What do you think?
Rate this book
Echoes of the Heart #2
His Darling Bride
Bethany Darling doesn’t kiss men at first sight…until she falls into the arms of a handsome cowboy bartender.
A mysterious stranger, Mike helps scare off Bethany’s obnoxious ex-boyfriend. Mike’s touch feels like coming home. But Bethany’s so not interested. Between stalled-out dreams of becoming a painter, troubles reconnecting with her sprawling foster family, and the happy chaos of her sister’s upcoming wedding, Bethany’s already in over her head. But each time she and Mike stumble across each other in small-town Chandlerville…sparks fly.
A famous photographer hiding under a Stetson, Mike Taylor recognizes Bethany as a kindred artistic spirit. Together they rekindle her passion for painting—and she inspires him in unexpected, undeniable ways. Then when Mike’s own past threatens to tear apart his present, Bethany becomes his safe place to turn.
Can these two wandering souls finally trust their hearts? Or will they run from the forever love they never expected to find?
338 pages, ebook
First published April 26, 2016
51 people are currently reading
1054 people want to read
About the author
Anna DeStefano
42 books273 followersAnna DeStefano brings to life heart-warming, emotion-packed stories about community, family and second chances. Her award-winning, nationally bestselling small town romances spotlight family, friendships and the forgiveness that nurtures her characters’ dreams…as they explore the issues all contemporary families face.
Anna’s imagination is forever inspired by our ability to claim an unlimited and exciting future—by honestly confronting and bravely overcoming the setbacks of the past.
She’s the author of more than twenty-seven books, including the Echoes of the Heart and the Mimosa Lane novels that are set in Chandlerville, Georgia, and her Atlanta Heroes series.
Look for her other titles featuring the reader-favorite Dixon family: Here in My Heart, Let me Love You Again, His Darling Bride, and Book 3 of the Seasons of the Heart series, Love on Mimosa Lane.
Born in Charleston, South Carolina, Anna’s lived in the South her entire life. Her background as a care provider and adult educator in the world of crisis and grief recovery lends itself to the deeper psychological themes of every story she writes.
A wife and mother, she currently writes in a charming northeast suburb of Atlanta, Georgia, not all that different from her characters’ beloved Chandlerville.
She is also a workshop, masterclass and keynote speaker, a writing coach, and a freelance editor.
Get to know Anna at annawrites.com/blog and the Anna DeStefano: Author page on Facebook, where she shares her inspirations, her challenges, a healthy dose of honest optimism, and tidbits about upcoming projects.
Anna’s imagination is forever inspired by our ability to claim an unlimited and exciting future—by honestly confronting and bravely overcoming the setbacks of the past.
She’s the author of more than twenty-seven books, including the Echoes of the Heart and the Mimosa Lane novels that are set in Chandlerville, Georgia, and her Atlanta Heroes series.
Look for her other titles featuring the reader-favorite Dixon family: Here in My Heart, Let me Love You Again, His Darling Bride, and Book 3 of the Seasons of the Heart series, Love on Mimosa Lane.
Born in Charleston, South Carolina, Anna’s lived in the South her entire life. Her background as a care provider and adult educator in the world of crisis and grief recovery lends itself to the deeper psychological themes of every story she writes.
A wife and mother, she currently writes in a charming northeast suburb of Atlanta, Georgia, not all that different from her characters’ beloved Chandlerville.
She is also a workshop, masterclass and keynote speaker, a writing coach, and a freelance editor.
Get to know Anna at annawrites.com/blog and the Anna DeStefano: Author page on Facebook, where she shares her inspirations, her challenges, a healthy dose of honest optimism, and tidbits about upcoming projects.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
March 14, 2016
4 Running Away Leads to Home Stars
* * * *
Reading is such an education... every time we open a book, we immerse ourselves in worlds which have all sorts of obstacles to over come. Yes, when reading romance, others who haven't, will look at you as if these books have no real merit...But it is their loss, for when I read all of the different authors with their unique stories to tell...I learn so much.
With this particular book by Anna DeStefano, we are treated to two separate pictures of what family can mean. How a place in a family can mean everything to a child...and how it doesn't matter how the family came together...it is how the love is given which will set the course of the lives it molds.
Although this theme is not unusual, the way Ms. DeStefano presents other factors to draw the reader in, is. We are introduced to the importance of the arts in our lives. How the ability to paint, to see light and focus in photography, the way art reaches out to a community and reflects its heart...all of these things are tremendously important. Art is a language which needs preserving and developing. It is also a safe way for those who do not feel safe, to communicate their fear... their hopes and dreams. Powerful Stuff.
In His Darling Bride all of this comes together. We have Bethany Darling returning to her foster family's home after being away for years. When she came to the Dixon family, she had already learned many hard lessons for a 15 year old. Her mom was always falling for the drifter thinking he was the one...most of the time they were just jerks...but as Bethany got older, their interest in her became a reason for Bethany to move to her Grandma's. Unfortunately, Grandma was more thrilled with the government financial windfall than the granddaughter. It was the Grandmother's death which brought her to the Dixon home and their open arms.
The Dixon's understood the issues children carried when they became part of the Foster System. Not every place, whether a natural blood family or previous foster one, would have been all warm and fuzzy. Marsha and Joe didn't care ... whatever the obstacles... their home was a guilt-free zone. All of the kids would open up and become part of the family unit when they were ready.
Eventually, Bethany flourished. Painting was something which was hers alone. She could lose herself in it for hours...time meant something different to her...it would stop and let her be free. The paintings she did were a wonder...her talent so real and easy to see. The process was the best feeling she every had....until she thought she loved another...and he loved her back.
High school became wonderful...full of painting, winning awards and scholarships to Pratt. The boy who was supposed to love her showed what he really was...and stole not only her heart but the feeling of belonging in this town she loved and with her family....She felt the need to run...to hide for it all hurt too much...
Bethany ran; stopped painting all together and allowed herself to take up with men who would never be there for her....Until she finally came to terms this was not who she wanted to be...She finally realized she wanted to be back home with her family...each and every one of them. Bethany turned the corner and came back. She started to paint again... but something was off...she couldn't paint the same way she had before and she was scared. She wasn't going to give up though, she was going to conquer this one way or another.
The good news was a art residency she won from an art co op. She had to submit work and used her high school paintings. The Board liked them and she was offered the chance to grow as an artist. Bethany was on her way back.
Mike Taylor is in Bethany's town for a specific project. Mike gives himself the freedom to do a couple of these every year when he needs to regroup. Mike may seem like a laid back sort of fella... unassuming, just a drifter passing through...but that is not exactly who and what he is.
