’t even know he existed. I really felt for Alex as he tried not to intrude, while being unable to quite keep away either. Considering that he starts off the book as a pretty cold, uncaring kind of guy, the way he changes throughout the story was just lovely. He surprised me by how sweet he turned out to be, if I’m honest.
I really enjoyed this first trip to Cherry Lake and was definitely left wanting more – not least about Alex’s siblings. I look forward to seeing what the other authors will bring to this setting.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
August 29, 2015
Alex Chernoff hasn't seen his dad properly since he walked out on Alex and his mum when Alex was five years old. Now Alex is by himself as his mum has passed away and his stepdad Hank died a few years back. Turning 30 recently, Alex had planned a trip to Mexico - a nice break away. That is until he gets a birthday card in the mail from his father, someone who hasn't had any contact with him in over 20 years and now just a single card. On his way to the airport, something strikes in Alex's mind and he decides on a whim to drive to Cherry Lake and confront his father Robert. On his way into Cherry Lake, he gets into a bit of road rage with a female driver . This turns out to be Emma , who is a family friend of Alex's half-brother Will. Alex decides to head to the family orchard and discovers his father is away, so Alex wanting to meet him signs up to be a cherry picker till he can confront his dad about why he left him all those years ago. When he does see his dad for the first time, it's not the happy reunion Alex expected - in fact his dad goes white like a sheet. Over the course of the novel Alex and Emma's chemistry goes , as does Alex and Robert's relationship - though they have to keep it quiet as Robert's family have no idea that Alex exists and even worse is the fact that Will - Alex's half brother is only three months older than he is . What will happen when the secret is revealed ? Will Robert's "other" family accept Alex , especially when Alex has no-one else ? Will their be a HEA in the works for Alex and Emma ?
Find out in The Secret Son by Joan Kilby, Book #1 in a new series the "Secrets of Cherry Lake".
September 4, 2015
Read the full review on Bookaholics Not-So-Anonymous.
Note: This ARC was provided by Tule Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
My heart broke for Alex, especially when he realized that his half-siblings and his father's wife had no knowledge of who he was. To be honest, I didn't like Robert Jackson all that much. All the secrecy and the fact that he was too busy trying to spare the feelings of his wife and his three other children but not even considering how badly he's hurt and continues to hurt his other son made me want to smack him. There wasn't a good enough excuse for what he did in the past and how he treated Alex in Cherry Lake. It was a purely selfish and cowardly thing for him to have done and if I were Alex, I would have just walked away.
I liked Alex and Emma together, proving that what you want isn't always what you need because Emma didn't fit into the type of woman that Alex usually spent time with but there was something about her that made being with her far more life-changing for him. Since I know the next book is about the Jackson siblings' cousin, I'm going to assume that the series isn't exclusively about Robert Jackson's children. Still, I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the series and seeing where the authors take each one. The Secret Son had me teary-eyed a time or two and it's one of my favorite reads this year. It gets five stars. ♥
Note: This ARC was provided by Tule Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
My heart broke for Alex, especially when he realized that his half-siblings and his father's wife had no knowledge of who he was. To be honest, I didn't like Robert Jackson all that much. All the secrecy and the fact that he was too busy trying to spare the feelings of his wife and his three other children but not even considering how badly he's hurt and continues to hurt his other son made me want to smack him. There wasn't a good enough excuse for what he did in the past and how he treated Alex in Cherry Lake. It was a purely selfish and cowardly thing for him to have done and if I were Alex, I would have just walked away.