Mike is tortured in his own way and it has caused him to move from place to place under the excuse of experiencing everything his brother would have wanted him to...For Jeremy never could.
Mike's older brother had severe Cystic Fibrosis and all the money his parents had, all the privilege with any number of the specialists couldn't change the fact, Jeremy was very sick. Before things became unmanageable, Jeremy was the cowboy of this fancy NYC family. He was the adventurer with Mike being the kid with the camera... capturing it all on film. Then things changed, became worse and Jeremy became hospital bound.
Mike's parents became focused on finding a cure...working all of the angles they could to fund research. In concept a wonderful, strong way to cope; in reality it became a commercial, marketing ploy to have Jeremy used for fund raising. His parents did not understand how to do both; raise the funds, purely wish for a cure and openly love their children with all their might. Instead they became distant, demanding and controlling. Mike had Jeremy's blessing to run....
At first it was going to all the places Jeremy had on his bucket-list; taking photos with something of Jeremy's just there in the corner. He and his brother would love the photos, talking about what Mike saw...being Jeremy's eyes and legs. These photos were professional quality... Mike was talented and able to see the light as it would drift on a piece of rock practically caressing it...All of these private landscapes precious of the times with his brother.
With his brother passing, Mike refused to stay in his home of NYC and with his parents. His only real family tie now gone, Mike starts his Odyssey of shooting the world with Jeremy in his heart. He becomes one of the most sought after photographers and no one knows who he is. Just his initials. He takes all of the profits and opens art co-ops around the country encouraging young artists like Bethany.
So here we have Mike; free spirit, artistic soul taking a timeout to do his special projects he allows himself to do for a break. He is helping out at the town bar after over hearing the need of another pair of hands for the weekend. Nothing to it...just a comfortable way to get to know the town... something he has done many, many times before.
Bethany and her friends are at the bar relaxing and getting ready for the upcoming wedding of Dru, one of her foster sisters. This is a big deal as she is trying to paint something special for the couple and also her foster parents for their anniversary. Everyone has been concerned, as Joe had open heart surgery and hasn't been himself since. He has been fighting physical therapy and he doesn't think he will be up to dancing the first dance with his girl.
Being back has been stressful for Bethany... her ex has been hounding her and she hasn't answered any calls or been in any place he could find her. Except now...as he walks up to the bar...
Mike has been checking out Bethany from the moment she walked in... short choppy hair with multi colored bangs... a spark and freshness from everything she wears to how she carries herself. Her conversation, sharing all of the hopes and dreams she is fighting to get back by painting sounded familiar to his own way of handling things...both were runners...He came up to stand close when the ex came up and started harassing Bethany. As things escalate; Bethany looks to Mike and asks if maybe he could sort of help out with the ex...Mike is fine with protecting this woman...and the ex starts up and grabs Bethany's arm. Immediately Mike is there in the way and acting like the boyfriend you can't keep your hands off of...He says a few things to make it seem they have been dating in Atlanta and with all of the tender looks and lustful sparks...before anyone can say anything...
Mike and Bethany are kissing...the type of kissing which blocks out all sound, people and thought...well, only the thought of how to get closer to the person who has their hands wrapped around you....This kiss was like NOTHING either of them had experienced...it was personal, intense but caring.... safe and concerned for her.... and soft, womanly and feisty for him...
And for the both of them....something that scared the shit out of them... but also addicted them to wanting more...
They break apart when a couple of Bethany's big brothers walk into the bar and yell at what the hell is going on...Things get hot between all of the players...the ex, drunk and talking smack about Bethany, the brothers and Mike going after him...and the observers of the small town taking it all in...
The outcome... the town, brothers and sisters, parents and friends have decided Bethany and Mike are an item...Bethany is determined to stop this line of gossip... and Mike is kinda interested in getting to know this firecracker...
Add additional complications of Mike's involvment with the art co-op, Bethany's dad and Mike's parents causing all types of trouble and you have a terrific read.
This is a story which touches on confronting your fears... all types; career, personal and relationships...we can all be our own worst enemies... It is very common to fear failure...but even more common but not realized is the fear of success...for if you actually achieve what you have been trying to accomplish... then what...
The other meaningful part of this story is how the art community provides so much to a town... it can allow those who cannot talk about what is bothering them.... to communicate it another way... alerting those who need to know and intervene.
This was a sweet surprise, a new author for me and enjoyable read. This is part of a series, however, I never felt lost in the reading.
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * *
Reading is such an education... every time we open a book, we immerse ourselves in worlds which have all sorts of obstacles to over come. Yes, when reading romance, others who haven't, will look at you as if these books have no real merit...But it is their loss, for when I read all of the different authors with their unique stories to tell...I learn so much.
With this particular book by Anna DeStefano, we are treated to two separate pictures of what family can mean. How a place in a family can mean everything to a child...and how it doesn't matter how the family came together...it is how the love is given which will set the course of the lives it molds.
Although this theme is not unusual, the way Ms. DeStefano presents other factors to draw the reader in, is. We are introduced to the importance of the arts in our lives. How the ability to paint, to see light and focus in photography, the way art reaches out to a community and reflects its heart...all of these things are tremendously important. Art is a language which needs preserving and developing. It is also a safe way for those who do not feel safe, to communicate their fear... their hopes and dreams. Powerful Stuff.
In His Darling Bride all of this comes together. We have Bethany Darling returning to her foster family's home after being away for years. When she came to the Dixon family, she had already learned many hard lessons for a 15 year old. Her mom was always falling for the drifter thinking he was the one...most of the time they were just jerks...but as Bethany got older, their interest in her became a reason for Bethany to move to her Grandma's. Unfortunately, Grandma was more thrilled with the government financial windfall than the granddaughter. It was the Grandmother's death which brought her to the Dixon home and their open arms.
The Dixon's understood the issues children carried when they became part of the Foster System. Not every place, whether a natural blood family or previous foster one, would have been all warm and fuzzy. Marsha and Joe didn't care ... whatever the obstacles... their home was a guilt-free zone. All of the kids would open up and become part of the family unit when they were ready.
Eventually, Bethany flourished. Painting was something which was hers alone. She could lose herself in it for hours...time meant something different to her...it would stop and let her be free. The paintings she did were a wonder...her talent so real and easy to see. The process was the best feeling she every had....until she thought she loved another...and he loved her back.
High school became wonderful...full of painting, winning awards and scholarships to Pratt. The boy who was supposed to love her showed what he really was...and stole not only her heart but the feeling of belonging in this town she loved and with her family....She felt the need to run...to hide for it all hurt too much...