I liked Alex and Emma together, proving that what you want isn't always what you need because Emma didn't fit into the type of woman that Alex usually spent time with but there was something about her that made being with her far more life-changing for him. Since I know the next book is about the Jackson siblings' cousin, I'm going to assume that the series isn't exclusively about Robert Jackson's children. Still, I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the series and seeing where the authors take each one. The Secret Son had me teary-eyed a time or two and it's one of my favorite reads this year. It gets five stars. ♥
September 27, 2015
Alex gets a birthday card from his dad and he wants nothing to do with the man but on the way to the airport he feels this pull to go see him and he's not sure if its because of the birthday card or the loss of his mom. When he shows up things seem to start to fall into place well kind of then he runs into the one person he never thought he would see again and his dad doesn't seem to happy about that. Emma is on her way home to Cherry lake and she can't wait to get there. On her way into town some idiot seems hell bent and in a hurry and she can't believe her eyes when she shows up are her best friend and second families house and see the jerk there. She knows he's not telling the whole truth and she is set to figure out the truth and prove that just like her dad he's not a very honest guy.
I really loved this story as i read it in just a few hours and found if captured my attention and held it all the way through. I love how this story is based in small town america when the town comes together when needed and protects there own but is so welcoming to everyone as well. The love story is so sweet as well where the chemistry starts is just jumps off the pages and you know you just want the best for all involved. Such a fun and amazing story I really can't say anything bad about it.
Disclosure: I received this book free of charge from the publisher, but this review consists of my honest opinions, not influenced in any way by the author or publisher
I really loved this story as i read it in just a few hours and found if captured my attention and held it all the way through. I love how this story is based in small town america when the town comes together when needed and protects there own but is so welcoming to everyone as well. The love story is so sweet as well where the chemistry starts is just jumps off the pages and you know you just want the best for all involved. Such a fun and amazing story I really can't say anything bad about it.
Disclosure: I received this book free of charge from the publisher, but this review consists of my honest opinions, not influenced in any way by the author or publisher
August 28, 2015
A heartwarming small town romance.
On Alex Chernoff's thirtieth birthday, he gets a card from the father he hasn't heard from in fifteen years. Alex decides to forgo his Mexican vacation to go to Cherry Lake to see his father. When he finds out his father is out of town for a medical appointment, Alex decides to stay in town and help at the orchard picking cherries until his father returns and he can talk to him. No one knows Alex is Robert Jackson's secret son.
Emma Stanhope has never missed the cherry festival and is back in town for the annual event. She always helps the Jackson family at their booth at the festival. This year they are short on pickers at the orchard, so she helps there too. The Jacksons are like a second family to her.
Emma doesn’t expect to see the city slicker with the fancy car who she had issues with during her drive home to be at the orchard wanting to pick cherries? Why would someone like him be working as a picker? Usually people like that move through town pretty quick. They quickly become friends and then lovers. But how will Emma react when she finds out Alex's secret?
If you like small town romances and family stories, this is the book for you.
On Alex Chernoff's thirtieth birthday, he gets a card from the father he hasn't heard from in fifteen years. Alex decides to forgo his Mexican vacation to go to Cherry Lake to see his father. When he finds out his father is out of town for a medical appointment, Alex decides to stay in town and help at the orchard picking cherries until his father returns and he can talk to him. No one knows Alex is Robert Jackson's secret son.
Emma Stanhope has never missed the cherry festival and is back in town for the annual event. She always helps the Jackson family at their booth at the festival. This year they are short on pickers at the orchard, so she helps there too. The Jacksons are like a second family to her.
Emma doesn’t expect to see the city slicker with the fancy car who she had issues with during her drive home to be at the orchard wanting to pick cherries? Why would someone like him be working as a picker? Usually people like that move through town pretty quick. They quickly become friends and then lovers. But how will Emma react when she finds out Alex's secret?
If you like small town romances and family stories, this is the book for you.
October 9, 2015
Alex Chernoff was ready to celebrate his 30th birthday with a Mexican vacation when he receives a card and picture from the Dad he seen since he was a kid. Wondering what it could mean, Alex heads for Cherry Lake, Montana instead of the airport. Arriving, he finds his father's family orchard is successful, the family well-regarded...and he has siblings that don't know he exists.
Emma Stanhope has moved away, but would never miss the cherry festival. She is more than surprised to find the rich guy she encountered earlier has signed on to pick cherries for the Jacksons. She doesn't expect him to be interested in her, nor stick around for the long-haul.