Bethany ran; stopped painting all together and allowed herself to take up with men who would never be there for her....Until she finally came to terms this was not who she wanted to be...She finally realized she wanted to be back home with her family...each and every one of them. Bethany turned the corner and came back. She started to paint again... but something was off...she couldn't paint the same way she had before and she was scared. She wasn't going to give up though, she was going to conquer this one way or another.
The good news was a art residency she won from an art co op. She had to submit work and used her high school paintings. The Board liked them and she was offered the chance to grow as an artist. Bethany was on her way back.
Mike Taylor is in Bethany's town for a specific project. Mike gives himself the freedom to do a couple of these every year when he needs to regroup. Mike may seem like a laid back sort of fella... unassuming, just a drifter passing through...but that is not exactly who and what he is.
Mike is tortured in his own way and it has caused him to move from place to place under the excuse of experiencing everything his brother would have wanted him to...For Jeremy never could.
Mike's older brother had severe Cystic Fibrosis and all the money his parents had, all the privilege with any number of the specialists couldn't change the fact, Jeremy was very sick. Before things became unmanageable, Jeremy was the cowboy of this fancy NYC family. He was the adventurer with Mike being the kid with the camera... capturing it all on film. Then things changed, became worse and Jeremy became hospital bound.
Mike's parents became focused on finding a cure...working all of the angles they could to fund research. In concept a wonderful, strong way to cope; in reality it became a commercial, marketing ploy to have Jeremy used for fund raising. His parents did not understand how to do both; raise the funds, purely wish for a cure and openly love their children with all their might. Instead they became distant, demanding and controlling. Mike had Jeremy's blessing to run....
At first it was going to all the places Jeremy had on his bucket-list; taking photos with something of Jeremy's just there in the corner. He and his brother would love the photos, talking about what Mike saw...being Jeremy's eyes and legs. These photos were professional quality... Mike was talented and able to see the light as it would drift on a piece of rock practically caressing it...All of these private landscapes precious of the times with his brother.
With his brother passing, Mike refused to stay in his home of NYC and with his parents. His only real family tie now gone, Mike starts his Odyssey of shooting the world with Jeremy in his heart. He becomes one of the most sought after photographers and no one knows who he is. Just his initials. He takes all of the profits and opens art co-ops around the country encouraging young artists like Bethany.
So here we have Mike; free spirit, artistic soul taking a timeout to do his special projects he allows himself to do for a break. He is helping out at the town bar after over hearing the need of another pair of hands for the weekend. Nothing to it...just a comfortable way to get to know the town... something he has done many, many times before.
Bethany and her friends are at the bar relaxing and getting ready for the upcoming wedding of Dru, one of her foster sisters. This is a big deal as she is trying to paint something special for the couple and also her foster parents for their anniversary. Everyone has been concerned, as Joe had open heart surgery and hasn't been himself since. He has been fighting physical therapy and he doesn't think he will be up to dancing the first dance with his girl.
Being back has been stressful for Bethany... her ex has been hounding her and she hasn't answered any calls or been in any place he could find her. Except now...as he walks up to the bar...
Mike has been checking out Bethany from the moment she walked in... short choppy hair with multi colored bangs... a spark and freshness from everything she wears to how she carries herself. Her conversation, sharing all of the hopes and dreams she is fighting to get back by painting sounded familiar to his own way of handling things...both were runners...He came up to stand close when the ex came up and started harassing Bethany. As things escalate; Bethany looks to Mike and asks if maybe he could sort of help out with the ex...Mike is fine with protecting this woman...and the ex starts up and grabs Bethany's arm. Immediately Mike is there in the way and acting like the boyfriend you can't keep your hands off of...He says a few things to make it seem they have been dating in Atlanta and with all of the tender looks and lustful sparks...before anyone can say anything...
Mike and Bethany are kissing...the type of kissing which blocks out all sound, people and thought...well, only the thought of how to get closer to the person who has their hands wrapped around you....This kiss was like NOTHING either of them had experienced...it was personal, intense but caring.... safe and concerned for her.... and soft, womanly and feisty for him...
And for the both of them....something that scared the shit out of them... but also addicted them to wanting more...
They break apart when a couple of Bethany's big brothers walk into the bar and yell at what the hell is going on...Things get hot between all of the players...the ex, drunk and talking smack about Bethany, the brothers and Mike going after him...and the observers of the small town taking it all in...
The outcome... the town, brothers and sisters, parents and friends have decided Bethany and Mike are an item...Bethany is determined to stop this line of gossip... and Mike is kinda interested in getting to know this firecracker...
Add additional complications of Mike's involvment with the art co-op, Bethany's dad and Mike's parents causing all types of trouble and you have a terrific read.
This is a story which touches on confronting your fears... all types; career, personal and relationships...we can all be our own worst enemies... It is very common to fear failure...but even more common but not realized is the fear of success...for if you actually achieve what you have been trying to accomplish... then what...
The other meaningful part of this story is how the art community provides so much to a town... it can allow those who cannot talk about what is bothering them.... to communicate it another way... alerting those who need to know and intervene.
This was a sweet surprise, a new author for me and enjoyable read. This is part of a series, however, I never felt lost in the reading.
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
July 23, 2017
My Musings
Oh, my, what a lovely romantic story. This is my favorite one of the series so far. Bethany and Mike are perfect together. So glad I found this book and this fantastic series. Lots of deep emotions in this one.Happy ☺reading 📚!
Oh, my, what a lovely romantic story. This is my favorite one of the series so far. Bethany and Mike are perfect together. So glad I found this book and this fantastic series. Lots of deep emotions in this one.Happy ☺reading 📚!
April 26, 2016
His Darling Bride
I was given an advance copy of this book to review.
I loved reading this next installment of The Echoes of the Heart series. It is filled with a family who puts family first among along others. When you hurt one, you hurt them all and only love can cure the hurts.
This book brings us back to Chandlerville, Georgia and the Dixon’s who family is grown by the foster children they have raised. It’s Bethany Darling, the second youngest “Dixon” child who is come back to the family after long absent of trying to find her way and place in the family.
She also has been trying to get back her first love, her painting. Then she meets a “cowboy” stranger when she is out with friends at the local bar and he becomes her Knight in Shining armour when she is confronted by a man she thought she loved, but he used her and it turned her confidence and self-esteem in her painting and the feeling of self-worth in tatters and wanting her back, she had enough. But when Mike Taylor, who is a stranger in town and helping out at the local bar, steps in to save her from her ex, he becomes the person who saves her in more ways than one. But there journey to find their path to love is not easy.