I really enjoyed how Alex was developed into a person, especially since I wasn't sure I would like him. He and Emma worked well together, and I loved watching his character become someone I liked and rooted for. Every encounter with his father ripped at my heart. I truly wanted to shake Robert.
The was a fun story about small towns and secrets, with fun characters and a sweet romance. This novella was a great way to spend a few hours.
*I received an Advanced Reader's Copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Emma Stanhope has moved away, but would never miss the cherry festival. She is more than surprised to find the rich guy she encountered earlier has signed on to pick cherries for the Jacksons. She doesn't expect him to be interested in her, nor stick around for the long-haul.
I really enjoyed how Alex was developed into a person, especially since I wasn't sure I would like him. He and Emma worked well together, and I loved watching his character become someone I liked and rooted for. Every encounter with his father ripped at my heart. I truly wanted to shake Robert.
The was a fun story about small towns and secrets, with fun characters and a sweet romance. This novella was a great way to spend a few hours.
*I received an Advanced Reader's Copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 15, 2015
The Secret Son (Secrets of Cherry Lake Book 2) by Joan Kilbyis a story that I liked but just could not love. I think that is because even though it has a happy ending it is so close to the truth of what happenings in life that it cuts a bit too.
This authentic plot has characters that are real with virtues and strong vices. I usually like my heroes with more positive traits. Take Alex for example, when we first meet him he comes across as a hardworking but emotional shallow man. I pictured Tony from NCIS. As the story progressed it is Emma who helps me see him differently. The author creatively used her to convey insight into Alex. His father is another character I both liked and loathed at the same time. It took a near death experience for him to admit who Alex is. Being a parent myself, it was hard for me to overlook this glaring fault. It is Alex’s forgiveness of him that stands out in the story, certainly not Richard’s actions.
I was expecting a light, flirty read. Since it is such a realistic story with hurts and heartache, it is a much more serious read. Being early in the series I am wondering if it is setting the tone for the rest.
3.75 Stars - Good story-line but quarter of a point off for the Dad.
The publisher through Net Galley provided a copy.
This authentic plot has characters that are real with virtues and strong vices. I usually like my heroes with more positive traits. Take Alex for example, when we first meet him he comes across as a hardworking but emotional shallow man. I pictured Tony from NCIS. As the story progressed it is Emma who helps me see him differently. The author creatively used her to convey insight into Alex. His father is another character I both liked and loathed at the same time. It took a near death experience for him to admit who Alex is. Being a parent myself, it was hard for me to overlook this glaring fault. It is Alex’s forgiveness of him that stands out in the story, certainly not Richard’s actions.
I was expecting a light, flirty read. Since it is such a realistic story with hurts and heartache, it is a much more serious read. Being early in the series I am wondering if it is setting the tone for the rest.
3.75 Stars - Good story-line but quarter of a point off for the Dad.
The publisher through Net Galley provided a copy.
September 8, 2015
This book made me laugh, cry & want to strangle someones neck. Alex receives a birthday card from his estranged father who hasn't seen him in 15 years, he decides at the last minute to go to Montana instead of the airport to ahead for Mexico for his vacation. When he gets to Cherry Lake he finds out his father isn't in town, but finds out he has family that he didn't know about. He takes a job as a cherry picker to get acquainted with his half sibs that like him didn't know they existed. He runs into Emma who he realizes is the girl from the car in front of him who flipped him the bird when he went passed her on the highway.
I loved how at the beginning of the book Alex was arrogant, cocky, didn't need anyone just his career to needing more in life than he already had. His chemistry with Emma which started out as not like to each other, trying to get under each other skin, to flirting & realizing there was more to them than they let on.
I wanted to strangle Alex's father Robert at the beginning but by the end he became a sweetheart. I recommend this to anyone who loves a sweet romance.