Mike has his own doubts and he has been running from the life he knew. Trying to find a place in his family where they will accept him for who is and not what he can do for his family. He has lived to help other with a foundation he runs through his family foundation in memory of the brother he lost to Cystic Fibrosis. He is also a world famous photographer who’s photographs come to life through the lens of his camera. Both Mike and Bethany were more alike than they knew, but it took them on many different paths to find the way to fit together and to find the way to be together in their families.
I was given an advance copy of this book to review.
I loved reading this next installment of The Echoes of the Heart series. It is filled with a family who puts family first among along others. When you hurt one, you hurt them all and only love can cure the hurts.
This book brings us back to Chandlerville, Georgia and the Dixon’s who family is grown by the foster children they have raised. It’s Bethany Darling, the second youngest “Dixon” child who is come back to the family after long absent of trying to find her way and place in the family.
She also has been trying to get back her first love, her painting. Then she meets a “cowboy” stranger when she is out with friends at the local bar and he becomes her Knight in Shining armour when she is confronted by a man she thought she loved, but he used her and it turned her confidence and self-esteem in her painting and the feeling of self-worth in tatters and wanting her back, she had enough. But when Mike Taylor, who is a stranger in town and helping out at the local bar, steps in to save her from her ex, he becomes the person who saves her in more ways than one. But there journey to find their path to love is not easy.
Mike has his own doubts and he has been running from the life he knew. Trying to find a place in his family where they will accept him for who is and not what he can do for his family. He has lived to help other with a foundation he runs through his family foundation in memory of the brother he lost to Cystic Fibrosis. He is also a world famous photographer who’s photographs come to life through the lens of his camera. Both Mike and Bethany were more alike than they knew, but it took them on many different paths to find the way to fit together and to find the way to be together in their families.
March 17, 2016
First let me say I got this book in exchange for an honest review.
Now let me say this is part of a series, however I have not read the previous titles and did NOT feel lost. I do plan now to go back and read the previous titles. I can't wait to see more from this town and these characters.
HIS DARLING BRIDE is the story of Bethany, Bethie, and Mike. Both Mike and Bethany have their baggage and their struggle with accepting and giving love. The giving is easier than the accepting. I loved watching these two find their way. I will say I worried there for them, but kept turning pages just knowing the author, Anna DeStefano, had to give me a HEA. Fans of great writing with characters that are realistic, well developed and engaging will find HIS DARLING BRIDE a wonderful addition to their bookshelf. Be warned this one is hard to put down, you just want to know what's going to happen. I do hope we see these characters again, as I want to see them in the future. Fans of this series, Echoes of the Heart, are going to love this one. There are some laugh out loud moments, some sigh worthy moments, and some moments that will make you think..........wonder........and maybe want to help. I loved that I became part of the story, not just a reader. I can't wait to see what's next and go back and read the previous titles. This is one that will end up on your Keeper Shelf!
Now let me say this is part of a series, however I have not read the previous titles and did NOT feel lost. I do plan now to go back and read the previous titles. I can't wait to see more from this town and these characters.
HIS DARLING BRIDE is the story of Bethany, Bethie, and Mike. Both Mike and Bethany have their baggage and their struggle with accepting and giving love. The giving is easier than the accepting. I loved watching these two find their way. I will say I worried there for them, but kept turning pages just knowing the author, Anna DeStefano, had to give me a HEA. Fans of great writing with characters that are realistic, well developed and engaging will find HIS DARLING BRIDE a wonderful addition to their bookshelf. Be warned this one is hard to put down, you just want to know what's going to happen. I do hope we see these characters again, as I want to see them in the future. Fans of this series, Echoes of the Heart, are going to love this one. There are some laugh out loud moments, some sigh worthy moments, and some moments that will make you think..........wonder........and maybe want to help. I loved that I became part of the story, not just a reader. I can't wait to see what's next and go back and read the previous titles. This is one that will end up on your Keeper Shelf!
March 23, 2016
Too start this review I have to say I love love love this series. It just gets better and better. Once again a visit to Chandlerville, Georgia is a wonderful experience. This time the story is about Joe and Marsha's adopted daughter Bethany. She meets her future in a handsome cowboy named Mike. He rescues her from the unwanted attention of a former boyfriend. It's love at first site for two people who always run from attachments of any kind. Thing is attachments are what both want the most. As the story continues the reader becomes invested in these two broken people who have so much in common that you can feel both characters pain. You can also feel their hearts mend as they fall in love. Anna Destefano just gets better and better with each book. This book is great as a stand alone but I recommend all books in this series. Start with the Mimosa Lane books then go straight into the Echoes of the Heart. I have read them all and will definitely retread them. I will continue to look forward to more books in the Echoes Of The Heart Series.
March 13, 2016
Anna DeStafano has created an inviting story that takes place in Chandlerville Georgia in her recent novel His Darling Bride. Mike Taylor is a drifter of sorts who finds himself volunteering to help bartend for the neighborhood bar when he is pushed into action to help a damsel in distress when she is accosted by the one man on earth she had been desperately avoiding. Bethany Darling grew up in Chandlerville but had only recently returned because she was trying to outrun her past until it slammed into her at the local bar. Bethany turns to Mike out of desperation, but what she finds instead is a kindred spirit. These two lost souls come together and find a way to heal each other while immersing themselves into Bethany’s eclectic family. Ms. DeStafano has created a novel of warmth, love, and a testimony to the strength that lies within all of us. I was given this novel to read by the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
March 27, 2016
I have always loved Anna DeStefano's books and I absolutely love the Echoes of the Heart series. This series is heartwarming and touching, and the characters are all so loveable and easy to relate to even though they usually have so much baggage and turmoil in their lives. Both Bethany and Mike are broken, each have their own emotional baggage but they are kindred souls. Anna DeStefano does a great job of painting their story and you can really feel their pain. What I love most about this series is the family support that Joe and Marsha gives to each of their children and even their children's partners. Every child in need of a foster parent deserves to have foster parents like Joe and Marsha. Really can't wait to read more of this series.
** I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
** I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
March 30, 2016
Mike and Bethany are trying to outrun their past and the chaos their lives have become. When Mike comes to Bethany's rescue these two realize that maybe they have more in common than running.
I love escaping to Chandlerville, it's one of my favorite places to visit! I have read all of the Echoes of the Heart and Seasons of the Heart books and I love them all. You don't have to read them in order but you do get the back stories of the family if you do. This was a great addition to the series and I'm looking forward to my next visit to Chandlerville!
I love escaping to Chandlerville, it's one of my favorite places to visit! I have read all of the Echoes of the Heart and Seasons of the Heart books and I love them all. You don't have to read them in order but you do get the back stories of the family if you do. This was a great addition to the series and I'm looking forward to my next visit to Chandlerville!
March 24, 2016
His Darling Bride takes us back to Chandlerville, Georgia. Bethany Darling is back trying to find her way back into the family. Along comes Mike Taylor to the rescue. Two drifters, lost trying to find their way and alike in so many ways. Bethany paints pictures, Mike takes pictures , together they make beautiful pictures if only they can find their way together. It was great connecting back with Joe, Marsha and the other family members.
March 20, 2016
This book is one that will stay with you. It is a touching story and one that many people can relate to. You will fall in love with Bethany and Mike right away! If you have not read Anna DeStefano this is one you should read.
March 17, 2016
You will fall in love with this foster family! The complex lives of the characters will have you turning the pages to see what will happen next. An excellent read, I could not put it down.
March 20, 2016
A cute romance novel that was a quick read. A tear-jerker in parts. I haven't read the first book in the series, so I know I was missing some of the subplot, but it was easy to follow and enjoy.
April 22, 2016
3.5 stars.
This enjoyable romance has family firmly at its heart, as it tells a tale of two very similar artistic souls who have made a habit of running, neither of whom are looking for love, yet they can’t quite stay away from each other either. It’s a warm tale, which is driven by emotion, and though at times it skirted the edge of irritation, I still found it a good read.
I have to admit most of my irritation was caused by Bethany. She’s a woman who has been through a lot, arriving in foster care with the Dixon family as a teenager and afraid to believe in their love because it seemed too good to be true. That sort of feeling has guided Bethany’s life, to the point where she seems to give up on anything good in her life, just to stop it from hurting her. Even though I understood this about her, it still really annoyed me when she kept running from Mike – or rather, ignored him. I hated her ignoring habit, almost as much as I hated the way she undermined all of Mike’s good work because he scared her by being too amazing.
I really liked Mike. Yes, he’s a wanderer, but he has his reasons and he tries never to hurt anyone. Like Bethany, he has a few issues in his past, but I loved the way he’d made so much of his life, even if he never stayed anywhere long. I also liked how he saw Bethany – and especially how he saw her art. In fact, one of my favourite things about this book was the creativity. It was great – the photography and the painting and the way they inspired each other, and the scenes between Mike and Camille were just gorgeous.
But this book is not just about the romance, it’s very much about family too, and that side of things was really strong. At times I wasn’t convinced by the romance, but the role of the Dixons and the bond between Bethany and her foster-siblings was amazing throughout. I really enjoyed reading about them, and since this is my first taste of this series and author, I’ll definitely be looking out for more of them all.
If you’re looking for an enjoyable, heartwarming read about family and art and learning to trust in the good things in life, then give this a go. There are times when the romance is a little more convoluted than it probably needs to be, but there’s always something else going on to be enjoyed. I liked it, and I look forward to reading more about this family soon.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
This enjoyable romance has family firmly at its heart, as it tells a tale of two very similar artistic souls who have made a habit of running, neither of whom are looking for love, yet they can’t quite stay away from each other either. It’s a warm tale, which is driven by emotion, and though at times it skirted the edge of irritation, I still found it a good read.
I have to admit most of my irritation was caused by Bethany. She’s a woman who has been through a lot, arriving in foster care with the Dixon family as a teenager and afraid to believe in their love because it seemed too good to be true. That sort of feeling has guided Bethany’s life, to the point where she seems to give up on anything good in her life, just to stop it from hurting her. Even though I understood this about her, it still really annoyed me when she kept running from Mike – or rather, ignored him. I hated her ignoring habit, almost as much as I hated the way she undermined all of Mike’s good work because he scared her by being too amazing.
I really liked Mike. Yes, he’s a wanderer, but he has his reasons and he tries never to hurt anyone. Like Bethany, he has a few issues in his past, but I loved the way he’d made so much of his life, even if he never stayed anywhere long. I also liked how he saw Bethany – and especially how he saw her art. In fact, one of my favourite things about this book was the creativity. It was great – the photography and the painting and the way they inspired each other, and the scenes between Mike and Camille were just gorgeous.
But this book is not just about the romance, it’s very much about family too, and that side of things was really strong. At times I wasn’t convinced by the romance, but the role of the Dixons and the bond between Bethany and her foster-siblings was amazing throughout. I really enjoyed reading about them, and since this is my first taste of this series and author, I’ll definitely be looking out for more of them all.
If you’re looking for an enjoyable, heartwarming read about family and art and learning to trust in the good things in life, then give this a go. There are times when the romance is a little more convoluted than it probably needs to be, but there’s always something else going on to be enjoyed. I liked it, and I look forward to reading more about this family soon.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
April 26, 2016
His Darling Bride, written by Anna DeStefano, is the second full length novel, and third book, in the Echoes of the Heart series. Anna DeStefano is one of my favorite authors, and once again, she exceeded my expectations with this book. This book can be read as a stand-alone, however, I would highly recommend reading Here in My Heart, and Let Me Love You Again.
Bethany Chandler grew up in Chandlerville, Georgia, and has recently returned to her hometown for her sister's wedding. She is also trying to reconnect to her family and start over. Bethany is a talented painter that has lost her way, and now she is trying to get back on track. One evening, she goes to the local bar, and is confronted by her ex-boyfriend. He doesn't want to take no for an answer, and that is when the bartender, Mike Taylor, steps in and comes to her rescue.
Mike Taylor is a famous photographer, trying to lay low in Chandlerville. He is also trying to find his place within his family. He is trying to get his family to finally accept him for the man he is, and not the man they want him to be. He is helping out at the local bar when he rescues Bethany from her ex-boyfriend. The chemistry is immediate for Bethany and Mike, but neither is looking for a relationship. Both are artistic, and can easily relate to one another. However, will that be enough for them to give love a try?
I can't begin to stress enough just how much I enjoyed this book, as well as the other books in this series. The author is an amazing storyteller that brings this story to life, and makes you fall in love with her complex characters. I loved following the journey of these two broken souls, and seeing how they end up helping each other to heal. You have Bethany that creates beautiful pictures through her paintings, and Mike creating beautiful pictures through the lens of his camera. The two characters have so much in common, and truly are good for one another. I enjoyed revisiting with Joe and Marsha, Bethany's foster parents. The author does a beautiful job in portraying the love and family support that Joe and Marsha give to each of their foster children. Overall, this is a beautifully written story, and one that I would strongly recommend.