I loved how at the beginning of the book Alex was arrogant, cocky, didn't need anyone just his career to needing more in life than he already had. His chemistry with Emma which started out as not like to each other, trying to get under each other skin, to flirting & realizing there was more to them than they let on.
I wanted to strangle Alex's father Robert at the beginning but by the end he became a sweetheart. I recommend this to anyone who loves a sweet romance.
September 30, 2015
Alex has always felt alone. His father left when he was a child and he lost his mother a year ago. He wants to understand what happened between his parents. When he receives a birthday card from his father, he's determined to get answers which is why he goes to Cherry Lake. He doesn't tell anyone there who he is. He meets Emma who loves the town and its people. She challenges Alex and awakens his desire. What happens when Alex faces the man who left him and learns that he has a new family? This is an emotional tale that is filled with both heartache and love. Alex hates his life and wants to change who he is, but his past haunts him. I liked that he shows his father compassion and love under very difficult circumstances. Emma is a caring woman who has the strength to take a chance on love. I found it very difficult to like Robert Jackson. What he did was cowardly and I couldn't respect him. I feel that Joan Kilby did an excellent job with a difficult storyline. I did enjoy The Secret Son.
August 29, 2015
Ugh. I really wish NetGalley would warn you when a book is going to be a novella. I really liked the description of Alex Chernoff, successful ladies man, spontaneously deciding to blow off his fabulous vacation because the dad who deserted him sent a birthday card. But the novella form was not long enough to really develop the characters of either Alex or his heroine, Emma, who is in visiting her family at the same time Alex is discovering his. She is very entwined in the lives of Alex's father and siblings and very suspect of Alex. Nor was this book really long enough to do anything other than rush the plot development. I
Had this been a longer book, I suspect I would have very much enjoyed it. Not quite a Whiskey-Creek-Novak book but reminded me of the writing style with just a smidge less angst. Considering that Alex's half-siblings are total sequel bait, I'll be on the lookout to try this author again.
Two and a half stars.
Had this been a longer book, I suspect I would have very much enjoyed it. Not quite a Whiskey-Creek-Novak book but reminded me of the writing style with just a smidge less angst. Considering that Alex's half-siblings are total sequel bait, I'll be on the lookout to try this author again.
Two and a half stars.
September 1, 2015
A great start to a a new series , Secrets of Cherry Lake. Alex receives a birthday card from his estranged father out of the blue. Alex is tired of his life style and ready to make a change. He packs up for a week to go to Cherry Lake, where the one week will change the rest of his life. What he does not expect to find is the chemistry between him and Emma, nothing like he is use to. But will it be enough to keep him in Cherry Lake, along with the secret that his dad kept for all of these years.
This is book that will leave you with tears, happy tears that is. Have tissues on hand. Love the characters of Cherry Lake. Can't wait to read more of their stories.
I received this book from netgalley for an honest review.
This is book that will leave you with tears, happy tears that is. Have tissues on hand. Love the characters of Cherry Lake. Can't wait to read more of their stories.
I received this book from netgalley for an honest review.
September 12, 2015
In life there are surprises around every corner. Secrets waiting to be revealed. Some good and bad. Some happy and sad. The Secret Son by Joan Kilby takes a look at hidden truths. Alex has always had unanswered questions about himself. The one person that can answer them is the father he longs to know. But finding answers opens the lid to many other unrevealed truths that may affect others. I liked this story. Ms. Kilby takes the reader through Alex's inner struggle with trying to do the right thing without hurting others. She also brings into his life Emma who is dealing with her own insecurities but serves as stabilizing force for Alex. The Secret Son is a look at how actions and secrets have ripple effects.
September 21, 2015
I was given a copy of The Secret Son from NetGalley for an honest review and this is my review.
This was a pretty good romance book. I really did not like how Alex's father treated him in the beginning of the book. I really wanted to slap that man silly and point out what a jackass he was being trying to hide his grown son because he was a two timing jerk when he was younger but of course on can't do that so instead I can just not like that man.