I received an advance digital copy of this book from Montlake Romance and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Bethany Chandler grew up in Chandlerville, Georgia, and has recently returned to her hometown for her sister's wedding. She is also trying to reconnect to her family and start over. Bethany is a talented painter that has lost her way, and now she is trying to get back on track. One evening, she goes to the local bar, and is confronted by her ex-boyfriend. He doesn't want to take no for an answer, and that is when the bartender, Mike Taylor, steps in and comes to her rescue.
Mike Taylor is a famous photographer, trying to lay low in Chandlerville. He is also trying to find his place within his family. He is trying to get his family to finally accept him for the man he is, and not the man they want him to be. He is helping out at the local bar when he rescues Bethany from her ex-boyfriend. The chemistry is immediate for Bethany and Mike, but neither is looking for a relationship. Both are artistic, and can easily relate to one another. However, will that be enough for them to give love a try?
I can't begin to stress enough just how much I enjoyed this book, as well as the other books in this series. The author is an amazing storyteller that brings this story to life, and makes you fall in love with her complex characters. I loved following the journey of these two broken souls, and seeing how they end up helping each other to heal. You have Bethany that creates beautiful pictures through her paintings, and Mike creating beautiful pictures through the lens of his camera. The two characters have so much in common, and truly are good for one another. I enjoyed revisiting with Joe and Marsha, Bethany's foster parents. The author does a beautiful job in portraying the love and family support that Joe and Marsha give to each of their foster children. Overall, this is a beautifully written story, and one that I would strongly recommend.
I received an advance digital copy of this book from Montlake Romance and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 20, 2016
3 Stars, 2 Flames
A runaway artist trying to find the passion she lost by coming home and a wandering photographer who is just trying to do some good in the world meet in this contemporary romance.
This book is number 2 in the series with a few novellas in between. In a way this can be read as a standalone but to get the most out of the series it should be read together. With that being said I thought it was an okay read but I just wanted to shake the characters with their wise thinking but horrible decision making. You would think that with people who are so good at reading others and understanding what goes underneath the surface that they can spot their own mistakes.
Bethany has basically been left to fend for herself at a very young age and when she finally got adopted into a loving family, she was afraid it was to good to be true. Mike never had a real home since his older brother got diagnosed with cystic fibrosis then passing away years later. His parents have always been part of the posh and glamorous life with multiple charities they were involved in but that was no life for Mike.
This novel could have been really great with an amazing back story and family support but the way the characters interacted was boring which I found myself skimming many pages. Lots of times it sounded like they were fortune cookies with there sage advice. Another thing I couldn't get into was the love or chemistry between the two. First off by one pushing the other away because of their "bond" (mostly Bethany), then being scared to feel more, promising to stay but then running away, and lastly after their first date they are in love. It was a sweet read that defines family and finding yourself.
I was gifted a copy of this book by the JeepDiva in exchange for an honest review. The opinions and ratings are my own and I was in no way compensated.
A runaway artist trying to find the passion she lost by coming home and a wandering photographer who is just trying to do some good in the world meet in this contemporary romance.
This book is number 2 in the series with a few novellas in between. In a way this can be read as a standalone but to get the most out of the series it should be read together. With that being said I thought it was an okay read but I just wanted to shake the characters with their wise thinking but horrible decision making. You would think that with people who are so good at reading others and understanding what goes underneath the surface that they can spot their own mistakes.
Bethany has basically been left to fend for herself at a very young age and when she finally got adopted into a loving family, she was afraid it was to good to be true. Mike never had a real home since his older brother got diagnosed with cystic fibrosis then passing away years later. His parents have always been part of the posh and glamorous life with multiple charities they were involved in but that was no life for Mike.
This novel could have been really great with an amazing back story and family support but the way the characters interacted was boring which I found myself skimming many pages. Lots of times it sounded like they were fortune cookies with there sage advice. Another thing I couldn't get into was the love or chemistry between the two. First off by one pushing the other away because of their "bond" (mostly Bethany), then being scared to feel more, promising to stay but then running away, and lastly after their first date they are in love. It was a sweet read that defines family and finding yourself.
I was gifted a copy of this book by the JeepDiva in exchange for an honest review. The opinions and ratings are my own and I was in no way compensated.
April 16, 2016
Thank you netgalley for the ARC.
This is the second book in her Echoes of the Heart Series and it didn't matter that I hadn't read the first novel.
His Darling Bride is the story of Mike Taylor and Bethany Darling who have both been running away from their own personal demons and now Bethany has returned home to try to reconnect with her family and her art (she was a talented painter but is now struggling to finish any of her artwork). Mike becomes a drifter when life becomes too painful for him after the death of his brother and when he needs to escape his reserved and distant parents.
A chance encounter at McC's Tavern in her hometown of Chandlerville, Georgia. lands the two of them in a personal and intimate situation made more embarrassing by the arrival of members of Bethany's extended family. After that day they continue to run into each other and slowly start to notice how similar their situation is to one another.
This is a heartwarming and poignant story that shows just how powerful and healing love can be for two people who are willing to chance their hearts and trust in each other.
Firstly, I really liked the storyline and all the characters, but I struggled a lot with how much attention was paid to seemingly insignificant details, descriptions of objects and things barely relevant to the story that it caused me to skim through whole paragraphs of this book at a time. If I am honest I think that the character development and flow of the story suffered from all these superfluous details. Otherwise I really would have rated this book much higher like 4-4.5 stars because this is truly a lovely story and the intimate shared moments between Mike and Bethany were so well written.
This is the second book in her Echoes of the Heart Series and it didn't matter that I hadn't read the first novel.
His Darling Bride is the story of Mike Taylor and Bethany Darling who have both been running away from their own personal demons and now Bethany has returned home to try to reconnect with her family and her art (she was a talented painter but is now struggling to finish any of her artwork). Mike becomes a drifter when life becomes too painful for him after the death of his brother and when he needs to escape his reserved and distant parents.
A chance encounter at McC's Tavern in her hometown of Chandlerville, Georgia. lands the two of them in a personal and intimate situation made more embarrassing by the arrival of members of Bethany's extended family. After that day they continue to run into each other and slowly start to notice how similar their situation is to one another.
This is a heartwarming and poignant story that shows just how powerful and healing love can be for two people who are willing to chance their hearts and trust in each other.
Firstly, I really liked the storyline and all the characters, but I struggled a lot with how much attention was paid to seemingly insignificant details, descriptions of objects and things barely relevant to the story that it caused me to skim through whole paragraphs of this book at a time. If I am honest I think that the character development and flow of the story suffered from all these superfluous details. Otherwise I really would have rated this book much higher like 4-4.5 stars because this is truly a lovely story and the intimate shared moments between Mike and Bethany were so well written.
April 10, 2016
Bethany has been on a journey of find out who she is and where she belongs. Her whole life she has fought to belong some where. When her dad had his heart attack it brought her back home where everyone says she belongs but she still feel like something is missing. As she fights to find the best gift for her parents and find her place in this world and with her family she wondering if its time to put it all behind her and find somewhere else to belong or will she be able to find what she's looking for and help those close to her?
Mike is on a journey of his own as he drifting since the day he lost someone close to him. He doesn't seem to feel like he belongs anywhere home is just where he happens to be for how ever long. Him and his best friend George have it all figured out. Its time to take a small break and he finds him self wondering if its time to settle or will he be move on soon. He see something in Bethany that he's never seen anywhere else but will his past and his parents set out to destroy everything he is planning for his life including his biggest secret?
I really enjoyed this book and the feeling of belonging being the biggest topic in this book. The biggest villain in the book is Olivia and you really want to hate her but when a bomb is dropped you wonder whats going to happen next. There are a lot of twist in this book that keeps you turning the pages to find out what happens next. This book overall is a fairly clean read there are a few things but over all well with the read.
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
Mike is on a journey of his own as he drifting since the day he lost someone close to him. He doesn't seem to feel like he belongs anywhere home is just where he happens to be for how ever long. Him and his best friend George have it all figured out. Its time to take a small break and he finds him self wondering if its time to settle or will he be move on soon. He see something in Bethany that he's never seen anywhere else but will his past and his parents set out to destroy everything he is planning for his life including his biggest secret?
I really enjoyed this book and the feeling of belonging being the biggest topic in this book. The biggest villain in the book is Olivia and you really want to hate her but when a bomb is dropped you wonder whats going to happen next. There are a lot of twist in this book that keeps you turning the pages to find out what happens next. This book overall is a fairly clean read there are a few things but over all well with the read.
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
March 31, 2016
My first thought when I finished His Darling Bride by Anna DeStefano was how am I going to convey in a review how this book made me feel. There is joy, struggles to accept and belong and families of the heart. Joe and Marsha Dixon are the family of the heart to all their foster children. This book is a struggle we all go through in life. It is looking for our own place in the world to belong not realizing that we have had it all along.
Mike offers to work in McC's Tavern in Chandlerville, Ga. He looks like a drifter and says he can help out while he is in town. Bethany is at the Tavern with her best friends Nicole and Clair. Bethany cannot believe that Benjie has shown up here. Benjie stole her heart in high school then stomped all over it. He stole her art and claimed as his own. Bethany asks Mike to help her while she gets rid of Benjie for good. Mike is not sure who initiated the kill but Bethany and Mike are both blown away. With both Mike and Bethany having damaged hearts they begin a journey to discovery for both of them.
I really cannot say enough or the exact words to tell you how moving this series is. It is a rollcoaster of emotions. Please do yourself a favor and grab this book. Then, laugh, cry, and enter into the love of the Dixon family and Chandlerville, Ga!
Mike offers to work in McC's Tavern in Chandlerville, Ga. He looks like a drifter and says he can help out while he is in town. Bethany is at the Tavern with her best friends Nicole and Clair. Bethany cannot believe that Benjie has shown up here. Benjie stole her heart in high school then stomped all over it. He stole her art and claimed as his own. Bethany asks Mike to help her while she gets rid of Benjie for good. Mike is not sure who initiated the kill but Bethany and Mike are both blown away. With both Mike and Bethany having damaged hearts they begin a journey to discovery for both of them.
I really cannot say enough or the exact words to tell you how moving this series is. It is a rollcoaster of emotions. Please do yourself a favor and grab this book. Then, laugh, cry, and enter into the love of the Dixon family and Chandlerville, Ga!
April 21, 2016
I enjoyed this one so much! It's a great look at how families can shape our lives and the decisions we make. Both the MC in this book have issues with family but for far different reasons.
Bethany has always had a difficult time connecting with her large loving foster family. Although she knows they love her unconditionally and she them, she's always felt different. Luckily she's always had her art to take her away. Now though she seems to be struggling with that. So even though there is a definite connection between her and Mike, Bethany just can't make time for anything more right now.
Mike is working with Bethany's father with his physical therapy but there just seems to be more to him than what you can see. Mike is in awe of how well the whole family rallies around Joe while he recovers. His own dysfunctional family would never measure up to these fine people. Mike lives his life on his terms and he has secrets he wants to keep. Letting people get too close just isn't for him but there is something about Bethany that calls to him. Will she let him get close and will she accept him once all his secrets are revealed??
You definitely want to grab this one! I love all the Chandlerville books but you can easily read this one standalone. I highly recommend it.
Bethany has always had a difficult time connecting with her large loving foster family. Although she knows they love her unconditionally and she them, she's always felt different. Luckily she's always had her art to take her away. Now though she seems to be struggling with that. So even though there is a definite connection between her and Mike, Bethany just can't make time for anything more right now.
Mike is working with Bethany's father with his physical therapy but there just seems to be more to him than what you can see. Mike is in awe of how well the whole family rallies around Joe while he recovers. His own dysfunctional family would never measure up to these fine people. Mike lives his life on his terms and he has secrets he wants to keep. Letting people get too close just isn't for him but there is something about Bethany that calls to him. Will she let him get close and will she accept him once all his secrets are revealed??
You definitely want to grab this one! I love all the Chandlerville books but you can easily read this one standalone. I highly recommend it.
April 3, 2016
His Darling Bride, part of the Echoes of the Heart Series, is a wonderful, heart-felt story!!! Anna DeStefano writes an emotion-grabbing story that you do not want to put down. The setting is small town Chandlerville, Georgia with the loving family of Marsha and Joe Dixon as the backdrop. The Dixon’s are still fostering children even with Joe’s health condition. But that’s the kind of people Marsha and Joe are. You will love them as well as all of the children they have helped raise. They have raised children with strong character and devotion to each other.
This is the story of their daughter Bethany Darling who has had a hard time with relationships and has come back home to stay after her dad’s heart attack. Unfortunately her ex is in town and driving her crazy. He won’t accept that things are really over. Mike Taylor finds Bethany breath-taking and steps in to help her out. Can these two drifters settle down and find happiness together?
I could go on and on about this story but I don’t want to ruin all the twists and surprises in store for the reader. You will fall in love with this story, the town, the people and the author Anna DeStefano.