As for Emma and Alex they made a cool couple even though they were polar opposites. I liked the chemistry between them and how Emma was not afraid to be a bit snarky to Alex even if she felt he was out of her league.
This was a sweet romance with a nice second chance plot about family. I am giving this book four out of five stars.
This was a pretty good romance book. I really did not like how Alex's father treated him in the beginning of the book. I really wanted to slap that man silly and point out what a jackass he was being trying to hide his grown son because he was a two timing jerk when he was younger but of course on can't do that so instead I can just not like that man.
As for Emma and Alex they made a cool couple even though they were polar opposites. I liked the chemistry between them and how Emma was not afraid to be a bit snarky to Alex even if she felt he was out of her league.
This was a sweet romance with a nice second chance plot about family. I am giving this book four out of five stars.
September 1, 2015
Alex Chernoff has just turned 30 and receives a birthday card from his long lost father. The card opens a wound Alex had covered over and he finds himself wondering if his father is ill. He abandons his trip to Cancun to go in search of the father that left him and to find out if he has half-siblings. He has a memory of Cherry Lake that is very sad.
Emma Stanhope loves Cherry Lake, where she grew up. She is a breath of fresh air for Alex-unpretentious, perceptive and unaware of her beauty. The longer Alex stays in Cherry Lake, the more Emma comes to like him. But, the secret of his birth might be enough to ruin all and any developing relationships.
Emma Stanhope loves Cherry Lake, where she grew up. She is a breath of fresh air for Alex-unpretentious, perceptive and unaware of her beauty. The longer Alex stays in Cherry Lake, the more Emma comes to like him. But, the secret of his birth might be enough to ruin all and any developing relationships.
December 1, 2015
Review Posted on HarlequinJunkie.com
Unexpectedly receiving a birthday card from his dear old dad has left Alex Chernoff rattled. He hasn’t heard from the man in some time. Determined to learn the reason why his dad is making contact with him now after so many years, has Alex dropping all his plans to visit Cherry Lake. To finally ascertain some answers about his past, no matter how painful the knowledge may be.Read More
September 1, 2015
I absolutely adored The Secret Son! I hadn't heard of Joan Kilby before this book but I'll certainly be in the lookout for more of her books after this one. I loved the setting in Cherry Lake Montana, the kind of small country town I live in and love. I loved the storyline and the way it played out. And I loved the characters, not just Emma and Alex but also Robert, Linda, their children and grandfather Nate. I just can't wait for the next book in this series, though it has a lot to live up to after this book.
August 28, 2015
Wish I knew how to make those five stars dance and cheer cause that is how much I loved this book.
A memory of his fathers hand upon his shoulder and he could almost feel those strong fingers pulling him close made Alex's split second decision for him, he hit the exit ramp and went looking for his father he hadn't seen in nearly fifteen years. And that quick decision changed Alex's whole life.
Loved the read, it choked me up and I had a good cry, it was the best kind of book.
A memory of his fathers hand upon his shoulder and he could almost feel those strong fingers pulling him close made Alex's split second decision for him, he hit the exit ramp and went looking for his father he hadn't seen in nearly fifteen years. And that quick decision changed Alex's whole life.
Loved the read, it choked me up and I had a good cry, it was the best kind of book.
September 7, 2015
I liked this book and the growing Jackson family. After 15 years Alex, gets a birthday card from his dad. That starts him thinking of his absentee father and missing his mother who passed away years before. Wanting to have some questions answered Alex sets out to meet his dad, where he gets more than he can imagine. I look forward to the next book in the series.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 13, 2015
Joan Kilby did an excellent job describing the feelings of being a secret child. The spontaneous of Alex showing up in Montana from Seattle. Alex was a quick learner and was able to blend in but stick out in his surroundings, while the complexities all tied in nicely of the family finding out he was one of them.
The heartache and understanding of a secret family was amazingly done.
Received an ARC for an honest & fair review.
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