This is the story of their daughter Bethany Darling who has had a hard time with relationships and has come back home to stay after her dad’s heart attack. Unfortunately her ex is in town and driving her crazy. He won’t accept that things are really over. Mike Taylor finds Bethany breath-taking and steps in to help her out. Can these two drifters settle down and find happiness together?
I could go on and on about this story but I don’t want to ruin all the twists and surprises in store for the reader. You will fall in love with this story, the town, the people and the author Anna DeStefano.
April 1, 2016
In Anna De Stefano's His Darling Bride, the 3rd installment in the Echoes of the Heart contemporary romance novella series, this novel would warm your heart with another love story of the Dixon family. For Bethany Darling, she was an artist that had gotten lost in her art and needed to find her way to her family. She struggled with her feelings and dealt with a lot of heartache. When she returned home for her sister's wedding and after her father's heart attack, she never knew she was needed where she belonged and wanted the most. For Mike Taylor, he was just a drifter who came into her small town and rocked her world. He came from a prestigious wealthy family from New York and developed his own secret immunity with a special talent. When they came together as a couple under unusual circumstances, they've learned to feel things they never felt before and loved each other as a whole to find their way to each other.
Read
March 14, 2016I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is Book 2 of the Echoes of the Heart Series. His Darling Bride by Anna DeStefano is the story of Mike and Bethany who have spent a good deal of time running from their personal demons all the while trying to find themselves and their way back home. When a chance encounter lands the two of them in a particularly intimate situation, they come to realize just how similar they are to one another. The author has written a wonderful story that shows just how powerful and healing true love can be for those who take a chance and fully embrace all it has to offer even after having been tossed around, bruised, and/or damaged along life’s twisting roads. This is my first time reading Ms. DeStefano’s work and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
This is Book 2 of the Echoes of the Heart Series. His Darling Bride by Anna DeStefano is the story of Mike and Bethany who have spent a good deal of time running from their personal demons all the while trying to find themselves and their way back home. When a chance encounter lands the two of them in a particularly intimate situation, they come to realize just how similar they are to one another. The author has written a wonderful story that shows just how powerful and healing true love can be for those who take a chance and fully embrace all it has to offer even after having been tossed around, bruised, and/or damaged along life’s twisting roads. This is my first time reading Ms. DeStefano’s work and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
April 3, 2016
HIS DARLING BRIDE was the first work I have read by Anna DeStefano. The cover -- red cowboy boots with a white wedding dress totally won me over to start with. HDB was not only a treat to savor during Spring Break; it was also a compelling and believable read. The more I learned about Bethany Darling, her personality, and her struggles, the louder I cheered for her.
At first, I will admit that I wondered why the author described Darling's artistic techniques in such detail, but the deeper I got into the book, the more those details made sense. By the end of the story, Bethany Darling became not just another character in a book. She and her family in Chandlerville had become my friends. I can hardly wait to lose myself in DeStefano's other books in this series!
.
At first, I will admit that I wondered why the author described Darling's artistic techniques in such detail, but the deeper I got into the book, the more those details made sense. By the end of the story, Bethany Darling became not just another character in a book. She and her family in Chandlerville had become my friends. I can hardly wait to lose myself in DeStefano's other books in this series!
.
April 1, 2016
Bethany Darling is trying to figure out life, love, and family. A confrontation with an ex leads to some help from the new bartender, Cowboy Mike. Mike turns out to be so much more than Bethany could ever imagine or hope for.
This is the second book in a series. I have not read the first book, so at times it seemed like I was missing some background information or a part of the story. Even so, I could read this book as a stand alone novel.
**I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second book in a series. I have not read the first book, so at times it seemed like I was missing some background information or a part of the story. Even so, I could read this book as a stand alone novel.
**I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 4, 2016
I received this ebook from the author for an honest review.
This story takes you back to Chandlerville Ga. You meet Bethany and Mike in McC's Tavern, she's there with her girlfriends and Mike has just started as a bartender. Enter Bethany's ex, drunk and mouthy, Mike steps in at Bethany's silent request. They have an immediate, intense connection.
You'll love their story and won't be able to put it down.
This story takes you back to Chandlerville Ga. You meet Bethany and Mike in McC's Tavern, she's there with her girlfriends and Mike has just started as a bartender. Enter Bethany's ex, drunk and mouthy, Mike steps in at Bethany's silent request. They have an immediate, intense connection.
You'll love their story and won't be able to put it down.
April 27, 2016
This is book 2 of the Echoes of the Heart series but it can be read as a standalone.
Both Bethany and Mike have baggage in their lives but can the overcome it and be together? This was such a heartwarming story and it will leave you with a smile on your face. This is the first book that I have read by Anna DeStefano but I am going to change that!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley
Both Bethany and Mike have baggage in their lives but can the overcome it and be together? This was such a heartwarming story and it will leave you with a smile on your face. This is the first book that I have read by Anna DeStefano but I am going to change that!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley
June 9, 2016
Awesome story! First I loved the contrast of Mike and Bethany's families. Mike's biological family makes him feel unloved and unworthy using blackmail to get him to meet their demands. Ironically, Bethany's foster family treats her the way a loving family should, loving her unconditionally. No wonder Mike and Bethany's trust issues seem insurmountable. I received this wonderful book, free, in a Goodread's Giveaway. Thank you. (P. S. the automatic download is so convenient, saves trees too!)
April 12, 2016
I hadn't read the first book in the series but that didn't matter- this was an enjoyable quick read that reminds you how sometimes even though families but patched together- they are still strong loving families. Bethany and Mike are terrific characters who are full of life. I'd like to read more from DeStefano, who has a nice way in her writing. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.
January 9, 2017
This review is based on an ARC provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest opinion.
This contemporary romance was simply amazing, adorable from the first page. I gave up a lot of sleep for this one. A roller coaster of tumultuous emotions, I laughed, I cried, and most importantly I fell in love with the characters. This book showcased the emotional scarring left from abuse.
This contemporary romance was simply amazing, adorable from the first page. I gave up a lot of sleep for this one. A roller coaster of tumultuous emotions, I laughed, I cried, and most importantly I fell in love with the characters. This book showcased the emotional scarring left from abuse.
December 14, 2016
This is Book 2 in the Echoes of the Heart Series, my first book by Anna DeStefano and for sure not the last. This is a wonderful story about two broken souls that come together and their journey to heal. Bethany and Mike are both lovable characters and I couldn´t put the book down,wanting to know more and more.
I received a copy by the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review
I received a copy by the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews